Table of Contents Public Records Warning Definitions Foreword: Please Read Chapter 1: Your License Chapter 2: Your Driving Privilege |
Chapter 3: Your Driving
Chapter 4: Signals, Signs, and Pavement Markings |
Chapter 5: Your Vehicle |
The Florida Driver's Handbook covers many condensed and paraphrased points of the Florida state laws and provides safety advise not covered in the laws. The handbook is not a legal authority to cite and should not be used in a court of law.
The Florida Driver's Handbook is printed in volume and copies already purchased will not reflect any changes made by the Legislature regarding fees or laws passed after the revision date.
The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles consists of the following divisions: THE DIVISION OF DRIVER LICENSES administers examinations to qualify persons to drive on Florida's highways. Its primary mission is to promote and maintain the highest possible driving standards on the streets and highways of the State of Florida and to remove unsafe drivers from the highways.
Florida law and sound records management practices require the collection of
certain personal information in the driver licensing process. This personal
information identifies an individual and is used for records management, driver
improvement, financial responsibility, and law enforcement purposes.
Failure to provide the required information will result in denial of a license or identification card. Falsification of information may result in prosecution. Florida law specifies that all documents or other material made or received in connection with the transaction of official business by any agency are public records. In addition to all documents, information taken from them is subject to public disclosure under the State's public records act. This information, except for medical data, which is confidential by law, is regularly given to law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, credit bureaus, lending institutions, and any other person who desires to obtain a copy and who pays the required fee.
The Division of Driver Licenses strives to ensure the accuracy of information obtained in the licensing process and makes every effort to correct any incorrect information in its files. Incorrect information may be corrected by supplying the Department with your name in full, date of birth, driver license number and information on the nature of the error as well as proof that it is an error to the Chief, Bureau of Driver License Records, Neil Kirkman Building, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0575, or telephone (850) 922-0927. Certain information, such as conviction reports received from a court, can only be corrected upon notification from the court that the report was in error.
Automobile Insurance information is exempt from the Public Records Law. This information will be provided to any party involved in a crash when a written request with a copy of the crash report is received. This information will also be provided to law enforcement agencies, officers of the court and representatives such as insurers and attorneys of parties involved in the crash, upon receiving a written request.
Under Section 322.212 (5), Florida Statutes, it is a FELONY of the third degree "to use a false or fictitious name in any application for a driver's license or identification card, or knowingly to make a false statement, knowingly conceal a material fact, or otherwise commit a fraud in any such application."
Violators face immediate arrest and, upon conviction, penalties up to a maximum fine of $5,000.00 and imprisonment up to 5 years.
The Department will suspend for one year the driving privilege of any person who made a fraudulent application for a Florida driver license.
Under Section 322.36, Florida Statutes, it is unlawful for any person to authorize or knowingly permit a motor vehicle or moped to be operated by any person who does not hold a valid driver license.
business district: An area where 50% or more of the land next to the
road is used for businesses.
bicycle: Every vehicle propelled solely by human power.
cancellation: The act of declaring a driver's license void and terminated.
certified copy: A copy which has been marked in some official way to
show that it is a true copy of the original document. To get a certified copy
of a document, you must contact the agency that issued the original document.
child restraints: Infant carriers or removable car seats specially designed
to keep babies and young children from being injured in car crashes. A lap belt
may be used as a restraint for children four years old or older.
conviction: A judgement of guilt in a court. In a driver's record, suspended
sentences, forfeiting/estreatures of bonds, and pleas of no contest count against
the driver just as a conviction does.
department: The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Tallahassee,
Florida.
felony: A serious crime for which you can be sent to a state prison or
receive a death sentence.
intersection: Where two streets meet or cross.
motor vehicle: Any self-propelled vehicle, including a motor vehicle
combination, not operated upon rails or guideway, excluding vehicles moved solely
by human power, motorized wheelchairs, and motorized bicycles as defined in
Section 316.003, Florida Statutes.
pedestrian: Any person afoot.
resident: A person who has his principal place of domicile in this state
for a period of more than six consecutive month, has registered to vote, has
made a statement of domicile pursuant to Section 222.17, Florida Statutes, or
has filed for homestead exemption on property in this state.
residential district: An area where most of the land next to the road
is used for homes.
restriction: A prohibition against operating certain types of motor vehicles
or a requirement that a driver comply with certain conditions when driving a
motor vehicle.
suspension: The temporary withdrawal of a licensee's privilege to drive
a motor vehicle.
vehicle: Every device, in, upon, or by which any person is or may be
transported or drawn upon a highway, excepting devices used exclusively upon
stationary rails or tracks.
The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issues
the following classes of licenses: Class A, B, C, D, and E.
Classes A, B, and C are for drivers of commercial motor
vehicles such as large trucks and buses. Classes D and E are for drivers of
non-commercial vehicles.
There is a separate manual entitled Commercial Driver
License Manual for Truck and Bus Drivers. This manual is available at any
driver license office. If you wish to drive a commercial motor vehicle as
defined below, you must be properly tested and licensed to do so.
The following persons may drive in Florida without having a Florida driver license if they have a valid license from another state or country:
A person who holds a Learner's License must be accompanied by a licensed driver, 21 years of age or older, who occupies the front passenger seat. To be eligible for a Class E license, all drivers 15 years of age and under 18 years of age, must hold a Learner's License for at least 12 months without convictions or who has a conviction but elects to attend a traffic school for which adjudication must be withheld pursuant to section 318.14, Florida Statutes. Parents or legal guardians must also certify that the driver has 50 hours driving experience, 10 of these hours must include night time driving.
Drivers can only drive between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. the first three months from the original issue date when accompanied by a licensed driver, 21 years or older who occupies the front passenger seat. After the three months, the driver may operate a vehicle from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a licensed driver, 21 years or older in the front passenger seat. . Drivers with a Learner's License are ineligible for a motorcycle endorsement.
NOTE: A learner's driver license does not mean you can drive in other states. You will need to check the laws in each state.
State law requires identification, proof of date of birth and social security number from all customers before a driver license or identification card can be issued. Each application for an original driver license or identification card MUST submit the original or certified copy of one of the first five documents, unless a driver's license record or identification card record has already been established:
PRIMARY IDENTIFICATION
1. United States birth certificate, including U.S. territories and District
of Columbia.
2. Valid United States passport (not expired)
3. Alien Registration receipt card, (Green card, Form I-151)
4. Employment authorization card issued by the United States Department
of Justice (Form I688b)
5. Proof of nonimmigrant classification provided by United States Department
of Justice(Form I94) And a secondary document, which can include one
of the following documents:
SECONDARY IDENTIFICATION
6. School record stating date of birth, which must contain the registrar’s
signature.
7. Transcript of the birth record filed with a public officer charged with
the duty of recording certificates.
8. Baptism certificate, which shows date of birth and the place of baptism.
9. An insurance policy on the customers life which has been in force for at
least two years and which has the month, day and year of birth.
10. A military or military dependent identification card.
11. Florida or out-of-state driver license, valid or expired.
12. Florida license record or identification card record.
13. Selective Service Registration (Draft Card).
14. Florida Vehicle Registration certificate (HSMV 83399, owner’s copy) obtained
from the tax collector’s office where the customer’s vehicle was registered,
Florida, or out-of-state registration certificate, if name and date of birth
are shown.
15. Florida and out-of-state non-driver identification cards (state issued).
16. Receipt copy of your last Florida driver license issuance.
17. Immigration form I-571.
18. Federal form DD-214 (military record)
19. Marriage certificate
20. Court order, which includes legal name.
21. A Florida voter registration card which was issued at least three months
previously.
22. Personal identification by an examiner or by a person well known to the
examiner.
23. Social Security Card.
24. Family bible record or birth announcement in baby book.
25. Parent Consent Form (HSMV 71022)
If you have legally changed your name by marriage or court order, you must submit the original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order. No photocopies will be accepted unless certified by the issuing authority.
A secondary identification from the above list is required. The Social Security Number (if issued) MUST be included on the application for a driver's license or identification card.
If you have never been issued a license in any jurisdiction
(state or country), you will be required to complete a traffic law and substance
abuse education course before you will be issued a license. Consult your local
phone directory for locations in your area.
If you are under 18 and are not married, your license
application must be signed by one parent or legal guardian. STEP-PARENTS
MAY NOT SIGN FOR YOU UNLESS THEY HAVE LEGALLY ADOPTED YOU. The application
must be signed in front of the examiner or a notary public. Whoever signs
your application agrees to take responsibility with you for your driving.
If the signer decides later not to accept responsibility for your driving,
your license will be canceled. To cancel the license, the signer must write
a letter to the department. The full name and date of birth of the minor driver
must be in the letter.
PARENTS/GUARDIANS: Signing this form constitutes
consent for the minor to also obtain an operator license at age 16 or older,
unless you notify the Department that you wish to withdraw this consent.
REMEMBER: THE CONSENT FORM MUST BE NOTARIZED OR SIGNED IN THE PRESENCE
OF THE EXAMINER.
Driver education courses can help you develop all the skills you need to be a safe driver. You can obtain more information by referring to your local telephone directory under Driving Instruction.
Many Driver Education teachers assist the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) in licensing new drivers. Students who satisfactorily completely DHSMV-approved Driver Education Licensing Assistance Program (DELAP) courses in participating public or private schools may receive DHSMV waiver certificates from their DELAP teacher. These certificates, when presented to the local driver license office, will be used to replace the DHSMV written and/or driving tests for issuance of a Learner's driver license or Class E license. DHSMV may, however, test any student on a random basis before issuing a driver license.
