🏎️California DMV Permit Test 2026

🏎️ 2026 California "Elite" Simulation Exam
1. The Daylighting Law (AB 413)
Q: You are looking for a parking spot near a busy intersection. There is no red paint on the curb. How far from a crosswalk must you park?

A: You must park at least 20 feet away from the vehicle-approach side of any marked or unmarked crosswalk. (If a curb extension/bulb-out is present, the distance is 15 feet).

2. Move Over Expansion (AB 390)
Q: You are driving on a multi-lane highway and see a passenger vehicle on the shoulder with its hazard lights flashing. What does California law require you to do?

A: You must move over one lane (if safe) or slow down to a reasonable and prudent speed. As of 2026, this law applies to all stationary vehicles with flashing hazards, not just emergency vehicles.

3. Autonomous Vehicle Markers (SB 480)
Q: You see a vehicle equipped with turquoise or teal-colored "marker lamps" on the exterior. What do these lights indicate?

A: The vehicle is an Autonomous Vehicle (AV) and its Automated Driving System (ADS) is currently engaged.

4. Automated Speed Systems (AB 645)
Q: In several California "Pilot Cities," automated speed cameras are now active. At what speed will these systems trigger a citation?

A: When a vehicle is traveling at least 11 mph over the posted speed limit.

5. E-Bike Class 3 Restrictions
Q: What are the specific requirements for operating a Class 3 Electric Bicycle (pedal-assist up to 28 mph) in California?

A: The operator must be at least 16 years old and must wear a helmet at all times, regardless of age.

6. "Ghosting" License Plates
Q: You install a clear, tinted, or "anti-glare" cover over your license plate to prevent camera reflection. What is the potential penalty in 2026?

A: This is illegal. It can result in a citation and fines up to $1,000, as California has cracked down on "plate-shielding" devices used to evade tolls and speed cameras.

7. Following Distance (Modern Standard)
Q: While the "Three-Second Rule" is the minimum, what is the 2026 DMV recommendation for following distance when driving behind a large truck or in specialized weather?

A: Increase your following distance to 4 seconds or more to ensure you are not in the truck’s "No-Zone" and have ample braking time.

8. School Zone Enforcement (2026)
Q: You are driving near a school where children are present. The speed limit is posted as 25 mph, but a new "Speed Safety System" sign is present. What should you expect?

A: Strict automated enforcement. In 2026, many school zones have lowered "camera-enforced" limits to 20 mph during school hours.

9. Right-of-Way: The "T" Intersection
Q: You are driving on a road that ends at a "T" intersection with no stop signs. Who has the right-of-way?

A: Through-traffic on the cross-street has the right-of-way. You must yield before turning.

10. Handheld Device "Points"
Q: If you are convicted of using a handheld wireless device while driving for a second time within 36 months, how many points go on your record?

A: One point. (The first offense is usually a fine; the second carries the point penalty).

11. Pedestrian Blind Spots
Q: Why does the 2026 "Daylighting" law prohibit parking near crosswalks even if the curb isn't painted red?

A: To prevent parked cars from creating a "blind spot" that hides pedestrians (especially children) from approaching drivers.

12. Micro-Mobility & Bike Lanes
Q: Which types of e-bikes are generally allowed to operate in standard Class II bike lanes?

A: Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes. Class 3 e-bikes may be restricted from certain bike paths or trails by local ordinance.

13. Reporting Thresholds
Q: In 2026, you must report an accident to the DMV (Form SR-1) if there is an injury or if property damage exceeds:

A: $1,000.

14. Turn Signals & Merging
Q: When merging onto a freeway, how much lead time should you give your turn signal?

A: At least 5 seconds of signaling before you actually merge into the lane.

15. The "Safety Test" for Children
Q: When can a child legally transition from a booster seat to a standard seat belt?

A: When they are at least 8 years old OR reach 4 feet 9 inches in height (and pass the "5-step safety test" for proper belt fit).

Scoring Guide
14-15 Correct: Elite. You have a mastery of 2026 laws.

11-13 Correct: Pass. You're ready for the real test.

<11 Correct: Review. Focus specifically on the 2026 "New Laws" section of the manual.