FREE California DMV Practice Test #21

This California DMV practice test includes 36 of the most vital road signs and rules questions taken directly from the official California Driver Handbook for 2024. Use genuine questions that are very similar (often identical!) to the DMV driving permit practice test and driver's license exam to prepare for the DMV driving permit test and driver's license..

To help you recall the topics, each ca dmv practice test question includes a hint and explanation. The written component of the official DMV test will consist of questions about regulations of the road, traffic signs, and driving statutes, as well as information from the Driver Handbook.

To get the required 83 percent passing score to be allowed to pass, you must correctly answer 38 out of 46 questions (or 30 out of 36 if you are over 18). Use this DMV practice exam to help you prepare for your California instruction permit or driver's license.

How does it work?

California residents using any form of testing help during the test will result in an automatic failure, and the DMV may take further action against your driving permit, so please don't cheat.

Ideally suited for:

California Driver’s License
Driver's Learner Permit in California
CA Refresher Test for Senior Citizens CA
CA Driver’s License Renewal

What to expect on the CA DMV exam:

36 questions
To pass, you must have 30 accurate answers.
a passing grade of 83%
The minimum age to apply;15 ½

Number of Question 36

Passing Score 30

Number of Tests 24

1 . It is more dangerous to drive at night than during the day because:

You cannot see as far ahead at night.

The road is always more slippery at night.

Your reaction time is slower at night.

With decreased visibility and the glare of oncoming headlights, you cannot see as far ahead at night as you can during the day. Always use headlights and exercise caution when driving in the dark.

2 . If you approach a flashing red traffic light, you:

Are traveling in the wrong direction.

Must treat the intersection as if it is controlled by a stop sign.

May not proceed until it changes to green.

Treat a flashing red light the same as a stop sign. Come to a complete stop at the stop line or, if there is no stop line, prior to the crosswalk and before entering the intersection. Yield to all other traffic and pedestrians.

3 . When driving in fog or mist, never put your headlights on the high beam setting because:

The light will reflect back into your eyes.

Approaching vehicles might not see you.

Vehicles behind you may follow too closely.

In foggy or misty conditions, you should not use your headlights on their high beam setting because the light will be reflected back into your eyes.

4 . A red arrow pointing to the right on a traffic light means you may:

Turn in that direction after slowing and checking for traffic.

Not turn in that direction until the light turns green.

Turn in that direction after you come to a complete stop.

A red arrow means "stop." You must remain stopped until a green light or green arrow appears. Do not turn against a red arrow.

5 . This road sign means:

When pavement is wet, reduce your speed.

The road ahead winds in a series of turns or curves.

Traffic increases ahead.

Warning signs are usually yellow with black markings. This sign warns drivers that the roadway will be slippery when wet and they should reduce their speed accordingly.

6 . You are driving on the freeway behind a large truck. You should drive:

Closer behind the truck than you would if following a passenger vehicle.

Farther behind the truck than you would if following a passenger vehicle.

To the right side of the truck and wait to pass.

It is necessary to follow farther behind a large truck than you would if following a passenger vehicle because trucks have larger blind spots.

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Your Progress

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To Pass 46

Correct 30

Incorrect 30

4.50 out of 5 based on 28406 votes

2024 California | Frequently Asked Questions

To obtain a driver's license in California, you will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and social security number. You must also pass a vision exam, written test, and behind-the-wheel driving test. Additionally, you'll need to complete a driver's education program if you're under 18. Finally, you must pay the application fee.

In California, the cost to acquire a regular driver's license (Class C) is $38. This fee covers the application, written test, and driving test. If you fail the tests and need to retake them, there may be additional fees. Be aware that prices can change, so always check the latest information from the California DMV.

In California, the minimum age to obtain a provisional driver's license is 16 years old. However, before getting the license, teens must first have a learner's permit, which they can get at 15 1/2 years old. They also need to complete driver education and have at least six months of driving experience.

When applying for a driver's license in California, you'll need to provide: proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of social security number (social security card or W-2), and two proofs of California residency (utility bills, rental agreement). If you're under 18, you'll also need proof of driver education completion.

You can arrange a driving test in California by scheduling an appointment online through the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Alternatively, you can call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133. Remember, before you can take the driving test, you must have held your instruction permit for at least six months.

To get a learner's permit in California, you must be at least 15 1/2 years old. First, complete a driver's education course. Then, visit a DMV office to submit the application form (DL 44), provide your thumbprint and have your picture taken. Pass a vision exam and a written test to receive your permit.