Restriction Codes
A. CORRECTIVE LENSES means a person must wear corrective lenses at
all times when operating a vehicle.
B. OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR (Left Side) means the vehicle the person
is driving must have a left outside rearview mirror on the car.
C. BUSINESS PURPOSES ONLY means the person can only drive to work and
on-the-job, for education purposes, to church and for medical purposes.
D. EMPLOYMENT PURPOSES ONLY means the person can only drive to work
and on-the-job.
E. DAYLIGHT DRIVING ONLY means the person can only drive during daylight
hours.
F. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION means the person can only drive a vehicle
that has automatic transmission.
G. POWERING STEERING means the person can only drive a vehicle with power steering.
I. DIRECTIONAL SIGNALS means a person must be equipped with a knob or grip on the
steering wheel.
J. GRIP ON STEERING WHEEL means the vehicle must be equipped with a
knob or grip on the steering wheel.
K. HEARING AID means the person must wear a hearing aid at all times
while driving the vehicle.
L. SEAT CUSHION means the person must use a seat cushion at all times
while driving.
M. HAND CONTROLS OR PEDAL EXTENSION means the vehicle must be equipped
with hand controls or a pedal extension.
N. LEFT FOOT ACCELERATOR means the vehicle must be equipped with a
left foot accelerator.
P. PROBATION-INTERLOCK DEVICE means the vehicle must be equipped with
a device that locks the ignition at times specified by the court imposing
the restriction.
S. OTHER RESTRICTIONS means there are other restrictions imposed on
this license.
T. NO PASSENGERS ON MOTORCYCLE means the person cannot have passengers when driving
a motorcycle.
X. MEDICAL ALERT BRACELET means the person must wear a medical alert
bracelet at all times while driving the vehicle.
Y. EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY means the person can drive for educational
purposes.
1 = VEHICLES W/O AIR BRAKES issued to those who have not passed the required written and/or skills tests for the operation of vehicles with air brakes.
2=CDL-INTRASTATE ONLY (CMV) issued to those who are authorized to operate commercial motor vehicles inside Florida only.
3=BUS ONLY (CMV) - issued to persons who took written and skills tests which authorize them to drive commercial motor vehicles that are buses only.
4=CMV<- 26,001 LBS Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
5=NO TRACTOR /TRAILERS
6=NO CLASS A PASSENGER VEHICLES
7=NO CLASS B PASSENGER VEHICLES
NOTE: Persons with a restriction on their license who do not comply with the requirements of the restriction can be issued a citation for violation of restriction and could be suspended. Offenses of this type are a second degree misdemeanor, except for violations of restriction code X.
These endorsements are placed on Class A, B, or C commercial driver licenses and on certain Class D licenses.
E. EMERGENCY VEHICLES - issued to those who drive an emergency vehicle,
that is a commercial motor vehicle, but are exempt by law from obtaining a
commercial driver license.
F. FARM CMV - issued to those who drive farm type commercial motor vehicles,
but who are exempt by law from obtaining a commercial driver license.
H. PLACARDED HAZMAT - issued to those who have passed the required written
and skills tests and who will transport placarded hazardous materials.
N. TANK VEHICLES - issued to those who have passed the required written and
skills tests and who will drive tank vehicles.
P. PASSENGERS - issued to those who have passed the required written and skills
tests and who will drive passenger vehicles.
T. DOUBLE/TRIPLE TRAILERS - issued to those who have passed the required written
and skills tests and who will drive double or triple tractor trailer vehicles.
X. PLACARDED HAZMAT & TANK VEHICLES - issued to those who qualify for
endorsements H and N.
You must list any physical or mental problems on your license application which might affect your driving. Many of the physical problems can be handled by placing restrictions on your license. If you have epilepsy, fainting spells, dizziness, blackouts or any other medical condition that could impair your driving, you may be asked to have your doctor complete a medical report form. These forms may be requested through your local driver licenses office and will be mailed directly to you. The report must be completed by your doctor and submitted to the Department before a license can be issued.
If you are diabetic, and use insulin, you may request that it be indicated on your license.
Person applying for original Florida licenses will be
required to take the following tests:
The purpose of the license examination is to find out several things:
Vision test - standard
vision screening.
Lenses or Glasses:
Road sign test - Multiple
choice test which consists of 20 road signs for you to identify by color,
shape or meaning.
Road rules test - Multiple
choice test which consists of 20 questions
regarding Florida traffic laws.
Vehicle inspection - Your vehicle will be inspected
to determine it is safe for a road test.
Driving test
You will be expected to perform the following maneuvers
on the driving test:
The examiner will explain any mistakes you may have made,
after the test is completed. If you disqualify on the driving test you will
be asked to study or practice before you return for another test. You will
be asked to return another day for additional tests due to the volume of driving
tests, which are conducted at each driver license location. If you pass the
examination, the examiner will collect the fee and issue your license. If
you surrender a valid restricted operator license or learner's permit, you
will not be charged additional fees for the replacement operator license when
you pass the driving test.
NOTE: ON-CYCLE TEST-Study the Florida Motorcycle Operator Handbook for
knowledge and on-cycle testing procedures.
Appointments are recommended, but not required for many of the services provided by the driver license offices. Contact your local driver license office to determine if an appointment is required for the service you need. Call in advance for your appointment and report at least five minutes before your scheduled time. You may still appear at the driver license office without an appointment, however, the fastest service is provided through the use of appointments.
If your driver license is lost or stolen, apply for a duplicate immediately. At your driver license office you will need to:
Before you renew your license, your driving record is checked. If you have had no convictions for driving violations in the past three years, or suspension/revocation/disqualification free record for the past seven years, you will be issued a six-year license. You may also be asked to take other parts of the test if:
Drivers may renew through the mail for two consecutive license expirations. You may receive a mail-in renewal packet approximately 30 days prior to license expiration. There are no additional fees for renewing by mail. Your can renew by internet at http://express.hsmv.state.fl.us. There is a $3 service charge in addition to the renewal fee. After you return your payment, you will receive a four or six-year renewal sticker to be placed on the back of your current license. Drivers with a digital license will receive a new license. Drivers with a digital license will receive a new license. Florida law requires that you destroy your old driver license after receiving the new license.
Members of the US Armed Forces serving on active duty outside of Florida may renew their licenses by mail without examination. Their spouses and children living with them may do the same. At least 3 months prior to the expiration of your licenses, write to: Division of Driver Licenses, 2900 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0575 or e-mail at ddl@hsmv.state.fl.us. Give your name as it appears on your license, the driver license number, your date of birth and out-of-state address and zip code. The department will advise you further by return mail.
Any veteran honorably discharged from the Armed Forces, who has been issued a valid identification card by the Division of Veteran's Affairs of the Department of Administration and has been determined by the Veteran's Administration to have a 100% service-connected disability and who is qualified to obtain a Class E or Class D license, is exempt from paying initial, renewal and motorcycle endorsement fees.
If you need an identification card, you can apply for one at any driver license office. To get the identification card, you must:
Fees for License |
|
Initial License Fee for first Florida license, any type except commercial driver licenses |
$ 20 |
Learner's Driver License | $ 15 |
Class E Renewal | $ 15 |
Class D Renewal | $ 15 |
Commercial Driver License | $ 50 |
Duplicate License (if a license is lost or destroyed) | $ 10 |
Stolen License-if police report filed | No fee |
Replacement License (you must turn in the incorrect license) | $ 10 |
Other Fees |
|
Commercial Driver License Endorsements | $ 5.00 |
Motorcycle Endorsement | $ 5.00 |
Identification Card | $ 3.00 |
Duplicate Identification Card (If identification card is lost or destroyed) |
$ 2.50 |
Delinquent Fee (paid if license expired less than 12 months before renewal application) | $ 1.00 |
Service Fees |
|
Administrative Fee Alcohol & Drug-Related Offenses (in addition to any other required fees) |
$105 |
After a license has been revoked | $ 50 |
After a license has been suspended | $ 25 |
After a license has been disqualified | $ 50 |
Through the miracle of transplantation, many people here in Florida are living healthy, productive lives. However, the need for donated organs and tissues to outpace the supply. Right now, there are thousands who would be helped if more of us became organ and tissue donors. Organ and tissue donations provide each of us with a special opportunity to help others.
Donation of vital organs and tissues can save lives where no other hope is available. Heart, liver, lung and kidney transplants save lives everyday. Additionally, bone, skin, and cornea transplants often restore sight and save burn victims.
When you are applying for a driver license or identification card, you may voluntary contribute to the following special trust funds:
Election Campaign - $5 minimum to be transferred to the Election Campaign Financing Trust Fund.
Florida Organ and Tissue Donor Education and Procurement Trust Fund - $1 minimum for organ and tissue donor education and for maintaining the organ and tissue donor registry.
Florida Council of the Blind - $1 minimum for assisting persons who have already been diagnosed as blind.
Prevent Blindness of Florida - $1 minimum to prevent blindness and preserve the sight of the residents of the State of Florida.
Hearing Research Institute - $2 minimum for infant hearing screening in Florida.
