How is variant 5 different from the primary California test?

Variant 5 draws from a different slice of the California question pool. It is the same length and difficulty as the primary test.

How many questions does variant 5 have?

Variant 5 has 46 questions, matching the primary California test.

Are answers and explanations included?

Yes. Each question has the accepted answer plus an explanation with citations to the official handbook.

What does a solid yellow line on your side of the road mean?

You must not cross it to pass other vehicles.

You may cross it to pass if it is safe.

You can turn left across it anytime.

You must stop immediately at the line.

You are stopped at a DUI checkpoint. What are your rights and obligations?

You must stop, but you can refuse to answer questions.

You must stop, and you must answer all questions about your drinking.

You can speed up and run the red light to escape the checkpoint.

You can drive around the checkpoint to avoid being stopped.

When you see a motorcycle ahead of you, why should you leave extra space?

Motorcycles can stop faster than cars, so you need room to react.

Motorcycles always drive faster than the speed limit.

Motorcycles have better brakes and do not need space.

Motorcycles are wider than cars and take up more lanes.

What is the best way to stop road rage when another driver acts aggressively?

Ignore them and let them pass safely

Make eye contact and wave at them

Honk back to show you are not afraid

You are driving near a large truck. Why should you avoid driving directly behind it?

It blocks your view of the road ahead.

Trucks move faster than cars on highways.

Trucks use less fuel when you are close.

Trucks have smaller blind spots than cars.

When you see a bicyclist on the road, how close may you legally pass them?

You must leave at least three feet of space

You can pass as close as possible to save time

You can pass if they are moving slowly

You only need to slow down slightly

You want to change lanes on the freeway, but you are not sure if the spot is clear. What should you do?

Turn your head and look over your shoulder

Speed up to pass the car quickly

You see a driver acting aggressively and cutting you off. What is the best response?

Chase them to teach them a lesson

You see a red curb painted along the side of the road. What does this mean?

Stopping, standing, or parking is prohibited.

You may park for up to 5 minutes.

You may stop only for emergency vehicles.

You may stop briefly to load or unload passengers.

You are driving and the gas pedal gets stuck down, making the car speed up. What should you do?

Shift to neutral and steer to a safe spot.

Pump the gas pedal to try to free it.

Turn off the ignition key immediately.

You are driving down a steep hill and your brakes stop working. What is the best way to slow down?

Shift to a lower gear to let the engine slow the car

Pull the emergency brake and hold it tight

Turn off the engine immediately to stop the car

Put the car in neutral and coast to the side

You are stopped at a DUI checkpoint. What should you expect?

You must stop, and if you drive, you have consented to a test if suspected

You must stop and answer questions, but you can refuse a test

You can turn around to avoid the checkpoint

The checkpoint is illegal unless they have a warrant for your specific car

You are approaching a roundabout. A car is already inside the circle. What is the correct action?

Yield to cars already inside the roundabout

Enter immediately to keep traffic moving

Honk to let the other drivers know you are here

Stop completely and wait for the circle to empty

What should you do first if your accelerator pedal gets stuck and keeps the car speeding up?

Shift the car into neutral immediately

Slam on the brakes to stop quickly

You are driving on a two-lane road. You see a solid yellow line on your side of the center line and a broken yellow line on the other side. What does this mean?

You may not pass, but oncoming traffic may pass if safe.

Neither side may pass at any time.

You may pass if it is safe, but oncoming traffic may not.

You are driving and see a sign for a DUI checkpoint ahead. What should you do?

You must obey the signs and stop when directed by the officer.

You should speed up to get through the checkpoint quickly.

You have the right to refuse to stop if you are not impaired.

You must turn around and go home immediately.

You see a fire in your vehicle's engine compartment. What is the first thing you should do?

Pull over, turn off the engine, and get everyone out

Try to put the fire out with a fire extinguisher immediately

Open the hood to pour water on the fire

Drive to the nearest fire station to put it out

You are stopped at a red light. Your car's left turn signal is not working. What should you do?

Do not drive the vehicle until the signal is fixed

Drive slowly and hope other drivers see your hand signal

Continue driving but turn your hazard lights on

Use your high beams to flash your turn intentions

When driving on dry roads, what is the minimum safe following distance you should keep from the vehicle in front of you?

Half the distance of the vehicle ahead

One car length for every 10 mph

The distance of one football field

You are driving at night and your headlights stop working. What should you do?

Pull over safely and stop until the lights are fixed

Turn on your high beams to see better

Continue driving slowly using only your parking lights

Drive to the nearest gas station using only your taillights

You are driving on a two-way street and see a solid yellow line on your side of the road. What should you do?

You must not cross the line to pass other vehicles.

You can cross the line to pass a slow-moving bicycle.

You can cross the line to turn left into a driveway.

You may cross the line to pass another vehicle if it is safe.

A car owner needs to get a smog check. Which vehicle is most likely required to have one?

Yes, because it is more than 8 years old.

No, because it is an electric car.

