California DMV Practice Test 2026

California DMV
Practice Test

Practice real California DMV knowledge test questions with simple, clear explanations. This test is free and covers the same topics as the officialCalifornia written permit exam.

46 total questions83% to pass~30 minutes
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Sample California DMV Questions

Try these 5 free questions. Sign up to access all 46 practice questions and the full exam simulator.

1

What does a red octagon (8-sided) sign mean?

2

What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign mean?

3

What does a white rectangular sign usually show?

4

What does a flashing RED traffic light mean?

5

What does a pennant-shaped sign mean?

6

At a 4-way stop, who goes first?

7

When must you yield to pedestrians?

8

A car is already in the roundabout. What do you do?

9

You are turning left. Oncoming traffic is coming. What do you do?

10

An emergency vehicle (ambulance, fire truck) is behind you with lights and siren on. What do you do?

About the California DMV Knowledge Test

Total Questions
46 questions
Passing Score
83% (39 correct)
Test Format
Multiple choice
Retake Policy
Wait period if failed

The California DMV written knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and state-specific rules. You must score at least 83% to pass. The test is taken at your local California DMV office.

Tips to Pass the California DMV Test

  • Read each question carefully before answering
  • If unsure, eliminate obviously wrong answers first
  • Practice at least 3 full tests before your real exam
  • Pay extra attention to road signs — they are heavily tested
  • Get a good night's sleep before your test day

DMV Vocabulary Guide

Important words you will see on the California DMV test — explained in simple English.

Right of way
The right to go first. When you 'have the right of way,' other drivers must wait for you.
Yield
Slow down and let other cars or people go first. It is NOT a complete stop, but you must wait if needed.
Merge
Smoothly move your car into another lane of traffic. You must match the speed of traffic and find a safe gap.
Pedestrian
A person who is walking — not in a car or bike. Pedestrians always have the right of way at crosswalks.
Crosswalk
A marked area where people can safely walk across the street. Always stop for pedestrians here.
School zone
An area near a school where you must drive more slowly to keep children safe.

More California DMV Resources

Drivers Also Ask

Common DMV Test Questions

Study Guides for Your California DMV Test

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