Rules of the Road Game

Driver Handbooks by State: Official Rules of the Road

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Your state's official driver handbook is the final word on the rules of the road where you live, and it's what the permit test is based on. Pick your state to go to its official driver licensing website, then look for the driver manual or driver handbook, usually a free PDF.

These links go to official state government websites, not to us. States sometimes reorganize their sites, so if a link doesn't work, search for "[your state] driver handbook" and look for a .gov address. See our disclaimer.

U.S. territories

What's different from state to state?

Road signs and most basic rules are the same nationwide, but check your handbook for these common differences:

  • School bus rules for oncoming traffic on multi-lane and divided roads
  • Bicycle passing distance (3 feet in most states, 4 in Pennsylvania)
  • Turning on red, including left on red from a one-way street
  • Parking distances from hydrants, crosswalks and stop signs
  • Teen permit and graduated license rules, phone-use laws, and headlight requirements

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I find my state's driver handbook?

Every state publishes an official driver handbook (also called a driver manual or driver's guide) on its driver licensing website, usually as a free PDF. Use the links on this page, then look for "driver manual," "driver handbook" or "driver's guide."

Is the permit test based on the driver handbook?

Yes. State written knowledge tests are based on that state's official driver handbook, so it's the most important thing to study. Practice quizzes like ours are a good supplement, not a replacement.

Why do rules of the road differ by state?

Road signs follow a national standard, but each state writes its own traffic laws. Details like school bus rules on multi-lane roads, bicycle passing distance, parking distances and turning on red can be different where you live.