California Turning & U-Turn Rules
Turns are one of the most tested topics on the California DMV exam. Knowing which lane to start in, which lane to end in, and when U-turns are prohibited will save you points on the test and prevent collisions on the road.
Right Turn Rules
Begin a right turn from the rightmost lane and complete it in the rightmost lane. Signal at least 100 feet before turning. Move as close to the right curb as possible before turning. Watch for cyclists who may be in the bike lane alongside you.
Left Turn Rules
From a two-way road, start a left turn from the lane closest to the centerline and complete it in the lane closest to the centerline of the road you're entering. From a one-way road, start from the leftmost lane. When two vehicles from opposite directions both want to turn left at the same intersection, each turns in front of the other (front-to-front, not rear-to-rear).
U-Turn Rules
U-turns are illegal in many situations: on a curve or hill where you cannot be seen by traffic within 200 feet, at or near a railroad crossing, in front of a fire station, where a NO U-TURN sign is posted, in a business district except at an intersection or opening in a divided highway, and anywhere it would put others in danger. U-turns are generally permitted at intersections in residential areas when no sign prohibits them and visibility is sufficient.
Key Rules at a Glance
- Right turn — start and end lane: Rightmost lane to rightmost lane
- Left turn from two-way road: From lane nearest centerline
- U-turn on hill or curve: Prohibited if not visible within 200 feet
- U-turn near fire station: Prohibited in front of fire station driveway
- Signal before turning: At least 100 feet in advance