Juvenile Diabetes Foundation International - $1 minimum contribution
Driving a motor vehicle in Florida is a privilege you earn. You cannot get a license in Florida under the following conditions:
Every driver who obtains a license must drive safely to keep it. If you break the traffic laws or become an unsafe driver, your license can be taken away. It can be suspended, revoked, or canceled.
Your license can be SUSPENDED if you:
Your license must be REVOKED if you are found guilty of, or department records show:
A court may also order that your license be revoked for certain other traffic
offenses.
Your license will be revoked for at least three years if you kill someone
because of reckless driving.
If your license was issued because of a mistake or fraud (giving false information or identification), it will be canceled.
violation points* |
|
Leaving the scene of an accident resulting in property damage of more than $50 | 6 |
Unlawful speed resulting in an accident | 6 |
Reckless driving | 4 |
Any moving violation resulting in an accident | 4 |
Passing a stopped school bus | 4 |
Driving During Restricted Hours | 3 |
Unlawful speed - 16 MPH or more over lawful or posted speed | 4 |
Unlawful speed - 15 MPH or less over lawful or posted speed | 3 |
(Fines are doubled when infractions occur within a school zone or construction zone, with possible civil penalties up to $1,000 and can be required to complete driving school course.) | |
All other moving violations (including parking on highway outside the limits of municipalities) | 3 |
Improper equipment or vehicle in an unsafe condition | 2 |
(Operator corrects defects within 10 days from the date the traffic citation was issued) | 0 |
Violation of curfew | 3 |
Open Container as an operator | 3 |
Child Restraint Violation | 3 |
*The driver receives the same number of points listed if the conviction occurs out-of-state or in a federal court. |
length of suspension |
Not more than |
12 points within a 12-month period | 30 days |
18 points within an 18-month period, including points which cause suspension under line 1 above |
3 months |
24 points within a 36-month period, including points which cause suspension under line 2 above |
1 year |
Any driver under the age of 18 who accumulates four or more points within a 12 month period shall be automatically restricted for one year to driving for business purposes ONLY. If additional points are accumulated the restriction will be extended for 90 days for every additional point received.
A licensed driver who is under the age of 17 may not operate a motor vehicle after 11:00 p.m. and before 6:00 a.m. unless accompanied by a driver, who is 21 years of age or older and holds a valid driver's license, unless the person is driving to or from work. A licensed driver who is 17 years of age may not operate a motor vehicle after 1:00 a.m. unless accompanied by a driver, who is 21 years of age or older and holds a valid driver license, unless the person is driving to and from work..
If your driving privilege is suspended or revoked you may be eligible to apply
for a hardship license or reinstatement. For eligibility information contact
the local Bureau of Administrative Reviews Offices, Driver License Office
or Bureau of Customer Services in Tallahassee.
You can be charged with DUI if you are found to be driving or in actual physical
control of a motor vehicle in the state while under the influence of alcoholic
beverages or controlled substances. Controlled substances include narcotic
drugs, barbituates, model glue and other stimulants - whether taken by swallowing,
by sniffing, by smoking, by injection or by other means. You will be administratively
suspended if you have a breath or or blood alcohol level of .08 or above or
refuse to submit to a chemical test. This suspension is a mandatory period
without a license. If you wish to appeal this suspension, you must apply for
a formal or informal review hearing at the appropriate Division of Driver
Licenses, Bureau of Administrative Reviews Office within 10 days of your date
of arrest. This suspension is in addition to any penalties directed by the
court. A DUI conviction will remain on your driving record for 75 years.
Some effects of drug and alcohol consumption are impaired judgment, slow reaction,
poor vision, and concentration. A person's judgment is the first thing affected
after drinking an alcoholic beverage.
Any driver under 21 years of age who is stopped by law enforcement and has a breath or blood alcohol level of .02 or higher will automatically have their driving privilege suspended for 6 months. This is an administrative suspension and does not reflect as a DUI on the driver's record. If the driver refuses to take a test, their driving privilege is automatically suspended for one year.
Penalties for DUI (including previous DWI and DUBAL convictions) | ||||
1st Conviction |
2nd Conviction |
3rd Conviction |
4th or more conviction |
|
Fine |
$250-$500 with BAL .08 or higher or minor in vehicle, not less than $500 or more than $1000 |
$500-$1000 with BAL .08 or higher or minor in vehicle, not less than $1000 or more than $2000 |
$1000-2500 with BAL .08 or higher or minor in vehicle, not less than $2000 or more than $5000 |
Not Less than $1000 |
Community Service |
50 hours |
|||
Probation |
Not more than 1 year. |
|||
Imprisonment |
Not more than 6 months; with BAL .08 or higher or minor in vehicle, not more than 9 months |
Not more than 9 months; 2nd conviction within 5 years, 10 days in jail, 48 hours of confinement must be consecutive | Not more than 12 months; 3rd conviction within 10 years, mandatory 30 days, 48 hours must be consecutive | Not more than 5 years | License Revocation | Minimum 180 days | minimum 180 days; 2nd conviction within 5 years, 5 year revocation | minimum 180 days; 3rd conviction within 10 years, 10 year revocation | Permanent revocation |
DUI School |
12 hours | 21 hours | 21 hours | |
DUI School Requirement |
Evaluation conducted to determine need for treatment | Treatment required | Treatment required |
Alcohol reduces all of the important skills necessary to drive safely, such
as judgment, reaction, vision and concentration. It is absorbed into the lining
of the stomach and then passes directly into the bloodstream. Alcohol reaches
your brain within minutes after consumption and affects those areas of the brain
that control judgment and skill. This is one reason why drinking alcohol is
so dangerous; it affects your judgment. Good judgment is important to driving
but in this case, judgment helps you to know when to stop drinking. Alcohol
puts good judgment on hold. You do not know when you have had too much to drink
until it is too late. It is a little like sunburn, by the time you feel it,
it is already too late.
Alcohol slows your reflexes and reaction time, reduces your ability to see
clearly and makes you less alert. As the amount of alcohol in your body increases,
your judgment worsens and your skills decrease. You will have trouble judging
distances, speeds and the movement of other vehicles. You will also have trouble
controlling your vehicle.
The best advice is if you drink alcohol, do not drive. Even one drink of alcohol
can affect your driving. With two or more drinks in your bloodstream you are
impaired and could be arrested.
It takes about an hour for your body to get rid of each drink. Time is the
only thing that will sober you up.
There are ways of dealing with social situations. Arrange to go with two or
more persons and agree which one of you will not drink alcohol. You can rotate
among the group being a "designated driver". You can use public transportation
or use a cab, if available.
You will be asked to take a blood, a urine or a breath test if a law enforcement
officer thinks you are under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs
while driving. By law, if you drive in Florida, you have agreed to take these
tests if asked. If you refuse to take the tests when asked, your license will
be suspended for one year. A second refusal will result in an eighteen-month
suspension.
In DUI cases involving death or serious injury, you can be required to take
the blood test without your consent. The blood must be withdrawn by a doctor,
nurse or other health professional.
If you are unconscious and cannot refuse the blood test, blood may be withdrawn.
The results of the test may be used as evidence, even if you object after
becoming conscious.
Emotions can have a great effect on you driving safely. You may not be able to drive well if you are overly worried, excited, afraid, angry or depressed.
You can be put in jail or made to pay a fine for the following offenses:
In Florida there are two motor vehicle insurance laws. They are the Financial Responsibility Law and the No-Fault law. It is important that you understand these laws because if you do not have the proper insurance, you can lose your driver license and tag(s) and have to pay large fees to get them back.
The reason for the Financial Responsibility Law is to require owners and operators
of motor vehicles to be financially responsible for damages and/or injuries
they may cause to others when a motor vehicle crash happens.
This law requires any person to have liability insurance at the time of the
following:
You must have the following minimum insurance coverage:
If involved in any of the above violations and you do not have insurance to
comply with the financial responsibility law, your driver license and/or tags
will be suspended for up to three years. You will have to pay a $15 reinstatement
fee and show the department certified proof of full liability insurance on
Form SR-22 for three years from the original suspension to get your driving
privilege back.
In addition, if you are the driver or the owner of a vehicle which is in a
crash that is your fault, this Department can require you to pay for the damages
before your driving privilege is reinstated.
Under this law, to protect yourself and others, you should have liability
insurance on any motor vehicle you own or drive, including motorcycles.
The Florida No-Fault Law requires anyone who owns or has registered a motor vehicle with four or more wheels (excluding taxis and limousines), that has been in the state for at least 90 days or non-consecutive days during the past 365 days to purchase a policy delivered or issued for delivery in this state. The minimum coverages are:
You cannot buy a tag and registration for a car, or other four wheel vehicle,
without having coverage issued in this state. Once you have this insurance,
anytime you renew it, fail to renew it, or cancel it, the insurance company
must notify this department. The department will then notify you for an explanation.
If you then fail to provide proof of insurance, your driver license and tag(s)
will be suspended for up to three years.
You must maintain insurance coverage during the entire time that the car
is registered in your name. If the car is in storage or not in working order
or if you wish to cancel the insurance for any reason, you must turn in the
tag and registration at any driver license office or mail to the department.
If your driver license and tag(s) are suspended for not having insurance under
the No-Fault Law, you will have to pay $150 and show proof of insurance to
get them back. If it happens a second time within three years, you will pay
$250. If it happens three times within three years, you will have to pay $500.
Also, if your driver license and tag(s) have been under suspension for 30
days or more for a no-fault insurance violation, a police officer can seize
your tag on the spot.
Your insurance company will give you an insurance I.D. Card. You must have
this card ready to show to any police officer to prove that you have the required
insurance. If not, you may receive a ticket for not having proof of insurance.
If your driver license or tag(s) are suspended for not obeying either of these
laws, you cannot get a temporary license for any reason, not even for work
purposes only. Any person who makes a false statement or commits forgery about
their motor vehicle insurance can be guilty of a second degree misdemeanor.
The department will always provide you with an opportunity to prove insurance
coverage or be heard before being suspended.
How to comply:
Remember: Automobile insurance is an important part of your driving privilege. Protect yourself and others by having and keeping the proper insurance coverage.
Stop.
If you are in a crash while driving, you must stop. If anyone is hurt,
you must get help. You must also be ready to give your name, address,
and vehicle registration number; as well as show your driver license to
others involved in the crash.
If, while driving, you hit a vehicle with no one in it or if you damage any
object that belongs to someone else, you must tell the owner. Give the owner
your name, address, and tag number in person or in a note attached to the
object that was hit. Report the crash immediately to the proper law enforcement
agency.
Drivers are responsible for any littering from their vehicles. Use ash trays for cigarettes and litter bags for trash while riding in motor vehicles. Empty ash trays and litter bags only into trash cans.
LITTERING IS A CRIME. PEOPLE WHO THROW TRASH ON PUBLIC STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CAN BE FINED UP TO $500.00 OR JAILED UP TO 60 DAYS.
The court may also require you to pick up litter along roadways.
It is against the law to damage the roads by driving on the rim of a flat
tire or by any other means.
Good driving is based on practice and being alert at the wheel.
Before you start your engine:
Never move your car until you have looked in front, behind and to the side for pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Then, signal and pull into traffic when safe.
Defensive driving means doing all you can to prevent crashes. As a defensive
driver, you will "give" a little. You will change your driving
to fit
the weather conditions, the way you feel, and the actions of other
drivers,
bicyclists and pedestrians.
Follow these steps to avoid accidents:
Use these defensive driving tips if you see that you are about to be involved in a crash:
Many crashes happen because one vehicle runs into the back of another one. Here are some things you can do to lower the risk of someone running into the rear of your vehicle.
Any driver can take a basic driver improvement course. The course teaches ways of keeping crashes from happening. One driver can sign up, or a group can ask for a class. Consult your yellow pages under, Driving Instruction, for the location of the schools.
Florida law requires all occupants of cars, pickup trucks, and vans who are 6 years of age
or older to wear seat belts, regardless of seating position. Passengers 16 and older can be
fined individually for violating this provision. Drivers will be held responsible and fined for passengers 15 years old and younger who are
found unrestrained. Children infant through 3 years of age must be properly secured using a crash-tested, federally
approved child restraint device. Such restraint device must be a separate carrier or a vehicle manufacturer's integrated child seat.
For children aged 4 through 5 years, a separate carrier, an integrated child seat, or a seat belt may be used.
This seat belt law applies to passenger cars manufactured beginning with the 1968
model year, and trucks beginning with the 1972 model year.
The law exempts the following from the seat belt
requirements:
In a crash, you are far more likely to be killed if you are not wearing
a
safety belt. Wearing shoulder belts and lap belts make your chances of
living
through a crash twice as good.
In a crash, safety belts:
SAFETY BELTS SAVE LIVES!
Wear lap belts around your hips, not your stomach. Fasten them snugly. Wear a shoulder belt only with a lap belt. Don't just use your safety belt for long trips or high-speed highways. More than half of the crashes that cause injury or death happen:
THE LAW:
ALL CHILDREN 5 YEARS OLD OR YOUNGER MUST USE A RESTRAINT
DEVICE WHEN RIDING IN A
MOTOR VEHICLE.
The
law requires every driver to secure children five years of age or
younger in
child restraint devices riding in a passenger car, van, or pick-up
truck,
regardless of whether the vehicle is registered in this state. Infant
carriers or
children's car seats must be used for children three years old
and younger.
Children's car seats or safety belts may be used for four-
and
five-year-olds.
All infant carriers and car seats must be crash-tested and
approved
by the U.S. Government.
Children being carried or riding bicycles
should wear properly fitted
bicycle helmets.
No person responsible for a child younger than 6 years of age shall leave such child unattended or unsupervised in a motor vehicle for a period in excess of 15 minutes. No person shall leave a child unattended for any period of time if the motor of the vehicle is running or if the health of the child is in danger.
On a hot summer day, the interior of a car can get dangerously hot. One study found that with the windows up and the temperature outside at 94 degrees, the inside of a car could be 122 degrees in just half an hour, or 132 degrees after an hour.
Speed
causes many crashes. More drivers are convicted of speeding
than any other
offense. To avoid being fined or involved
in a crash, obey
the speed limits.
Speed is very important in a collision. If you double the
speed of a car,
you increase its force of impact four times. If you triple the
speed, the
impact is nine times as great.
Remember that speed limits show the fastest speed you may drive under good conditions. You are responsible for adjusting your driving speed to the road conditions. For example, if the weather is bad or there is a lot of traffic, you must drive more slowly than the posted speed. The safe speed is the one that allows you to have complete control of your vehicle.
Mopeds | All Other Vehicles | ||||
Business or Residential Area | |||||
Rural Interstate Limited Access Highways | |||||
All Other Roads and Highways |
Drive with the flow of traffic (within the speed limit). You should not drive so slowly that you block other vehicles moving at normal, safe speeds. You can be issued a ticket for driving too slowly.
If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer, pull off immediately to the extreme right, clear of traffic when possible. Turn off your engine. Reduce your headlights to the parking light position at night. Sit calmly and follow the instructions of the officer. You must follow any lawful order or direction of (1) any police officer or (2) any fireman at the scene of a fire who is directing traffic. If a police officer is directing traffic where there are signal lights, obey the officer - not the signals.
More crashes happen at intersections than any other place. Be very careful when approaching any intersection or driveway.
If you are stopped:
Who has the right-of-way in Florida? The answer is no one! The law only says who must yield (give up) the right-of-way. Every driver, motorcyclist, moped rider, bicyclist and pedestrian must do everything possible to avoid a crash.
You must yield the right-of-way to all other traffic and pedestrians at stop signs. Move forward only when the road is clear. At four-way stops, the first vehicle to stop should move forward first. If two vehicles reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.
An open intersection is one without traffic control signs or signals. When you enter one, you must yield the right-of-way if:
When two cars enter an open intersection at
the same time, the driver
on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
Roundabouts are a new type of intersection, which improves traffic flow and reduces traffic crashes. Most roundabouts do not require stopping, which allows vehicles to move continuously through intersections at the same low speed. Roundabouts are designed to move all traffic through a counterclockwise direction. Vehicles approaching the roundabout yield to circulating traffic; however, drivers must obey all signs to determine the correct right-of-way in the roundabout.
It is the motorist's responsibility to do everything possible to avoid colliding with any pedestrians. Bicyclists, skaters and skateboarders in a crosswalk or driveway are considered pedestrians. Turning motorists must yield to pedestrians crossing the street or driveway at any marked mid-block crossing, driveway or intersections without traffic signals.
In Florida, the bicycle is legally defined as a vehicle. Bicyclists using a public roadway are considered operators of motor vehicles and are responsible for observing traffic laws. With few exceptions, there is only one road and it is up to motorists and bicyclists to treat each other with care and respect. Adherence to the law is the foundation of respect.
The primary traveling aids for a person who is blind are often either a white cane or a trained
guide dog. Independent travel involves some risk that can be greatly reduced
when you, the driver, are aware of the use and meaning of a white cane or
guide
dog.
Drivers must always yield the right-of-way to persons who
are blind.
When a pedestrian is crossing a street or highway guided by a dog or
carrying
a white cane (or a white cane with a red tip), vehicles must come to
a
complete stop.
On a two-way street or highway, all drivers moving in either
direction
must stop for a stopped school bus which is picking up or dropping off
children.
You must remain stopped until all children are clear of the roadway and
the bus signal has been withdrawn. Violation of this law is considered a moving violation and is subject to a mandatory hearing.
If the highway is divided by a
raised barrier or an unpaved median at
least five feet wide, you do not have to
stop if you are moving in the opposite
direction of the bus. Painted lines or
pavement markings are not considered
to be barriers. If you are moving in the
same direction as the bus, you
must always stop - and not go forward until the
bus stop signal has been
withdrawn.
BOTH CARS MUST
STOP!
Crossing guards are posted in areas where it is unsafe for children to cross alone. When you see a guard, reduce your speed as you near a school and children are in the area. Watch for school zone posted speed and stop if necessary at the marked stop lined but never in the cross walk. Obey signals from any crossing guard.
It is the driver's responsibility to do everything possible to avoid colliding with pedestrians. Remember, children are unpredictable. Do your part to make every crossing a safe crossing.
All drivers should yield the right-of-way to public transit bus traveling in the same direction which has signaled and in reentering the traffic flow from a specifically designated pullout bay.
Pedestrians and drivers must yield the right-of-way to funeral processions. When the first vehicle in the funeral procession lawfully enters an intersection, other vehicles in the procession must have their headlights on as a signal to other drivers not to drive between or interfere with the procession while it is in motion unless directed to do so by a police officer.
