Mock Motorcycle Theory Test

This mock motorcycle theory test lasts 57 minutes. You must answer 50 questions. To pass the test, you must score 43 out of 50. You may check your answer after each question by clicking 'check answer'. Alternatively, you can wait until the end of the test to review your answers and final score. Best of luck!

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Mock Motorcycle Theory Test Quick View

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A A certificate every motorcyclist must have
B A final rearward glance before changing direction
C A mirror fitted to check blind spots
D A part of the motorcycle tool kit
Correct Answer: B A final rearward glance before changing direction
Explanation: This action makes you aware of what's happening behind and alongside you. The lifesaver glance should be timed so that you still have time to react if it isn't safe to perform the manoeuvre.
A On bumpy ground
B On firm, level ground
C On grass
D On soft tarmac
Correct Answer: B On firm, level ground
Explanation: Parking your motorcycle on soft ground might cause the stand to sink in, and the machine could fall over. The ground should be level, as well as firm, to keep the motorcycle stable. Use off-road parking or motorcycle parking areas when they're available.
A Accelerate until it stabilises itself
B Brake hard and hold the brake on
C Ease off the throttle and reduce your speed
D Let go of the handlebars and let it correct itself
Correct Answer: C Ease off the throttle and reduce your speed
Explanation: Don't be tempted to use harsh braking to stop swerving or snaking, as this could make things worse. You should reduce your speed gradually by easing off the throttle.
A Fitted with a sidecar, and with a maximum power of at least 35 kW (46.6 bhp)
B Solo, with a maximum power of at least 11 kW (14.6 bhp)
C Solo, with a maximum power of at least 25 kW (33 bhp)
D Solo, with a maximum power of at least 40 kW (53.6 bhp)
Correct Answer: D Solo, with a maximum power of at least 40 kW (53.6 bhp)
Explanation: To obtain the full category 'A' on your driving licence, the motorcycle you use for your practical test must be a solo machine with a cylinder capacity of at least 595 cc and a power output of at least 40 kW (53.6 bhp).
A Your concentration will be impaired
B Your reactions will be quicker
C Your riding will improve
D Your visor will freeze up
Correct Answer: A Your concentration will be impaired
Explanation: When riding, make sure you wear suitable clothing for the conditions. Getting cold and wet will make you uncomfortable. This can cause you to lose concentration and considerably slow down your reaction time. Stop in a safe place to have a hot drink and warm up before this happens.
A Brake earlier than normal
B Extend the mirror arms
C Fit smaller mirrors
D Indicate earlier than normal
Correct Answer: B Extend the mirror arms
Explanation: It's essential that you have a clear view all around. Adjust your mirrors to give you the best view of the road behind. If your body obscures the view, try fitting mirrors with longer stems.
A Be lighter than the rider
B Give signals for the rider
C Have a provisional motorcycle licence
D Wear a motorcycle helmet
Correct Answer: D Wear a motorcycle helmet
Explanation: Pillion passengers must sit astride the motorcycle, on a proper passenger seat, and passenger footrests must be fitted. They must also wear a correctly fastened motorcycle helmet.
A Airport
B Service area
C Side winds
D Slippery road
Correct Answer: C Side winds
Explanation: Strong side winds can suddenly blow you off course. Keep your speed down when it's very windy, especially on exposed roads.
A Anti-freeze
B Petrol
C Soapy water
D White spirit
Correct Answer: C Soapy water
Explanation: It's very important to keep your visor or goggles clean. Clean them using warm soapy water. Don't use solvents or petrol.
A Accelerate to get away from the vehicle behind you
B Apply the brakes sharply to warn the driver behind
C Slow down as quickly as possible by braking
D Slow down gradually to increase the gap in front of you
Correct Answer: D Slow down gradually to increase the gap in front of you
Explanation: By increasing the separation distance between you and the vehicle in front, you have a greater safety margin. If the vehicle in front of you brakes suddenly to avoid a hazard, you'll have time to reduce speed gradually. This will reduce the risk of the close-following vehicle running into you.
A When the motorway is lit
B When there are vehicles close in front of you
C When you're travelling below 50 mph
D When your motorcycle is broken down on the hard shoulder
Correct Answer: D When your motorcycle is broken down on the hard shoulder
Explanation: Always use your headlights at night on a motorway, unless you've had to stop on the hard shoulder. If you have to use the hard shoulder, switch off your headlights but leave your parking lights on, so that your motorcycle can be seen by other road users.
