Guide to the California Driver Handbook

What Is the California Driver Handbook?

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.

Knowing this document from the inside out is the key to getting your drivers license and staying safe on the road.

If I Read the California Driver Handbook, Do I Still Need to Take Drivers Ed?

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 15½ to enroll. With our DMV-approved, fully online course, you choose when and where you want to study.

How Should I Study the California Driver Handbook?

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.

Where Can I Find the California Driver Handbook?

You can download a PDF version from the California Department Motor Vehicles website. For a printed copy, just head to your local DMV office.