Driveways form an intersection with sidewalks. Motorists must yield to bicyclists and pedestrians on the sidewalk.
Pedestrians and drivers must yield the right-of-way to
law-enforcement
cars, fire engines and other emergency vehicles using sirens
and/or flashing
lights. Pull over to the closest edge of the roadway right away
and stop
until the emergency vehicle has passed. Do not block intersections.
Turning a corner may seem to be a simple operation, but many
traffic
crashes are caused by drivers who do not turn correctly.
There
are nine steps in making a good turn:
If you reach an intersection where you wish to make a right or left turn and are not in the proper lane, you should drive to the next intersection. Then make the turn from the proper lane.
Study these diagrams showing lanes to use in making
turns.
Left and Right Turns
Left from one-way into 2-way
Left from
one-way into one-way roads
Left from two-way onto two-ways roads
Left from two way onto one-way roads
Slow down and look for
bicyclists. Signal your turn prior to crossing
through the bike lane at the
dashed striping. Yield to any bicyclist. Complete
the turn from the designated
right turn lane.
If there is no right turn lane, after checking to make sure that no bicyclists are present, you may enter the bike lane
at the intersection
or driveway.
Sometimes you will need to turn your car around in a very small space. Use a three-point turn only if the road is too narrow for a U-turn and you can't go around the block. To make a three-point turn:
You can now move in the opposite
direction. Check traffic, and move forward.
Never make a three-point turn or a
U-turn on a curve or a hill.
In some places, U-turns are not safe. Signs may be posted to let you know this. You may make safe U-turns on any roadway where there is two-way traffic except where you see these signs.
You must use hand signals or directional signals to show
that you are
about to turn.
It is against the law to use your directional
signals to tell drivers
behind you that they can pass.
Four-way emergency
flashers should only be used while your vehicle is legally
stopped or disabled on
the highway or shoulder of highway.
right turn left turn slow or stop
Always drive on the right side of a two-lane highway except when passing.
If the road has four or more lanes with two-way traffic, drive in the right
lanes except when overtaking and passing.
Left lanes on some interstate roads are reserved for car pool vehicles with two or more occupants in the car - watch for diamond
signs in the median. The center lane of a three-lane or five-lane highway is used only for turning left.
If you see red reflectors facing
you on the lane lines, you are on the
wrong side of the road. Get into the proper
lane immediately! If you see red reflectors on the lines on the edge of the road, you are on the wrong freeway ramp. Pull
over immediately! Red reflectors always mean you are facing traffic the wrong way and could have a head-on collision.
Blind spots are areas near the left and right rear corners
of your vehicle
that you cannot see in your rearview mirrors. Before you move
sideways to
change lanes on an expressway or to pass on any road, turn your head
to
make sure these areas are clear.
Areas bordered by X's are blind spots for a car with an outside mirror
on the
left side only.
On the roads with more than one lane in each direction, do
not drive in
someone else's blind spot. Speed up or drop back so the other driver
can
see you.
Don't speed up. Stay at your same speed or slow down.
Help other drivers pass you safely. Move to the right side of your lane
to
give them more room and a better view of the road ahead.
DO NOT OVERTAKE AND PASS AT THESE LOCATIONS
Hills Curves
Intersections Railroads
You may not pass on a two-lane road with traffic moving in opposite directions under these conditions:
Violators may be arrested or issued a ticket.
Leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead. If it stops quickly, you will need time to see the danger and stop.
At any speed, you can use the two-second rule to see if you are far enough behind the car in front of you:
The two-second rule applies to any speed in good weather and road conditions. If road or weather conditions are not good, increase your following distance. See the chart on total stopping distance.
When
parking on a public road, move as far away from traffic as possible.
If there is
a roadside shoulder, pull as far onto it as you can. If there
is a curb, pull
close to it - you must not park more than one foot away.
Always park on the
right side of the roadway, unless it is a one-way
street.
Make sure your vehicle
cannot move. Set the parking brake and shift
to park with an automatic
transmission or reverse with a manual transmission.
Turn off the engine and lock
the vehicle. Florida law requires that you
take the keys out of your vehicle
before leaving it. Always check traffic
behind you before getting out, or get out
on the curb side.
Before you leave any parked position, look over your
shoulder to the
rear to make sure the way is clear. Give the proper turn signal
if driving
from a curb and yield to other traffic.
When parking on hills:
The
rear markers represent the REAR corners of the parking space. The
forward markers
represent the approximate CENTER of the parking space. When
properly parked, the
vehicle should be centered inside the space with no
part of the vehicle extending
out into the traffic lane.
Parking lights must be
used at night on any vehicle parked on a roadway
or shoulder outside of cities
and towns. Directional signals must not be
flashed on one side only on a parked
or disabled vehicle. Use your emergency
flashers.
Driving with parking
lights only (in place of headlights) is against
the law.
Disabled persons do not have to pay
parking fees on any public street,
highway, or metered space. Their vehicles must
display a valid parking placard
from the rearview mirror or on the front dash.
These may be obtained from
a tag agent or tax collector's office and must be
renewed every four years.
They must park in spaces reserved for the
disabled when possible.
These spaces are marked by the wheelchair symbol and
"Parking by Disabled
Permit Only" signs. Vehicles illegally parked in
spaces reserved for
the handicapped will be ticketed and may be towed away.
Expressways - also
called interstate highways, freeways, and turnpikes
- are multiple-lane roads
with no stop signs, traffic lights, or railroad
crossings. For these reasons,
expressways can give you a fast, safe way
to get where you need to go.
Pedestrians, hitchhikers, bicycles, animal-drawn vehicles or motor-driven
cycles and motor scooters with 150 cubic centimeter displacement or less
are not
allowed on expressways.
Vehicles can enter and leave expressways only at certain points. Because
expressway traffic is usually moving at or close to the maximum speed allowed,
you need to know how to enter and exit safely.
All expressway
entrances have three basic parts: an entrance ramp, an
acceleration lane, and a
merging area. Follow these guidelines to enter
an expressway safely:
Get into the exit lane. Posted signs will tell you which one. Most expressway exits are from the right lane.
You will need to drive with extra care at night. You cannot see as far ahead or to the side, and glare from oncoming cars can reduce your vision even more. Follow these guidelines for driving at night:
Wild and domestic
animals may move unpredictably towards or across the
travel path of an
approaching motor vehicle. When an animal is seen in the
road or on the road
shoulder, you should slow down and, if necessary, yield
the right-of-way. Be
especially careful in rural areas at night. Often an
animal's eyes shining in the
headlight beams will be seen first.
Use reasonable care when
approaching a person who is riding or leading
an animal upon the roadway or
shoulder of the road. Horses have poor side
vision and are easily frightened by
loud noises or sudden movements.
It is best not to drive in fog or smoke. If you must, slow down, turn on your low beam headlights, and be ready for a fast stop. Use windshield wipers in heavy fog. If the fog or smoke becomes so thick that you cannot see well enough to keep driving, pull all the way off the pavement and stop. Turn on your emergency flashers.
The
first few drops of rain mean danger. Roads are most slippery just
after the rain
begins, because oil dropped from cars has not been washed
away. Slow down and
plan for at least two times the normal stopping distance.
In a
heavy rain, your tires can ride on a thin film of water, like skis.
This is
called hydroplaning. When your tires are not touching the road,
you can easily
lose control and skid. Keep your tires on the road by slowing
down when it rains,
and by having tires with the right air pressure and
good tread.
Brakes
often become wet after driving through deep water or driving
in heavy rain. They
may pull to one side or the other, or they may not hold
at all. If this happens,
slow down and gently push on the brake pedal until
your brakes are working
again.
You must turn on your low beam (dim) headlights when driving at any time between sunset and sunrise including the twilight hours between sunset and sunrise including the twilight hours between sunset and full night or between full night and sunrise. You must also use these lights during any rain, smoke or fog. Parking lights do not meet requirements of this law.
When you are driving, things can happen very quickly. You may have only a fraction of a second to make the right move. Follow these guidelines for handling emergencies.
Whether you are
sharing the road with a car, truck, bus, or other large
vehicle, it's important
for safety's sake to obey traffic laws, abide by
the rules of the road, and drive
defensively.
Are there any special rules for sharing the road with a truck?
Yes! Here are some suggestions from professional truck drivers.
In general, trucks take slightly
longer than cars to stop because of
their size. However, at highway speeds or on
wet roads, trucks may have
better traction and stability allowing them to stop
more quickly. A car
following too closely may not be able to stop quickly enough
to avoid rear-ending
the truck.
If you are following a truck, stay out of its
"blind spot"
to the rear. Avoid following too closely, and position
your vehicle so the
truck driver can see it in his side mirrors. Then you will
have a good view
of the road ahead, and the truck driver can give you plenty of
warning for
a stop or a turn. You will have more time - to react and make a safe
stop.
When you follow a truck at night, always dim your
headlights. Bright
lights from a vehicle behind will blind the truck driver when
they reflect
off the truck's large side mirrors.
If you are stopped
behind a truck on an upgrade, leave space in case
the truck drifts back slightly
when it starts to move. Also, keep to the
left in your lane so the driver can see
that you're stopped behind the truck.
Traffic signals are placed at intersections to keep traffic moving and
avoid
accidents. Drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle riders must obey these
signals
except when an officer is directing traffic. Stop on the stop line
if your car is
nearest the signal. Some signals change only when a car is
at the stop line. If
traffic signals are out of order, stop as you would
for a four-way stop sign.
