Bulk Driver Manual orders; Certified vehicle inspectors; Dealers & transporters; Driver education providers; Driving school instructors; Driving schools.
SUMMARY: New York Motorcycle Manual. Visit your local NY Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). NY DMV Motorcycle Tests.
PART TWO - Rules of the Road
- Not drive in New York State. Drivers who have moved. this manual. You can not practice in a DMV road test. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles does.
- New York Drivers License. More DMV Forms; DMV Handbooks. Drivers Manual and. and is in no way associated with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
- . and getting one starts on this page with studying the New York Driver’s Handbook. NEW Record a Video. NY DMV Tips And Tricks » New York Drivers Handbook.
SUMMARY: New York Driver's Manual. The New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides various publications to help drivers, including the driver's manual.
The New York State Motorcycle Safety Program, coordinated by the state Department of Motor Vehicles. The New York Motorcycle Manual is available below and you.
N E W Y O R K S T A T E D E P A R T M E N T O F M O T O R V E H I C L E S Driver’s Manual PART ONE - Information for Drivers and Vehicle Owners Chapter 1 - Driver Licenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Types of License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 When You Apply for Your First License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Non-Resident and New Resident Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 License Renewal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Change of Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Learner Permit and Junior Operator Restrictions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Driver Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 2 – How to Keep Your License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Special Rules for Drivers with Junior Permits & Licenses . . . . . . .21 Probation Period for All Other New Licensed Drivers . . . . . . . . . .22 If You Receive A Traffic Ticket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Traffic Tickets Received Out of State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Mandatory Suspension or Revocation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 The Point System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Traffic Crashes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Fees and Civil Penalties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Driver Responsibility Assessments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Driving While Suspended or Revoked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Chapter 3 – Owning a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Registration and Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Registration Renewal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Resident and Non-Resident Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Complaints Against Businesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 PART TWO - Rules of the Road Chapter 4 - Traffic Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Traffic Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Pavement Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Traffic Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Chapter 5 - Intersections and Turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Right-of-Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Emergency Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Blue, Green and Amber Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 U-Turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Chapter 6 – How to Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 How to Pass on the Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 How to Pass on the Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Being Passed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 School Buses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Chapter 7 - Parallel Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 How to Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 How to Park on a Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 How to Pull Out From Parallel Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Parking Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Reserved Parking for the Disabled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 PART THREE - Safe Driving Tips Chapter 8 - Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Be Prepared and Look Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Aggressive Drivers and Road Rage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62 Road Rage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Allow Yourself Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Seat Belts, Child Safety Seats, and Air Bags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 How to Drive Safely in Work Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 How to Drive Through a Roundabout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Drowsy and Fatigued Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Using a Cellular or Mobile Telephone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Vehicle Condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 9 - Alcohol and Other Drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 What Alcohol Does . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 Other Drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Alcohol, Other Drugs and the Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Your BAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Chemical Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 The Consequences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 A Few Important Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 How to Avoid Trouble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 Chapter 10 - Special Driving Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Expressway Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Night Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 Driving in Rain, Fog, or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 How to Drive in Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 How to Avoid Collisions With Deer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Driving Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 Chapter 11 – Sharing the Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Pedestrians and Skateboarders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Bicyclists and In-line Skaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 Motorcyclists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Moped Operators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92 Large Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92 Slow-Moving Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96 All-Terrain Vehicles and Snowmobiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96 Horse Riders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96 Chapter 12 - If You Are in a Traffic Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98 At the Scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98 Emergency First-Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Reports to DMV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100 DMV Consumer Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 State DMV Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 County DMV Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102 DMV Call Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104 Important DMV Addresses and Telephone Numbers . . . . . . . . .104 Road Signs (Back Cover) PART 1 INFORMATION FOR DRIVERS AND VEHICLE OWNERS CHAPTER 1 Driver Licenses You must have a valid driver license to drive legally in New York State. If you reside in and hold a valid license from another state or nation, you can drive legally in New York State. Even if you are licensed somewhere else, people under age 16 can not drive in New York State. Drivers who have moved here must turn in their out-of-state driver license and get a New York State license within 30 days after you become a permanent resident. In most cases, it is illegal to hold a New York State driver license and a driver license from another state. It is also a violation of Federal law to hold more than one commercial driver license (CDL). It is a crime to alter or forge any motor vehicle document, including a driver license. This may cause suspension or revocation of the driver license and criminal prosecution resulting in a fine or imprisonment. ■ TYPES OF LICENSES New York State recognizes six types of non-commercial driver licenses. The information in this chapter applies to passenger car and motorcycle licenses. Information about commercial driver licenses can be found in the Commercial Driver’s Manual (CDL-10). This is available from the DMV Internet Office, from a DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. You must have a CDL if you drive any vehicle that: 4 Has a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of more than 26,000 pounds (11,794 kg); or, 4 Pulls a trailer that has a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds (4,536 kg) and the GCWR of the pulling vehicle plus the trailer is more than 26,000 lbs. (11,794 kg); or, 6 4 Is made or used to carry 15 or more persons, not including the driver; or, 4 Regardless of seating capacity, is defined as a bus by Article 19-A of the Vehicle and Traffic Law (including vehicles that carry school children or disabled people); or, 4 Carries hazardous materials required by federal law to contain a placard. The non-commercial driver licenses in this manual are: Operator, Class D - Minimum age is 18, or age 17 with driver education (see Driver Education). Allows you to drive a vehicle with a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,000 lbs. (11,794 kg) or less, and a tow vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds. (4,536 kg) or less, if the gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of the two vehicles together is no more than 26,000 pounds. (11,794 kg). You can also operate Class B and C mopeds with this driver license. Limited Junior Operator/Junior Operator, Class DJ - Minimum age is 16. Allows you to drive the same vehicles as a Class D license with some restrictions. Non-CDL Class C - Minimum age is 18. Allows you to drive some vehicles with a GVWR and tow vehicle combinations up to 26,000 pounds (11,794 kg) that do not require a CDL endorsement. Taxi/Livery, Class E - Minimum age is 18. Allows you to drive the same vehicles as a Class D license, and transport passengers for hire in a vehicle designed or used to carry 1or fewer passengers. If the vehicle is defined as a bus under Article 19-A of the Vehicle and Traffic Law (e.g., a school car or a van that transports physically or mentally disabled persons), regardless of seating capacity, you must have a CDL. Motorcycle, Class M - Minimum age is 18, or age 17 with driver education (see Driver Education). Allows you to drive motorcycles and mopeds. Limited Junior Motorcycle/Junior Motorcycle, Class MJ - Minimum age is 16. Allows you to drive the same vehicles as a Class M license with some restrictions. Note: If you have a motorcycle license and another type of driver license, both classes will be listed on one document (e.g., “Class DM”). Enhanced Driver License - Can be used for land and sea border crossings to and from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. This license can be used instead of a passport as an identity and Citizenship document at these crossings and for air travel within the U.S. This is an option for NYS residents who are U.S. citizens. Commercial driver licenses and motorcycle licenses can be issued as an EDL. Driver Education (To Change Your Class DJ or MJ License to Class D or M) You can apply to change your junior driver license to a full license at age 17 if you received a Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285) from an approved driver education course. Apply at any motor vehicle office. Otherwise, your junior license will automatically become a full license when you become 18 years old and you do not need to apply for a license change. 