The California Driver Handbook
Rolan Sacco
The California Driver Handbook comes right from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. This trusty state document has all of the information you need - including licensing requirements, the laws and rules for driving in the State of California, and what to do during emergency situations.
Yes. Even though the California Drivers Handbook covers driving in California, it's not a replacement for a drivers education course such as ours. The handbook has the rules and steps of safe driving, but can't set you up with skills that you need to be fully prepared behind the wheel. In many states, like California, you need to be at least 15 to enroll. With our DMV-approved, fully online course, you choose when and where you want to study.
A good way to start would be to give yourself plenty of time to read the entire handbook. It's a large document so don't expect to finish it in a day! The best approach is to read through the entire thing, cover to cover, in about a week or so.
Next, try going through the guide one section at a time. No need to take notes or memorize the materials just yet. On the second or third read, go more slowly with a stronger focus on remembering key sections and rules. This will help cement the foundation you'll need to succeed in the course.
Once you're finished, you'll have a good grasp on the rules of the road and will be on your way to becoming a safe, responsible, and confident driver. It'll still be a great idea to keep a recent copy of the California Drivers Handbook in your car, just in case you need to refer to it in times of need.
The DMV CA handbook and other driving manuals are meant to help new-to-California residents, as well as first-time drivers, get acquainted with the rules of the road, and understand traffic laws and safety information.
At a high level, the manual provides information regarding different types of licenses, state traffic laws, road signs, safe driving information, health and safety regulations, and what to expect on your examination. All of this will help you drive safely and successfully in the state of California!
Good news for those of you always on the go: the California DMV now offers the Driver Handbook on mobile for iOS and Android. The app also offers sample quizzes, instructional videos, and interactive tutorials.
To get a hard copy of the driver's manual by snail mail, contact your local CA DMV office or call (800) 777-0133 (office hours between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.). You can also pick up a California driving manual in person at your local DMV office.
Berkeley International Office's mission is to enhance the academic experiences of international students and scholars by providing the highest levels of knowledge and expertise in advising, immigration services, advocacy, and programming to the UC Berkeley campus community.
If you will be driving in California or you plan to purchase a motor vehicle (a car, scooter or motorcycle), we recommend that you get a California driver's license. Many insurance companies will provide coverage or offer you better rates only if you have one, and having automobile insurance is a legal requirement.
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has the latest California Driver Handbook, forms, and instructions on how to apply for a California driver license. Check out the helpful section in the handbook on frequently asked questions and residency requirements.
Social Security Number (SSN)
Generally, an F-1 student, F-2 dependent or J-1 student is NOT required to have a social security number to be eligible for a driver license; however, a J-1 scholar is required to have a social security number. J-2 dependents are generally only required to show a social security number if they have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
F-1 student, F-2 dependent or J-1 student SSN Problems
Occasionally , when some students apply the DMV may indicate that you must either have an SSN to apply for the Driver License OR that you must provide proof that you are not eligible for an SSN. See Who is Eligible to Apply for a Social Security Number to determine if you are eligible. If you are an F-1 or J-1 student who is eligible to apply for an SSN, follow these instructions to apply for an SSN. If you are NOT currently eligible, you will need to apply for an SSN anyway and receive a rejection letter from the Social Security Administration.
If you are not planning to drive, the DMV also issues the California Identity Card with your photo and date of birth information on it. This is an easily recognizable form of identification used for cashing checks, proving your age, etc. Plan on making an appointment before going to the DMV. To do so, visit the DMV website.
To earn your California provisional instruction permit, any minor must be at least 15, but under 18 years of age and have completed a DMV approved driver education course, like MyCaliforniaPermit.com, and have received your DMV Certificate of Completion of Driver Education - DL400C.
Receive your pink DMV certificate of completion shipped by first class mail. Note: Please CONTACT US if your certificate has not arrived after 2 weeks. See the DMV Teen Driver Tips and DMV Teen Driver Roadmap pages for a detailed overview of the process and requirements.
