California Driving Rules: A Guide for New Drivers
Driving in California can be different from other places. Here are the most important rules you need to know.
Getting Your Driver’s License
Before you can drive in California, you need a valid driver’s license. If you are new to California, you have 10 days to get a California license. You must pass a written test and a driving test. You also need to show proof of your identity and residence.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are very important in California. Here are the basic rules:
- Residential areas: 25 miles per hour (mph)
- School zones: 25 mph when children are present
- Business districts: 25 mph
- Highways: Usually 65 mph, but some areas allow 70 mph
Always look for speed limit signs. They tell you the maximum speed you can drive.
Traffic Lights and Signs
You must always obey traffic lights and stop signs:
- Red light: Stop completely and wait until the light turns green
- Yellow light: Slow down and prepare to stop
- Green light: Go, but check for other cars first
- Stop sign: Come to a complete stop, then proceed when safe
Right of Way
Knowing who goes first is important to prevent accidents:
- At a four-way stop, the first car to arrive goes first
- If two cars arrive at the same time, the car on the right goes first
- Always give pedestrians the right of way at crosswalks
- Emergency vehicles (police, ambulances, fire trucks) always have the right of way
Seat Belts and Child Safety
California has strict safety rules:
- All drivers and passengers must wear seat belts
- Children under 2 years old must be in a rear-facing car seat
- Children under 8 years old or under 4’9″ tall must use a car seat or booster seat
Mobile Phones
Using your phone while driving is illegal in California:
- You cannot hold your phone while driving
- You must use hands-free devices if you need to talk
- Texting while driving is not allowed
- Drivers under 18 cannot use phones at all, even hands-free
Turning Rules
When you turn, follow these rules:
- Use your turn signal before turning or changing lanes
- Turn from the correct lane (right turns from the right lane, left turns from the left lane)
- You can turn right on a red light after stopping, unless a sign says “No Turn on Red”
Parking
Parking rules help keep traffic moving:
- Never park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant
- Don’t park in spaces marked for disabled people unless you have a special permit
- Always turn your wheels toward the curb when parking on a hill
DUI Laws
Driving under the influence (DUI) is very serious:
- The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21
- For drivers under 21, the limit is 0.01%
- Penalties include fines, license suspension, and possible jail time
What to Do After an Accident
If you have an accident:
- Stop immediately
- Check if anyone is hurt and call 911 if necessary
- Exchange information with the other driver (name, insurance, license number)
- Take photos of the damage
- Report the accident to your insurance company
Important Tips
- Always carry your driver’s license, registration, and insurance card
- Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you
- Be extra careful in bad weather conditions
- Watch for bicyclists and motorcyclists
Remember, these rules help keep everyone safe on the road. Take your time to learn them well before you start driving.
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