California Traffic Laws

California Driving Laws
In 2011, according to the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles Statistics for Publication, there were over 22 million registered vehicles in the state with more than 23 million driver licenses. Due to the large volume of motorists on its roads, California state legislature has enacted laws to make driving a safe experience for all: drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. To that end, driver’s licenses and permits are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to only those who meet certain academic and driving standards. A potential driver needs to satisfactorily pass the written test before being eligible to take the road test.

In addition to the issuance of driver’s licenses, the state allows only registered vehicles to be driven on its roads. Not every vehicle is allowed to be registered though. Only those which are road-worthy are allowed to be driven on the roads: the vehicles must pass the emission inspection (if required), the vehicles aer insured, and the vehicles meet safety requirements. This is once again done with the sole purpose of making driving a safe experience for all in California.

California driving laws also recommend that the latest state-published edition of the California Driver Handbook be consulted by those who are either driving or intending to drive in California. The handbook, which is available both in the print form and online, contains updated information on:

  • Safe driving tips
  • Driver safety
  • Actions to take in an emergency
  • Preparation for the driver test
  • Rules of the road

In addition to the book, California’s DMV has its own channel on the YouTube, which has invaluable instructional and informative videos about:

  • Study tips on passing the driver test
  • Driver safety
  • Commercial vehicles
  • Educational videos of interest

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is further offering invaluable services to the drivers through its official website at www.dmv.ca.gov. The site allows a user to conduct the following transactions online:

  • Renewing a driver license
  • Vehicle registration
  • Purchasing specialty license plates
  • Making an appointment

California follows stringent driving laws, so follow the rules and drive safely.

Do traffic laws in California say anything about driving without a license?

Driving without a license is illegal in California and every other state. One must make sure that he or she carries a valid driver license with at all times when on the road. Law enforcement officers have the right to check licenses and their validity. If someone is caught driving without a license, he or she can be penalized under the law.

Which legal body is responsible for regulating California driving laws?

The California Department of Motor Vehicles is the legal body that is responsible for regulating traffic laws in the CA. The Department has the right to design, amend, and regulate road rules for vehicle drivers of all kinds. From license requirements to registration processes, CA DMV handles all kinds of issues relate to motor vehicles.

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