Review the DMV California Driver Handbook. Remember, all of the test questions are taken from the California Driver Handbook (available online in multiple formats and languages). Links to the California Driver Handbook and the DMV Parent-Teen Training Guide are in the footer of every page in our website. You can also pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. Start reviewing it while you wait for your certificate to arrive in the mail. The handbook contains vital information and may take you a few days to fully study.
Take Free DMV Practice Permit Tests
Before you go to DMV to take your written instruction permit test, take these DMV Sample Practice Tests (Regular Driver - Class C) and be prepared for the way the DMV phrases questions. The practice tests are also available in Spanish and American Sign Language (ASL). There is no cost for these tests.
See the instruction permit page on the DMV website for current requirements. You will also need to pay the DMV fee, have your picture taken, and give a thumbprint.
Once you pass your written test, you will be issued a provisional instruction permit. A parent, guardian, spouse or adult 25 years of age or older, who has a valid California driver license, must be with you when you drive. He or she must sit in a position close enough to take control of the vehicle. It is illegal for you to drive alone at any time.
The California Driver Handbook provides a summary of the California laws and regulations. The handbook includes rules of the road, safe driving practices, actions that result in loss of license, road signs, sample tests and more.
First Time Driver Course
The First Time Driver Drug and Alcohol Course teaches new drivers basic traffic laws and is proven to reduce the risk of alcohol related crashes amongst teenagers and young adults.
If you want to earn your California learners permit and drivers license, you first have to pass the permit test at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This is a written exam that tests your knowledge of California traffic laws and signs.
There are lots of ways to prepare for your California DMV permit test. A good way to start is by reading and reviewing the California Driver Handbook. All the questions on the permit test come from the driver handbook.
The goal of the Travelers Aid Volunteer Driver Program is to provide safe and reliable transportation so that San Diego County Older Adults can remain healthy and independent. Volunteers will be serving their community and in turn have the satisfaction of helping those in need.
Volunteer Driver services are designed to meet the needs of non-driving, older (60+) adults living in San Diego County. Many local older adults either cannot drive themselves, have trouble accessing and utilizing public transportation, and/or cannot afford private services. This portion of the SenioRide program was designed for clients who need door-to-door assistance and/or access to essential services to remain healthy and active within the community.
Opportunity Requirements & Important Notes
Time Commitment: There is no specific time commitment. It is up to the volunteer and client to see which times, dates etc. are best for both parties.
Onboarding Process: This list is in the volunteer handbook and can be sent upon request to any volunteer who is interested! All volunteers who wish to provide transportation MUST complete and submit the following prior to the first vehicle stipend being issued:
TASD Disclosure Consumer Report - English and Spanish (included in the handbook)
TASD Disclosure Regarding Background Checks Per California Law (fill out both sides, front and back, on form) (included in the handbook)
TASD California Acknowledgement and Authorization for Background check (fill out both sides, front and back, on form) (included in the handbook) Driver Code of Conduct (included in the handbook)
Copy of valid California Driver's license (must submit new information upon expiration)
Copy of Auto Insurance (must submit new information upon expiration) Copy of current Proof of Vehicle Registration (must submit new information upon expiration)
Completed W9 form with signature (included in the handbook)
Copy of DMV Driving Record - This can be obtained from the DMV in person one time for $5.00, by mail for $5.00, or online for $2.00. If you need assistance ordering this form online, you may schedule an appointment to come to our offices and we will happily assist you
Vehicle Assessment (annually) (included in the handbook)
Required Skills/Experience: A good driving record, and background check. A passion for helping others and like for driving!
Desired Skills/Experience: Any interest that involves wanting to give back to your community and to help those around you in need. An interest in driving others around and socializing with older adults!
Physical Requirements: Being comfortable driving clients to and from their destinations. Unfortunately this opportunity is not able to make accommodations for individuals with physical limitations and the space where this project takes place is not wheelchair accessible.
Attire: Casual, comfortable and appropriate clothing is best.
Note: Volunteer Drivers must be the age 21 or older, and in possession of a driver's license for a minimum of 5 years. Volunteer Drivers use their own vehicles to provide transportation services between the client's home and requested destination(s).
Travelers Aid Society of San Diego
The mission of Travelers Aid Society of San Diego is to provide connections and solutions that prevent or address crisis.