7 Recreational Vehicle or “R” endorsement - Recreational vehicles, with or without air brakes, are not defined as commercial vehicles. You can apply for an “R” endorsement for your Class D, Class E or non-CDL Class C driver license to allow you to operate a recreational vehicle (RV) with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of over 26,000 pounds (11,794 kg). An “R” endorsement also allows you to drive a rental vehicle with a length of more than 40 feet for the transportation of personal household products. To get an “R” endorsement: Submit a completed Application for Driver License or ID Card (MV-44), indicating a license amendment, to a state or county motor vehicle office; pay a permit fee, which is valid for a maximum of two road tests; and pass a road test in the size and type of vehicle you will drive. No written test is required. For the road test, a driver who is at least 21 with a license valid for the vehicle you will drive during the test must accompany you. (e.g., a driver license with an “R” endorsement or the correct Commercial Driver License). The road test will take approximately 15 minutes and will include turns, intersections and backing the vehicle to the curb. When you pass the road test, you must go to a motor vehicle office and pay the required fee to complete the license amendment process. ■ WHEN YOU APPLY FOR YOUR FIRST LICENSE The information and required application forms you need to apply for a learner permit or driver license are available at any motor vehicle office. You can also request them from a DMV Call Center, and from the DMV Internet Office. To apply for a learner permit or driver license you must complete an Application for Driver License (MV-44). You must pass a vision and written test and pay the application and license fees. Most drivers also must complete an approved 5-hour classroomtraining course and pass a road test. For more information about how to apply for and receive a license to drive a motorcycle or a commercial vehicle that requires a CDL, refer to the Motorcycle Operator’s Manual (MV-21MC) or the Commercial Driver’s Manual (CDL-10). You must bring your completed application to any motor vehicle office, show the required proof of name and date of birth, provide your Social Security card and pay the correct fee. Your first New York State driver license will be issued for a period not to exceed 5 years, on your month and day of birth. Your fee for a learner permit and license in Class D, DJ, M or MJ will be based on your age and date of birth. Proof of Identity and Age For your protection, DMV must be sure who you are. As part of the application, you must provide your Social Security card. You must present documents that prove your name and age. All proofs must be in English or accompanied by a certified 8 English translation. The list of acceptable documents and assigned point values, described below, are on forms License/Permit/ID Instructions (MV-44.1) and Proofs of Identity (ID-44) available from the DMV Internet Office, from a DMV Call Center by request or at any motor vehicle office. Proof of Name Documents that prove your name are assigned a point value. You must present proofs that total six points or more. At least one of the proofs must have your signature. Examples of common proofs and their point values are listed below. Each document below has a value of 6 points: 4 New York State Photo Driver License/Permit/Non-Driver ID Card The document below has a value of 4 points: 4 If Under Age 21 — Statement of Identity by Parent/Guardian (MV-45) (see special instructions and requirements on the DMV form). Proof of date of birth and an original Social Security card are required for the applicant. 4 U.S. Passport, must be valid Each document below has a value of 3 points: 4 Foreign passport - in English and with a U.S. Visa and valid I-9 or unexpired I-551 stamp or statement on visa. If the document is not in English, a certified translation by the embassy or consulate of the issuing country is required. See the publication Proofs of Identity (ID-44). 4 Valid U.S. Re-entry Permit (I-327) 4 Valid U.S. Refugee Travel Document (I-571) 4 Permanent Resident Identification Card (INS I-551) 4 Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-560, N-561, N-570, N-578 or N-645) 4 Valid U.S. Employment Authorization Card (INS I-688B or I-766, with photo) 4 U.S. Military Photo Identification Card (issued to military personnel only) 4 NYS. Medicaid/Benefit/Food Stamp Card, with photo (or, 2 points without photo) Each document below has a value of 2 points: 4 Photo Driver License issued by another U.S. state, jurisdiction, territory or possession, or, a Canadian province or territory (must be in effect at least 6 months and not expired for more than 12 months) 4 U.S. Military Dependent Photo ID card 4 NYS DMV Non-Photo Interim License or Computer Generated Learner Permit 9 4 NYS Vehicle Certificate of Title 4 NYS Vehicle or Boat Registration Document 4 U.S. High School ID With Report Card 4 U.S. Social Security Card (must have your signature) 4 U.S. College ID With Photo and Transcript 4 NYS Professional License 4 U.S. Marriage or Divorce Record or Court-Issued Name Change Document 4 NYS or New York City Pistol Permit 4 St. Regis Mohawk Tribe identification card Each document below has a value of 1 point: 4 Valid U.S. Major Credit Card, or 4 U.S. Cash (ATM) Card (with pre-printed name and signature), or 4 U.S. Canceled Check (with your pre-printed name), or 4 U.S. Bank/Financial Institution Statement/Record 4 U.S. Employee Identification Card 4 U.S. Computerized Pay Stub (must include your name) 4 U.S. Supermarket Check Cashing Card (must have your pre-printed name and signature) 4 U.S. Insurance Policy (in effect at least two years) 4 U.S. Health Insurance Card/Prescription Card 4 U.S. Utility Bill (must have your name and address) 4 W-2 Form (must include Social Security Number) 4 U.S. Union Card 4 U.S. High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) 4 Veteran Universal Access Photo Identification Card Proof of Age You must prove your date of birth. The DMV will accept the original or certified copy of ANY ONE of these documents from the issuing agency: 4 Birth Certificate issued and certified by the U.S. Department of State or a Board of Health or Bureau of Vital Statistics in the U.S., its territories or possessions 4 Certificate of Birth Registration issued by the Department of Health of New York State or New York City 4 St. Regis Mohawk Tribe identification card plus a birth certificate issued by Canada 10 4 U.S. Military Photo Identification Card 4 U.S. Passport 4 Foreign Passport (with INS documentation) or Immigration Documents See the publication Proofs of Identity (ID-44) for details 4 Certification of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization Vision and Written Tests To pass the vision test, you must have 20/40 vision in at least one eye with or without corrective lenses. If you cannot pass this test or if you wear special lenses, contact a DMV Call Center for additional instruction. The written test for a Class D, M, DJ, MJ or E license examines knowledge of the rules of the road, safe driving techniques, road signs and the laws about alcohol and drug use while driving. To pass the written test, you must correctly answer at least 14 of the 20 questions asked, but you must correctly answer two of the four questions about road signs. You can practice for the written test with the questions included in this Driver’s Manual and you can take practice quizzes on-line at the DMV Web site. (dmv.ny.gov) If you require a motorcycle license, also study the Motorcycle Operator’s Manual (MV-21MC). There is a separate commercial driver license written test for a CDL Class A, B, or C. If you want to apply for a commercial driver license, also study the Commercial Driver Manual (CDL-10). Online Knowledge Test Application Before they apply for a learner permit, students who are at least age 15 can take the written test through the DMV Online Knowledge Test Application (OKTA) program. The test is given at participating high schools across New York State. The test is given in an easy-to-use format and is offered in English and Spanish. It is not necessary for schools that participate to have a driver education program. They must provide a personal computer with Internet access, a printer and at least one staff person to monitor the tests. The OKTA program automatically scores each test and displays the results for the student on the computer screen. Students who pass the test online will receive a receipt, instructions and all required forms to apply for a learner permit. Students who are at least age 16 can bring their receipt and completed forms to any state or county motor vehicle office to apply for a learner permit. Students who fail the test can take it again online as many times as the school allows. The Learner Permit When you pass the vision and written tests and pay your fees, your learner permit will be issued and you can start to learn to drive. When you practice, a 11 licensed driver at least 21 must accompany you. That driver must have a license valid for the type of vehicle. In Long Island and New York City, this person must be a parent or guardian or an instructor. There are special restrictions for a driver less than 18 years old (see the publication, Learner Permits and Junior Licenses (C-41), available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, from a DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. When you apply, your permit will be valid for three to five years, depending on your age. When you pass the road test, your new driver license will expire on the same date as your permit would have expired. If you have a license or permit and want to apply for a permit for a different class of license, the new permit will be valid for one year only. When you submit your permit application, make sure to ask about special procedures you must follow. Preparing for the Road Test Safe drivers often find their amount of practice before the road test made a positive difference. Before you take the test, it is important that you have had at least 50 hours of practice, with at least 15 hours after sunset It is recommended that at least 10 hours of the supervised practice be in moderate to heavy traffic. Road tests are given on city streets, but you should practice on expressways and other types of highways as well. DMV suggests you take a high school or college driver education course or lessons from a DMV-licensed driving school. If you cannot take a course or lessons, have the person who teaches you read Parts 2 and 3 of this manual. You can not practice in a DMV road test area or on any restricted roads. In New York City, these areas include any street within a park and all bridges and tunnels under the jurisdiction of the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority. In Westchester County, the streets and roadways you can not practice on include these parkways: Cross County, Hutchinson River, Saw Mill River and Taconic State. Safe Driving Course Requirement Before you can make a road test appointment, you must first complete an approved safe driver course. This requirement is automatically fulfilled as part of every high school or college driver education course. All other drivers can complete this requirement when they take a special five-hour course available at most professional driving schools. To find where this course is offered, look in the Yellow Pages of your local telephone directory under “Driving Instruction.” When you complete the course, you will receive a certificate to show when you make your road test appointment. The certificate is valid for one year. Note: A defensive driving course taught through the DMV-certified Point/Insurance Reduction Program and/or completion of any online driver training program do NOT qualify as the required 5-hour classroom course. 