Preparing for the California DMV written test in 2025? This article provides a thorough set of practice questions and easy-to-understand answers based on the latest California Driver Handbook. Each answer includes detailed explanations to help you grasp the rules of the road and pass your exam confidently.

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General Knowledge Questions

1. What should you do when approaching a yellow traffic light?

✅ Answer:
A yellow light warns that the signal is about to turn red. Slow down immediately and prepare to stop safely before entering the intersection. Only proceed if you cannot stop safely (e.g., if you're too close to the intersection). Never speed up to "beat" the red light.

Why it matters: Running a red light can lead to collisions, tickets, or points on your license.

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2. What is the speed limit in a residential area unless otherwise posted?

✅ Answer:
The default speed limit in residential areas is 25 mph. This ensures safety for pedestrians, children, and cyclists. Always reduce speed further in low-visibility conditions (e.g., fog or rain).

Note: School zones may have lower limits (e.g., 15-25 mph) during active hours.

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3. When must you use your headlights?

✅ Answer:

• 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise.

• In adverse weather (rain, snow, fog, or dust storms).

• When visibility is less than 1,000 feet (about the length of three football fields).

Pro Tip: Use low beams in fog—high beams can reflect off moisture and reduce visibility.

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4. What should you do if your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

✅ Answer:
Hydroplaning occurs when tires lose contact with the road due to water buildup.

1. Ease off the accelerator—do NOT brake suddenly.

2. Grip the wheel firmly and steer straight.

3. Wait for tires to regain traction before adjusting speed or direction.

Prevention: Replace worn tires and avoid driving through deep puddles.

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Road Sign Questions

5. What does a red octagon-shaped sign mean?

✅ Answer:
A red octagon is a stop sign. You must come to a complete stop behind the limit line, crosswalk, or intersection. After stopping, yield to pedestrians and other vehicles before proceeding.

Penalty: Running a stop sign can result in a fine and a point on your driving record.

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6. What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign indicate?

✅ Answer:
Yellow diamond signs are warning signs. They alert you to potential hazards ahead, such as:

• Sharp curves.

• Pedestrian crossings.

• Slippery roads.

• Animal crossings.

Example: A winding road sign means curves are ahead—reduce speed.

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7. What does a white rectangular sign with black letters mean?

✅ Answer:
This is a regulatory sign that communicates traffic laws. Examples:

• Speed limit signs (e.g., "55 MPH").

• "No U-Turn" or "No Parking" signs.

Rule: Disobeying these signs can lead to fines or penalties.

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8. What does a flashing red traffic light mean?

✅ Answer:
Treat a flashing red light as a stop sign. Come to a full stop, yield to traffic and pedestrians, and proceed only when safe.

Common Use: Flashing red lights are often seen at intersections after hours or during power outages.

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Right-of-Way Rules

9. Who has the right-of-way at an uncontrolled intersection?

✅ Answer:
At intersections with no signs or signals:

• The vehicle that arrives first goes first.

• If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.

Safety Tip: Slow down and make eye contact with other drivers to avoid confusion.

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10. When must you yield to pedestrians?

✅ Answer:
Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in crosswalks (marked or unmarked). You must also yield when:

• Turning at a red light.

• A pedestrian is using a white cane or guide dog (visually impaired).

Penalty: Failing to yield can result in a $500+ fine and 4 points on your license.

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11. What should you do when an emergency vehicle approaches with flashing lights and sirens?

✅ Answer:

1. Pull over to the right side of the road and stop.

2. Stay stopped until the emergency vehicle passes.

3. Never block intersections or follow too closely behind emergency vehicles.

Note: On highways, move to the right lane if possible.

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Parking and Traffic Laws

12. How far must you park from a fire hydrant?

✅ Answer:
You must park at least 15 feet away from a fire hydrant. Firefighters need quick access in emergencies.

Penalty: Parking too close can result in a ticket and your car being towed.

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13. Is it legal to park in a bicycle lane?

✅ Answer:
No, parking in a bicycle lane is illegal unless you're actively loading/unloading passengers or goods (with hazard lights on).

Exception: Some cities allow short-term parking during specific hours—check local signs.

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14. What should you do if you miss your freeway exit?

✅ Answer:
Never stop, reverse, or drive over dividers. Continue to the next exit and turn around safely.

Why? Sudden maneuvers on freeways cause severe accidents.

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15. What is California's "Basic Speed Law"?

✅ Answer:
You must never drive faster than is safe for current road, weather, or traffic conditions, even if the posted speed limit is higher.

Example: If the speed limit is 65 mph but it's raining heavily, you must slow down.

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DUI and Traffic Safety

16. What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers over 21?

✅ Answer:

• 0.08% for drivers 21 and older.

• 0.01% for drivers under 21 (California's "zero tolerance" law).

Consequences: A DUI conviction can lead to fines, license suspension, and jail time.

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17. What are the penalties for refusing a chemical test in California?

✅ Answer:
Refusing a breathalyzer or blood test triggers an automatic:

• 1-year license suspension (first offense).

• Longer suspensions for repeat offenses.

Implied Consent Law: By driving in California, you agree to chemical testing if arrested for DUI.

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18. When can you legally use a cell phone while driving?

✅ Answer:
Drivers 18+ may use a phone only in hands-free mode (e.g., Bluetooth or voice commands). Texting is always illegal.

Under 18: All cell phone use is prohibited, even hands-free.

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Additional Safety Questions

19. What should you do if your brakes fail?

✅ Answer:

1. Pump the brake pedal to build pressure.

2. Shift to a lower gear to slow the vehicle.

3. Use the parking brake gradually.

4. Steer toward an open area or shoulder.

Prevention: Have brakes inspected regularly.

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20. When must you report a car accident to the DMV?

✅ Answer:
You must file a report (Form SR-1) within 10 days if:

• There is injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.

• The other party is uninsured.

Failure to report: May result in license suspension.

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Conclusion

These 2025 California DMV practice questions cover critical rules, signs, and scenarios you'll face on the test. For success:

1. Study the 2025 California Driver Handbook.

2. Take multiple practice tests online.

3. Review answers you get wrong.

🚦 Need More Help? Check the DMV's official website for updates or additional resources.