LGV Theory Test: Vehicle Weights and Dimensions

There are 62 LGV theory test Vehicle Weights and Dimensions questions. You must get 86% (53 out of 62) to pass the test. You may review answers after each question by clicking the 'check answer' button or you can wait until the end of the test for your final score. Good luck!

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LGV Theory Test: Vehicle Weights and Dimensions Quick View

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A No goods vehicles over 7.5 metres overall height
B No goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass
C No goods vehicles under 7.5 metres overall height
D No goods vehicles under 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass
Correct Answer: B No goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass
Explanation: It's essential that all limits are complied with to avoid breaking the law and facing possible prosecution. Weight restrictions normally apply to the plated weight of a vehicle, often referred to as the maximum authorised mass (MAM).
A Use any lane
B Use either the left-hand or middle lane
C Use only the left-hand lane
D Use only the middle lane
Correct Answer: C Use only the left-hand lane
Explanation: Lanes at roadworks often have weight restrictions to keep larger vehicles in the left-hand lane. The lanes through the roadworks are often narrow and therefore not wide enough for large vehicles to pass each other safely. Always look for restriction signs at roadworks. They're usually placed well in advance to give you time to move safely into the correct lane in good time.
Correct Answer: C 50 mph
Explanation: In England and Wales, vehicles exceeding 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass are restricted to a maximum of 50 mph on single carriageway roads. In Scotland, this speed limit is 40 mph.
A If you drive at more than 60 mph
B If you're travelling unladen
C To overtake slower lorries
D When the left-hand lane is closed
Correct Answer: D When the left-hand lane is closed
Explanation: Use of the right-hand lane on motorways with three or more lanes isn't normally allowed for
  • vehicles over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass
  • vehicles required to be fitted with a speed limiter
  • vehicles towing a trailer.
This rule does not apply in special circumstances, such as when the left-hand lane is closed.
A On hatched road markings
B On rural roads
C On traffic-calming humps
D On yellow rumble strips
Correct Answer: C On traffic-calming humps
Explanation: Traffic-calming measures are becoming more common. Look out for signs warning you of humps in the road ahead. If necessary, change your route rather than take risks.
A The ground clearance
B The height limit
C The load's security
D The weight limit
Correct Answer: A The ground clearance
Explanation: You have a responsibility to be aware of the dimensions of your vehicle, including ground clearance. When planning your route, you'll have to consider whether the roads you intend to use have any limits that would apply to your vehicle, such as
  • weight
  • length
  • height
  • ground clearance.

A Cross over using your horn and hazard warning lights
B Increase your speed to clear the crossing quickly
C Stop before the crossing and look both ways before going on
D Stop before the crossing and phone the signal operator
Correct Answer: D Stop before the crossing and phone the signal operator
Explanation: If your vehicle is over 17 metres (55 feet) long and you wish to cross a level crossing, you must stop before the crossing and telephone the signal operator.
Correct Answer: A Chains
Explanation: You're responsible for the safety of the load you're carrying. At no time should the load endanger other road users. It's vital that you make sure your load is secure and safely distributed on your vehicle. How you do this will depend on the
  • bulk
  • weight
  • type of vehicle you're driving (flat bed, curtain side, etc)
  • nature of the load.

Correct Answer: D 40 mph
Explanation: The speed limits imposed on vehicles carrying abnormal loads can be frustrating for other drivers, but you mustn't be tempted to exceed them. Remember, the more weight you're carrying, the longer it will take you to stop safely.
Correct Answer: C 35 mph
Explanation: Vehicles carrying loads between 4.3 metres (14 feet 1 inch) and 5 metres (16 feet 6 inches) wide are subject to lower speed limits. The limit depends on the type of road. On a motorway it's 40 mph (64 km/h), on a dual carriageway it's 35 mph (56 km/h), and on all other roads it's 30 mph (48 km/h).
A Black/white
B Black/yellow
C Red/white
D Red/yellow
Correct Answer: D Red/yellow
Explanation: All vehicles over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass must have markings on the rear of the vehicle. These markings are rectangular and are coloured red and yellow. They're there to inform other road users of the characteristics of your vehicle. The markings should be kept clean so that they can be seen clearly at all times, especially at night and in poor visibility.