12 The Road Test In most areas of the state, you must make your road test appointment by telephone at 1-(518)-402-2100. You must have your Pre-licensing Course Completion Certificate (MV-278) or driver education course Student Certificate Of Completion (MV-285) before you schedule your appointment. During your call, you will be informed whether your local motor vehicle office participates in the road test telephone-appointment program. An office that does not participate can schedule your appointment in person or by mail. In that case, bring or mail your permit and course completion certificate to your local motor vehicle office. You can schedule your road test through the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov/roadtest. If you can not be at the road test site at the assigned time for a non-commercial driver license, you can request to a different road test appointment. You must make this request at least 24 hours before the scheduled test date – call the road test appointment telephone number, 1-(518)-402-2100, visit the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov or contact the office where you made the original appointment. The DMV can cancel road tests because of bad weather. You may call the road test appointment telephone number, or contact the office where you made your original appointment for announcements of road test cancellations. For Junior Drivers With Permits Your permit must be held, in valid status, for a minimum of six months in order to take the road test, unless you are 17 and hold a valid Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285). When you pass the road test, you will be issued a Junior License (Class DJ or MJP. See the chart “Regional Restrictions for a Junior License.” A DMV motor vehicle license examiner will conduct the road test. You must give the license examiner your photo learner permit, your 5-hour pre-licensing course completion certificate (MV-278) or your Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285) and a completed Certification of Supervised Driving (MV-262). All junior drivers with permits are required to present a completed MV-262 at the time of the road test. The Certification of Supervised Driving (MV-262) is available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, from a DMV Call Center and at any motor vehicle office. With this statement, your parent or guardian certifies that you completed at least 50 hours of practice driving, including at least 15 hours after sunset, with an appropriate supervising driver (See chart “Regional Restrictions for a Junior Permit”). You must bring a vehicle to drive during the road test. The vehicle must be correctly registered, inspected, insured and equipped, and in good working order. This includes doors and seat belts. The passenger side seat belt must be available and clean for use by the examiner. If you drive to the road test site, you must also bring a supervising driver who is at least 21 and holds a license valid for the vehicle you will drive during the road test. Motorcycle applicants must bring a car or truck and a licensed driver to transport the license examiner during the test. 13 For All Other Drivers With Permits When you take your road test, you must give the license examiner your photo learner permit, your 5-hour pre-licensing course completion certificate (MV-278) or your Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285). As described for “Junior Drivers With Permits,” you must also provide a vehicle to drive during the road test and a correctly licensed driver. When you qualify for a non-commercial license Class D, DJ, E, M or MJ, the examiner will issue you a printed receipt. This receipt plus your photo learner permit will be a temporary driver license valid for 90 days. Your new photo license will arrive in the mail within three to five weeks. NOTE TO MOTORCYCLISTS: If you have another class of driver license and a motorcycle operator’s learner permit, the DMV will waive your motorcycle road test if you complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Motorcycle Rider Course. If you add an M or MJ endorsement to a license issued before by New York State, you must go to a state or county motor vehicle office and amend your previous driver license at least five business days after you pass the road test. If you did not have a previous NYS driver license, your new Class M or MJ driver license will arrive in the mail within three to five weeks. If you qualify for a Commercial Driver License (CDL), the DMV will issue a printed receipt. This receipt plus your current photo license will serve as a temporary license valid for 10 days. This license is only issued to applicants who meet the medical certification requirements (if required) and all other requirements. Those requirements include checks of the National Driver Registry (NDR) and Commercial Driver License Information System (SDLIS). You must amend you original license in person at any state of county DMV office. Wait at least five business days after passing the road test before you make the amendment. If you did not pass your CDL road test, you may continue to practice driving until the date the permit expires. There is a fee for scheduling each additional road test. When you take a CDL test (Class A, B or C), if you are required to meet the federal medical requirements in 49 CFR Part 391 you must present a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate to the DMV license examiner at the time of the skills test. This requirement applies if your document does not have an A3 restriction, or, if you are over 21, a K restriction. If you qualify for a Commercial Driver License (CDL Class A, B or C), you must correct your original license in person at any state or county motor vehicle office. Wait until at least five business days after you pass the road test before you make the amendment. If you did not pass your CDL road test, you can continue to practice until the date the permit expires. There is a fee to schedule each additional road test. When you qualify for a license, you must continue to be careful and obey the traffic laws to gain experience as a capable driver. Many motorists enroll in a DMV- 14 certified Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) for more training. The PIRP is available through private companies or corporations in New York State. This program reviews time-tested safe driving tips and provides a summary of the vehicle and traffic laws. If you are eligible for point reduction, as many as four (4) points can be reduced from your record. You can complete this course every 18 months for the purpose of point reduction. Participants who complete the program will receive a minimum 10% reduction in the base rate of liability and collision insurance premiums each year for three years. For more information, see the DMV publication Point and Insurance Reduction Program (C-32A), available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, from a DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. ■ NON-RESIDENT AND NEW RESIDENT DRIVERS If you are a resident of another state or country and hold a valid driver license there, you can legally drive in New York State. You should not apply for a New York driver license. Apply for a New York license only after you become a resident of this state. Then, to remain legally licensed, you must apply for a New York State driver license within 30 days after you establish you are a New York State resident. If you are a new resident with a valid driver license issued by a U.S. state, territory or possession, or a Canadian province or territory, you must turn in your out-of-state license to get a New York driver license. You must show additional proof of name and date of birth (see “Applying for your First License”), and provide your Social Security card. You must pass the vision test. If your out-of-state license has been valid for less than six months or had expired more than one year ago, you must also pass the written and road tests and complete the safe driving course. If you are a new resident licensed in a country other than Canada, you must pass the vision test, complete the safe driving course, turn in your foreign license, and you must pass a written and road test. When you pass the road test, you must give your foreign license to the DMV motor vehicle license examiner who conducted the test. Your foreign driver license will be destroyed unless you provide the examiner a written request to hold your foreign license on file at a New York State office of the Department of Motor Vehicles. The license examiner will tell you which DMV District Office will hold your foreign license. Your foreign license will be returned at your request, but only after you return your New York State license. ■ LICENSE RENEWAL You are responsible to know when your driver license expires and to renew it on time. If the DMV has your current address, you should receive a renewal notice 15 and instructions in the mail approximately 45 days before your license expires. If you do not receive the notice, you can apply for renewal at a motor vehicle office. You can renew your license up to one year before its printed expiration date. Most driver licenses can be renewed through the mail or through the DMV Internet Office. For either renewal process, you must prove you have passed an eye test within six months or within one year as determined by a licensed health care professional before the date you renew your license. To renew by mail, you must return to the DMV your renewal application and a completed Eye Test Report (MV-619) that which documents that you passed the vision test. If you renew through the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, you will need information from a completed Eye Test Report by your health care professional. An Eye Test Report form is available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, from a DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. You can bring the driver license renewal form and the Eye Test Report to any motor vehicle office and renew in person. If you apply for a renewal in person, you will be allowed to take the vision test at the motor vehicle office. When renewing in person, you must present your current license or six points of identification and, if needed, your Social Security card. You can renew your driver license up to one year before your current license expires. Make sure to renew early if your license will expire while you are out of state. If you cannot renew early or a serious illness prevents you from doing so, contact a DMV Call Center. If you enter military service, your license can be automatically extended throughout your active service and for six months after discharge. You must notify the department within 60 days of the entry date into service. You must submit the form, Notification of Military Service (MV-75), available from the DMV Internet Office, from a DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. ■ CHANGE OF ADDRESS ■ LEARNER PERMIT AND JUNIOR OPERATOR RESTRICTIONS If you change your address you must notify DMV within 10 days by mail or on a Change-of-Address Form (MV-232). You must write the new address in the space provided on the back of your driver license. Learner permits, limited junior driver licenses (Limited Class DJ or MJ) and full junior driver licenses (Class DJ or MJ) allow limited driving privileges for people new drivers. These documents restrict where, and under which circumstances, you can drive. If you are under age 18, these restrictions depend on where you drive in New York State and the time of day. These restrictions also apply to drivers less than 18 years old who are licensed outside New York State. 16 The restrictions for drivers with learner permits and junior licenses are also presented in the publication Learner Permits & Junior Licenses (C-41), available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. Definitions “PROPERLY LICENSED” means the supervising driver has a license valid to drive the type of vehicle being driven by the new or junior driver. “GUARDIAN” means a person who has, on a regular and extended basis, assumed the character of a parent and discharges parental duties because of the death, disability or absence of the real parent. “IN LOCO PARENTIS” means a person who has, on a regular and extended basis, assumed the character of a parent and discharges parental duties because of the death, disability or absence of the real parent. “SCHOOL COURSE” means instruction that is licensed or approved by a state agency or department, or training conducted by the U.S. Armed Forces. The term “school course” does NOT include activities or events for which no scholastic credits are given. “EMPLOYMENT” means a place of business at which you are paid to work on a scheduled basis. You can NOT drive during work or as part of your work duties. “WORK STUDY PROGRAM” means a state-approved work-study program. For example, a Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) course for which academic credit is granted for work experience. “MEDICAL APPOINTMENT” means medical treatment that is necessary for you or a member of your household. “DAYCARE” applies to travel to and from child care if the attendance of the child is necessary for a family member to maintain employment or attend a school course. General Rules for All Drivers with Learner Permits If you hold a learner permit, you can not drive: 4 Unless you are accompanied by a supervising driver at least age 21 who has a license to operate the vehicle you are driving. In Long Island and New York City, this person must be a parent, guardian or driving instructor. For example, a person with a motorcycle license can supervise a motorcycle learner. 