Study Guide:
Lesson 2 Driver Habits & Skills (Part 1): Rules of the Road
In Lesson 2, the NY DMV 5-Hour Online Pre-Licensing Course introduces the essential rules of the road — the practical habits and legal expectations that guide your day-to-day driving decisions.
This module helps build your foundational driving behaviour, with a focus on vehicle control, space awareness, and decision-making in real-world traffic situations.
You’ll learn how to safely and legally operate your vehicle in a variety of common traffic scenarios. Key areas include:
Proper lane use and lane changes
Turning and merging techniques
How and when to use turn signals
Understanding and obeying traffic signs and signals
Interpreting road markings and lanes
The lesson also explores what to do in complex intersections, multi-lane roads, and roundabouts — environments where many new drivers make early mistakes.
Driving isn’t a solo activity — you're part of a system that includes:
Pedestrians and cyclists
Motorcyclists and buses
Commercial vehicles and emergency responders
This section will teach you how to:
Yield properly
Maintain safe distances
Recognise vulnerable road users
Use mirrors and blind spot checks effectively
You’ll also cover special considerations for driving near school zones, work zones, and crosswalks.
This module flags some of the most frequently cited infractions by new drivers, including:
Failing to signal
Not yielding when required
Speeding in reduced zones
Blocking intersections
Learning to spot potential hazards and react appropriately is a core skill covered in this session.
Why This Lesson Matters
Driving in New York requires awareness, discipline, and respect for shared space. Lesson 2 arms you with the expectations you’ll face as soon as you pull onto a public road.
These habits are also critical for your road test, as many exam points are lost due to poor signalling, lane discipline, or failure to yield.
Always signal your intentions clearly and in advance
Maintain lane position and look ahead, not just around you
Know who has the right of way — and when you don’t
Be aware of who’s beside, behind, and ahead of you
Respect all road users — the rules protect everyone, not just you
Looking to Practise These Concepts?
These rules are your everyday playbook. Return to this summary anytime as you build confidence on the road.
Ready for the next part of Driver Habits & Skills?
→ Lesson 3 – Safe Driving Practices