Rules of the Road Theory Test

There are 67 driving theory test Rules of the Road questions. You must get 86% (58 out of 67) 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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A Local speed limit applies
B National speed limit applies
C No entry for vehicles
D No waiting on the carriageway
Correct Answer: B National speed limit applies
Explanation: This sign doesn't tell you the speed limit in figures. You should know the speed limit for the type of road that you're on and the type of vehicle that you're driving. Study your copy of The Highway Code.
Correct Answer: D 70 mph
Explanation: Make sure that you know the speed limit for the road that you're on. The speed limit on a dual carriageway or motorway is 70 mph for cars and motorcycles, unless signs indicate otherwise. The speed limits for different types of vehicle are listed in The Highway Code.
A By double or single yellow lines
B By hazard warning lines
C By pedestrian islands
D By street lighting
Correct Answer: D By street lighting
Explanation: There's a 30 mph speed limit where there are street lights unless signs show another limit.
Correct Answer: A 30 mph
Explanation: The presence of street lights generally indicates that there's a 30 mph speed limit, unless signs tell you otherwise.
A End of maximum speed
B End of minimum speed
C Maximum speed 30 mph
D Minimum speed 30 mph
Correct Answer: B End of minimum speed
Explanation: The red slash through the sign indicates that the restriction has ended. In this case, the restriction was a minimum speed limit of 30 mph.
A Follow another vehicle as it overtakes the tractor
B Sound your horn to make the tractor driver pull over
C Speed past, flashing your lights at oncoming traffic
D Stay behind it if you're in any doubt
Correct Answer: D Stay behind it if you're in any doubt
Explanation: Following a tractor can be frustrating, but never overtake if you're unsure whether it's safe. Ask yourself: 'Can I see far enough down the road to ensure that I can complete the manoeuvre safely?' It's better to be delayed for a minute or two than to take a chance that may cause a collision.
A Delivery van
B Estate car
C Long vehicle
D Milk float
Correct Answer: C Long vehicle
Explanation: Long vehicles might have to take a slightly different position when approaching the roundabout or going around it. This is to stop the rear of the vehicle cutting in and mounting the kerb.
A During daylight hours
B In the rush hour
C Never
D When it's busy
Correct Answer: C Never
Explanation: Clearways are in place so that traffic can flow without the obstruction of parked vehicles. Just one parked vehicle can cause an obstruction for all other traffic. You mustn't stop where a clearway is in force, not even to pick up or set down passengers.
A National speed limit
B No entry
C School crossing patrol
D Waiting restrictions
Correct Answer: D Waiting restrictions
Explanation: This sign indicates that there are waiting restrictions. It's normally accompanied by details of when the restrictions are in force. Details of most signs in common use are shown in The Highway Code. For more comprehensive coverage, see Know Your Traffic Signs.
A When you have your sidelights on
B When you're in a one-way street
C When you're more than 10 metres (32 feet) from a junction
D When you're under a lamppost
Correct Answer: B When you're in a one-way street
Explanation: Red rear reflectors show up when headlights shine on them. These are useful when you're parked at night, but they'll only reflect if you park in the same direction as the traffic flow. Normally you should park on the left, but in a one-way street you may also park on the right-hand side of the road.
A When you're overtaking only
B When you're overtaking or turning right
C When you're turning right only
D When you're using cruise control
Correct Answer: B When you're 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.
A Continue in that lane
B Force your way into the lane you need
C Stop until the area has cleared
D Use arm signals to help you change lane
Correct Answer: A Continue in that lane
Explanation: There are times when road markings are obscured by queuing traffic, or you're unsure which lane to use. If, at the last moment, you find you're in the wrong lane, don't cut across or bully other drivers to let you in. Follow the lane you're in and find somewhere safe to turn around and rejoin your route.
A On either the right or the left
B Only on the left-hand side
C Only on the right-hand side
D Overtaking isn't allowed
Correct Answer: A On either the right or the left
Explanation: You can overtake other traffic on either side when travelling in a one-way street. Make full use of your mirrors and ensure it's clear all around before you attempt to overtake. Look for signs and road markings, and use the most suitable lane for your destination.
A Don't signal at any time
B Signal left before leaving the roundabout
C Signal left when you're approaching the roundabout
D Signal right when you're approaching the roundabout
Correct Answer: B Signal left before leaving the roundabout
Explanation: When going straight ahead at a roundabout, don't signal as you approach it. Signal left just after passing the exit before the one you wish to take.
A Estate car
B Long vehicle
C Sports car
D Van
Correct Answer: B Long vehicle
Explanation: A long vehicle may have to straddle lanes either on or approaching a roundabout so that the rear wheels don't mount the kerb. If you're following a long vehicle, stay well back and give it plenty of room.