No, because it is more than 4 years old.

Yes, because it is more than 4 years old but less than 8 years old.

You are driving on a road with a bicycle lane. What is the minimum distance you must keep between your car and a bicycle when passing?

No specific distance is required

If a tire blows out while you are driving, what is the correct action to take?

Hold the wheel tight and do not brake

Steer hard to the opposite direction

Slam on the brakes to stop immediately

You are parallel parking on a busy street. What is the first step after pulling up next to the car in front?

Check your mirrors and blind spots, then signal

Honk your horn to warn other drivers

Back up quickly until you are behind the car

Turn your wheels all the way to the right

What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

Pump the brake pedal and shift to a lower gear

Pull the emergency brake once and hold it

Turn off the engine immediately

When driving at night, when should you use your high-beam headlights?

Only when there are no other cars around and it is very dark.

When you are driving in the city with streetlights on.

When you are following another car closely to see their taillights.

Always, because they make it easier to see everything.

It starts raining heavily while you are driving. What should you do?

Slow down and turn on your low-beam headlights.

Stop immediately in the middle of the lane.

Keep your speed but turn on your hazard lights.

Turn on your high beams to see better.

You are merging onto a busy freeway. What is the best way to enter the traffic flow safely?

Adjust your speed to match the flow of traffic and find a safe gap

Honk your horn and flash your lights to demand a space

Enter the freeway at a low speed and force your way into a gap

Stop at the end of the ramp and wait for a car to let you in

You are driving in a roundabout. You see a pedestrian waiting to cross the street at the entrance. What should you do?

Yield to the pedestrian before entering the roundabout

Slow down and let them cross if you have time

Honk to tell them to wait for you

Enter the roundabout and then stop

You are in a busy shopping center. You see a sign that says 'Tow-Away Zone.' What does this mean?

Your car will be removed if you park illegally

You can park there for 5 minutes

Only trucks are allowed to park there

You can park there if you buy something

You see a flashing yellow traffic light. What should you do?

Slow down and proceed with caution.

Stop completely and wait for the green light.

Treat it exactly like a red light.

Speed up to clear the intersection quickly.

What is the minimum distance you must keep when passing a bicycle on the road?

You can pass as close as you want if you are careful

You feel very tired while driving late at night. What is the safest action to take?

Pull over at a safe place and take a nap.

Open the window to let in cold air.

Drive faster to get home sooner.

Turn up the radio and drink a strong coffee.

You are driving when one of your tires suddenly blows out. What is the correct first action?

Grip the steering wheel tightly and do not brake

Slam on the brakes to stop quickly

Turn the steering wheel sharply to the side

When you see a motorcycle in your lane, how much space should you leave between your car and the rider?

Give the rider the full lane width

Share the lane so you can pass faster

Leave only a few inches of space

You take a medication that says 'Do not drive if it makes you drowsy.' You feel fine, but the label warns against driving. What should you do?

Do not drive, because drugs can impair your ability even if you feel okay.

Drive only if you have a passenger with you.

Drive for 15 minutes to test your reaction time.

Drive carefully because you feel fine right now.

A driver with a valid Disabled Parking Placard parks in a spot marked for disabled persons. Where else are they allowed to park for free?

In any metered spot for free, with no time limit

Only in the designated disabled spots

In any metered spot, but you must pay half price

In any metered spot for free, but only for 2 hours

When must a vehicle get a smog check in California?

Every two years when you renew your registration, with some exceptions.

Only if the police pull you over.

Every year when you renew your registration.

CALIFORNIA

California DMV Practice Test — Variant 5 (Free 2026)

Variant 5 of the California DMV permit practice test. 46 fresh questions distinct from the primary practice test.

from$24.99pass-or-refund

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Reviewed by Stephen J. Ronan, MD

Last verified: Apr 29, 2026

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Variant 5 overview

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires all drivers to have a valid driver's license to operate a vehicle. To obtain a driver's license, you must pass a series of tests, including a vision test, a knowledge test, and a behind-the-wheel driving test [ca_handbook_p008_c0]. The DMV offers a variety of services, including instruction permits, driver's licenses, and identification cards. You can find more information on the DMV's website or by visiting a local DMV office [ca_handbook_p087_c0]. To apply for a driver's license, you must provide proof of identity, residency, and a social security number [ca_handbook_p008_c0]. The DMV also offers a variety of resources for drivers, including information on traffic laws, road safety, and vehicle registration [ca_handbook_p012_c0]. In California, drivers are required to have a valid driver's license to operate a vehicle. A driver's license is a crucial document that serves as proof of identity and allows individuals to legally operate a vehicle on public roads [ca_handbook_p008_c0]. The DMV provides various resources to help drivers prepare for the tests, including study guides and practice tests [ca_handbook_p012_c0]. The DMV also offers a variety of services online, including the ability to check the status of your application, request a duplicate license, and pay fees [ca_handbook_p087_c0]. California law requires drivers to notify the DMV of any changes to their address or name [ca_handbook_p087_c0]. You can find more information on the DMV's website or by visiting a local DMV office [ca_handbook_p087_c0].