Red
Come
to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before moving into
the crosswalk or
intersection. After stopping, you may turn right on red
at most intersections if
the way is clear. Some intersections display a
"NO TURN ON RED"
sign, which you must obey. Left turns
on red from a one-way street into a one-way
street are also allowed.
Yellow
Stop if
you can. The light will soon be red.
Green
Go - but only if the intersection is clear. Yield to pedestrians and
vehicles
still in the intersection. If turning left, wait for gap in oncoming
traffic to
complete turn.
Red
Arrow
Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before
moving into
the crosswalk or intersection. After stopping, you may turn right on
red
arrow at most intersections if the way is clear. Some intersections display
a
"NO TURN ON RED" sign, which you must obey. Left turns on red
arrow
from a one-way street into a one-way street are also allowed.
Yellow Arrow
Stop if you can. The light will
soon be red. The yellow arrow means
the same as the yellow light, but applies
only to movement in the direction
of the arrow.
Green Arrow
A green arrow, pointing right or left, means you may make a
turn in
the direction of the arrow, if you are in the proper lane for such a
turn,
after yielding the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians within the
intersection,
even if the red light is burning at the same time.
Flashing Signals
A
flashing red light means the same thing as a stop sign. It is used
at dangerous
intersections.
A flashing yellow light means you may move forward with
caution. It is used
at or just before dangerous intersections, or to alert you to
a warning
sign such as a school crossing or sharp curve.
Lane signals are used:
You must never drive in a lane under a red X.
A
yellow X means that your lane signal is going to change to red. Prepare
to leave
the lane safely.
You may drive in lanes beneath the green arrow, but you must
also obey
all other signs and signals.
There are eight shapes and eight
colors of traffic signs. Each shape
and each color has an exact meaning, so you
must acquaint yourself with
all of them.
The shape of a road sign can tell
you as much about the sign's message
as its color.
OCTAGON: Exclusively for stop signs.
HORIZONTAL RECTANGLE:
Generally for guide signs.
TRIANGLE: Exclusively for yield signs.
PENNANT: Advance warning of no passing zones.
DIAMOND:
Exclusively to warn of existing or possible hazards on roadways
or adjacent
areas.
VERTICAL RECTANGLE: Generally for regulatory
signs.
PENTAGON: School advance and school crossing
signs.
ROUND: railroad advance warning signs.
CROSSBUCK:
Railroad crossing.
STOP SIGNS are
always octagonal (8 sided). A stop sign means
that you must bring your vehicle
to a complete halt at the marked stop
line.
If there is no marked
stop line, stop before entering the crosswalk
on the near side of the
intersection. If there is no crosswalk, stop at
a point nearest the intersecting
roadway where you have a clear view of
approaching traffic on the intersecting
roadway before entering the intersection.
A four-way stop sign means that
there are four stop signs at this intersection.
Traffic from all four directions
must stop. The first vehicle to reach the
intersection should move forward first.
If two vehicles reach the intersection
at the same time, the driver on the left
yields to the driver on the right.
Slow down and give vehicles crossing your path the right-of-way. If the way is clear, you may move forward slowly without stopping. Yield signs are usually placed where auxiliary roads lead into major roads.
You are entering a no passing zone. This sign is placed on the left side of the road, facing the driver.
Narrow bridge. These signs warn you of special conditions or dangers ahead. Words or symbols on the sign will show why you need to use caution.
This five-sided sign means you are near a school. Watch for children.
As you approach this sign, slow down, watch for children crossing the road. Stop if necessary. Obey signals from any crossing guards.
Here are some common warning signs. These signs give you advance notice
of
possible hazards ahead. Drive with caution.
1. SLIPPERY WHEN WET. In wet
weather, drive slowly. Do not speed up or brake
quickly. Make sharp turns at a
very slow speed.
2. DIVIDED HIGHWAY AHEAD. The highway ahead is divided into
two one-way
roadways. Keep to the right.
3. DIVIDED HIGHWAY ENDS. The divided
highway on which you are traveling
ends 350 to 500 feet ahead. You will then be
on a roadway with two-way traffic.
Keep to the right.
4. LOW CLEARANCE.
Do not enter if your vehicle is taller than the height
listed on the sign.
5.
BICYCLE CROSSING. Warns you in advance that a bikeway crosses the roadway
ahead.
6. MERGING TRAFFIC. You are coming to a point where another traffic
lane
joins the one you are on. Watch for other traffic and be ready to yield
the
right-of-way when necessary.
7. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING. Watch for people
crossing the street. Slow down
or stop if necessary.
8. NARROW BRIDGE. The
bridge is wide enough to accommodate two lanes of
traffic, but with very little
clearance.
9. DIP. There is a low place in the road. Go slowly and be ready
to stop
if the dip is filled with water.
10. SOFT SHOULDER. The dirt
on the side of the road is soft. Don't leave
the pavement except in an
emergency.
11. ONE LANE BRIDGE. The bridge is wide enough for only one
vehicle at a
time. Make sure the bridge is clear of oncoming traffic before you
cross.
12. PAVEMENT ENDS. Road surface ahead changes from a hard surfaced
pavement
to a low-type surface or earth road.
13. RIGHT CURVE.
Slow your speed and keep well to the left. The road will
curve to the right.
14. DOUBLE CURVE. The road will curve to the right, then to the left. Slow
your
speed, keep to the right, and do not pass.
15. WINDING ROAD. There are
several curves ahead. Drive slowly and carefully.
16. TRUCK
CROSSING. Watch for trucks entering or crossing the highway.
17. CROSS ROAD.
A road crosses the main highway ahead. Look to the left
and right for other
traffic.
18. SIDE ROAD. Another road enters the highway from the direction
shown.
Watch for traffic from that direction.
19. SHARP RIGHT TURN. The road
will make a sharp turn to the right. Slow your
speed, keep to the right, and do
not pass other vehicles.
20. REDUCTION OF LANES. There will be fewer lanes
ahead. Traffic must merge
left. Drivers in the left lane should allow others to
merge smoothly. Right
lane ends.
21. ADVISORY SPEED SIGN. The highest safe
speed you should travel around
the curve ahead is 25 miles per hour. Advisory
speed signs may be used with
any diamond-shaped warning sign.
22. HILL/DOWNGRADE. Slow down and be ready to shift to lower gear to control
speed and save brakes.
23. YIELD AHEAD. Warning of yield sign ahead. Slow
down and be prepared
to stop at yield sign or adjust speed to traffic.
24.
TRAFFIC SIGNAL AHEAD. Warning of traffic signals at intersection ahead.
Slow
down, poor visibility is likely.
25. STOP SIGN AHEAD. When
you come to this sign, slow down to be ready to
stop at the stop sign check.
26. TWO-WAY TRAFFIC AHEAD. The one-way street or roadway ahead ends. You
will
then be facing oncoming traffic.
These signs tell you the law, so you must follow their
instructions.
Remember that a red circle with a slash means NO.
The sign
shows you what is not allowed.
NO U-TURN. - You cannot
make a complete turn to go in the opposite
direction where this sign is
displayed. No U-turn.
You must not make a
right turn at this intersection.
50 miles per hour is the highest safest speed you can travel in this area.
You cannot go straight
ahead. You must turn either to the
right or left.
You
are going the wrong way on an expressway exit ramp. Do not drive
past this sign.
Turn around immediately.
A divided highway is ahead. Stay
on the right side of the
divider.
Parking only for
vehicles displaying an official permit and
transporting a disabled person.
You may travel only in the direction of the
arrow.
This sign lists the maximum recommended safe speed for an
entrance or
exit on an expressway. Slow down to whatever speed is shown.
You may not turn right or left during the red light. You
must wait for
the signal to turn green.
A diamond-shaped
marking shows that a lane is reserved for certain purposes
or certain vehicles.
The lanes are usually reserved for buses or car-pool
vehicles during rush hour
traffic. Other diamond signs are used to designate
bicycle lanes.
The center lane is shared for left turns in both directions
of
travel.
You must not pass any other vehicles going in
the same direction as
you are, while you are in this area.
When you have passed this sign, you are again permitted to pass other
vehicles with care.
Traffic in left lane
must turn left at the
intersection ahead.
Stopping permitted only for emergencies.
You are approaching an area where a reduced speed zone has been
established.
At the intersection ahead traffic
in left lane must turn
left and traffic in adjoining lane may turn left or
continue straight ahead.
This sign is used on multiple
lane highways to advise slower driving
traffic to stay in the right hand lane;
and also to do so when approached
from behind by other traffic even if you are
doing the speed limit.
This marks a one-way roadway with
traffic coming toward you.
You must not enter the one-way roadway at this
point.
You must not turn either to the right or to the left at this
intersection.
If you park, you must always park off the
pavement of the highway.
When entering a right turn lane
motorists will conflict with bicycle
through movements. Always yield.
ANIMAL CROSSING. The animal pictured on the sign is common in this area:
watch for this species crossing the road particularly during
twilight
and nighttime hours.
There are several signs, signals and pavement markings that indicate highway- railroad crossings. When you see one of them, slow down and be ready to stop.
REMEMBER:
Trains cannot stop quickly. An average freight train
traveling at 30
MPH needs a stopping distance of more than half a mile. Longer
trains moving
at faster speeds can take one and a half miles or more to stop.