A When signalled by another road user
B When there are fewer than two vehicles ahead
C When traffic signs direct you
D When your exit road is clear
Correct Answer: D When your exit road is clear
Explanation: Yellow box junctions are marked on the road to prevent the road becoming blocked. Don't enter the box unless your exit road is clear. You may wait in the box if you want to turn right and your exit road is clear but oncoming traffic or other vehicles waiting to turn right are preventing you from making the turn.
A When oncoming traffic prevents you from turning right
B When you're in a queue of traffic going ahead
C When you're in a queue of traffic turning left
D When you're on a roundabout
Correct Answer: A When oncoming traffic prevents you from turning right
Explanation: The purpose of yellow box markings is to keep junctions clear of queuing traffic. You may only wait in the marked area when you're turning right and your exit lane is clear but you can't complete the turn because of oncoming traffic or other traffic waiting to turn right.
A A bus driver
B A motorcyclist
C A pedestrian
D A police officer
Correct Answer: D A police officer
Explanation: You must obey signals to stop given by police and traffic officers, traffic wardens and school crossing patrols. Failure to do so is an offence and could lead to prosecution.
A Be ready to slow down or stop to let them cross
B Go on quickly before they step onto the crossing
C Ignore them as they're still on the pavement
D Stop before you reach the zigzag lines and let them cross
Correct Answer: A Be ready to slow down or stop to let them cross
Explanation: By standing on the pavement, the pedestrian is showing an intention to cross. By looking well ahead, you'll give yourself time to see the pedestrian, check your mirrors and respond safely.
A Bus and lorry drivers
B Car drivers and motorcyclists
C Cyclists and pedestrians
D Tram and train drivers
Correct Answer: C Cyclists and pedestrians
Explanation: Toucan crossings are similar to pelican crossings but there's no flashing amber phase. Cyclists share the crossing with pedestrians and are allowed to cycle across when the green cycle symbol is shown.
A Get ready and go when the continuous amber light shows
B Give way to pedestrians on the crossing
C Move off immediately without any hesitation
D Wait for the green light before moving off
Correct Answer: B Give way to pedestrians on the crossing
Explanation: This light allows pedestrians already on the crossing to get to the other side in their own time, without being rushed. Don't rev your engine or start to move off while they're still crossing.
A During daylight hours only
B If the line nearest to you is broken
C To pick up or set down passengers
D When there are no yellow lines
Correct Answer: C To pick up or set down passengers
Explanation: You mustn't park or stop on a road marked with double white lines (even where one of the lines is broken) except to pick up or set down passengers.
A You'll be able to turn without stopping
B You'll have a clearer view of any approaching traffic
C You'll have more time to turn
D You'll use less fuel because you can stay in a higher gear
Correct Answer: B You'll have a clearer view of any approaching traffic
Explanation: When turning right at a crossroads where oncoming traffic is also turning right, it's generally safer to turn behind the approaching vehicle. This allows you a clear view of approaching traffic and is called 'turning offside to offside'. However, some junctions, usually controlled by traffic-light filters - are marked for vehicles to turn nearside to nearside.
A Children may run out from between the vehicles
B So that oncoming traffic can see you more clearly
C There may be delivery lorries on the street
D You may set off car alarms
Correct Answer: A Children may run out from between the vehicles
Explanation: Travel slowly and carefully near parked vehicles. Beware of
  • vehicles pulling out, especially bicycles and motorcycles
  • pedestrians, especially children, who may run out from between cars
  • drivers opening their doors.

A Accelerate to get past first
B Carry on, as you have priority
C Give way to oncoming traffic
D Wave oncoming vehicles through
Correct Answer: C Give way to oncoming traffic
Explanation: Take care if you have to pass an obstruction, such as a parked vehicle, on your side of the road. Give way to oncoming traffic if there isn't enough room for you both to continue safely.
A When you're driving at a constant high speed
B When you're passing a side road on the left
C When you're staying at the minimum allowed speed
D When you're turning right or overtaking
Correct Answer: D When you're turning right or overtaking
Explanation: Normally you should travel in the left-hand lane and only use the right-hand lane for overtaking or turning right. Move back into the left lane as soon as it's safe but don't cut in across the path of the vehicle you've just passed.
A No-one has priority
B The faster vehicle
C The larger vehicle
D The smaller vehicle
Correct Answer: A No-one has priority
Explanation: Practise good observation in all directions before you emerge or make a turn. Proceed only when you're sure it's safe to do so.