A Through a greater arc than the cab
B Through a lower arc than the cab
C Through a smaller arc than the cab
D Through the same arc as the cab
Correct Answer: A Through a greater arc than the cab
Explanation: As the top deck is longer than the cab and trailer, it will take up more room as the vehicle turns; you must make sure that you've allowed for the wider swing of the deck. Even if your cab is well clear, the overhanging deck could hit obstructions such as telegraph poles or traffic signs as you go round a corner.
A Through a greater arc than the cab
B Through a lower arc than the cab
C Through a shorter arc than the cab
D Through a smaller arc than the cab
Correct Answer: A Through a greater arc than the cab
Explanation: The longer top deck needs a wider turning circle than the cab below it. To avoid hitting lampposts, telegraph poles, etc, you must allow for this overhang when turning.
A When braking
B When loading
C When overtaking
D When turning
Correct Answer: D When turning
Explanation: The long overhang at the front of a car transporter can cause problems where street furniture, such as lampposts and traffic signs, is sited close to junctions. Particular problems may be encountered when you're turning right and there are 'Keep left' bollards in the middle of the road you're turning into. Plan your route carefully to avoid such hazards.
A Delay your delivery until after the rush hour
B Limit your stop to a maximum of 30 minutes
C Unload only within a 'red box' area
D Unload only within a 'white box' area
Correct Answer: D Unload only within a 'white box' area
Explanation: White boxes allow you to unload at any time, but during the day the length of stay is restricted. You should check nearby signs for the specific times. At other times, when it's not so busy, there may not be any restrictions on parking.
Correct Answer: C 60 mph
Explanation: The speed limit for lorries is lower in Scotland than it is in England and Wales, so be aware - especially if you drive in the border areas.
A Tandem axles with air suspension
B Tandem axles with double wheels
C Tri-axles with double wheels
D Tri-axles with single wheels
Correct Answer: D Tri-axles with single wheels
Explanation: The type of suspension fitted to a vehicle will influence its resistance to 'roll-over'. Modern tri-axle semi-trailers fitted with single wheels on each side extend the tracking width available, making this the most stable configuration.
A The air pressure drops
B The diff-lock engages
C The driver has very little warning
D The steering becomes heavy
Correct Answer: C The driver has very little warning
Explanation: The transition from 'rear wheel lift' to 'roll-over' is more rapid on vehicles equipped with air suspension systems. Make sure you take advantage of any extra training that may be available to drivers of this type of vehicle.
A The camber effect
B The gravity effect
C The pendulum effect
D The wave effect
Correct Answer: C The pendulum effect
Explanation: As you turn a corner, the hanging meat carcasses will all swing to one side of your vehicle, adding extra pulling force towards the outside of the curve. The faster you turn a corner, the greater this force will be. After the corner, the carcasses will continue to swing back and forth, like pendulums, making the vehicle unstable.
A To ensure a clear path
B To keep 'same company' lorries together
C To keep the load safe
D To stop the theft of their fuel
Correct Answer: C To keep the load safe
Explanation: Load security is extremely important. Make sure you park legally and, preferably, in a well-lit area. Some lorry parks are patrolled regularly by the police or security services.
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Motor vehicles over 7500 kg maximum authorised mass (MAM) and trailers over 3500 kg MAM should have these markings fitted to the rear of the vehicle/trailer.
A 1 metre [3 feet 3 inches]
B 1.5 metres [5 feet 0 inches]
C 2 metres [6 feet 6 inches]
D 2.9 metres [9 feet 5 inches]
Correct Answer: C 2 metres [6 feet 6 inches]
Explanation: Projection marker boards must be fitted if the load on your vehicle overhangs by more than 2 metres (6 feet 6 inches). This will help other road users who may not notice the projecting load.
A When the load's height exceeds 4.00 metres [13 feet]
B When the load's height exceeds 4.30 metres [14 feet 2 inches]
C When the load's height exceeds 5.00 metres [16 feet 6 inches]
D When the load's height exceeds 5.25 metres [17 feet 6 inches]
Correct Answer: D When the load's height exceeds 5.25 metres [17 feet 6 inches]
Explanation: You should tell telephone companies about your intended route when planning the movement of loads over 5.25 metres [17 feet 6 inches] high. You should tell them in plenty of time before making the journey.
A 2.0 metres [6 feet 6 inches]
B 2.9 metres [9 feet 5 inches]
C 3.5 metres [11 feet 5 inches]
D 4.3 metres [14 feet 2 inches]
Correct Answer: B 2.9 metres [9 feet 5 inches]
Explanation: Side markers must be displayed if your load is over 2.9 metres [9 feet 5 inches] wide. Make sure that they're clearly visible, at both the front and rear, and that they indicate the actual width of the projection.
