California DMV Fines and Limits Permit Practice Test 2026
Perfect for: Learner's permit applicants • First-time adult applicants
Master California's traffic fines, speed limits, and point system with 25 challenging practice questions. These questions focus specifically on penalties and consequences—the topics that trip up most test-takers.
Updated for February 2026
This practice test is up to date as of February 2026. The 25 questions on this practice test are based on California's official 2026 California DMV Driver's Handbook and the California Vehicle Code.
Understanding California's traffic fines and penalties is crucial for passing your permit test—and for staying safe on the road. While most practice tests focus on road signs and right-of-way rules, this specialized test zeroes in on the consequences of traffic violations.
This free practice test covers the penalties you'll face for violating California traffic laws. The questions are intentionally challenging because these topics are frequently tested on the actual DMV exam. You'll learn about fine amounts, the point system, license suspension thresholds, and the serious consequences of DUI and hit-and-run offenses.
Expect questions about: how unpaid tickets affect your license, the number of points that trigger suspension, how long violations stay on your record, first-offense DUI penalties in California, hit-and-run consequences based on injury severity, and jail time for fleeing police. These aren't just hypothetical scenarios—they're real California laws you need to know.
Why is this on the Permit Test?
The California DMV wants to ensure you understand the consequences of unsafe driving before you get behind the wheel. On your written exam, you will likely encounter 3-5 questions specifically asking about:
- Speed limits in specific zones
- California's Basic Speed Law
- Penalties for DUI/DWI in California
- California point system thresholds
California Speed Limits
California sets "prima facie" (default) speed limits that apply even when no sign is visible. Driving above these defaults is automatically presumed unsafe under California law.
| Zone | California Limit |
|---|---|
| Residential district | 25 mph |
| School zone (children present) | 25 mph |
| Business district | 25 mph |
| Alley | 15 mph |
| Blind intersection (no view 100 ft) | 15 mph |
| Two-lane undivided highway | 55 mph |
| Highway / freeway | 65 mph |
| Certain rural interstates | 70 mph |
California Highway Speed Limits
California's maximum speed limit is 65 mph on most freeways and 70 mph on certain rural interstate highways. Two-lane undivided highways have a 55 mph limit unless otherwise posted.
DMV Test Tip: California's Basic Speed Law
Under California Vehicle Code 22350, you may never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the posted limit. If it's foggy, raining, or traffic is heavy, driving at the posted 65 mph may be illegal because it is unsafe.
When No Limit Is Posted in California
If there is no speed limit sign in California, you must follow the default (prima facie) limits for that type of area. The burden is on you to recognize which zone you are in.
Minimum Speed & Impeding Traffic
Driving too slowly can be just as dangerous as speeding. On California freeways, you must not drive so slowly that you impede the normal flow of traffic. If you must drive slowly due to vehicle trouble, use hazard lights and stay in the far-right lane.
California Fines & Penalties
A California traffic ticket is more expensive than the number printed on the citation. Your total cost is: base fine + court fees + penalty assessments. California's penalty assessment multipliers can make a $35 base fine cost $150-$200 out of pocket.
California Speeding Fine Tiers (Base Fine)
| Over Limit | CA Base Fine |
|---|---|
| 1–15 mph over | $35 |
| 16–25 mph over | $70 |
| 26+ mph over | $100+ |
Total out-of-pocket cost in California is typically 4-5x the base fine after penalty assessments and court fees.
Construction Zone Double Fines
In California, fines are doubled in construction/work zones when workers are present. A $35 base fine becomes $70 before additional fees.
School Zone & School Bus Violations
Speeding in a California school zone carries enhanced fines (often $250+). Passing a stopped school bus with flashing red lights can result in a fine of $150–$1,000+ and possible license suspension.
Exception: You are not required to stop for a school bus on the opposite side of a road divided by a physical barrier (e.g., concrete median). A painted center line alone is not a divider.
