Do you have questions about general driving-related requirements like registration and insurance? Are you unclear about laws and restrictions related to driving? The California Department of Motor Vehicles has answers. “Save Time by Going Online” at www.dmv.ca.gov.

Q: I own a local construction firm and all of my employees have cellphones with the push-totalk feature. Is using that feature allowed now that the new cellphone laws are in effect?

A: No. There is only an exception to use the push-to-talk feature for those operating commercial motor trucks or truck tractors (excluding pickups), implements of husbandry, farm vehicles and tow trucks. Also, operators of an authorized emergency vehicle and motorists operating a vehicle on private property are exempt. However, if a hands-free ear piece or other hands-free device is attached to the push-to-talk feature, it is acceptable.

Q: I just got a moped to save gas and I’ve heard a lot of different information regarding where I can ride it. I’ve been told that you cannot ride a moped in a bicycle lane. Is this true?

A: You may ride a moped in a bicycle lane at a reasonable speed but must be careful of bicyclists using the lane. To find more information about mopeds visit www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/dl655/ dl665mcycle.pdf.

Q: Is there a course available for my grandmother to improve her driving skills where she can participate with other people her age?

A: Definitely. Your grandmother can attend a Mature Driver Improvement Course, which is tailored to the needs of older drivers. In this course, topics such as defensive driving, California vehicle laws and the effects of medication on a person’s safe driving ability will be discussed.

The course is six hours and costs $330, which includes a DMV certificate. If your grandmother presents this certificate to her insurer, she may be eligible for a reduction on her vehicle insurance premium.

A list of approved programs can be found at www.dmv.ca.gov/ about/senior/senior_top.htm by clicking on Mature Driver Improvement Programs.

Q: I want to have maximum protection for my head and face when I’m riding my motorcycle. Do you have any tips on what is the best helmet option?

A: Although there are many styles of helmets to choose from, you will get the most protection by making sure the helmet:

•Fits snuggly.

•Has no cracks, loose padding or frayed straps.

•Meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state safety standards.

•Has the DOT lettering on the back of the helmet, which is not a stick-on label or easily removed.

•Has a plastic, shatter-resistant face shield.

For more information how best to protect yourself while riding a motorcycle, review the California Motorcycle Handbook at www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/dl655/ dl665mcycle.pdf.

Q: I always use my uncle’s disabled person parking placard. I know I’m not supposed to, but what’s the big deal if he lets me have it?

A: The big deal is that local law enforcement has the primary authority to enforce parking placard or disabled person license plate misuse.

Placard abuse can result in the cancellation and revocation of the placard and loss of the privileges it provides. For you, the worst part may be that you can receive a minimum fine of $250, a maximum fine of $3,500, up to six months of imprisonment or both.

But you should also consider the hardship you are causing others who really need the parking space you are using. Also, please let your uncle know that it is illegal to lend his placard to anyone.