Any person walking or driving a vehicle and approaching a railroad-
highway grade crossing must stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the
nearest rail of the the railroad when the electrical or mechanical warning
devices are flashing; or the crossing gate is lowered or human flagger is warning
of an approaching train; or there is an approaching train clearly visible and
is in hazardous proximity to the railroad-highway grade crossing, and must not proceed until he or she can do so
safely.
Pavement markings, consisting of an RXR followed by a stop
line closer to the tracks, may be painted on the paved approach to a crossing. Any
person walking or driving a vehicle must stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet of
the crossing. Stay behind the stop line while waiting for a train to pass.
The advance warning sign is usually the first sign you see when approaching
a highway-rail intersection. The advance warning sign advises you to slow down,
look, listen for a train, and be prepared to stop if a train is approaching.
Crossbuck signs are
found at highway-rail intersections. They are yield signs. You are legally
required to yield the right of way to trains. Slow down, look and listen for a train,
and stop if a train approaches. When the road crosses over more than one set of tracks,
a sign below the crossbuck will indicate the number of tracks.
At many highway-rail crossings, the crossbuck has flashing red lights
and bells. When the lights begin to flash, stop! A train is approaching.
DO NOT STOP ON THE TRACKS OR WITHIN SIX FEET
OF EITHER RAIL. Do not move forward
until you can do so safely. If there
is more than one track, make sure all tracks
are clear before crossing.
In heavy traffic make sure there is room for your
vehicle on the other side
before starting to cross.
Many crossings have gates with flashing red lights and bells.
Stop when
the lights begin to flash,
and before the gate lowers across your side of
the road. Do not move forward
until the gates are raised and the lights
stop flashing as there may be a train
approaching on an adjacent track.
Always
approach highway-railroad crossings at a reasonable speed - and
be prepared to
stop if you have to. Be especially alert when you are following
buses or trucks
which may have to stop at highway-railroad crossings even
if any gates are up and
the warning lights are not flashing.
If your car stalls on the
tracks don't hesitate. Get yourself and
your passengers out and away from the car
immediately. If a collision is
imminent, the safest direction is toward the train
but stay off the tracks.
That way you will be least likely to be hit by your
vehicle or any debris
from the collision.
Various traffic control devices are used in
road construction and maintenance
work areas to direct drivers and pedestrians
safely through the work site
and to provide for the safety of highway
workers.
Be prepared to reduce your speed and use caution when
directed to do
so by a sign, flagger and/or police officer.
Construction and maintenance signs are used to notify drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous conditions in or near work areas. Most signs used in highway and street work areas are diamond shaped.
Barricades, vertical panels, drums, and cones
are the most commonly
used devices to alert drivers of unusual or potentially
dangerous conditions
in highway and street work zones. These devices are used to
guide the drivers
safely through the work area, and at night, they may be
equipped with warning
lights. When a Road Closed sign is displayed, do not drive
on this road.
Look for a detour or another route.
Stripes on barricades and panel devices slope downward in the direction traffic must travel.
Flashing arrow panels are used both during the day and at
night to give
advance warning and directional information to drivers where it is
necessary
to move to the right or to the left into another lane.
A horizontal flashing bar indicates a warning - use caution approaching the work area.
Flaggers are often
provided in highway and street work zones to stop,
slow, or guide traffic safely
through the area.
Flaggers wear orange vests or jackets and use red flags or stop/slow panels to direct traffic through work zones.
SLOW MOVING VEHICLE
Vehicles going less than 25
miles per hour (such as farm equipment) must
display this sign on the rear when
using public highways.
GREEN GUIDE SIGNS
Green and
white signs give information about directions and distances. Guide
signs on
expressways show you which lanes to use to get where you want to
go.
Routes
that run generally East-West have even numbers and those running
North-South have
odd numbers.
BLUE SERVICE SIGNS
Blue and white signs direct
you to services, such as gas, food, motels and
hospitals. Brown and white signs
point out scenic areas and parks.
Road markings are used to guide and warn drivers. Markings may be either
yellow or white. Each has a different meaning. Yellow center line markings
separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions. White lines separate
lanes of traffic going in the same direction.
Some of the basic rules that must be followed are:
Broken
A broken yellow line shows that you may
pass on the left when the way ahead
is clear. Remember that you are facing
oncoming traffic, so overtaking and
passing should be done with care.
Solid & Broken
A solid
yellow line to the right of a broken yellow center line means passing
or crossing
is prohibited in that lane, except when turning left.
Double Yellow
Double solid
yellow lines show that passing is not allowed in either direction.
You may not
cross the lines unless you are making a left turn.
Broken
Broken white lines separate lines of traffic
going in the same direction.
They may be crossed with care.
Solid white lines are used for turn lanes and to discourage
lane changes
near intersections. Arrows are often used with the white lines to
show which
turn may be made from the lane.
If you are in a lane marked with
a curved arrow and the word ONLY, you
must turn in the direction of the arrow. If
your lane is marked with both
a curved and straight arrow, you may either turn or
go straight.
Double solid white lines indicate that changing lanes is not allowed.
Some
highways have reversible traffic lanes to help handle rush-hour
traffic. The
direction of traffic is normally reversed at set times each
day. These pavement
markings are used along with special lane signals and
other signs and
symbols.
A solid white line marks the edge of the pavement on most
roads. Stop
lines, crosswalks and parking spaces are also marked by white lines.
Symbols
such as arrows are in white also. A single yellow line marks the left
edge
of all divided or one-way roadways. Curbs are often marked yellow in
no-parking
zones near fire hydrants or intersections.
It is unlawful to park
in or drive through areas that have pavement
markings indicating fire lanes or
safety zones.
The lane marking arrow, in the center lane in the diagram
below, indicates
that traffic in this lane can be reversed in accordance with
local traffic
controls due to "rush hour" traffic or other special
traffic conditions.
Two-way roadway with a center
lane for left turns in either direction
of travel. The specially marked center
turn lane is intended for slowing
down and for sheltering of turning vehicles and
may not be used for passing.
These items will be checked before you take the driving test for your
license. If your tires, brake light, directional signals, brakes, steering, horn or mirror are not
in good condition, you will not be allowed to take
the driving test.
You
may be stopped at any time by a law enforcement officer for a vehicle
inspection.
The equipment on your car must meet certain standards. These are listed below.
You must be able to stop your car within the distance shown
by the black
cars when you use the foot brake. For safest driving, keep your
brakes in
such good condition that you can stop within distance shown by the
white
cars.
It is important to note that the graph below illustrates the
braking
distance AFTER YOU HAVE APPLIED YOUR BRAKES. To this must be added a
REACTION
DISTANCE, which is the distance you travel from seeing the danger to
putting
your foot on the brake pedal. Since 3/4 second is the average reaction
time,
a motorist will travel 11 feet for each 10 m.p.h. of speed before hitting
the brake. At 50 m.p.h. this distance would be 55 feet!
All vehicles, including animal-drawn vehicles, must have at least one white light visible from a distance of not less than 1,000 feet to the front. They must also have two red lights visible from a distance of not less than 1,000 feet to the rear, or one red light visible to the rear for a distance of 1,000 feet and two red reflectors visible from all distances from 600 feet to 1,000 feet.
Horn: Your vehicle must
have a horn which can be heard from a distance
of 200 feet.
Windshield Wiper: Your vehicle must have a windshield wiper in good
working order for cleaning rain, snow or other moisture from the windshield.
Windshields: Must be safety glass and may not be covered or treated
with
any material which has the effect of making the windshield reflective
or in any
way non-transparent. It must be free of any stickers not required
by law.
Side windows: May not be composed of, covered by, or treated with any material which has a highly reflective or mirrored appearance and reflects more than 35% of the light.
Rear windows: When the rear window is composed
of, covered by, or
treated with any material which makes the rear window
non-transparent, the
vehicle must be equipped with side mirrors on both
sides.
Directional signals: You must have electrical turn signals if
your
vehicle measures more than 24 inches from the center of the top of the
steering
post to the left outside limit of the body, or when the distance from
the
steering post to the rear of the body or load is greater than 14 feet.
Tires: Your tires should have visible tread of at least 2/32 of an inch across the base with no worn spots showing the ply. Smooth tires on wet roads contribute to thousands of serious crashes.
Mirrors: Your car must
have at least one rearview mirror which gives
a view of the highway at least 200
feet to the rear.
No
matter how well you drive, you are not safe unless your vehicle is
in good
condition. If it is not, you could have a serious crash.
Brakes: Check
to see that the pedal stays well above the floor when
you step on it. If the car
pulls to one side when you use the brakes or
you hear any scraping or squealing
noises, your brakes may need to be repaired.
Lights: Replace
burned-out bulbs and clean lenses often. Dirty headlights
can cut your night
vision by one-half. Burned out signal lights or brake
lights mean you can't tell
other drivers what you are doing. Keep your lights
adjusted so that you don't
blind oncoming drivers.
Windows and Windshields: Keep the glass clean,
inside and out, to
reduce glare.
You may not have on or in your vehicle:
Owners of automobiles and pickup trucks are required to have both front and rear bumpers mounted within certain height levels. Height limitations are governed by the new shipping weight of the vehicle; not the modified or altered weight. The maximum allowable heights between the pavement and bottom of the front and rear bumper, as provided by Section 316.251, Florida Statutes, are:
It is illegal to tamper with, remove, or cause not to work,
any pollution
control device on your vehicle. Those who do are guilty of a first
or second
degree misdemeanor depending on the offense.