Other Common California Violation Fines
| Running a red light / stop sign | $100+ |
| Reckless driving | $145–$1,000+ |
| Seatbelt violation | $20–$162 |
| Handheld cell phone / texting | $20–$50 (1st), $50+ (repeat) |
| Pedestrian right-of-way violation | $100+ |
| Hit-and-run (property damage) | $1,000–$10,000 |
| Hit-and-run (injury/death) | Felony — jail + fines |
Fine amounts are based on California Vehicle Code. Actual costs include penalty assessments and court fees.
California Point System
California tracks your driving behavior with a point system. Each traffic conviction adds points to your record. Accumulating too many points triggers escalating consequences.
| Violation | CA Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding | 1 |
| Running red light / stop sign | 1 |
| Improper lane change / unsafe turn | 1 |
| At-fault accident | 1 |
| Reckless driving | 2 |
| DUI / DWI | 2 |
| Hit-and-run | 2 |
California Suspension Thresholds
California will suspend your license if you accumulate:
- 4 points in 12 months
- 6 points in 24 months
- 8 points in 36 months
Points on your California driving record also directly increase insurance premiums. A single speeding ticket can raise rates by 20–30%. A DUI can double or triple your premiums for 3–5 years.
How to Reduce Points in California
- Traffic school: California lets you mask 1 point by completing an approved course (once every 18 months).
- Points expire: Points remain on your California record for 36 months from the violation date.
- Negligent operator treatment: If you accumulate too many points, you may receive a warning letter or be placed on probation.
California DUI / DWI Laws
Driving Under the Influence is one of the most heavily tested topics on the California permit exam. Expect at least 1–2 questions on BAC limits, implied consent, and penalties.
California BAC Limits
| Driver Type | CA BAC Limit |
|---|---|
| Standard (21+ non-commercial) | 0.08% |
| Commercial vehicle operators | 0.04% |
| Under 21 (Zero Tolerance) | 0.01% |
California enforces strict Zero Tolerance for drivers under 21—any measurable BAC of 0.01% or higher is illegal.
California Implied Consent Law
By driving on California roads, you have already "consented" to submit to a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) if an officer has reasonable cause to suspect DUI. Refusing the test results in an automatic license suspension (1 year for a first refusal) — even if you are later found not guilty.
First DUI Offense in California — Typical Consequences
- License suspension: 6 months
- Fines: $390–$1,000 (plus penalty assessments totaling $1,800–$2,800)
- Possible jail time: 48 hours – 6 months
- Mandatory 3-month DUI education program
- Possible ignition interlock device (IID)
- SR-22 insurance filing required
Repeat Offense Escalation in California
Penalties escalate sharply with each subsequent conviction in California:
- 2nd offense: 2-year suspension, $390–$1,000 fine (plus assessments), 96 hours–1 year jail, 18–30 month DUI program, IID required
- 3rd offense: 3-year suspension, $390–$1,000 fine (plus assessments), 120 days–1 year jail, 30-month DUI program, designated as habitual traffic offender
- DUI with injury: Felony charges, potential state prison time, license revocation
DMV Test Tip: Drug-Impaired Driving in California
California DUI laws apply to all impairing substances — not just alcohol. This includes marijuana (even though it's legal in California), prescription medications that cause drowsiness, and illegal drugs. Any detectable impairment can result in a DUI charge.
California Learner's Permit & Graduated Driver Licensing
California new drivers go through the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system, which eases you into full driving privileges in three stages.
California's Three GDL Phases
| Phase | California Rules |
|---|---|
| 1. Learner's Permit | Must drive with a licensed adult (25+) at all times. Hold for at least 6 months. Complete 50 hours of supervised driving (10 at night). |
| 2. Provisional License | May drive unsupervised with restrictions: no passengers under 20 (except family) for first 12 months, no driving between 11 PM – 5 AM unless with licensed adult 25+. |
| 3. Full License | All restrictions lifted at age 18 or after maintaining a clean provisional record. |
Cell Phone Prohibition in California
California learner's permit and provisional license holders are prohibited from all cell phone use while driving — including hands-free. This is stricter than the rules for fully licensed adults.