4 In a DMV road test area. 4 On any street within a park in New York City or any bridge or tunnel under the jurisdiction of the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority. 4 On the Cross County, Hutchinson River, Saw Mill River, or Taconic State parkways in Westchester County. 17 Drivers from Outside New York State If you are under age 18 and hold a learner permit, junior permit or junior driver license from outside New York State, you must obey the restrictions described in this publication as well as the restrictions from your home state. Make sure your permit or license is valid to drive outside your home state before you operate a vehicle in New York. If you are less than 16, you can not drive in New York State even if you have an out-of-state license. NYS Drivers Visiting Other States You can drive outside New York State with your learner permit, junior learner permit or junior license if it is allowed by the laws of the other state. You must obey that state’s permit, junior permit and driver license restrictions that may apply. Ask the police or motor vehicle authorities in the state you are visiting. Motorcyclists and Moped Operators The restrictions in this publication also apply to operating a motorcycle or moped. Your learner permit or limited junior license (Class M or MJ, or Limited REGIONAL RESTRICTIONS FOR A JUNIOR PERMIT New York City (5 Boroughs) 5 AM – 9 PM You must drive only under the immediate supervision of your: 1. Parent 2. Guardian 3. Person “in loco parentis” 4. Driver Education Teacher 5. Driving School Instructor The person above must be at least age 21 and have a license valid for the vehicle being driven. Vehicle must have dual controls (dual brakes). 9 PM – 5 AM You must NOT drive. Long Island (Nassau & Suffolk) 5 AM – 9 PM You must drive only under the immediate supervision of: 1. Your Parent 2. Your Guardian 3. Your Person “in loco parentis” 4. Your Driver Education Teacher 5. Your Driving School Instructor 6. Anyone who has been designated in writing by the parent, guardian or person “in loco parentis” The person above must be age 21 or older and have a license valid for the vehicle being driven. 9 PM – 5 AM You must NOT drive. 9 PM – 5 AM You must drive only under the immediate supervision of your: 1. Parent 2. Guardian 3. Person “ in loco parentis” 4. Driver Education Teacher 5. Driving School Instructor The person above must be at least age 21 and have a license valid for the vehicle being driven. Upstate (All Other Counties) 5 AM – 9 PM You must drive only under the immediate supervision of: A person who is age 21 or older and has a license valid for the vehicle being driven. 18 Class MJ) does not allow you to carry any passenger except your supervising driver. Your supervising driver must have a driver license valid to operate the same class motorcycle or moped you are driving, and must exercise general supervision and control by remaining within one-quarter mile. It is strongly recommended that your supervising driver be able to see you at all times. Driving with a Junior Learner Permit or Junior License 4 You can not drive with more than two passengers less than 21 unless they are members of your immediate family or if your supervising driver is your licensed parent, guardian, person “in loco parentis,” driver education teacher or driving school instructor. 4 You and each passenger must wear a seat belt: one per person. Every child passenger must use a correct child restraint. (See: Chapter 8, “Seat Belts, Child Safety Seats, and Air Bags”) 4 If you hold a junior permit or a limited junior license, the only passenger allowed in the front seat is your supervising driver. 4 Also see “Special Rules for Drivers with Junior Permits and Licenses,” Chapter 2. REGIONAL RESTRICTIONS FOR A JUNIOR LICENSE* New York City (5 Boroughs) 5 AM – 9 PM You must NOT drive. Long Island (Nassau & Suffolk) 5 AM – 9 PM You may drive alone only directly between your home and employment, a work-study program, a course at a college, university, or registered evening high school, a driver education course, or while engaged in farm employment. You may drive when accompanied by your licensed parent, guardian, person “in loco parentis,” driver education teacher, or driving school instructor. 9 PM – 5 AM You must NOT drive. 9 PM – 5 AM You may drive alone only directly between your home and a workstudy program, a course at a college, university, or registered evening high school, a driver education course, or while engaged in farm employment. 9 PM – 5 AM You may drive alone only when traveling directly between your home and employment or a school course. All other driving must be accompanied by your licensed parent, guardian, or person “in loco parentis.” Upstate (All Other Counties) 5 AM – 9 PM You may drive without being accompanied. *See “Driving Alone with a Junior License 19 Driving Alone with a Junior License or Limited Junior License Important information if you hold a Junior License in the counties of Nassau or Suffolk, or a Limited Junior License in the upstate counties (except Westchester, Rockland and Putnam): You can drive by yourself between home and your employment, which can include farm work, if you carry the correct proof of employment. Your employer can complete a Certificate of Employment (MV-58A), available from the DMV Internet Office, from a DMV Call Center and at local motor vehicle offices. In the upstate counties only, instead of an employment certificate, you can carry a letter from your employer. The letter must be marked with a date and signed by your employer, and must show the business name, address and telephone number where you work. It also must list your name, date of birth, client ID number, job description, and days, hours and location of employment. The address and telephone number at which the employer can be contacted must be included for verification by a magistrate or police officer. When you drive by yourself between your home and a qualified school course or approved work-study program, you must carry proof of enrollment. This must be a letter, marked with a date and signed by an appropriate school or program official, on the school or program letterhead. It must include the address and telephone number of the official for verification by a magistrate or police officer. The letter also must include the date(s), hour(s) and location(s) of the school course or program activity, your name, date of birth, and client ID number. ■ DRIVER EDUCATION If you are 17, you are eligible for a senior driver license (Class D or M) if you have a junior driver license or limited junior driver license and have completed a state-approved high school or college driver education course. To change your junior license to a senior license, bring your junior license and the Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285) that you received from your instructor to any motor vehicle office. You must return your certificate and junior license to receive the senior license. If you do not change your junior license to a senior license, you are subject to the restrictions for junior drivers until you are age 18, even if you carry the completion certificate with you. You can also give your certificate with your junior permit to the license examiner at your road test. You will automatically receive a senior license when you become eligible. 20 CHAPTER 2 How to Keep Your License If you commit a serious traffic violation or several violations that are less serious, you can lose your driving privilege through suspension or revocation of your license. “Suspension” means your license (or privilege to drive) is taken away for a period of time before it is returned. You may be required to pay a suspension termination fee. “Revocation” means your license (or privilege to drive) is cancelled. To get a new license, you must re-apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) once the revocation period is over. You may be required to pay a license re-application fee. Your application may be denied if you have a poor driving record or refuse to meet DMV requirements. Revocation periods may be longer than the minimum periods listed in this publication. “Driving privilege” means the courtesy extended to out-of-state-drivers that allows them to drive a motor vehicle in New York State. It also refers to permission from New York State for a person without a license to get a New York State driver license. A driving privilege can be suspended or revoked for the same reasons as are New York State driver licenses. Driving with a suspended or revoked privilege carries the same penalties as driving with a suspended or revoked license. ■ SPECIAL RULES FOR DRIVERS WITH JUNIOR PERMITS AND LICENSES Every driver with a limited or full junior permit or driver license is could face sanctions and other penalties. For example, your permit, license or privileges will be suspended for 60 days if you are convicted of a serious traffic violation (three points or more) or two other violations. Your junior permit, license or privileges will be revoked for 60 days if you are convicted of a serious violation (three points or more), or two other violations 21 within the first six months after you receive your license or privileges back following suspension or revocation. In addition, your junior permit, license or privileges will be suspended for 120 days when you are convicted of a texting or cell phone violation. A junior permit must be held for a minimum of six months, excluding any time the permit is suspended or revoked, before a road test can be scheduled. ■ PROBATION PERIOD FOR ALL OTHER NEW LICENSED DRIVERS If you are 18 or older when you pass your road test for a driver license, or obtain a license following revocation, you will be on probation for six months. If you are convicted of speeding, reckless driving, following too closely, participating in a speed contest, or two other traffic violations while on probation, your license will be suspended for 60 days. If you are found guilty of one of the above violations or two other moving violations during this second probation period, your license will be revoked for at least six months. When the revocation or suspension ends, you will be on probation for another six months. If you are convicted of a texting or cell phone violation, your probationary license will be suspended for 120 days. ■ IF YOU RECEIVE A TRAFFIC TICKET If you receive a traffic ticket, do not delay – follow the instructions on the ticket for the plea you want to make. Your driver license will be suspended indefinitely if you do not answer the ticket in the time allowed, or pay a fine (other than parking tickets and fines), surcharge, crime victim assistance fee or suspension-termination fee. If you do not respond that you have received the ticket, you could be found guilty by default conviction. If you are convicted by default, your license will be suspended for not paying the fine and a judgment will be entered against you. The DMV Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) processes the tickets for non-criminal moving traffic violations issued in the five boroughs of New York City and Rochester. The TVB system allows the other courts in these areas to concentrate on criminal cases. This includes driving offenses like Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and driving while suspended or revoked. In other areas of the state, traffic violations are processed in the criminal and traffic court of the city, county, town or village where the alleged offense occurred. No matter what court system is involved, every motorist who receives a traffic ticket can present a defense and be represented by a lawyer. 