Tampering with
emissions control devices damages your vehicle and can
cause the following:
DO NOT EXHAUST FLORIDA'S FUTURE!
Anti-locking brakes prevent skidding and allow drivers to steer during an
emergency, braking situation. ABS can help improve vehicle stability (avoiding
spinouts), steering ability (directing the car where the driver wants to go)
and stopping capability (distance needed to stop the vehicle).
Many drivers learned the correct way to stop in an emergency situation where traction is lost and the
vehicle slides is by pumping the brakes, while this is correct with conventional brakes, with ABS it is different. All drivers need to
do with vehicles who have ABS is press down hard on the brake pedal, hold it and steer out of danger. In an emergency situation, ABS
pumps the brakes for the driver and pumps the brakes at a much faster rate than the driver ever could. Drivers should be
aware that removing steady pressure from the brake pedal or pumping the brakes will disengage or "turn off" the ABS.
One of the most important benefits of ABS is that driver can steer the vehicle away from
hazards while braking. Drivers should not turn the steering wheel hard or jerk the vehicle in one
direction. Control of the vehicle can be maintained by steering where the driver wants to go. Drivers
need to check that traffic is clear when deciding where to steer and always remember to steer back into the
original lane as soon as the hazard is cleared.
Vehicles can be equipped with two different types of ABS:
There
is a separate written test and road test for motorcycle operators.
If you plan to
operate motorcycles and vehicles with four or more wheels,
you must take the
written test and road test for motorcycles, and the regular
written test and road
test for automobiles.
Extra information for motorcycle operators is
available in a separate handbook. Ask for a copy of the motorcycle handbook if
you will be operating a motorcycle. Read and study this manual and the motorcycle
handbook before
taking your license examination. All first time applicants
applying for
motorcycle endorsements who are under 21 years of age, must complete
a department-approved
motorcycle safety course before they can be licensed to
operate a motorcycle.
Contact your local Florida driver license office for school
locations.
Persons riding bicycles or mopeds on a roadway have the same rights (with certain exceptions)and duties as drivers of motor vehicles. Bicycle riders will receive traffic tickets for traffic violations. Know and obey these laws:
Persons riding mopeds have the
same rights and duties as drivers of
motor vehicles. Moped riders will receive
citations for traffic violations.
Know and obey these moped laws:
If you accept employment or engage in a trade, profession or occupation in Florida or if you enroll your children to be educated in a public school in Florida, the vehicle you own must have a Florida registration certificate and license plate. You must obtain the registration certificate and license plate within 20 days after the beginning of such employment or enrollment. You also must have a Florida Certificate of Title for your vehicle, unless an out-of-state financial institution holds the title and will not release it to Florida.
To get your license plate and registration certificate, you must prove that you own your vehicle and that you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage for your vehicle. You must prove ownership by showing your certificate of title. You must prove PIP coverage by showing an insurance identification card or other acceptable proof. The vehicle identification number (VIN) on any vehicle previously titled or registered in another state must be verified by one of several designated officials before the vehicle can be titled and registered in Florida. The VIN on any new vehicle purchased from an out-of-state dealer to be initially titled in Florida must also be verified.
Apply for title, license plates and registration at any tax collector's office in Florida. The cost of your license plate will depend on the type and weight of your vehicle. Your vehicle must always have a current license plate and you must always have your vehicle's registration when you are driving. If you buy a vehicle from a dealer in Florida, the dealer must apply for a certificate of title, certificate of registration and license plate for you. If you buy a vehicle from an individual, you must obtain the title from the individual and apply for a certificate of title in your name. You may apply for certificate of title, certificate of registration and license plate at the same time. You cannot get a license plate until you have a title to prove that you own the vehicle.
Vehicle license plates and registration must be renewed each year, on
or
before the birthday of the first owner listed on the registration form.
Each time
you renew, you must prove that you have the required insurance.
You may renew by
mail.
Registrations expire at midnight on the birthday of the
first owner
listed on the registration form, except for:
On your road rules examination, you will be given 20
questions and asked
to choose the right answers for each. During the written
exam, you may not
use books or notes, and you may not talk to anyone except the
examiner.
You should read each question carefully, and read each of
the four possible
answers. Choose the best answer. A sample question with the
correct answer
is shown below.
The main reason for examining persons before
issuing driver licenses
is:
Your complete written examination will include 20 road signs and 20 questions on road rules. To pass, you must choose the right answers to at least 15 road signs and 15 road rules questions. Sample test questions are listed below. These questions will not necessarily appear on the examination. Answers to all of the sample questions can be found in this book.
All motor vehicles, with the exception of mopeds, must obey the same speed limits.See SPEED LIMITS.
A truck or any vehicle towing another vehicle may not follow within 300 feet of another truck or vehicle towing a vehicle. This law does not apply to overtaking and passing, and it does not apply within cities or towns.
By
law, the following vehicles must be able to stop within the distances
listed.
Within 30 feet at 20 mph:
Within 40 feet at 20 mph:
Within 50 feet at 20 mph:
Every trailer or semi-trailer weighing 3000 pounds or more must have brakes which can be operated by the driver in the towing motor vehicle. The brakes must be designed and connected so that they will automatically stop the trailer if it breaks away from the towing vehicle.
Buses, trucks, truck tractors and trailers must have the following equipment:
Reflectors must be mounted not less than 24
inches and not more than
60 inches above the ground. If the highest part of the
vehicle is less than
24 inches, the reflector should be mounted at the top of the
vehicle. The
rear reflectors on a pole trailer may be mounted on each side of the
load.
Any required reflector on the rear of a vehicle may be part of the
taillamp.
Clearance lamps must be mounted on the permanent structure
of the vehicle
to show its extreme height and width.
Side marker lights may
be mounted at any height unless mounted in combination
with clearance lamps. Then
both must be able to be seen from front, side
and rear.
The following rules apply to the drawbar or towing connection:
You may not drive or move any loaded vehicle on the highway if the load is not secure. The load must not be able to drop, shift, leak, or otherwise escape.
No matter what kind of load you are carrying, you must have a rearview mirror that allows you to see the highway at least 200 feet behind you.
When a load extends to the rear 4
feet or more beyond the bed or body
of the loaded vehicle, it must be clearly
marked.
Nighttime
At night or when you cannot see clearly at least 1000 feet ahead, the following markers must be used:
Daytime
In the daytime, red flags at least 12 inches
square must be placed on the
projecting load where red lamps are used at night
(extreme rear and sides).
Your vehicle must have directional signals under the following conditions:
Vehicles 80 inches or more wide or 30 feet or more long must carry warning
devices when they are being operated on any highway outside a city or town
or on
any divided highway at night (from 1/2 hour after sunset until 1/2
hour before
sunrise). This rule applies to such vehicles as trucks, buses,
truck tractors,
and vehicles towing house trailers.
The following equipment must be
carried:
These warning devices must be displayed when
the vehicle is stopped
on a roadway or on the side of a road outside a city or
town for more than
10 minutes. The vehicle's four-way flashers may be used until
the warning
devices can be placed.
ANY VEHICLE USED TO CARRY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS, COMPRESSED FLAMMABLE GASES OR EXPLOSIVES MUST NOT CARRY ANY FLARES, FUSES, OR OTHER SIGNALS PRODUCED BY FLAME. THESE VEHICLES MUST USE ELECTRIC LANTERNS, REFLECTORS, AND FLAGS ONLY.
warning device display: two-way roadway
All disabled
trucks, truck-tractors, and buses must display emergency warning
signals as shown
if parked outside the city limits of a municipality.
Flares
Electric Lanterns
Free-Standing
Reflectors
Fuses
Flags
Nighttime On Two-Way
Roadway.
On Divided Highway.
Electric
Lanterns-Nighttime-same as flares.
Free-Standing
Reflectors-Nighttime-same as flares.
Fuses-Nightime-On Two-Way Roadway
Flags-Daytime
The gross weight on the highway
from the wheels of any one axle of a
vehicle must not be more than 22,000
pounds.
The total weight allowed on all axles of a vehicle or
combination of
vehicles is determined by the number of axles and the distance
between them.
Vehicles with longer wheel bases and 5 or more axles may weigh up
to 80,000
pounds including tolerances. For more information, see Section 316.535,
Florida Statutes, or contact the Florida Department of Transportation, Bureau
of
Weights and Safety, Douglas Building, Room 208, 2540 Executive Center
Circle
West, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0450, or telephone (850) 488-7920.
Other Vehicles:
Exam
Questions
The Class D License examination has 20 questions and 20 road
signs. Some of the test questions will come from the list below; others will come
from the Class E test questions in Chapter 5.
You are allowed to miss not more than five questions and five road signs.
If you come upon an accident, activate the Emergency Medical System (EMS) to insure
prompt response. Then apply four first aid rules:
DO NOT MOVE AN INJURED PERSON IF THE PERSON CANNOT MOVE OR COMPLAINS OF PAIN IN THE BACK OR NECK OR HAS A HEAD INJURY.
DO NOT
ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE HELMET OF AN INJURED MOTORCYCLE RIDER.
USE PRUDENT CARE AND GOOD JUDGMENT. WORK ONLY WITHIN THE SCOPE OF CARE YOU
ARE TRAINED TO PROVIDE.