Correct Answer: C Red/white
Explanation: The marker boards should be red and white. They must be kept clean and independently lit at night and in poor visibility, so that other road users can see them.
A Using battens and chocks
B Using ropes
C Using straps
D Using twist locks
Correct Answer: D Using twist locks
Explanation: If you're carrying a steel ISO (International Standards Organization) cargo container, ropes or straps won't be strong enough to take the strain. This type of load requires a special type of restraint using twist locks.
A To leave more room for braking
B To make room for the trailer cutting in
C To make sure oncoming drivers see you
D To prevent anyone from overtaking
Correct Answer: B To make room for the trailer cutting in
Explanation: You should always be aware of the amount of room your trailer needs when it's going around bends and corners. If you need to go onto the other side of the road, make sure there's no oncoming traffic before you move out.
A Axle weight limit of 2 tonnes
B Maximum gross weight of 2 tonnes
C No entry for two-axled trailers
D No entry for vehicles with two-speed axles
Correct Answer: A Axle weight limit of 2 tonnes
Explanation: Always look out for road signs, but be especially aware of those that refer to large or heavy vehicles. Get into the habit of checking for signs at junctions. There might be an indication on the junction layout sign. Before you turn, make sure that the road you're using doesn't have any restrictions for the vehicle you're driving.
A Cable laying ahead
B Double bend
C Overhead electrified cable
D Slippery road
Correct Answer: C Overhead electrified cable
Explanation: It's essential to know the height of your vehicle before setting off. This should be clearly marked, usually in the cab, and visible from the driving position. Look out for restrictions that you may not have seen on a map - they may be temporary.
A No vehicles over 14 feet 6 inches (4.4 metres) high
B No vehicles over 14 feet 6 inches (4.4 metres) long
C No vehicles over 14 feet 6 inches (4.4 metres) wide
D Road humps 14 feet 6 inches (4.4 metres) apart
Correct Answer: A No vehicles over 14 feet 6 inches (4.4 metres) high
Explanation: Always be aware of the height of the vehicle you're driving, particularly if you drive different vehicles. If you use a sat-nav, it may show you the height and weight limits on UK roads.
A Accident blackspot ahead
B Incident ahead
C Low bridge ahead
D Tunnel ahead
Correct Answer: D Tunnel ahead
Explanation: If you're driving a high vehicle, make sure that there's enough headroom available for you to go through the tunnel. There may be additional signs showing height and width restrictions.
A The distance to a low bridge
B The distance to a tunnel
C The length of a low bridge
D The length of a tunnel
Correct Answer: B The distance to a tunnel
Explanation: As well as a height restriction, the tunnel may have a restriction on the available width of headroom for high vehicles. The advance warning gives you the opportunity to find another route if your vehicle is too high or wide to drive through the tunnel.
A When driving near airports
B When driving over narrow bridges
C When driving under overhead cables
D When driving up steep hills
Correct Answer: C When driving under overhead cables
Explanation: You must take care when approaching any hazard where height is limited. Know the height of your vehicle and what you can drive under safely. If you aren't sure that it's safe, take another route.
A 4.5 metres [15 feet]
B 4.7 metres [15 feet 6 inches]
C 4.8 metres [16 feet]
D 5.0 metres [16 feet 6 inches]
Correct Answer: D 5.0 metres [16 feet 6 inches]
Explanation: If a height isn't shown on the bridge, the headroom [in the UK] will be at least 5 metres [16 feet 6 inches].
A The fire service
B The local authority
C The police
D Your local garage
Correct Answer: C The police
Explanation: Hitting a bridge with your vehicle can have serious consequences for road and rail traffic. You must tell the police about the incident immediately. If the bridge is a railway bridge, call the railway authority as well as the police to report the incident.
A The bridge number
B The make and model of your vehicle
C The type of bridge
D The vehicle's height
Correct Answer: A The bridge number
Explanation: The railway authority needs to know immediately if one of their bridges has been hit. You'll need to tell them the number of the bridge so they can identify it. The railway authority will then take action to prevent railway passengers from being put at risk.