22 ■ TRAFFIC TICKETS RECEIVED OUT OF STATE The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles does not record convictions of moving traffic violations by NYS non-commercial licensed drivers in other jurisdictions, except traffic offenses committed in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Canada. Out-of-state traffic convictions, except for Ontario and Quebec, are not added to your New York State “violation point” driving record. However, your New York State driver license will be suspended if you fail to answer a ticket for a moving violation in any state except Alaska, California, Michigan, Montana, Oregon or Wisconsin. Your license will remain suspended until you answer the ticket. Drivers from any state, except from the six states listed above, will have their driver licenses suspended in their own state if they fail to answer a moving violation summons in New York State. If you are over 21 and are convicted of an alcohol- or drug-related driving violation (e.g., DUI) in another state or the provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Canada, your New York State driver license will be revoked for at least 90 days. Out-of-state drivers who get tickets in New York State can contact the motor vehicle department of their own state or province about how a conviction affects them. If you are under 21 years old and convicted of any alcohol or drug-related violation that occurred out of state on or after November 1, 2000, your New York State driver license will be revoked for at least one year. If you have any alcohol conviction, even if the violation occurred before November 1, 2000, your license will be revoked for at least one year or until the age of 21, whichever is longer. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles records the conviction of any New York driver for criminal negligence, homicide, or assault that arises from the operation of a motor vehicle and which results in death. The driver license or privilege to drive and all vehicle registrations can be suspended. It does not matter if the conviction occurred in this state or another state. ■ MANDATORY SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION Your driver license or driving privilege can be suspended or revoked for many reasons. NOTE: Motorboat and snowmobile operators less than 21 years old who drink alcohol face similar penalties and sanctions against their privileges to operate a motorboat or snowmobile. Examples of revocations and suspensions that are required by law: Alcohol and Drug Violations (Also see Chapter 9: Alcohol and Other Drugs) 4 Aggravated driving while intoxicated (Agg-DWI), with .18 of one percent blood alcohol content (.18 BAC): minimum one-year revocation. 23 4 Driving while intoxicated (DWI), with .08 of one percent blood alcohol content (.08 BAC): minimum six-month revocation 4 Driving while ability impaired by alcohol (DWAI): 90-day suspension. 4 Driving while ability impaired by drugs (DWAI-drug): minimum six-month suspension 4 Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs out-of-state (DUI): minimum 90-day to six-month revocation, depending on conviction Chemical Test Refusals (Also see Chapter 9: Alcohol and Other Drugs) 4 Chemical test refusal, drivers over age 21: minimum one-year revocation 4 Chemical test refusal, drivers over age 21, within five years of a prior refusal revocation or any alcohol or drug-related violation: minimum 18-month revocation 4 Chemical test refusal, drivers under age 21, first time: minimum one-year revocation 4 Chemical test refusal, drivers less than 21, second time: Minimum revocation until age 21 or one year, whichever is longer 4 Zero Tolerance test refusal: Minimum one-year revocation Drivers Less Than 21 If you are under 21 when arrested, conviction for any of the alcohol or drugrelated violations listed above will result in a minimum one-year revocation. A second violation while less than 21 requires a revocation for one year or until you reach 21, whichever is longer. These penalties apply to youthful offenders, or if you were arrested or convicted out of state (see Traffic Tickets Received Out Of State). Under the state’s “Zero Tolerance Law,” a driver less than 21 will have his license suspended for six months if found to have a BAC from .02 to .07. A .02 BAC could occur from only one drink. For a second Zero Tolerance violation, the driver license will be revoked for one year or until the driver turns 21, whichever is longer. Speeding and Other Violations Your driver license will be revoked for at least six months if you are found guilty of: 4 Three speeding and/or misdemeanor traffic violations within 18 months (based on date of violation, not date of conviction). 4 Three “passing a stopped school bus” violations within three years. 4 One violation of “leaving the scene of a personal injury or fatal accident.” 4 One “participating in a speed contest” violation. Conviction of a second speed contest violation within 12 months results in a revocation of at least one year. 24 No Insurance Your driver license will be revoked for at least one year if you operate or allow another person to operate your uninsured vehicle, or if the DMV receives evidence that you were involved in a traffic crash without being insured. If the insurance coverage for your vehicle has expired, you must turn in the license plates and registration to a motor vehicle office. If the vehicle is removed from the road and not being driven, you must return the plates or you can face civil penalties or registration suspension and/or license suspension. Indefinite Suspensions/Revocations Your driver license will also be suspended indefinitely if you fail to file an accident report, submit a bad check for DMV fees, fail to pay child support, fail to pay taxes or fail to fulfill a court judgment that results from a traffic accident. This suspension will be in effect until you correct the condition that led to the suspension. Commercial Drivers It is a felony to drive a school bus that carries one or more students while you are impaired or intoxicated. If you are found guilty of an alcohol or drug-related violation while driving a school bus, taxi or livery vehicle a passenger inside, your driver license will be revoked for at least one year. If found guilty of a second violation within 10 years, you could be permanently prohibited from holding a Class CDL license. For more information about the commercial driver penalties, see the Commercial Driver’s Manual (CDL-10). ■ THE POINT SYSTEM The DMV point system identifies “persistent violators”; that is, drivers who commit a series of violations in a short time period. The table in this chapter lists the point values assigned to various moving traffic violations. Note that traffic laws that must be obeyed on public highways, roads and streets also apply to parking lots open to the public. While each violation listed alone is not serious enough to require license suspension or revocation, the accumulation of several violations on your driving record can indicate that action must be taken. The point values charged against your record are from the date you commit the violation, not the date you are convicted. If you get 11 or more points within 18 months, you will be notified by mail that your driver license will be suspended. You can request a DMV hearing only to show that the convictions in question were not 25 Violation Speeding MPH not specified Speeding MPH over posted limit: 1 to 10 11 to 20 21 to 30 31 to 40 More than 40 Reckless driving Failing to stop for school bus Inadequate brakes Following too closely (tailgating) 4 Points 3 3 4 6 8 11 5 5 4 Violation Improper passing, unsafe lane change, drove left of center, or drove wrong direction Violation involving a traffic signal, stop sign or yield sign Failing to yield right-of-way Railroad crossing violation Leaving scene of incident involving property damage or injury to domestic animal Safety restraint violation involving person under 16 Inadequate brakes (while driving employer’s vehicle) Any other moving violation Points 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 yours. You can not re-argue the convictions or request the suspension be waived based on special circumstances. You can reduce your point total by up to four points and save up to 10 percent on your auto liability and collision insurance premiums by taking a DMV-approved “Motor Vehicle Accident Prevention Course.” Completion of a point reduction course cannot prevent a mandatory suspension or revocation or be applied as a “credit” against future points, or prevent or reduce a Driver Responsibility Assessment by the DMV. For more information, see the publication Point And Insurance Reduction (C-32A), available from the DMV Internet Office. Note: Insurance companies can have their own point systems. These have no relationship to and should not be confused with the DMV point system. ■ TRAFFIC CRASHES At this time, except where required by law, the term “accident” is frequently replaced by “crash.” This is because a “crash” can normally be prevented. If you are involved in a traffic crash in which another person is killed, your license can suspended or revoked after a DMV hearing even if you were not charged with a violation when the incident occurred. 26 ■ FEES AND CIVIL PENALTIES If your driver license has been suspended for an exact period, like 30 days or 90 days, your license will not be returned until you pay a non-refundable $50 suspension termination fee. In most cases, if your driver license has been revoked, you can not apply for a new license until you pay a non-refundable $100 fee to reapply for the license. This fee is not required if your license was revoked for operating without insurance or if you were issued a license with conditions or restricted uses. After the following revocations, you must pay a civil penalty to DMV before your application for a new license can be accepted: 4 Operating without insurance or accident without insurance: $750 civil penalty. 4 Chemical test refusal: $500 civil penalty($550 if while driving a commercial motor vehicle). 4 Chemical test refusal within five years of an earlier alcohol, drug or refusal-related revocation: $750 civil penalty. 4 Zero Tolerance Law suspension: $125 civil penalty and $100 suspension termination fee. ■ DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY ASSESSMENTS In addition to any fines, fees, penalties and surcharges authorized by law, you may have to pay a “Driver Responsibility Assessment” for some violations that occur on or after November 18, 2004, that result in a conviction or administrative finding. Your learner permit, driver license or driving privileges will be suspended if you do not make these payments. If you are convicted of Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (Agg-DWI), Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI), Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, DWAI-alcohol combined with drugs, or if you refused to submit to a chemical test, you will be required to pay a driver responsibility assessment of $250 each year for the next three years. If you are convicted of one or more traffic violations resulting in six points in any 18-month period, you will be required to pay $100 each year for the next three years. For each additional point you receive during that period, you will be required to pay another $25 per point every year for three years. For information about how points are assessed, see “The Point System” in this chapter. This assessment applies to motorists convicted of violations while driving motor vehicles, motorboats and 27 snowmobiles. Completion of a DMV-approved “Motor Vehicle Accident Prevention Course” will not prevent or reduce the calculation of points that affect the Driver Responsibility Assessment. ■ DRIVING WHILE SUSPENDED OR REVOKED It is a criminal violation to drive while your license is suspended or revoked, and there are mandatory fines from $200 to $5,000. You can face mandatory imprisonment or probation. The vehicle being driven could be seized and forfeited. More severe penalties apply to drivers who drive while intoxicated or impaired by alcohol or drugs while their licenses or privileges are already under suspension or revocation for a previous alcohol or drug-related incident. Drivers with 10 or more suspensions for failure to answer traffic tickets or pay fines are also subject to severe penalties. Drivers with 20 or more suspensions for failure to answer tickets or pay fines face a criminal charge, even if they are not driving when arrested. The penalties for driving while suspended or revoked are described in the publication Suppose Your License Were Taken Away (C-12) available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. 