Menu
Menu

Rules of the Road Theory Test

-->

There are 67 Rules of the Road Theory Test 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!

Tests Taken

Last Score

Average Score

Your Progress

Test Quick View

Click on an answer to view the correct choice along with the explanation.

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 pull over
C Speed past, flashing your lights at oncoming traffic
D Stay behind the tractor if you're in any doubt
Correct Answer: D Stay behind the tractor 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 lorry
D Milk float
Correct Answer: C Long lorry
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 At any time
B During daylight hours
C In the rush hour
D When it's busy
Correct Answer: A At any time
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.
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.
A Continue in that lane
B Force your way across
C Stop until the area has cleared
D Use clear arm signals to cut across
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 indicate at any time
B Indicate left before leaving the roundabout
C Indicate left when approaching the roundabout
D Indicate right when approaching the roundabout
Correct Answer: B Indicate left before leaving the roundabout
Explanation: When going straight ahead at a roundabout, don't signal as you approach it. Indicate 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 hit 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 turning 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 Go on quickly before they step onto the crossing
B Ignore them as they're still on the pavement
C Stop before you reach the zigzag lines and let them cross
D Stop to let them cross and wait patiently
Correct Answer: D Stop to let them cross and wait patiently
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 Buses and lorries
B Cars and motorcycles
C Cyclists and pedestrians
D Trams and trains
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 Move off immediately without any hesitation
C Wait for pedestrians on the crossing to clear
D Wait for the green light before moving off
Correct Answer: C Wait for pedestrians on the crossing to clear
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 Carry on and turn at the next junction instead
B Hold back and wait for the other driver to turn first
C Keep the other vehicle to your left and turn in front of it (nearside to nearside)
D Keep the other vehicle to your right and turn behind it (offside to offside)
Correct Answer: D Keep the other vehicle to your right and turn behind it (offside to offside)
Explanation: At crossroads, traffic normally turns offside to offside. This is the safest way to turn, but sometimes the layout or road markings indicate drivers should pass nearside to nearside. Take extra care at these crossroads because, as you turn, your view ahead will be obscured by the oncoming vehicle crossing in front of you.
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 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 For normal progress
B To keep driving at a constant high speed
C To overtake slower traffic
D When staying at the minimum allowed speed
Correct Answer: C To overtake slower traffic
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 On a road with a 40 mph speed limit
C Where there's no pavement
D Within 20 metres (65 feet) of a junction
Correct Answer: A At or near a bus stop
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. It's important not to park at or near a bus stop, as this could inconvenience passengers and may put them at risk as they get on or off the bus.
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 traffic-calming zone
B Free-parking zone ends
C No through road
D No-waiting zone ends
Correct Answer: D No-waiting zone ends
Explanation: The blue-and-red circular sign on its own means that waiting restrictions are in force. This sign shows that you're leaving the controlled zone and waiting 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 down by imposing a lower speed limit. These speed limits aren't advisory; they must be obeyed.
A You can be easily seen by others
B You can go at a much faster speed
C You can see further along the road
D You can switch to main beam quickly
Correct Answer: A 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, 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, you're likely to cause an obstruction and possibly 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 Park facing the traffic
B Park near a street light
C Park with dipped headlights on
D Park with parking lights on
Correct Answer: D Park with parking lights 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 A driver who has broken down
B A traffic officer
C Flashing amber lights above your lane
D Pedestrians on the hard shoulder
Correct Answer: B A traffic officer
Explanation: You'll find traffic officers on England's motorways. 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 get onto a property
C To overtake slow-moving traffic
D When the pavement is very wide
Correct Answer: B To get onto a property
Explanation: It's illegal to drive on or over a footpath, 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 The lane may be used for parking your car
B The lane may be used when necessary
C You may drive in the lane at any time
D You mustn't drive in that lane
Correct Answer: D You mustn't drive in that lane
Explanation: Leave the lane free for cyclists. At other times, when the lane isn't in operation, you should still be aware that there may be cyclists about. 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 amber warning lights come on as you're approaching the crossing, you must stop unless it's unsafe to do so. Red flashing lights together with an audible signal 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 where you won't obstruct an entrance or exit. Look out for pedestrians and cyclists as well as other traffic.
A Driving slowly
B Emergency stop
C Hill start
D Reversing
Correct Answer: D 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 At any time
B Not at any time
C Only if both roads are clear of traffic
D Only if the main road is clear of traffic
Correct Answer: B Not at any time
Explanation: Don't reverse into a main road from a side road. 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 actually 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 into a side road. Keep a good lookout throughout the manoeuvre. 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 stop only for as long as is reasonable to pick up or set down passengers. You should ensure that you're not causing an obstruction for other traffic.
A You can park in one of these spaces if you stay with your vehicle
B You can use one of the spaces as long as one is kept free
C You can use these spaces when elsewhere is full
D You can't park there, unless you're permitted to do so
Correct Answer: D You can't park there, unless you're permitted to do so
Explanation: It's illegal to park in a space reserved for disabled users 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 full beam, your lights could dazzle the driver in front. Dip your lights as soon as the driver passes you and drop back so that the dipped beam falls short of the other vehicle.
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 Do a U-turn
B Drive into a side road and reverse into the main road
C Find a quiet side road to turn around in
D Get someone to stop the traffic
Correct Answer: C Find a quiet side road to turn around in
Explanation: Make sure you carry out the manoeuvre without causing a hazard to other vehicles. Choose a place to turn that's safe and convenient for you and for 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: Whenever possible, park in an area that will be well lit at night.
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 A Blue Badge
B A wheelchair
C An adapted vehicle
D An advanced driver certificate
Correct Answer: A A Blue Badge
Explanation: Don't park in a space reserved for disabled people unless you or your passenger are a disabled badge holder. The badge must be displayed in your vehicle, in the bottom left-hand corner of the 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 or traffic officer
- traffic warden
- school crossing patrol
- red traffic light.
You must also stop if you're involved in an incident which causes damage or injury to any other person, vehicle, animal or property.