A 10 metres (32 feet)
B 12 metres (39 feet)
C 15 metres (49 feet)
D 20 metres (66 feet)
Correct Answer: A 10 metres (32 feet)
Explanation: Don't park within 10 metres (32 feet) of a junction (unless in an authorised parking place). This is to allow drivers emerging from, or turning into, the junction a clear view of the road they're joining. It also allows them to see hazards such as pedestrians or cyclists at the junction.
A At or near a bus stop
B In a designated parking space
C Near the brow of a hill
D On the approach to a level crossing
Correct Answer: B In a designated parking space
Explanation: It may be tempting to park where you shouldn't while you run a quick errand. Careless parking is a selfish act and could endanger other road users.
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 End of controlled parking zone
B End of traffic-calming zone
C Free-parking zone ends
D No through road
Correct Answer: A End of controlled parking zone
Explanation: This sign shows that you're leaving a controlled parking zone and those restrictions no longer apply.
A Ignore the displayed limit
B Obey the limit, but only during rush hour
C Obey the speed limit
D Use your own judgment; the limit is only advisory
Correct Answer: C Obey the speed limit
Explanation: Where there are extra hazards, such as at roadworks, it's often necessary to slow traffic by imposing a lower speed limit. These speed limits aren't advisory; they must be obeyed.
A So that you can be easily seen by others
B So that you can go at a much faster speed
C So that you can see further along the road
D So that you can switch to main beam quickly
Correct Answer: A So that you can be easily seen by others
Explanation: You may be difficult to see when you're travelling at night, even on a well-lit road. If you use dipped headlights rather than sidelights, other road users should be able to see you more easily.
A Emerge slightly to show your intentions
B Proceed to the central reservation and wait
C Stop in the first lane so that other vehicles give way
D Wait until the road is clear in both directions
Correct Answer: D Wait until the road is clear in both directions
Explanation: When the central reservation is narrow, it may not be able to contain your vehicle. In this case, you should treat a dual carriageway as one road. Wait until the road is clear in both directions before emerging to turn right. If you try to treat it as two separate roads and wait in the middle, your vehicle will stick out and cause an obstruction that may lead to a collision.
Correct Answer: C 60 mph
Explanation: Exceeding the speed limit is dangerous and can result in you receiving penalty points on your licence. It isn't worth it. You should know the speed limit for the road that you're on by observing the road signs. Different speed limits apply if you're towing a trailer.
A Leave dipped headlights switched on
B Leave parking lights switched on
C Park facing the traffic
D Park near a street light
Correct Answer: B Leave parking lights switched on
Explanation: You must use parking lights when parking at night on a road or in a lay-by on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 mph. You must also park in the direction of the traffic flow and not close to a junction.
A Approaching a concealed level crossing
B Approaching a concealed speed-limit sign
C Approaching the end of a dual carriageway
D Approaching the end of a motorway
Correct Answer: A Approaching a concealed level crossing
Explanation: If there's a bend just before a level crossing, you may not be able to see the level-crossing barriers or waiting traffic. These signs give you an early warning that you may find these hazards just around the bend.
A When signalled to stop by a driver who has broken down
B When signalled to stop by a pedestrian on the hard shoulder
C When signalled to stop by a roadworks supervisor
D When signalled to stop by a traffic officer
Correct Answer: D When signalled to stop by a traffic officer
Explanation: You'll find traffic officers on motorways and some primary routes in England and Wales. They work in partnership with the police, helping to keep traffic moving and helping to make your journey as safe as possible. It's an offence not to comply with the directions given by a traffic officer.
A Signal left after you leave the roundabout and enter the new road
B Signal left just after you pass the exit before the one you're going to take
C Signal right on the approach and then left to leave the roundabout
D Signal right on the approach to the roundabout and keep the signal on
Correct Answer: B Signal left just after you pass the exit before the one you're going to take
Explanation: To go straight ahead at a roundabout, you should normally approach in the left-hand lane, but check the road markings. At some roundabouts, the left lane on approach is marked 'left turn only', so make sure you use the correct lane to go ahead. You won't normally need to signal as you approach, but signal before you leave the roundabout, as other road users need to know your intentions.
A If there are no pedestrians nearby
B To gain access to a property
C To overtake slow-moving traffic
D When the pavement is very wide
Correct Answer: B To gain access to a property
Explanation: It's illegal to drive on or over a pavement, except to gain access to a property. If you need to cross a pavement, give priority to pedestrians.
Correct Answer: C 50 mph
Explanation: When you're towing a trailer, a reduced speed limit also applies on dual carriageways and motorways. These lower speed limits apply to vehicles pulling all sorts of trailers, including caravans and horse boxes.
