Crucial Topics that are Covered in the DMV Handbook

Each state’s law and traffic rules may vary, but there are many basic topics that you will find covered in the DMV handbook regardless of where you are studying for your test. In any case, be sure that you read the handbook thoroughly and study each section to be fully prepared for your test. This following article outlines the crucial topics you may find in your states DMV handbook.

How to Use the Department of Motor Vehicles

In the first section of the DMV handbook you will find helpful information about your local DMV branch, and the types of actions you may complete there. These actions include:

• Renewing your license or applying for a CDL, Chauffer and Motorcycle license.
• Transferring or selling your vehicle.
• Plate and tab renewal.
• Sale of your vehicle and registration.

The DMV also gives you the laws concerning things such as your license, license plate, handling tickets and points on your license and additional laws that will affect you and your right to drive.

Policies and Laws about Alcohol and the Point System

This topic is covered in every state DMV handbook, regardless of the laws specific for each one. Remember to understand the state laws, and know the consequences if caught driving while intoxicated. It is illegal for any persons over the age of 21 to drive with a Blood Alcohol concentration (BAC) over the state limit, but refer to your state’s particular DMV handbook for specific levels. Regardless of the state’s maximum level, all states carry the same penalty for drunk driving and carry a point system. This system will eventually lead to the loss of your license. Points and their meaning are covered in this section as well. Other ways in which you may find points on your license may include:

• An accident where you are found at fault.
• Reckless driving.
• Traffic violations or speeding in a construction zone.
• And specific broken driving laws that carry a more sever penalty such as those involving school buses and emergency vehicles.

The Basic Traffic Laws and Rules for Safe Driving

Many laws are universal from state to state, and are in place simply to keep you and the other drivers on the road safe at all times. They have to do with being a safe driver and teach you to drive defensively, as well as how to avoid an accident.

Knowledge of Traffic Signs

You will need to read and understand what each traffic sign you will encounter on the road means, and how to obey them. Some common traffic signs include:

• Stop Signs. You will need to know what to do when you are approaching a four way intersection where your direction has a stop sign, or at a four way stop. The test will cover making a left turn at these types as well.
• Yields. Similar to the test questions covering stop signs, you will need to know how to handle a four way intersection and yield signs, as well as yields when merging into oncoming traffic.
• Construction and U-turns. Recognize each particular type of traffic sign found in construction zones, such as the merging right or left of traffic, reduced speed limits and special warnings such as unfinished pavement or a large bump in the road. There are specific laws in each state regarding U-turns, learn to recognize your states signs and know the traffic laws.

Traffic Signals

In addition to signs, you must recognize and understand what to do at a traffic signal, as well as emergency situations that involve them.

• Green Lights. How you should handle a stale green light and how to properly turn left and right.
• Yellow Lights. Follow all the laws listed in the DMV handbook for this section, including turns and stopping and difference between a solid and flashing yellow light.
• Red Lights. The DMV handbook discusses the different types of red lights including solid, flashing and arrows and how to properly utilize turns at a red.
• Blackouts. This commonly happens when power is out to an area. A blackout traffic signal should be treated with the same rules as a four way stop.

Laws and the How-to’s of Driving at an Intersection

There are multiple scenarios for these types of questions, but the main areas covered include:

• How to handle a four way stop with no stop signs, yields or traffic signals. Know what to do if you are traveling through, or planning to turn left or right and the laws regarding this scenario.

• Making choices at a four way intersection with stop signs can be found on the test as well. In addition to turning, know how to handle this type of situation if you and another vehicle arrive at the intersection at the same time.

• A four way stop with yields in any or all directions. These laws are similar to those of a four stop with a stop sign, with a few slight differences. A yield is only followed if there is oncoming traffic, while a stop sign you must stop regardless of traffic on the road.

• How to us a Round-a-bout. New to the DMV is the topic of round-a-bouts and how they are to be handled when you are using one. Unlike four way intersections covered in other sections, you yield to the left oncoming traffic.

Make sure that when studying for your drivers test using the DMV handbook that you read through each section carefully and study before going in to take your test. Each state has some rules and regulations regarding traffic and driving that are specific to the area you live in, so make sure you use the correct DMV handbook when studying. This and other critical information can be found online and in print with a copy from your local DMV.