28 CHAPTER 3 Owning a Vehicle Whether you are a vehicle owner or registrant, or a driver of a vehicle owned or registered by someone else, it is your responsibility to make sure it is registered, insured and inspected before the vehicle operates on a public roadway. ■ REGISTRATION AND TITLE A registration allows a vehicle to be driven on public roads and highways. A title certificate proves who owns the vehicle. In New York, only 1973 and newer model vehicles receive titles. For 1972 and older models, the registration is also the proof of ownership. You must be at least 16 to register a vehicle. You can register a vehicle at any age. A new resident of the state must get a New York registration within 30 days of establishing residence. To Register a Vehicle To register a vehicle, you must prove you own the vehicle or that the owner authorizes you to register it, that the vehicle is insured, that the state and county sales taxes are paid and provide any required odometer reading and/or damage disclosure statement. If the ownership proofs listed below are not available from the seller, contact any motor vehicle office or a DMV Call Center before you purchase the vehicle. To apply for registration, you must complete a Vehicle Registration/Title Application (MV-82). You must also present proof of name (6 points) and proof of date of birth. For additional information see Registering A Vehicle In New York State (MV-82.1), available from the DMV Internet Office, from a DMV Call Center, and at any motor vehicle office. When your vehicle is registered, you will get vehicle plates, 29 a registration document and a registration sticker for the windshield or vehicle plates. If you purchased the vehicle from someone other than a New York State registered dealership, you will also receive a 10-day inspection extension sticker on request when you register the vehicle. You must then have the vehicle inspected within 10 days from the date of registration. It should have a valid inspection sticker if you purchased the vehicle from a New York State registered dealer. The dealer must have the vehicle inspected within 30 days before it sells the vehicle to you. When you purchase a new or used vehicle from a dealer registered with the DMV, the dealer can register the vehicle for you and give you a temporary registration and, if you need them, new vehicle plates. The dealer can charge a processing fee for this service. It can also charge registration, vehicle plate and title fees. If your vehicle is a 1973 or newer model, your title certificate will be mailed to you from Albany several weeks after the vehicle is registered. Proof of Ownership If you purchase your vehicle from a New York State registered dealer, the proof of ownership for a new vehicle will be a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) and a dealer’s Certificate of Sale (MV-50). For a used 1973 or newer vehicle, proof of ownership is the previous owner’s Certificate of Title (MV-999), the correct odometer and salvage disclosure statement and the dealer’s Certificate of Sale (MV-50). For a used 1972 or older vehicle, proof of ownership is the dealer’s Certificate of Sale (MV-50) and the previous owner’s transferable registration signed over to the dealer. If the dealership does not register the vehicle for you, make sure it gives you the ownership documents listed above and a completed Application for Registration/Title (MV-82) signed by the dealer’s representative. Examine the ownership documents carefully before closing the sale. If you purchase a used vehicle from a dealer registered outside New York State – the proof of ownership is the title certificate or transferable registration signed over to the dealer by the previous owner, plus the bill of sale and/or invoice from the dealer and other proofs from the dealer. For a used vehicle purchased from a private seller – the proof of ownership is the “Certificate of Title” (MV-999), or a transferable registration for 1972 or older models, signed over to you. The seller must complete and you must acknowledge with your signature, the correct odometer and damage disclosure statements. Before you accept the title certificate from any seller, check the front of the title for the names and addresses of “lien” holders. A lien indicates the current owner owes money on a loan for the vehicle. If a lien is listed on the title, ask the seller to give you proof the lien has been paid – in most cases, it is an official lien release from the lender. If proof is not provided and the loan has not been paid, the lien holder could repossess the vehicle. 30 A motor vehicle office will not accept a title certificate if the correct odometer or damage disclosure statement is not completed, or if information on the title is adjusted, erased or canceled. This includes any name or signature. Disclosure Statements • If you purchase a vehicle eight model years old or newer, the DMV will NOT register your vehicle or issue you a new title certificate unless the seller has completed, and you have signed, both the odometer and the damage disclosure statements on the Certificate of Title (MV-999). These statements indicate whether the new title certificate should be described as “Rebuilt Salvage.” This is explained in the DMV publications Let The Buyer Be Aware (C-18) and Q & A About Your Vehicle Title (C-19). • If you purchase a vehicle 10 model years old or newer, make sure the private seller has completed the odometer statement on the back of the Certificate of Title (MV-999). The damage disclosure statement is not required for vehicles nine model years old or older. As buyer, you must confirm the odometer statement as shown on the title certificate by writing your initials next to the odometer box on the title certificate. Compare the odometer statement on the title certificate with the odometer reading in the vehicle. IMPORTANT: The DMV must examine every vehicle described as “Rebuilt Salvage” , OR SIMILAR WORDS, for stolen parts before the vehicle can be registered or titled. If you are to purchase a vehicle that is registered or titled out-of-state, contact a DMV Call Center for more information. Proof of Sales Tax Payment When you purchase a vehicle from a New York State registered dealer, the dealer collects the sales tax. If you are to purchase a vehicle from someone besides a NYS registered dealer, get a Statement of Transaction - Sale or Gift of Motor Vehicle (DTF-802), available at any motor vehicle office, from a DMV Call Center and from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. This form certifies the purchase price and determines the sales tax you must pay when you register the vehicle. One side of the form must be completed and signed by the buyer. The other side must be signed by the seller if the selling price is below fair market value or if the vehicle is being given as a gift from someone who is not a family member. If the form is not completed by the seller, you will be charged sales tax based on the current fair market value of the vehicle. Bring the completed form to a state or county motor vehicle office when you register your vehicle. Proof of Insurance When you purchase vehicle liability insurance, the insurance agent or broker gives you two insurance identification cards. The name(s) and vehicle identification 31 number (VIN) on these cards must exactly match the information on the registration application. You must present one card when you register your vehicle. Keep the second card with the vehicle. “No-fault” auto insurance is issued in New York State. For information about no-fault insurance contact the NYS Department of Insurance, Agency Building 1, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12257. Fees Registrations for most vehicles less than 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg) maximum gross weight are valid for two years, and fees are based on vehicle weight. There are also vehicle plate and title fees. By law, registration fees can not be refunded if you use the vehicle plates or registration sticker on your vehicle even for one day. However, if your vehicle plates and registration sticker are returned not used within 60 days after you register your vehicle, you can receive a full refund, minus a processing fee. You may receive a refund of the fee for the second year of a two-year registration, minus a processing fee, if you use the plates and registration only during the first year. Make sure to get a DMV Universal Receipt (FS6T) to turn in your plates. If you transfer a registration from one vehicle to a replacement vehicle, you will receive credit for the remaining part of your current registration. This credit can not be applied to other vehicles registered to you. Trading In or Selling Your Old Car Before you trade in or sell your old vehicle, make sure to remove the vehicle plates and the windshield registration sticker, which shows your plate number. This can prevent you from being charged with parking tickets that are not yours. ■ REGISTRATION RENEWAL Most registrations are renewed every two years. Approximately 45 to 60 days before your registration will expire, you should receive a renewal reminder in the mail. If you changed your address and did not notify the DMV, you will not receive the reminder. If you did not answer three or more parking tickets, or if your registration is suspended or revoked, you will not receive the reminder. Allow two weeks to process and deliver the registration. You are responsible to know when your registration expires and to renew it on time. This is true even if you do not get a reminder in the mail. If the expiration date falls on a weekend or legal state holiday, your registration is automatically extended to midnight of the next business day. Make sure you maintain liability insurance on your vehicle during the extension period. 32 If you have not received a renewal notice, you may be able to renew your registration – By mail: Complete a Vehicle Registration/Title Application (MV-82), available at any motor vehicle office, from a DMV Call Center and from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. If your registration must be sent to an address that is not the mailing address you entered on the application form (MV-82), enclose a separate note that requests the DMV to mail your registration to the other address. Do not put this mailing address on form MV-82 unless you want it to appear on the registration and your DMV registration record. Reminder – if you indicate a change of address on your registration, it will affect ONLY that registration. Use a Change of Address Form (MV-232) to change all your DMV records. This form is available at any motor vehicle office, from a DMV Call Center, and from the DMV Internet Office. Enclose a check or money order for the correct fee, payable to the “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.” If you do not know the exact fee you must pay, you can determine the fee through a work page at the DMV Web site or contact a DMV Call Center. Make sure to include your insurance card with your renewal application if your insurance company has changed and you have not responded to a DMV Insurance Inquiry Letter. Mail your completed Vehicle Registration/Title Application and other documents to: NYS DMV Utica Renewal Center, 207 Genessee Street, Utica, NY 13501 Allow two weeks to receive your registration renewal. If you do not receive it after two weeks, contact a DMV Call Center or visit any state or county motor vehicle office. Allow more time for overseas mail. If your name has changed and you have not notified the DMV, you must visit a DMV office and show proofs of your identity. For more information, contact a DMV Call Center. Online at the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. Online registration renewal requires that you have not changed your address or insurance company, and that the registration is for a passenger car, small commercial truck or a motorcycle that is not off the road. Your registration fee, and any related fees, will be displayed on the computer screen. In three quick steps, you can renew your registration online and use your credit card for payment. Your renewal will be automatically processed and mailed to you. Allow two weeks for delivery. In person at a state or county motor vehicle office: You must complete and submit a Vehicle Registration/Title Application (MV-82). Note: An application brought into an office by a second party (someone who is not the registrant) must be accompanied by the original New York State license/permit/non-driver identification card for the second party and either the original or a photocopy for the registrant. This includes spouses (husbands and wives). The application must be signed by the registrant, not the person who brings the form into the office. 