247SimpleTests
DMV Permit · General

What is the proper procedure when you want to change lanes?

Correct answer

Signal, check mirrors, check your blind spot by looking over your shoulder, and change lanes only when it is safe

  1. A Change quickly without signaling
  2. B Signal, check mirrors, check your blind spot by looking over your shoulder, and change lanes only when it is safe
  3. C Only check the rearview mirror
  4. D Honk and change lanes immediately

Why this is the answer

To change lanes safely: (1) SIGNAL your intention in advance; (2) CHECK your MIRRORS (rearview and side); (3) CHECK your BLIND SPOT by looking over your shoulder (mirrors don't show everything — vehicles can hide in blind spots); (4) change lanes smoothly only when it's SAFE (adequate gap). DMV/permit test. The BLIND-SPOT check (head check) is critical — many collisions happen because a driver relied only on mirrors. Maintain speed and signal throughout. Knowing the proper lane-change procedure (signal, mirrors, blind-spot check, then change when safe) is a commonly tested safety procedure.
Source: DMV Permit — Lane Change Procedure

Practice more questions

This question is from our DMV Permit Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all General and other topics.

Take the DMV Permit practice test →

New to this exam? Our DMV Permit exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Related questions

General

What is the safest action if your vehicle begins to skid on a slippery road?

 General

When should you use your headlights?

 General

What is the danger of driving while distracted (such as texting)?

State-specific guides

Need information for your state? Our state guides cover local requirements, fees, and what to expect on exam day.

California Texas Florida New York Pennsylvania Illinois Ohio Georgia

Recommended study materials

Study guide

DMV Permit Test Study Guide 2025 (Learner Editions)

State-by-state driver's license and learner's permit prep, road signs, and rules of the road in plain language.

Check Price → Study guide

Road Rules & Signs Workbook (Exambusters)

Targeted flashcard-style review of road signs, right-of-way rules, and speed limits for all 50 states.

Check Price → Study guide

Prepare for the Learner's Permit Test (Sterling)

Practice questions and explanations for teen and adult first-time driver license test takers.

Check Price →

As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate, and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links above are affiliate links. Full disclosure →