ca_handbook_p008_c0

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California permit test: quick facts

To get a driver's license in California, you must first pass a vision test [ca_handbook_p080_c0]. The test is required for all applicants, and you must pass it before you can take the written test [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and Social Security number [ca_handbook_p008_c0]. If you are under 18, you will need to complete a driver's education course [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. You can prepare for the test by studying the California Driver Handbook [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. The test consists of 46 questions, and you need to answer at least 38 correctly to pass [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. If you fail the test, you can retake it after 7 days [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. You will also need to pass a behind-the-wheel driving test [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. The driving test will assess your ability to safely operate a vehicle [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. You can schedule an appointment for the driving test online or by phone [ca_handbook_p011_c0]. The test will evaluate your ability to follow traffic laws and signs, as well as your ability to safely interact with other drivers and pedestrians [ca_handbook_p011_c0].

ca_handbook_p011_c0

Take the quiz

To get a driver's license in California, you must first pass a vision test [ca_handbook_p080_c0]. The test is required for all driver's licenses and is used to ensure that you can safely operate a vehicle. You will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs [ca_handbook_p080_c0]. If you are a new driver, you will need to complete a driver's education course and obtain a provisional license before you can get a full license [ca_handbook_p080_c0]. You will also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and citizenship [ca_handbook_p080_c0]. The specific requirements for obtaining a driver's license in California can be found on the DMV website [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

What you'll learn from this variant

To get a driver's license in California, you must first pass a series of tests. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers a driver's license test that includes a road test and a written test. In this section, we will cover what you need to know to pass the test and get your license. The road test is an important part of the licensing process. You will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a vehicle. The road test includes several components, such as vehicle safety checks, vehicle control, and driving maneuvers. You will also be required to follow traffic laws and signs. The written test covers information from the California Driver Handbook. The test includes questions on traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can prepare for the test by studying the California Driver Handbook and taking practice tests.

How to interpret your variant 5 score

The state of California has specific laws and regulations regarding driver's licenses and vehicle safety. [cite:ca_dl_1] The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is responsible for issuing driver's licenses and ensuring that drivers comply with state laws. [cite:ca_dl_2] In California, drivers must be at least 16 years old to apply for a provisional license, and 18 years old to apply for a full license. [cite:ca_dl_3] To obtain a license, drivers must pass a written test, a vision test, and a driving test. [cite:ca_dl_4] California law also requires drivers to have liability insurance to cover damages in case of an accident. [cite:ca_dl_5] The state has a Graduated Licensing Program, which requires new drivers to complete a certain number of hours of supervised driving. [cite:ca_dl_6] Additionally, California law prohibits texting and driving, and drivers are required to wear seatbelts. [cite:ca_dl_7] Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and penalties. [cite:ca_dl_8]

Next steps after this variant

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires all drivers to pass a series of tests before obtaining a driver's license. One of the most critical tests is the behind-the-wheel drive test, also known as the driving test or road test. This test evaluates a person's ability to safely operate a vehicle and follow traffic laws. In this section, we will discuss the importance of the driving test, the requirements, and the process involved [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

The driving test is a crucial step in obtaining a driver's license in California. It assesses a person's ability to drive safely and follow traffic laws. The test is designed to evaluate a person's skills in various driving situations, including turning, merging, and stopping. The DMV provides a comprehensive guide to help individuals prepare for the test [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

To take the driving test, you must first obtain a learner's permit. The permit is valid for 60 days and allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver. You can take the driving test as many times as you need, but you must pay the fee each time [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

The driving test is typically conducted on a public road and lasts around 10-15 minutes. During the test, you will be evaluated on your ability to follow traffic laws, navigate through intersections, and perform various driving maneuvers. The test is pass/fail, and you must score at least 80% to pass [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

Some of the key skills evaluated during the driving test include:

Turning: You must be able to safely turn your vehicle, using your turn signals and following traffic laws [ca_handbook_p080_c0].
Merging: You must be able to merge onto a busy road, safely and smoothly [ca_handbook_p080_c0].
Stopping: You must be able to stop your vehicle safely and smoothly, using your brakes and following traffic laws [ca_handbook_p080_c0].
Three-point turns: You must be able to safely complete a three-point turn, using your turn signals and following traffic laws [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

The driving test is an essential part of obtaining a driver's license in California. It ensures that drivers have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a vehicle on public roads. By preparing for the test and practicing your driving skills, you can increase your chances of passing the test on your first try [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

In addition to the driving test, you must also pass a vision test and a written test. The vision test ensures that you can see well enough to drive safely, and the written test evaluates your knowledge of traffic laws and road signs [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

Overall, the driving test is an important step in obtaining a driver's license in California. It helps to ensure that drivers are safe and responsible on the road, and it provides a way for the DMV to evaluate a person's skills and knowledge [ca_handbook_p080_c0].

Frequently asked questions

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