33 Insurance Your vehicle must be covered by liability insurance as long as it is registered, even if you do not drive it. Minimum liability coverage is required of $50,000 against the death of one person and $100,000 against the death of two or more persons, $25,000 against injury to one person and $50,000 against injury to two or more persons and $10,000 against property damage. Insurance coverage limits refer to death, injury or damage related to any one incident. Before your liability insurance expires or is discontinued, return vehicle plates at any state or county motor vehicle office. Be sure to obtain a DMV Universal Receipt (FS6T) to turn in your vehicle plates. If you do not do this, you may have to pay a civil penalty for each day the vehicle was not insured or your vehicle registration can be suspended. If your vehicle is not insured for 90 days, unless you have turned in your vehicle plates, your driver license will also be suspended. If you receive a letter from DMV that asks about your vehicle insurance, read it carefully and respond as directed in the letter. Motorcycles must be insured, but you are not required to turn in the vehicle plate when your motorcycle insurance is discontinued or expires. ■ RESIDENT AND NON-RESIDENT RESPONSIBILITY Anyone who drives or permits a vehicle to be driven in New York State, this includes people who are not New York residents, must be able to prove the vehicle has acceptable liability insurance. (See “Insurance,” above, for minimum insurance coverage required.) If you are convicted of driving an uninsured vehicle or if you allow another person to drive your uninsured vehicle, your license or privilege to drive in New York State will be revoked for at least one year. The same penalty applies if the DMV receives evidence that you were involved in a traffic crash without insurance. ■ INSPECTION Most vehicles sold in New York State must be inspected within 30 days of the date of transfer or sale and must have a certificate of inspection before delivery. If you purchase a vehicle from someone who is not a NYS dealer, you must have the vehicle inspected within 10 days after you register it. Make sure to request a “TenDay Time Extension for Motor Vehicle Inspection” (VS-1077). If a person moves to NYS, an inspection certificate that was issued before is valid until it expires or one year from the date of it was issued, whichever occurs first. 34 Under some conditions, vehicles sold at retail are exempt from the inspection requirement. These conditions are: transfer to a “welfare to work” program; transfer of a chassis; transfer of a vehicle through factory direct delivery; transfer of a vehicle for registration in another state or country; transfer of a scrap vehicle; and transfer of a vehicle to a long-term lessee (lease buyout). After the first inspection of your vehicle, it must be inspected at an official state-licensed inspection station before the expiration date on the current inspection certificate. An inspection is also required on change of registrant. Inspection stations have yellow and black “Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Station” signs. Heavy trucks, buses, tractors and semi-trailers must be inspected at special “Heavy Vehicle” Inspection Stations and motorcycles at special Motorcycle Inspection Stations. Putting your signature on a registration renewal form certifies that the vehicle was inspected as required by law. Keep track of when your annual inspection is. Schedule a new inspection early, so you will have time to repair your vehicle if it does not pass. After inspection, the vehicle inspector will issue a sticker for the vehicle to prove it has passed inspection. If your vehicle did not pass, the inspector will give you a rejection notice. In most cases, your vehicle must be repaired to meet standards and must be inspected again. A vehicle that is subject to a high enhanced or OBD II emissions inspection that fails a first inspection can qualify for a waiver. An attempt must be made to repair the malfunction and the cost for repairs must be at least $450. Many gasoline-powered vehicles (except motorcycles) must be inspected for exhaust emissions during the safety inspection. Exceptions are gasoline-powered vehicles that are 26 or more model years old, or less than two model years old, or registered as historic. Those vehicles are subject to a safety inspection only. Diesel-powered vehicles that operate in NYS, even if registered elsewhere, are subject to random roadside safety tests by the NYS Police and the NYS Department of Transportation. Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) more than 8,500 pounds are subject to a Diesel fuel emissions inspection. For information, see the DMV publication New York State Vehicle Safety/Emissions Inspection Program for Cars and Light Trucks (C-50), and A Consumer Guide to Readiness Monitor Failures as Part of the New York State Vehicle Inspection Program (C-114), available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. ■ COMPLAINTS AGAINST BUSINESSES The DMV regulates motor vehicle dealers, inspection stations and auto repair shops. These businesses should be identified by registration or license certificates and outside signs. Make sure you are dealing with a registered or licensed business. 35 If you have a complaint against one of these businesses, first try to resolve it with the management. If that fails, call (518) 474-8943 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. weekdays. You can also write to Vehicle Safety Services, DMV, Bureau of Consumer and Facility Services, Box 2700-ESP, Albany, N.Y., 12220-0700. By Law, the DMV can receive a repair shop complaint only within 90 days or 3,000 miles (4,828 km) of the vehicle repairs, whichever comes first. For more information, see publications Know Your Rights in Auto Repair (C-17) and Let the Buyer Be Aware (C-18) and New York State Vehicle Safety/Emissions Inspections Program for Cars and Light Trucks (C-50), available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. 36 PART 2 RULES OF THE ROAD ■ SIGNS CHAPTER 4 Traffic Control Traffic signs tell you about traffic rules, special hazards, where you are, how to get where you are going and where services are available. The shape and color of traffic signs give indications to the type of information they provide: REGULATION SIGNS normally are white rectangles with black letters or symbols, but some are different shapes, and some can use red letters or symbols. WARNING SIGNS normally are yellow and diamond-shaped, with black letters or symbols. DESTINATION SIGNS are green with white letters and symbols. SERVICE SIGNS are blue with white letters and symbols. Know the signs shown below and what they indicate. You will be asked about them on your written test. Here are descriptions of common traffic signs and what they indicate. REGULATION SIGNS: Stop Sign COLOR: Red, with white letters. MEANING: Come to a full stop, yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians in or heading toward the intersection. Go when it is safe. You must come to a stop before the stop line, if there is one. If not, you must stop before you enter the crosswalk. (See “Stop and 37 Crosswalk Lines” under the “Pavement Markings” section of this chapter.) If there is no stop line or crosswalk, you must stop before you enter the intersection, at the point nearest the intersection that gives you a view of traffic on the intersecting roadway. Yield Sign COLOR: Red and white, with red letters. MEANING: Decrease speed as you reach the intersection. Prepare to stop and yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians in or heading toward the intersection. You must come to a full stop at a YIELD sign if traffic conditions require it. When you approach a YIELD sign, check carefully for traffic and be prepared to stop. Other Regulation Signs COLOR: White, with black and/or red letters or symbols. MEANING: These signs give information about rules for traffic direction, lane use, turns, speed, parking and other special requirements. Some regulation signs have a red circle with a slash over a symbol. This indicates that an action, like a right turn, is not allowed or that some vehicles are restricted from the road. Rectangular white signs with black or red letters or symbols are indications to be alert for special rules. WARNING SIGNS: COLOR: Yellow, with black letters or symbols. MEANING: You are approaching a hazardous location or a location where there is a special rule, as shown in the sample signs. Sometimes a warning sign is joined with a yellow and black “recommended speed” sign. This indicates reduced speed is advised in that area. Railroad Crossing Warning Sign COLOR: Yellow with black letters “RR” and “X” symbol. MEANING: There is a railroad crossing ahead. Use caution, and be prepared to stop. If you are following a bus or truck approaching a railroad crossing, be careful. Most buses and some trucks must stop at railroad crossings. (See “Railroad Crossing Signals” later in this chapter.) 38 Work Area Signs COLOR: Orange, with black letters or symbols. MEANING: People are at work on or near the roadway and traffic can be controlled by a flag person. A work area speed limit as low as 25 MPH (40 km/h) can be posted. Even if no speed limit is provided, you must drive at a reduced speed through the work zone and you must always obey the flag persons. These illustrations show some signals a flag person will use. Know and obey them. STOP PROCEED SLOW DESTINATION SIGNS: COLOR: Green, with white letters. MEANING: Show the direction and distance to locations. Route Signs COLOR: Varied. MEANING: Indicate interstate, U.S., state or county routes. The shape tells you the type of route you are on. The sample signs, left to right, are for state, U.S., and interstate routes. When you plan a trip, use a highway map to decide which routes to take. During the trip, watch for destination signs so you will not get lost, or have to turn or stop suddenly. SERVICE SIGNS: COLOR: Blue, with white letters or symbols. MEANING: Show the location of services, like rest areas, gas stations, camping or medical facilities. ■ TRAFFIC SIGNALS Traffic Lights Traffic lights are normally red, yellow and green from the top to bottom or left to right. At some intersections, there are lone red, yellow or green lights. Some traffic lights are steady, others flash. Some are 39 round, and some are arrows. State law requires that if the traffic lights or controls are out of service or does not operate correctly when you approach an intersection, you must come to a stop as you would for a stop sign. You must then continue according to the rules of right-of-way, unless you are told to continue by a traffic officer. Here is what different traffic lights indicate: STEADY RED: Stop. Do not go until the light is green. If a green arrow is shown with the red light, you can go only toward the arrow and only if the intersection is clear. You can make a right turn at a steady red light after you come to a full stop and yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. You can make a left turn at a steady red light when you turn from a one-way road into another one-way road after you come to a full stop and yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. You