Correct Answer: C 60 mph
Explanation: The speed limit for cars towing caravans or trailers on dual carriageways or motorways is 60 mph. Due to the increased weight and size of the combination, you should plan further ahead. Take care in windy weather, as a strong side wind can make a caravan or large trailer unstable.
A Park in a bay and not pay
B Park in a bay and pay
C Park on yellow lines and not pay
D Park on yellow lines and pay
Correct Answer: B Park in a bay and pay
Explanation: Parking restrictions apply in a variety of places and situations. Make sure you know the rules and understand where and when restrictions apply. Controlled parking areas will be indicated by signs and road markings. Parking in the wrong place could cause an obstruction and danger to other traffic. It can also result in a fine.
A They may drive in the lane at any time
B They may park in the lane
C They may use the lane when necessary
D They mustn't drive along the lane
Correct Answer: D They mustn't drive along the lane
Explanation: While it's in operation, other vehicles must not use this part of the carriageway except to pick up or set down passengers. At other times, when the lane isn't in operation, you should still be aware that there may be cyclists using the lane. Give them plenty of room as you pass and allow for their movement from side to side, especially in windy weather or on a bumpy road.
A Keep in the middle of the road
B Keep just left of the middle of the road
C Keep well to the left of the road
D Swing out to the right just before turning
Correct Answer: C Keep well to the left of the road
Explanation: Your road position can help other road users to anticipate your actions. Keep to the left as you approach a left turn and don't swing out into the centre of the road in order to make the turn easier. This could endanger oncoming traffic and may cause other road users to misunderstand your intentions.
A Continue to wait
B Drive across carefully
C Get out and investigate
D Telephone the signal operator
Correct Answer: A Continue to wait
Explanation: At a level crossing, flashing red lights mean you must stop. If the train passes but the lights keep flashing, wait. Another train may be coming.
A Get everyone out of the vehicle immediately
B Keep going and clear the crossing
C Stop and reverse back to clear the crossing
D Stop immediately and use your hazard warning lights
Correct Answer: B Keep going and clear the crossing
Explanation: Keep going; don't stop on the crossing. If the warning sounds and the amber lights come on as you're approaching the crossing, you must stop unless it's unsafe to do so. Red flashing lights together with the audible warning mean you must stop.
A Make a 'three-point' turn in the main road
B Make a U-turn in the main road
C Turn around in a side road
D Turn into a side road on the right and reverse into the main road
Correct Answer: C Turn around in a side road
Explanation: Don't turn around in a busy street or reverse from a side road into a main road. Find a quiet side road and choose a place to turn around where you won't obstruct an entrance or exit. Look out for pedestrians and cyclists as well as other traffic.
A When you're carrying out a manoeuvre that includes reversing
B When you're driving slowly in queuing traffic
C When you're moving off on a hill
D When you're testing your brakes
Correct Answer: A When you're carrying out a manoeuvre that includes reversing
Explanation: You may remove your seat belt while you're carrying out a manoeuvre that includes reversing. However, you must remember to put it back on again before you resume driving.
A As far as it takes to reverse around a corner
B No further than is necessary
C No more than a car's length
D The length of a residential street
Correct Answer: B No further than is necessary
Explanation: You mustn't reverse further than is necessary. You may decide to turn your vehicle around by reversing into an opening or side road. When you reverse, always look all around you and watch for pedestrians. Don't reverse from a side road into a main road.
A Get out and check
B Rev your engine
C Reverse slowly
D Sound your horn
Correct Answer: A Get out and check
Explanation: A small child could be hidden directly behind you, so, if you can't see all around your vehicle, get out and have a look. You could also ask someone reliable outside the vehicle to guide you.
A Your mirrors will need adjusting
B Your reverse sensors will beep
C Your reversing lights will be hidden
D Your view will be restricted
Correct Answer: D Your view will be restricted
Explanation: Don't reverse into a main road from a side road because your view will be restricted. The main road is likely to be busy and the traffic on it moving quickly.
A Drive on; you can't turn right at a box junction
B Drive slowly into the box junction when signalled by oncoming traffic
C Wait before the junction until it's clear of all traffic
D Wait in the box junction if your exit is clear
Correct Answer: D Wait in the box junction if your exit is clear
Explanation: You can wait in the box junction as long as your exit is clear. At some point there'll be a gap in the oncoming traffic, or the traffic lights will change, allowing you to proceed.
A After you've completed the manoeuvre
B After you've entered the side road
C Just before you begin to manoeuvre
D When the front of your vehicle swings out
Correct Answer: D When the front of your vehicle swings out
Explanation: Always check in all directions before reversing. Keep a good lookout throughout the manoeuvre and remember that the front will swing out as you reverse into the side road. Act on what you see and wait if necessary.