A Comprehensive
B Personal injury cover
C Third-party only
D Third-party, fire and theft
Correct Answer: C Third-party only
Explanation: The minimum insurance cover required by law is third-party only. This covers the other people and vehicles involved in a collision, but not you or your vehicle. Also, basic third-party insurance won't cover you for theft or fire damage. Make sure you read your policy carefully and understand what it covers.
A Because it gives the best protection from the weather
B Because it looks better than ordinary clothing
C Because it will reduce your insurance premium
D Because the law requires you to do so
Correct Answer: A Because it gives the best protection from the weather
Explanation: If you become cold and wet when riding, this can have a serious effect on your concentration and control of your motorcycle. Proper riding gear can help shield you from the weather, as well as giving protection in the event of a crash.
A Leave it in a low gear
B Leave it in neutral
C Park very close to another vehicle
D Put the rear wheel on the pavement
Correct Answer: A Leave it in a low gear
Explanation: To make sure a sidecar outfit doesn't roll away after you've parked it, you should leave it in a low gear and wedge it against the kerb or place a block behind the wheel.
A You must be over the age of 21
B You must be over the age of 25
C You must hold a full car licence
D You must hold a full motorcycle licence
Correct Answer: D You must hold a full motorcycle licence
Explanation: Before you can carry a pillion passenger, the law requires you to have a full licence for the category of motorcycle you're using.
A When they can reach the floor from the seat
B When they can reach the handholds and footrests
C When they're over 14 years old
D When they're over 16 years old
Correct Answer: B When they can reach the handholds and footrests
Explanation: Any passenger you carry - no matter how old they are - must be able to reach the footrests and handholds properly to remain safe on your machine. Also make sure they're wearing protective weatherproof clothing and a properly fitting helmet.
A Asphalt
B Concrete
C Dry tarmac
D Tar banding
Correct Answer: D Tar banding
Explanation: When riding, it's important to look for
  • potholes
  • drain covers (especially when they're wet)
  • tar banding
  • oily and greasy surfaces
  • road markings
  • tram tracks
  • wet mud and leaves.
Keen observation will give you more time to brake or change course if you need to avoid these slippery surfaces.
A Never; you should always look for yourself
B Only when they're a qualified rider
C When the roads are very busy
D When the roads are very quiet
Correct Answer: A Never; you should always look for yourself
Explanation: Your passenger may be inexperienced in judging traffic situations, may have a poor view or may not have seen a potential hazard. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your passenger. Always make your own checks to be sure it's safe to pull out.
A No, you don't need L plates if you've passed a car test
B No, you don't need L plates if you've passed a moped test
C Yes, you need L plates only when learning on your own machine
D Yes, you need L plates while learning with a qualified instructor
Correct Answer: D Yes, you need L plates while learning with a qualified instructor
Explanation: When training under the direct access scheme, you must be accompanied by an instructor on another motorcycle, who must be in radio contact with you. You must display red L plates to the front and rear of your motorcycle and follow all normal learner restrictions.
A The battery life
B The gearbox
C The handling
D The weather protection
Correct Answer: C The handling
Explanation: Any load will affect the handling of your motorcycle by changing its centre of gravity. When using panniers, spread the weight evenly on each side. Avoid carrying heavy items in a top box, as this could make your steering dangerously light.
A Change direction
B Hold your speed
C Slow down
D Speed up
Correct Answer: C Slow down
Explanation: A long lorry with a heavy load will need more time to pass you than a car, especially on an uphill stretch of road. Slow down and allow the lorry to pass.
A A route for cyclists only
B A route for pedestrians and cyclists
C A route for pedestrians only
D No route for pedestrians and cyclists
Correct Answer: B A route for pedestrians and cyclists
Explanation: This sign shows a shared route for pedestrians and cyclists: when it ends, the cyclists will be rejoining the main road.
A Drivers often do not see them
B It helps keep them cool in summer
C The colours are popular
D They must do so by law
Correct Answer: A Drivers often do not see them
Explanation: Motorcycles and scooters are generally smaller than other vehicles and can be difficult to see. Wearing bright clothing makes it easier for other road users to see a motorcyclist approaching, especially at junctions.
