Key California facts: Alcohol & Drugs
Sample Alcohol & Drugs questions
After a DUI arrest in California, how long might a temporary license from the officer last?
Show the answer
30 days
The officer may take your license and give you a temporary one for 30 days.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
How long does a DUI conviction stay on a California driver's record?
3 years Until the fine is paid 10 years Show the answer
10 years
All DUI convictions remain on your record for 10 years, and another DUI in that time can bring added penalties.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
When may a California driver under 21 carry alcohol in the vehicle?
With a person 21 or older, in a sealed container With any passenger, in any type of container Any time it is in a closed bag Show the answer
With a person 21 or older, in a sealed container
Someone 21 or older must be with you, and the container must be full and unopened. An exception covers certain job duties.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
If a California driver under 21 is caught with alcohol, how long can the vehicle be impounded?
Up to 30 days Up to 24 hours Up to 2 years Show the answer
Up to 30 days
The court may also fine the driver and suspend the license for one year.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
At what blood alcohol level does driving become illegal for a California driver under 21?
0.05 percent 0.08 percent 0.01 percent Show the answer
0.01 percent
California sets the limit for drivers under 21 at 0.01 percent, far below the 0.08 percent limit for adults.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
How long after a California DUI arrest can you ask the DMV for an administrative hearing?
Within 10 days of the arrest Within 90 days of the arrest Within 24 hours of the arrest Show the answer
Within 10 days of the arrest
The window for asking for a hearing is 10 days, counted from the day you were arrested.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
What must you do after a California DUI conviction?
Only retake the vision test Finish a DUI program and file an SR 22 Only pay a fine Show the answer
Finish a DUI program and file an SR 22
You must also pay any reissue fees, and you may need to install an ignition interlock device.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
How must cannabis be carried in a vehicle in California?
Sealed, or in the trunk if open In the glove box, if out of sight In a passenger's pocket Show the answer
Sealed, or in the trunk if open
The same rule applies to alcohol. An open container must be kept where passengers do not sit.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
What can happen to a California 15-year-old convicted of riding a bicycle under the influence?
Nothing, as bicycles are exempt Only the bicycle can be taken away The license can be delayed for one year Show the answer
The license can be delayed for one year
For ages 13 to 20, a bicycle conviction can mean a one-year suspension or delay once the person is eligible to drive.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
A preliminary test in California shows a driver under 21 at 0.05 percent. What may the officer require?
A breath or blood test A written statement A vision test on the spot Show the answer
A breath or blood test
If a later test also shows 0.05 percent or higher, the driver may be arrested for a DUI and may lose the driving privilege.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 9, Alcohol and Drugs
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About these questions
We wrote these practice questions from the facts in the California Driver's Handbook (2025 edition) and from official sources on road signs. Every answer links to its source, so you can check it and read more.
DMV Decoded is an independent guide, not a government agency. This practice test is not connected to the California DMV, and your actual test will have different questions. Study the handbook, and check the agency's website for current rules.