A In a garage
B In a quiet car park
C Near a red route
D On a busy road
Correct Answer: A In a garage
Explanation: If you have a garage, use it. Your vehicle is less likely to be a victim of car crime if it's in a garage. Also, in winter, the windows will be kept free from ice and snow.
A To ask for directions
B To load or unload goods
C To set down and pick up passengers
D To use a mobile telephone
Correct Answer: C To set down and pick up passengers
Explanation: Urban clearways have their times of operation clearly signed. You may only stop to pick up or set down passengers.
A Park in one of these spaces but stay with your vehicle
B Use one of the spaces as long as one is kept free
C Use one of these spaces
D Wait for a regular parking space to become free
Correct Answer: D Wait for a regular parking space to become free
Explanation: It's illegal to park in a space reserved for disabled drivers unless you're permitted to do so. These spaces are provided for people with limited mobility, who may need extra space to get in and out of their vehicle.
A Force the other driver to reverse
B Pull into a passing place if your vehicle is wider
C Pull into a passing place on your left
D Pull into a passing place on your right
Correct Answer: C Pull into a passing place on your left
Explanation: Pull into the nearest passing place on the left if you meet another vehicle on a narrow road. If the nearest passing place is on the right, wait opposite it.
A As soon as the vehicle passes you
B Before the vehicle starts to pass you
C Only if the other driver dips their headlights
D Some time after the vehicle has passed you
Correct Answer: A As soon as the vehicle passes you
Explanation: On main beam, your lights could dazzle the driver in front. Dip your headlights as soon as the driver passes you and drop back so that the dipped beam falls short of the vehicle in front.
A Outside its hours of operation
B To get to the front of a traffic queue
C To overtake slow-moving traffic
D You may not use it at any time
Correct Answer: A Outside its hours of operation
Explanation: Some bus lanes operate only during peak hours and other vehicles may use them outside these hours. Make sure you check the sign for the hours of operation before driving in a bus lane.
A By using brake lights
B By using fog lights
C By using interior lights
D By using sidelights
Correct Answer: A By using brake lights
Explanation: Your brake lights will give an indication to traffic behind that you're slowing down. Good anticipation will allow you time to check your mirrors before slowing.
A Ask someone to stop the traffic
B Carry out a U-turn
C Drive into a side road and reverse out into the main road
D Turn around in a quiet side road
Correct Answer: D Turn around in a quiet side road
Explanation: Make sure you carry out the manoeuvre without causing a hazard to other vehicles. Choose a place to turn that's safe and considers other road users.
A In a quiet road
B In a well-lit area
C Near a police station
D On a red route
Correct Answer: B In a well-lit area
Explanation: When you're parking at night, park in a well-lit area. This can help deter criminals from targeting your vehicle.
A Keep in that lane until you reach the queue
B Move to the left immediately
C Move to the left in good time
D Wait and see which lane is moving faster
Correct Answer: C Move to the left in good time
Explanation: Keep a lookout for traffic signs. If you’re directed to change lanes, do so in good time. Don’t
  • push your way into traffic in another lane
  • try to gain advantage by delaying changing lanes.

A Cyclists can travel in both directions in that lane
B The lane must be used by motorcyclists in heavy traffic
C There's a reduced speed limit for motor vehicles using the lane
D You shouldn't drive in the lane unless it's unavoidable
Correct Answer: D You shouldn't drive in the lane unless it's unavoidable
Explanation: Cycle lanes are marked with either a solid or a broken white line. If the line is solid, you should check the times of operation shown on the signs, and not drive or park in the lane during those times. If the line is broken, you shouldn't drive or park in the lane unless it's unavoidable.
A When you have a Blue Badge
B When you have a wheelchair
C When you have an adapted vehicle
D When you have an advanced driver certificate
Correct Answer: A When you have a Blue Badge
Explanation: Don't park in a space reserved for disabled people unless you or your passenger are a Blue Badge holder. The badge must be displayed on the dashboard or facia panel, where it can be clearly read through the front windscreen.
A At a junction where there are 'give way' lines
B At the end of a one-way street
C Before merging onto a motorway
D If you're involved in an incident that causes damage or injury
Correct Answer: D If you're involved in an incident that causes damage or injury
Explanation: You must stop your vehicle when signalled to do so by a
  • police, DVSA or traffic officer
  • traffic warden
  • school crossing patrol
  • red traffic light.
You must also stop if you're involved in an incident that causes damage or injury to any other person, vehicle, animal or property.