Violation Penalties for California New Drivers
Violating California GDL restrictions can result in an extended permit period, delayed progression to the next phase, fines, or suspension. The violation stays on your record and may affect insurance rates.
Special Zones & Situations in California
Certain areas and situations in California carry enhanced rules and penalties. The California DMV permit test frequently asks about school buses, emergency vehicles, and railroad crossings.
Construction Zones in California
Fines are doubled in active California construction zones when workers are present. Speeding through a work zone can also carry additional points and possible jail time.
California School Zones
California school zone speed limits (25 mph) are typically active when children are present or during posted hours. Many California jurisdictions use speed cameras for enforcement. Fines are significantly higher than standard speeding tickets.
School Bus Stopping Rules in California
- Flashing red lights + stop arm: ALL traffic in BOTH directions must stop.
- Divided highway exception: If the road has a physical barrier (raised median), oncoming traffic does not need to stop.
- Multi-lane road (no barrier): All lanes in both directions must stop.
- Penalty in California: $150–$1,000+ fine, possible license suspension, 1 point on record.
Emergency Vehicles & California Move-Over Law
When an emergency vehicle approaches with lights/sirens, pull to the right edge of the road and stop. California's Move-Over law requires: when passing a stopped emergency vehicle, tow truck, or Caltrans vehicle on the roadside, you must move over one lane or slow down. Fines range from $50 to $400.
Railroad Crossings in California
When warning signals activate in California, you must stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail. Never drive around lowered gates. Buses and vehicles carrying hazardous materials must always stop at railroad crossings regardless of signals.
Pedestrian & Crosswalk Rules in California
In California, pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked and unmarked crosswalks (any intersection). You must yield to blind pedestrians carrying a white cane or using a guide dog at all times — this is a common test question.
Never pass another vehicle that has stopped for a pedestrian at a crosswalk in California.
Funeral Processions in California
In California, funeral processions have the right-of-way. Do not cut into or interrupt a procession.
What Happens After a Ticket in California
Getting a California traffic ticket doesn't mean you have no options. You generally have three choices: pay the fine, attend traffic school, or contest the ticket.
Option 1: Pay the Fine
Paying is an admission of guilt. The violation goes on your California driving record, points are added, and your insurance may increase.
Option 2: Traffic School in California
Attend a California-approved course to mask the point from your record. The fine is usually still owed, but your insurance stays unaffected.
California traffic school is available for minor moving violations and can be used once every 18 months. It is not available for DUI, reckless driving, or violations that caused injury.
Option 3: Contest the Ticket in California
- Trial by written declaration (mail): Submit your defense in writing. If denied, you can still request an in-person hearing.
- Court appearance: Appear before a judge. The citing officer must also appear; if they don't, the case is often dismissed.
- Take photos of the scene, note conditions, and gather evidence that supports your case.
Warning: Failure to Pay in California
Ignoring a California ticket leads to late fees, license suspension, a civil assessment penalty, collections on your credit report, and a vehicle registration hold.
Out-of-State Tickets
California participates in the Driver License Compact (DLC), an agreement to share traffic violation information. An out-of-state ticket will likely be reported to California and treated as if you received it locally — including points and insurance impact. Ignoring an out-of-state ticket can lead to license suspension in California.
Test Your Knowledge
These 25 questions are designed to mimic the style and difficulty of the actual DMV permit test. Can you score the passing 83%?
What is the maximum speed limit on most highways unless otherwise posted?
Questions are created and maintained by the DMV Question Bank content team following a rigorous editorial process. Content is updated regularly to reflect the latest state Driver Handbooks and traffic laws. Official sources include state Driver Handbooks, DMV websites, and the Uniform Vehicle Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the speed limit in California school zones?
How much is a speeding ticket in California?
What is California's Basic Speed Law?
What are the penalties for a first DUI in California?
How does California's point system work?
What happens if I get 4 points in 12 months in California?
Can I attend traffic school for a speeding ticket in California?
What is the speed limit on California highways?
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