A Overhead electric cables ahead
B Railway level crossing ahead
C Trams crossing ahead
D Weight restriction ahead
Correct Answer: A Overhead electric cables ahead
Explanation: If your vehicle touches bells suspended over the road, they'll obviously ring. This will warn you that your vehicle exceeds the safe travelling height beneath electrified overhead cables ahead. You must stop immediately and either find another route or take advice.
A No vehicles over 6 feet 6 inches (2 metres) high
B No vehicles over 6 feet 6 inches (2 metres) wide
C The width of the road is 6 feet 6 inches (2 metres)
D Trailer length must not exceed 6 feet 6 inches (2 metres)
Correct Answer: B No vehicles over 6 feet 6 inches (2 metres) wide
Explanation: You must always be aware of the size of your vehicle. Look out for road signs that show a width restriction. There should be an indication of this at the entrance to the road. Don't get into a situation where you have to reverse out of a narrow road because you haven't seen a sign.
A 11 tonnes weight limit
B Lane ahead closed
C Leave the motorway at the next exit
D Stop: all lanes ahead closed
Correct Answer: B Lane ahead closed
Explanation: Warning lights show when there's danger ahead. This includes
  • lane closures
  • incidents
  • fog
  • icy roads.

A End of crawler lane
B End of hard shoulder
C End of restriction
D End of weight limit
Correct Answer: C End of restriction
Explanation: Look out for variable-message warning signs telling you about
  • lane closures
  • speed limits
  • hazards.
When you're clear of the restriction, you'll see a sign telling you that it has ended.
A At freight terminals
B In road tunnels
C On dual carriageways
D On motorways
Correct Answer: B In road tunnels
Explanation: Look out for restrictions on long vehicles. Length restrictions are found where there isn't much room to turn (for example, in a tunnel) or where there's a risk of grounding.
Correct Answer: A Height
Explanation: Look out for signs giving you advance warning of height restrictions. As a professional driver, you should always know the height of your vehicle or load. If you aren't sure of the safe height, stop and check.
A Its ground clearance
B Its length
C Its roof height
D Its weight
Correct Answer: B Its length
Explanation: If your vehicle is too long to fit into a passing place, you may need to wait opposite one. This will allow a following or approaching driver to pass. When you use this type of road, you need to plan and look well ahead to avoid meeting another road user at an inappropriate place.
Correct Answer: B Icy
Explanation: To prevent your wheels from locking, you'll need to brake very gently on ice. Give yourself as much room and time as possible to stop. If your front wheels lock, you can't steer, and that will mean you can't avoid any obstacle in your path.
A 10 times
B 2 times
C 20 times
D 4 times
Correct Answer: A 10 times
Explanation: It's vital that you give yourself enough separation distance when driving on icy roads - ten times as much as in normal conditions. You should brake gently to reduce the risk of losing control.
Correct Answer: C 60 mph
Explanation: Vehicles towing caravans or trailers on motorways are limited in two ways
  • the maximum speed is 60 mph
  • on motorways with more than two lanes, towing vehicles aren't allowed in the outside lane, unless other lanes are closed.

A The road ahead
B Your left-hand mirror
C Your right-hand mirror
D Your speedometer
Correct Answer: B Your left-hand mirror
Explanation: When overtaking with a long vehicle, it's very important to be aware of the position of the road user you're passing. Check the nearside mirror to make sure you've passed safely before returning to the left. Be especially careful when overtaking motorcyclists, as they may be affected by the draught from your vehicle.
A During gentle acceleration
B During gentle braking
C During harsh acceleration
D During harsh braking
Correct Answer: A During gentle acceleration
Explanation: A vehicle is most stable when travelling in a straight line under gentle acceleration. Sudden acceleration, steering or braking can cause severe loss of control. For maximum control, keep your driving as smooth as possible.
A No entry for vehicles over 32 feet 6 inches (9.9 metres) long
B No entry for vehicles over 32.6 tonnes
C Warning of lorry crossing a one-way road
D Warning of lorry straight ahead
Correct Answer: A No entry for vehicles over 32 feet 6 inches (9.9 metres) long
Explanation: You need to know the length of your vehicle as well as its weight, height and width. Places where the length of your vehicle may be relevant are
  • road tunnels
  • level crossings
  • ferries
  • bridges.

A Avoid going over the roundabout if possible
B Carefully mount the left-hand kerb to make more room
C Go ahead, and turn right at the next junction
D Make sure none of your wheels touch the roundabout
Correct Answer: A Avoid going over the roundabout if possible
Explanation: When turning at a mini-roundabout, it's unlikely that you'll be able to avoid going over the marked area. You should, however, avoid going over the roundabout where possible.