Before taking the driving test in California, you must complete at least 50 hours of practice driving, with at least 10 hours being nighttime driving. If you are under 18, these hours must be supervised by a parent, guardian, or a certified driving instructor. Make sure to record these hours in your driving log.

To prepare for your driving test in California, practice driving in different environments and weather conditions. Familiarize yourself with road rules and signs by studying the California Driver's Handbook. Take online practice tests to gauge your readiness. It's also beneficial to take a driver’s education course. Lastly, get plenty of rest before the test day to ensure you're alert and focused.

Common errors during the driving test include not checking mirrors regularly, not signaling when changing lanes or turning, speeding, following other vehicles too closely, and not fully stopping at stop signs. Avoid these mistakes by practicing defensive driving techniques, understanding road signs and signals, and becoming comfortable with the vehicle you'll use for the test.

Yes, you can use your personal car for the driving test in California. However, the vehicle must be in good working condition, properly registered and insured. It should also have functioning seat belts, mirrors, and lights. Additionally, it must not have any safety issues that could endanger the examiner or other road users.

If you don't pass the California driving test, you'll have to wait at least two weeks before you can retake it. You have three chances to pass within a year of your original application date. If you fail all three attempts, your application becomes void and you must start the application process again, including payment of fees.

Yes, in California, newly licensed drivers under age 18 have provisional licenses, which come with restrictions. For the first year, they can't drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., and can't transport passengers under 20 without a licensed adult in the car. Exceptions apply for school activities, jobs, or medical necessities with proper documentation.

Yes, California's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides an online option for driver's license application. You can complete the application form online, but you'll need to visit a DMV office to complete the process, which includes taking a written test. For some services like renewing or replacing your driver's license, everything can be done online.

While California honors all out-of-state learner's permits, it's crucial to check with each individual state's driving laws. Some states may not honor an out-of-state learner's permit. Even if they do, they may impose their own restrictions. Always verify the rules of the state you plan to drive in before you go.

In California, a standard non-commercial driver's license (Class C) is valid for 5 years. The expiration date is typically your birthday. If you're over 70 and renewing your license, you'll need to pass a written test and eye exam. For commercial licenses (Class A or B), different rules and validity periods apply.

Yes, in California, you can renew your driver's license online through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. However, this is only possible if you meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a license that expired less than a year ago and not having any outstanding traffic tickets or violations. It's also not possible if it's your turn for a written or vision test.

International students or foreign residents in California must apply for a California driver's license. They need to provide proof of identity, residency, and legal status. They'll also need to pass written and vision tests, and finally a driving test. It's recommended to study the California Driver Handbook before attempting the written test.

A driver's license and a learner's permit serve different purposes. A learner's permit allows a new driver, usually a teenager, to practice driving under the supervision of an experienced adult driver. It's a restricted license with limitations on when and how one can drive. On the other hand, a driver's license gives the holder full privileges to drive without any restrictions or supervision.

Yes, California requires a vision test for obtaining a driver's license. You must have at least 20/40 vision in both eyes, with or without correction. This means you should be able to read certain sizes of letters at specific distances. If you wear glasses or contacts, you can use them during the test. If you fail the test, you may be required to see an eye specialist.

Yes, you can use a rental vehicle for the driving test in California. However, the name of the person taking the test must be on the rental contract as an authorized driver. Also, the vehicle must be properly equipped and in good working condition, and you must provide proof of insurance for the vehicle.

In California, if you fail your driving test, you must wait for at least two weeks (14 days) before you can retake the test. This waiting period allows you time to practice and improve your driving skills. You have three chances to pass the test within the validity period of your learner's permit before required to start the process again.

To take the DMV written test in California, you need to provide proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of social security number, proof of California residency (utility bill or lease agreement), and if applicable, legal presence documents. If you're under 18, you also need a completed application with your parent's or guardian's signature.

Yes, the California DMV offers the written test in multiple languages to accommodate non-English speakers. These include Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, Tagalog, and others. You should notify the DMV of your preferred language when scheduling your written test. However, the road signs test must be taken in English regardless of your primary language.

If you fail the DMV written test in California, you will be allowed to retake the test. However, you must wait at least 7 days before your next attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but after three failed attempts, you'll be required to pay a retest fee each time.

In California, if you fail the DMV written test, you are required to wait at least 7 days before you can retake it. This allows you time to study and better prepare for your next attempt. Note that there are limits on the number of attempts within certain periods depending on your age.