A Assume the signal is wrong and that it's turning right
B Get closer in order to pass it quickly
C Overtake it as it starts to slow down
D Stay well back and give it room
Correct Answer: D Stay well back and give it room
Explanation: A long vehicle may need to swing out in the opposite direction as it approaches a turn, to allow the rear wheels to clear the kerb. Don't try to filter through if you see a gap; as the lorry turns, the gap will close.
A Fast-moving traffic only
B Overtaking only, never turning right
C Overtaking or turning right
D Turning right only, never overtaking
Correct Answer: C Overtaking or turning right
Explanation: You should normally use the left-hand lane on any dual carriageway unless you're overtaking or turning right. When overtaking on a dual carriageway, look for vehicles ahead that are turning right. They may be slowing or stopped. You need to see them in good time so that you can take appropriate action.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: You'll generally see this sign at the approach to a pedestrian-only zone.
A End of 20 mph zone
B Minimum speed limit 30 mph
C New speed limit 20 mph
D No vehicles over 30 tonnes
Correct Answer: A End of 20 mph zone
Explanation: Where you see this sign, the 20 mph restriction ends. Check all around for possible hazards and only increase your speed if it's safe to do so.
A Approaching traffic passes you on both sides
B Give way to oncoming vehicles
C Pass either side to get to the same destination
D Turn off at the next available junction
Correct Answer: C Pass either side to get to the same destination
Explanation: These signs are often seen in one-way streets that have more than one lane. When you see this sign, use the route that's the most convenient and doesn't require a late change of direction.
A Minor roads
B Motorway routes
C Primary roads
D Tourist directions
Correct Answer: D Tourist directions
Explanation: Signs with a brown background give directions to places of interest. They're often seen on a motorway, directing you along the easiest route to the attraction.
A
B
C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ring roads are designed to relieve congestion in towns and city centres.
A 11 tonne weight limit
B Right-hand lane T-junction only
C Right-hand lane closed ahead
D Through traffic to use left lane
Correct Answer: C Right-hand lane closed ahead
Explanation: You should change lanes as directed by the sign. Here, the right-hand lane is closed but the left-hand and centre lanes are available. Merging in turn is recommended when it's safe and traffic is going slowly; for example, at roadworks or a road traffic incident. When vehicles are travelling at speed, this isn't advisable and you should move into the appropriate lane in good time.
A On the left-hand edge of the road
B On the right-hand edge of the road
C Separating the lanes
D Separating the slip road from the motorway
Correct Answer: B On the right-hand edge of the road
Explanation: At night or in poor visibility, reflective studs on the road help you to judge your position on the carriageway.
A Facing oncoming traffic
B In the direction of the nearest exit
C In the direction shown on the marker posts
D With the traffic flow
Correct Answer: C In the direction shown on the marker posts
Explanation: Along the hard shoulder there are marker posts at 100-metre intervals. These will direct you to the nearest emergency telephone.
A Face the oncoming traffic
B Keep your back to the traffic
C Stand on the hard shoulder
D Stay close to the carriageway
Correct Answer: A Face the oncoming traffic
Explanation: Traffic is passing you at speed. If the draught from a large lorry catches you by surprise, it could blow you off balance and even onto the carriageway. By facing the oncoming traffic, you can see approaching lorries and so be prepared for their draught. You'll also be in a position to see other hazards approaching.
A In any direction
B Straight ahead
C To the left
D To the right
Correct Answer: A In any direction
Explanation: Horses and their riders move more slowly than other road users. They might not have time to cut across heavy traffic to take up a position in the right-hand lane. For this reason, a horse and rider may approach a roundabout in the left-hand lane even though they're turning right.
A Flash your headlights before overtaking
B Make sure you don't dazzle other road users
C Select a higher gear
D Switch your lights to full beam before overtaking
Correct Answer: B Make sure you don't dazzle other road users
Explanation: To prevent your lights from dazzling the driver of the car in front, wait until you've passed them before switching to full beam.
A Carry on waiting
B Edge over the stop line and look for trains
C Park and investigate
D Phone the signal operator
Correct Answer: A Carry on waiting
Explanation: If the lights at a level crossing keep flashing after a train has passed, you should continue to wait, because another train might be coming. Time seems to pass slowly when you're held up in a queue. Be patient and wait until the lights stop flashing.
A Accelerating around bends
B Harsh braking and accelerating
C Poor steering control
D Staying in high gears
Correct Answer: B Harsh braking and accelerating
Explanation: Accelerating and braking gently and smoothly will help to save fuel and reduce wear on your vehicle. This makes it better for the environment too.
