California Car / Permit practice question · Speed & Space Management
Under good conditions, you should keep a following distance of at least:
Answer choices
- One second
- Two seconds
- Three seconds— Correct answer
- One car length
Why this is the answer
Under good conditions, keep a following distance of at least three seconds. That gap gives you time to react if the driver ahead makes a mistake or brakes suddenly. One or two seconds is too little, and counting in car lengths is not the rule. Add more space when the road is slippery, in fog, or when someone is tailgating you.
Source: California Driver Handbook — Following Distance
Content reviewed against official driver handbooks · August 12, 2026
More Speed & Space Management questions
- Before passing another vehicle on a two-lane road, you should be able to see the road ahead clearly for at least:
- When following a large truck or bus that blocks your view, you should:
- You should increase your following distance when:
- When you plan to exit a freeway, you should signal and move into the proper lane approximately how long before the exit?
- If another driver is following you too closely (tailgating), the safest response is to: