California: Distracted driving Practice Test
California's cell phone and handheld device laws while driving.
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Questions are original and based on the official manual "California Driver Handbook" (2025), California DMV.
All 8 questions in this practice test
Take the test above first, then use this list to study. Tap “Show answer” to see the correct answer and explanation.
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What does California law say about headsets and earplugs while driving?
- Wearing a headset or earplugs in both ears is illegal.
- They are allowed at any volume.
- They are restricted on city streets but permitted on freeways.
- There is no rule about them; only cell phones are regulated while a vehicle is in motion.
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Correct answer: Wearing a headset or earplugs in both ears is illegal.
It is illegal to drive while wearing a headset or earplugs covering both ears, because you must be able to hear horns, sirens and other warnings.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 9 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 9)
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How do fatigue and drowsiness affect a driver?
- They sharpen focus by narrowing your attention.
- They only matter on trips longer than four hours.
- They affect steering but not braking.
- They can affect your vision and increase reaction time.
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Correct answer: They can affect your vision and increase reaction time.
Fatigue and drowsiness impair vision and increase the time you need to react to a hazard.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 9 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 9)
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What does the handbook say about using a handheld cell phone while driving?
- It is allowed for drivers over 21
- It is legal if the call lasts under one minute
- It is legal anywhere outside city limits
- It is unsafe and illegal
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Correct answer: It is unsafe and illegal
Cell phones are the leading source of distracted driving; driving while holding one is both unsafe and against the law. Adult drivers should use hands-free mode only when necessary.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 70 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 70)
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Your cell phone rings while you are driving. What does the handbook recommend?
- Answer quickly and keep the call as short as you possibly can
- Answer it, but only while you are stopped at a red light
- Let it go to voicemail, and pull safely off the road if you must call
- Hand the phone to a passenger to hold while you talk
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Correct answer: Let it go to voicemail, and pull safely off the road if you must call
Let the call go to voicemail. If you must make or return a call, pull safely off the road first.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 70 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 70)
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Which statement about text messages and emails while driving is correct?
- You may read them but not send them
- You may send them while stopped in traffic
- You should not send or read them while driving
- They are permitted if the phone is in your lap
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Correct answer: You should not send or read them while driving
The handbook is explicit: do not send or read text messages or emails while you are driving.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 70 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 70)
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If you use a cell phone in your vehicle, where may it be mounted?
- On the windshield, dashboard, or center console, not blocking your view
- Clipped to the steering wheel, where it is within easy reach
- Anywhere in the vehicle, as long as the screen faces the driver
- Hanging from the rearview mirror, at eye level
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Correct answer: On the windshield, dashboard, or center console, not blocking your view
A mounted phone must sit on the windshield, dashboard, or center console and must not obstruct your view of the road.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 71 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 71)
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How may a driver operate a legally mounted cell phone while driving?
- By typing short messages with one hand
- By scrolling through apps at low speeds
- By holding it up to eye level to see it better
- By using a single swipe or touch
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Correct answer: By using a single swipe or touch
Only a single swipe or touch on the mounted device is permitted while you drive.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 71 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 71)
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What is the rule for minors and cell phones while driving?
- Minors may use a hands-free device to make or answer any call
- Minors may text, but only while stopped at a red light
- Minors may not answer calls or text, except to call for emergency help
- The ban applies only to drivers who are under 16 years old
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Correct answer: Minors may not answer calls or text, except to call for emergency help
It is against the law for a minor to use a cell phone or electronic wireless device to answer calls or send and reply to texts while driving; the only exception is calling for emergency assistance.
Source: California Driver Handbook (2025), page 71 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 71)