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Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. To earn your California motorcycle license, you will be required to pass the driver knowledge test, motorcycle knowledge test, knowledge test(s) for any other license class(es) requested, and pass a motorcycle skills test or obtain a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training. Knowledge test questions are based on information in the California Motorcycle Handbook and the California Driver Handbook. The DMV knowledge test consists of 30 questions and you'll need 24 correct answers to pass (80%).
1.
Your lane position should:
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avoid surface hazards.
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communicate your intentions.
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All the other answers are correct.
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2.
You should use both brakes at the same time:
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every time
you slow or stop.
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in emergencies only.
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None of the other answers is correct.
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3.
To avoid hazardous situations and reduce their risk, experienced riders:
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avoid riding at night.
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swerve often.
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search the road ahead.
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4.
The right foot pedal controls:
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the rear brake.
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the front brake.
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the throttle.
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5.
The best way to stop is to:
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operate the engine cut-off switch.
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apply both brakes firmly.
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apply the rear brake quickly.
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6.
Motorcycle passengers must have their own:
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helmet.
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footrests.
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All of the above.
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7.
The best face protection is provided by:
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goggles.
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a windshield.
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a face shield.
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8.
In the 'Evaluate' step of the SEE strategy, you must have a plan to reduce risks, particularly when faced with:
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traffic signals and warning signs.
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potholes, guardrails,
bridges.
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All of the above.
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9.
What is the safest braking method?
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Using both brakes at the same time
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Use the front brake first and then the rear brake
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Using only the front brake
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10.
Your passenger should tighten his or her hold when you:
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All the other answers are correct.
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are about to start from a stop.
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approach surface hazards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
In California, the minimum age to apply for a DMV test is 15½ years old. If you are at least 17½ years old, you have the option to obtain a permit without completing driver training. When you turn 16, you can obtain a minor's driver license, and the provisional aspect of your class C driver's license comes to an end when you reach 18.
You can schedule an appointment through the official California DMV website to take the DMV written test in person. Alternatively, you can take the exam online during specific hours. You can select this option after filling out your application. If you are under 18, parental or guardian permission is necessary before taking the test. Additionally, this test requires a webcam and cannot be completed on a smartphone/tablet.
You'll need to bring specific documents:
- Application Form. You can fill out this form online or choose the paper version available at any California DMV office. If you're under 18, ensure that your parents/guardians sign the application.
- Proof of identity.
- Full name document.
- Two proofs of residency.
- Social Security Number (SSN).
- If you are under 18, you must also have a Certificate of Completion/Enrollment of Driver Education.
The online version of the DMV written test in California is offered in 35 languages. Although language options are provided, it is advisable to have a basic understanding of English since road signs are always in English.
The DMV written test covers various topics, such as road signs, parallel parking, turning, passing a vehicle, yielding the right of way, etc. Studying the official California Driver’s Handbook is the first step to pass the exam because it contains all of this information. Once you've read it, you can take our free practice tests to test your preparation!
For new drivers in California, there are specific restrictions based on their age and licensing stage. With an instruction permit, you can drive accompanied by a licensed California aged at least 18 (or 25 for minors). After obtaining a provisional license, driving alone is permitted if there are no collisions or traffic violations on your record. In the first 12 months:
- Driving alone is prohibited between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., except for medical emergencies, school or employment activities, or when accompanied by a family member. A written note is required.
- Transporting passengers under 20 years old is not allowed, except when accompanied by a California-licensed parent or guardian, a driver aged 25 or older, or a certified driving instructor.
- Until you turn 18, the use of a cell phone or electronic wireless device is forbidden, except in emergencies when you need to contact law enforcement or the hospital.
At 18, the restrictions end and you may request a duplicate DL without the term "provisional", after paying a fee.
The driver’s license application remains valid for 12 months. Since you are required to hold the permit for 6 months before taking the road test, if your application expires, you must reapply at a DMV office. The time spent with the instruction permit counts towards the six-month requirement. Bring both the expired and current permits on the day of the driving test to demonstrate the accumulated credit.
If you do not pass your written test, you must wait for 7 days, excluding the day you failed the test, before retaking it. You are allowed three attempts to pass the exam. However, if you fail it three times, your application will no longer be valid, and you must start the application process again.