A When letting them know that you're there
B When showing that you're about to turn
C When showing that you're giving way
D When telling them that you have right of way
Correct Answer: A When letting them know that you're there
Explanation: You should only flash your headlights to warn others of your presence. Don't use them to greet others, show impatience or give priority to other road users, because they could misunderstand your signal.
A Approach with care and pass on the left of the lorry
B Cautiously approach the lorry, then pass on either side
C Don't pass the lorry and leave the motorway at the next exit
D Use the right-hand lane and pass the lorry normally
Correct Answer: A Approach with care and pass on the left of the lorry
Explanation: This sign is found on slow-moving or stationary works vehicles. If you wish to overtake, do so on the left, as indicated. Be aware that there might be workmen in the area.
A Children running out between vehicles
B Glare from the sun
C Lack of road markings
D Large goods vehicles
Correct Answer: A Children running out between vehicles
Explanation: On roads where there are many parked vehicles, you might not be able to see children between parked cars and they may run out into the road without looking.
A Accelerate around them
B Pull out to the middle of the road
C Signal right
D Slow down and be ready to stop
Correct Answer: D Slow down and be ready to stop
Explanation: Be particularly careful when approaching horse riders - slow down and be prepared to stop. Always pass wide and slowly, and look out for signals given by the riders. Horses are unpredictable: always treat them as potential hazards and take great care when passing them.
A Two-way traffic crosses a one-way road
B Two-way traffic crosses a two-way road
C Two-way traffic over a bridge
D Two-way traffic straight ahead
Correct Answer: A Two-way traffic crosses a one-way road
Explanation: Be prepared for traffic approaching from junctions on either side of you. Try to avoid unnecessary changing of lanes just before the junction.
A Pass the lights if the road is clear
B Stop because the lights are changing to red
C Take care because there's a fault with the lights
D Wait for the green light
Correct Answer: D Wait for the green light
Explanation: Be aware that other traffic might still be clearing the junction as you approach. A green light means you may go on, but only if the way is clear.
A Until the vehicle is insured and MOT'd
B Until the vehicle is repaired or modified
C Until the vehicle is taxed, sold or scrapped
D Until the vehicle is used on the road
Correct Answer: C Until the vehicle is taxed, sold or scrapped
Explanation: A SORN allows you to keep a vehicle off-road and untaxed. SORN will end when the vehicle is taxed, sold or scrapped.
A The hard shoulder can be used as a running lane
B You can park on the hard shoulder if you feel tired
C You can pull up in this lane to answer a mobile phone
D You shouldn't travel in this lane
Correct Answer: A The hard shoulder can be used as a running lane
Explanation: A mandatory speed-limit sign above the hard shoulder shows that this part of the road can be used as a running lane between junctions. You must stay within the speed limit. Look out for vehicles that may have broken down and could be blocking the hard shoulder.
A When signs direct you to
B When taking the next exit
C When traffic is slow moving
D When traffic is stopped
Correct Answer: A When signs direct you to
Explanation: Normally, you should only use the hard shoulder for emergencies and breakdowns, and at roadworks when signs direct you to do so. Smart motorways use active traffic management to ease congestion. In these areas, the hard shoulder may be used as a running lane when speed-limit signs are shown directly above.
A A disabled person's vehicle
B A doctor on call
C A fire engine
D An ambulance
Correct Answer: A A disabled person's vehicle
Explanation: An amber flashing light on a vehicle indicates that it's slow-moving. Battery-powered vehicles used by disabled people are limited to 8 mph. It isn't advisable for them to be used on dual carriageways where the speed limit exceeds 50 mph. If they are, then an amber flashing light must be used.
A A loss of confidence
B Faster reactions
C Greater awareness of danger
D Poor judgement of speed
Correct Answer: D Poor judgement of speed
Explanation: Alcohol will severely reduce your ability to drive or ride safely and there are serious consequences if you're caught over the drink-drive limit. It's known that alcohol can
  • affect your judgement
  • cause overconfidence
  • reduce coordination and control

A Amber alone
B Green alone
C Green and amber
D Red and amber
Correct Answer: D Red and amber
Explanation: If you know which light is going to show next, you can plan your approach accordingly. This can help prevent excessive braking or hesitation at the junction.