California Safe Driving practice test
Practice following distance, weather, night driving and sharing the road, with questions based on the California Driver's Handbook.
Sample Safe Driving questions
What can help you avoid skidding on a slippery steep hill?
Braking hard before each of the curves Shifting to low gear before going down Shifting to neutral at the top of the hill
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Shifting to low gear before going down
Also slow down before curves, and avoid fast turns and quick stops.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 8, Safe Driving
May you hang objects from your rearview mirror in California?
No, they can block your view Yes, if they are small Yes, if they don't move much
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No, they can block your view
Do not hang objects on the mirror. Items may be attached only in specific corners and windows.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 7, Laws and Rules of the Road (continued)
You are driving in California, and your 15-year-old passenger isn't wearing a seat belt. Who can get a ticket?
Neither of you You, the driver Only the passenger
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You, the driver
You can get a ticket for a passenger under 16 who is not wearing a seat belt.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 8, Safe Driving (continued)
A California police officer signals you to stop while you're in the carpool lane. Where should you go?
To the nearest parking lot, however far away To the left shoulder next to the carpool lane All the way to the right shoulder
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All the way to the right shoulder
Turn on your right turn signal and move completely onto the right shoulder, ideally in a well-lit area.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 6, Navigating the Roads (continued)
What does California law say about throwing a lit cigarette from your vehicle?
It is not allowed It is allowed if it lands on pavement It is allowed in cities only
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It is not allowed
Nothing burning or glowing, such as a cigarette or cigar, may be thrown from your vehicle.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 7, Laws and Rules of the Road (continued)
Up to what age is it illegal to leave a child unattended in a vehicle in California?
6 years old 10 years old 2 years old
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6 years old
Someone at least 12 years old may supervise a young child left in a vehicle.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 8, Safe Driving (continued)
At what age may a California child generally use a safety belt rather than a child restraint?
8 years old 4 years old 12 years old
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8 years old
Age 8, or a height of 4 feet 9 inches, is the point where a properly secured belt may be used instead.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 8, Safe Driving (continued)
When may someone ride in the back of a pickup in California?
Any time below 25 mph Any time on city streets Only with secure seats and seat belts
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Only with secure seats and seat belts
A person may not ride in a truck bed unless it has secure seats and belts.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 7, Laws and Rules of the Road (continued)
What can happen if you smoke while a minor is in your vehicle in California?
Only the minor is warned You can be fined Nothing, if a window is open
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You can be fined
Smoking with a minor on board can get you fined.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 7, Laws and Rules of the Road (continued)
How far should you sit from the steering wheel's air bag cover?
At least 2 inches At least 10 inches At least 3 feet
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At least 10 inches
Measure from your breastbone to the middle of the steering wheel, while keeping full control of the vehicle.
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 8, Safe Driving (continued)
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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.