A One-way streets
B Speed cameras
C Speed-limit changes
D Weight restrictions
Correct Answer: D Weight restrictions
Explanation: You should plan your route to avoid vehicle width, height and weight restrictions that would affect your vehicle and load. Planning to avoid busy times can also reduce journey times and fuel costs.
A In the driver's cab
B In the engine bay
C On the weight plate
D On the windscreen
Correct Answer: A In the driver's cab
Explanation: It's a legal requirement that information about a vehicle's height can be seen by the driver from their seat. It's important to know the height of your vehicle so that you can avoid any height restrictions on your route.
A Drive through quickly, keeping to the left of the marked limits
B Drive through slowly, keeping to the left of the marked limits
C Keep to the centre of the arch and give way to oncoming traffic
D Keep to the centre of the arch and take priority over oncoming traffic
Correct Answer: C Keep to the centre of the arch and give way to oncoming traffic
Explanation: The headroom under bridges in the UK is at least 5 metres (16 feet 6 inches) unless marked otherwise. However, this might refer only to the highest point of an arch. If your vehicle hits a bridge, you must report the incident to the police. If a railway bridge is involved, you must also report it to the railway authority.
A 4.0 metres [13 feet]
B 4.1 metres [13 feet 4 inches]
C 5.0 metres [16 feet 6 inches]
D 5.5 metres [18 feet]
Correct Answer: C 5.0 metres [16 feet 6 inches]
Explanation: Every year, there are hundreds of incidents in the UK where vehicles hit railway or motorway bridges. Most involve buses, coaches and lorries. Make sure your route doesn't take you under a bridge that's too low for your vehicle. If you hit a bridge, you'll be putting yourself and any passengers at risk, and you could cause a major disruption to road and rail transport.
A At least 10 metres (32 feet) away from any junction
B In an off-road parking area
C In most lay-bys
D On a road with a 20 mph speed limit
Correct Answer: B In an off-road parking area
Explanation: Off-road lorry and coach parks are often well lit and patrolled by police or security firms. Never leave your vehicle unlit on a public road or in a lay-by after dark.
A When you're braking
B When you're changing gear
C When you're cornering
D When you're overtaking
Correct Answer: D When you're overtaking
Explanation: Forward planning is important whenever you consider overtaking another road user. You should carefully assess the speed of the vehicle you intend to overtake. Remember that your vehicle's speed is limited and this could considerably increase the distance and time needed to complete the manoeuvre safely.
A When braking
B When changing gear
C When overtaking
D When reversing
Correct Answer: C When overtaking
Explanation: Plan well ahead before overtaking. Be aware that a speed limiter may cause you difficulties when overtaking another vehicle, particularly when climbing a hill.
A Hump bridge
B Risk of grounding
C Road liable to subsidence
D Uneven road
Correct Answer: B Risk of grounding
Explanation: If you see this sign, be aware that there's a danger of grounding. This can happen where there's a pronounced bump in the road, such as at a level crossing or a hump bridge.
A Your vehicle's height
B Your vehicle's length
C Your vehicle's weight
D Your vehicle's width
Correct Answer: B Your vehicle's length
Explanation: At hump bridges, there's a risk of long vehicles grounding. If you aren't sure whether the floor of your vehicle will clear the bridge, find another route.
A Keep to the left and turn later than normal
B Keep well to the left on the approach
C Move out to the right immediately before turning
D Straddle the lanes to make more room for the turn
Correct Answer: D Straddle the lanes to make more room for the turn
Explanation: When you're driving a long vehicle, you'll often need to straddle lanes to turn into narrow side roads. When you do this, watch out for smaller vehicles - especially motorcycles and cycles - trying to squeeze past on your inside.
A At an authorised speed-limiter centre
B At any DVSA site
C At any dealer centre
D At the depot by a mechanic
Correct Answer: A At an authorised speed-limiter centre
Explanation: Speed limiters may only be repaired by authorised speed-limiter centres. They'll ensure that all the connections are sealed and that the system is tamperproof.
A On the operator's licence
B On the vehicle plate
C On the weighbridge printout
D On the wheel rims
Correct Answer: B On the vehicle plate
Explanation: Individual axle weights are shown on the vehicle plate. This can be found in a prominent place on both the vehicle and trailer.