New York permit test: distracted & drowsy driving

Phone and texting laws, other distractions and fatigue. 4 questions.

Question 1 of 4
Distracted & drowsy drivingNew York rule

What is the penalty for a first offense of talking on a hand-held cell phone while driving in New York?

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Sample distracted & drowsy driving questions

  1. What is the penalty for a first offense of talking on a hand-held cell phone while driving in New York?

    • A A fine of up to $50 and no points on your driving record
    • B A fine of up to $100 and two license points on your record
    • C A fine of up to $200 and five license points
    • D A fine of up to $500 and eleven points
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    C. A fine of up to $200 and five license points

    Speaking into or listening to a hand-held phone while driving is a traffic infraction in New York. A first offense can bring a fine of up to $200 and five points; hands-free phones may be used.

    Source: New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21), page 52

  2. A driver is convicted of texting while driving for the third time within 18 months. What is the maximum fine?

    • A $450
    • B $200
    • C $250
    • D $1,000
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    A. $450

    New York's texting fines rise with repeat offenses: up to $200 for a first offense, up to $250 for a second within 18 months, and up to $450 for a third or later. Junior and probationary drivers also face a 120-day suspension.

    Source: New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21), page 52

  3. On a long trip, how often does the New York manual suggest you schedule rest stops to prevent fatigue?

    • A Every 300 miles or five hours
    • B Only when you start to yawn
    • C Every 100 miles or two hours
    • D Every 50 miles or 30 minutes
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    C. Every 100 miles or two hours

    To prevent drowsy driving, get enough sleep, drive long trips with a companion, and schedule stops every 100 miles or two hours. Avoid alcohol and medicines that cause drowsiness.

    Source: New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21), page 52

  4. Which of these is illegal for a New York driver while driving?

    • A Talking on a phone in hands-free mode
    • B Holding a phone just long enough to begin or end a call
    • C Calling 911 on a hand-held phone to report an emergency
    • D Reading or sending a text message on a smartphone
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    D. Reading or sending a text message on a smartphone

    New York bans using portable electronic devices such as smartphones to send or receive texts or e-mails while driving, and texting carries five points. Hands-free calls are allowed at any time, and a hand-held phone may be held only to start or end a call or to call about an emergency.

    Source: New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21), page 52