can not make a turn at a red light if there is a NO TURN ON RED sign posted or another sign, signal or pavement marking prevents the turn. You are not allowed to turn on a red light in New York City unless a sign that permits it is posted. The driver of a school bus containing pupils can not turn right on any red light. FLASHING RED: Means the same as a STOP sign: Stop, yield the right-of-way, and go when it is safe. RED ARROW: Do not go in the direction of the arrow until the red arrow light is off and a green light or arrow light goes on. A right or left turn on red is not permitted at a red arrow. STEADY YELLOW: The light will change from green to red. Be prepared to stop for the red light. FLASHING YELLOW: Drive with caution. YELLOW ARROW: The protection of a green arrow will end. If you intend to turn in the direction of the arrow, be prepared to stop. STEADY GREEN: Go, but yield the right-of-way to other traffic at the intersection as required by law (see Chapter 5). GREEN ARROW: You can go in the direction of the arrow, but you must yield the right-of-way to other traffic at the intersection as required by law (see Chapter 5) . Lane Use Control Lights Special above the pavement lights are sometimes used to indicate which lanes of a highway can be used at certain times: 40 STEADY RED “X”: Do not drive in this lane. STEADY YELLOW “X”: Move from this lane. FLASHING YELLOW “X”: This lane can only be used for a left turn. GREEN ARROW: You can use this lane. Railroad Crossing Signals Flashing red lights, lowered crossing gates and/or a bell at a railroad crossing indicate that you must stop, at least 15 feet (5 m) from the tracks. Do not go across the tracks until the lights and bell have stopped and the crossing gates are completely up. Do not drive around or under a gate that is moving up or down. Look and listen for trains before crossing any railroad tracks. If an approaching train is near enough or going fast enough to be a danger, you can not go across the tracks, even if they have no signals or the signals are not working. You can not go across any railroad tracks unless there is room for your vehicle on the other side. If other traffic prevents you from going fully across, wait and go across when there is room. School buses with or without passengers, other buses with passengers on board and vehicles with explosives or flammable cargo must stop at all railroad crossings. Remember those rules if you are following one of these vehicles. ■ PAVEMENT MARKINGS Lines and symbols on the roadway divide lanes and tell you when you can pass other vehicles or change lanes. They also tell you which lanes to use for turns and where you must stop for signs or traffic signals. The arrows on these illustrations show the direction of traffic. Edge and Lane Lines Solid lines along the side of the road tell you where its edge is – where the travel lane ends and the shoulder begins. It is illegal to drive across the edge line, except when told to by a police officer or other authorized official or when allowed by an official sign. An edge line that angles toward the center of the road shows that the road is narrower ahead. 41 Lines that separate lanes of traffic that moves in the same direction are white. Lines that separate traffic that moves in opposite directions are yellow. There may be two lines between lanes and lines can be solid or broken. Read Chapter 6 for the rules on how to pass other vehicles. What some lane lines indicate: One broken line: You can pass other vehicles or change lanes if you can safely and not interfere with traffic. Solid line with broken line: If you are on the side with the solid line, you can not pass other vehicles or go across the line except to make a left turn into a driveway. If you are on the side with the broken line, you can pass if it is safe to and you will not interfere with traffic. Double solid lines: You can not pass or change lanes. You can not go across the lines except to turn left to enter or leave the highway (e.g., to or from a driveway or to do a U-turn see Chapter 5). One solid line: You can pass other vehicles or change lanes, but you can only do so when obstructions in the road or traffic conditions make it necessary. Stop and Crosswalk Lines: At an intersection controlled by a STOP sign, YIELD sign or traffic light, there can be a white stop line painted across the lane, and/or two parallel lines painted across the road. This is a crosswalk. When required to stop because of a sign or light, you must stop before you reach the stop line, if there is one, or the crosswalk. You need only stop at a stop line or crosswalk if required to by a light, sign or 42 traffic officer, or to yield to a pedestrian, in-line skater or scooter at a marked or unmarked crosswalk. (See “Pedestrians” in Chapter 11). Arrows: Arrows show which lanes you must use. In this illustration, for example, you can turn right only from the right lane. To go straight, you must use the left lane. You must be in the correct lane before you reach the solid line that separates the lanes. Diamond Symbol: This symbol indicates reserved lanes for buses, HOV (HighOccupancy Vehicles) like car-pools and van-pools, bicycles or other special vehicles. You can not enter and use these lanes unless your vehicle complies with the occupancy or other requirements indicated by signs for the times the special conditions are in effect. When used to designate reserved lanes on city streets, sections of the solid white line that separates the diamond lanes from the normal lanes can be replaced by broken white lines. In these locations, non-HOV can enter the HOV lane if they make a right turn at the next intersection. Bus lanes and HOV lanes are to promote the most efficient use of limited street and highway capacity. They assure that vehicles with the highest importance move the fastest. ■ TRAFFIC OFFICERS Directions given by traffic officers take precedence over signs, signals or pavement markings. If a traffic officer signals you to stop at a green light, for example, you must stop. If an officer signals you to drive through a red light or stop sign, you must do it. Among the persons authorized to direct traffic are police officers, fire police, highway work area flag persons and school crossing persons. ■ QUESTIONS Before you move on to Chapter 5, make sure you can identify the signs in this chapter and know what they mean. Also, make sure you can answer these questions: 4 A regulation sign is normally what shape? 4 What is the normal color and shape of a warning sign? 4 What color and shape is a destination sign? 43 4 What must you do at a STOP sign? 4 What color and shape is a railroad crossing warning sign? 4 What must you do when you encounter each of the following: a flashing red light, flashing yellow light, steady yellow light, a red light with a green arrow? 4 What does it indicate if an edge line angles in toward the center of the road? 4 What do each of these lines indicate: one broken, one solid, double solid, solid and broken together? 4 If an intersection has crosswalk lines but no STOP line, where must you stop for a red light at that intersection? 4 What type of pavement marking shows you which lane you must use for a turn? 4 Which of the following must you obey over the other three: red light, flashing red light, STOP sign, police officer? 44 CHAPTER 5 Intersections and Turns Most traffic crashes occur at intersections when a driver makes a turn. Many occur in large parking lots that are open to public use, like at shopping centers. To prevent this type of crash, you must understand the right-of-way rules and how to make correct turns. ■ RIGHT-OF-WAY Traffic signs, signals and pavement markings do not always resolve traffic conflicts. A green light, for example, does not resolve the conflict of when a car turns left at an intersection while an approaching car goes straight through the intersection. The right-of-way rules help resolve these conflicts. They tell you who goes first and who must wait in different conditions. Here are examples of right-of-way rules: 4 A driver who approaches an intersection must yield the right-of-way to traffic that is in the intersection. Example: You approach an intersection. The traffic light is green and you want to drive straight through. Another vehicle is already in the intersection making a left turn. You must let that vehicle complete its turn before you enter the intersection. 4 If drivers approaching from opposite directions reach an intersection at about the same time, a driver that turns left must yield to traffic that moves straight or turns right. Example: You want to turn left at an intersection ahead. A vehicle reaches the intersection from the opposite direction and moves straight ahead. You must wait for approaching traffic to go through before you turn. You may enter the intersection to prepare for your left turn if the light is green and no other vehicle ahead of you 45 plans to make a left turn (see “Turns” later in this chapter). When you enter the intersection, keep to the right of the center line. Keep your wheels straight to prevent a push into oncoming traffic if a rear-end collision occurs. When traffic headed toward you clears or stops for a red light, complete your turn. You must also yield to traffic headed toward you when you turn left into a driveway, parking lot or other area, even if there are no signs or signals that control the turn. For any left turn, the law requires you to yield to any traffic headed toward you that is close enough to be a hazard. The decision about when traffic is too close takes experience and judgment. If you have any concern, wait for traffic to pass before you turn left. 4 At intersections not controlled by signs or signals, or where two or more drivers stop at STOP signs at the same time and they are at right angles, the driver on the left must yield the right-of-way to the driver on the right. Example: You are stopped at a stop sign and you are going to go straight through the intersection. A driver on the cross road has stopped at a stop sign on your right and is going to go straight. You must yield the right-of-way to the other driver. 4 A vehicle that enters a roadway from a driveway, private road or another put that is not a roadway, must stop and yield the right-of-way to traffic on the roadway and to pedestrians. Example: You leave a parking lot and turn right when you enter a street. A vehicle approaches from your left. You must stop and wait for the vehicle to pass before you enter the street. If you were to turn left, you would have to yield to vehicles that approach from both directions. If a pedestrian walked across the parking lot exit, you would have to wait for that person to go across. 4 Drivers must yield to pedestrians who legally use marked or unmarked crosswalks. This means you must slow down or stop if necessary. Example: You are stopped at a red light. A pedestrian steps into the crosswalk, and then the light turns green. You must wait for the pedestrian to go across. You must also yield to pedestrians in crosswalks on your left or right before you turn. 4 You can not enter an intersection if traffic is backed up on the other side and you can not get completely through the intersection. Wait until traffic ahead clears, so you do not block the intersection. 4 A driver who enters a traffic circle or rotary must yield the right-of-way to drivers already in the circle. ■ EMERGENCY VEHICLES You must yield the right-of-way to fire, ambulance, police and other authorized emergency vehicles when they respond to emergencies. They will display lights that are flashing red, red and blue or red and white and sound a siren or air-horn. When 46 you hear or see an emergency vehicle heading toward your vehicle from any direction, safely pull over immediately to the right edge of the road and stop. Wait until the emergency vehicle passes before you drive on. If you are in an intersection, drive out of it before you pull over. You must pull over and stop for an emergency vehicle even if it is headed toward you in the opposite lane of a two-lane roadway. If you hear a siren or air-horn close by but do not know exactly where the emergency vehicle is, you can safely pull over to the right-side edge of the road and stop until you are sure it is not headed toward you.
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