Welcome to the 'Car Practice Test'
This practice test will select 50 random questions, which you will be expected to complete within the allocated 57 minute time limit. You will be shown correct and incorrect answers at the end of the quiz, with a hint available on each question should you need it.
Each question is representative of the type used by the DVSA for your real theory exam.
Instructions:
The test will begin after you select the 'Next' button below.
For each question, choose from the four multiple choice answers provided.
Some questions may have more than one answer, a note will be displayed when to do this.
A confirmation screen will appear at the end for you to submit the test to be scored. Click 'Submit' to be shown a review of your scores and suggested revision.
Ready? Click 'Next' to begin.
1.
[Vehicle Handling]
If your vehicle is stationary and is likely to remain so for more than a couple of minutes, you should reduce emissions and noise pollution by:
HintYou MUST NOT leave a parked vehicle unattended with the engine running or leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road. Generally, if the vehicle is stationary and is likely to remain so for more than a couple of minutes, you should apply the parking brake and switch off the engine to reduce emissions and noise pollution.
2.
[Attitude]
If you become agitated or annoyed at another road user, you should:
HintDo not allow yourself to become agitated or involved if someone is behaving badly on the road. This will only make the situation worse. Pull over, calm down and, when you feel relaxed, continue your journey.
3.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
If you see this red traffic light, which light or lights may appear next?
HintYou may only proceed through a traffic light with right of way when the light is green. If the amber light is flashing at a pedestrian crossing, then you may proceed with caution provided no pedestrians are crossing. Whenever the amber light is visible and not flashing, then you should prepare to stop. Red and amber lights on together mean the same as a red light alone.
4.
[Safety Margin]
What is the total typical stopping distance for a car travelling at 60mph (96 km/h)?
HintYou should always drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distance you can see to be clear. Total stopping distance includes both thinking distance and braking distance.
5.
[Rules of the Road]
When may you overtake another vehicle on their left hand side?
HintYou can overtake on the left if the vehicle in front is signalling to turn right or if you are in slow moving multi-lane traffic.
6.
[Hazard Awareness]
If you are dazzled by another vehicle's lights, you should:
HintIn the event of a developing hazard, it is almost always safer to slow down and stop if necessary.
7.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
What action does this sign indicate?
HintA red arrow on a sign usually indicates an action you should not do. A white arrow usually indicates a direction you should follow.
8.
[Other Types of Vehicles]
What colour beacon does a blood transfusion vehicle display if it is responding to an emergeny call?
HintPolice, mountain rescue, coastguard, ambulances, fire engines, bomb disposal and blood transfusion vehicles all have emergency blue beacons. If one is approaching you, just pull your vehicle over and allow them to pass.
9.
[Vehicle Handling]
Coasting is a term used to describe a vehicle travelling in neutral or with the clutch on. How does this affect your control of the vehicle? (Select all that apply)
HintThe clutch should only be used to stop the engine stalling or to change gear.
10.
[Vulnerable Road Users]
You are about to overtake a horse and rider. What should you NOT do? (Select all that apply)
HintAnimals can be unpredictable and become easily frightened by loud noises. You should drive slowly and be ready to stop if necessary. Only overtake if it safe and leave them plenty of room.
11.
[Safety and Your Vehicle]
When travelling in a vehicle with a child under the age of 14, who is responsible to ensuring their seat belt is fastened?
HintThe driver MUST ensure that all children under 14 years of age in cars, vans and other goods vehicles wear seat belts or sit in an approved child restraint where required.
12.
[Safety and Your Vehicle]
Whilst driving when it is snowing, you should:
HintIce on the road will reduce the effectiveness of your brakes. You should drive slowly and brake gently in plenty of time.
13.
[Vehicle Handling]
Your vehicle brakes too quickly in wet or icy conditions and begins to skid. How should you recover control of the vehicle?
HintIf skidding occurs, remove the cause by releasing the brake pedal fully. Turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid. For example, if the rear of the vehicle skids to the right, steer immediately to the right to recover.
14.
[Hazard Awareness]
You are travelling along a wet road. How can you tell if your tyres are no longer gripping the road?
HintIf the steering becomes unresponsive, it probably means that water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
15.
[Alertness]
What should you do to minimise the risk of tiredness? (Select all that apply)
HintDriving when you are tired greatly increases your risk of collision. Make sure you are fit to drive and take regular breaks - at least 15 minutes for every 2 hours of driving. NEVER stop of the hard shoulder of a motorway for a rest.
16.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
Which of these signs means to stop for other traffic when at a junction?
HintThis sign is the only one of its shape to make it stand out. This sign will usually be accompanied by a solid white line painted on the road that you must stop at and wait for a safe gap in the traffic before proceeding.
17.
[Safety Margin]
You are about to overtake a cyclist in windy weather. What should you do as you overtake?
HintVulnerable road users should be given extra space in case they are blown across the traffic lane.
18.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
When towing a caravan or trailer, what is the maximum speed for a car or motorcycle on a dual carriageway road?
HintWhen towing a trailer or caravan, national speed limits are usually reduced by 10 mph. If you see a change in road type or a new speed limit sign ahead then make sure you change your speed so that you are not breaking the limit in either zone.
19.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
This road sign pictured indicates:
HintBus lanes are shown by road markings and signs that indicate which (if any) other vehicles are permitted to use the bus lane. Unless otherwise indicated, you should not drive in a bus lane during its period of operation. You may enter a bus lane to stop, to load or unload where this is not prohibited.
20.
[Attitude]
When may you use your vehicle's fog lights?
HintFog lights are very bright and can dazzle other drivers.It is an offence to use them in bright conditions and they're not needed.
21.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
When travelling on a motorway or major 'A' road, what does this overhead sign mean?
HintWhere a lane closure is signalled, this will be due to an accident, roadworks or other obstruction ahead. You MUST NOT drive in these lanes to allow access for emergency services.
22.
[Safety Margin]
Why should you reduce your speed when travelling in foggy conditions?
HintWith reduced visibility, you won't be able to see hazards ahead. You should drive more slowly so that you have more time to react if necessary.
23.
[Other Types of Vehicles]
An emergency vehicle with 'DOCTOR' written down the side is approaching you. How do you know if it is responding to an emergency call?
HintAn emergency vehicle with a green flashing light is a doctor responding to an emergency call. If one is approaching you, just pull your vehicle over and allow them to pass.
24.
[Attitude]
You are attending an event where alcohol will be available. You need to drive your car to get home. What should you do to be the most safe?
HintDrinking even a small amount of alcohol can affect your reaction time and judgement. It is safer to not drink any alcohol at all.
25.
[Vehicle Handling]
When towing, you should: (Select all that apply)
HintIf there is a collision, objects and animals might hit someone inside the vehicle and cause serious injury
26.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
When given by a person authorised to direct traffic, which the following signals means to proceed?
HintYou MUST obey signals by persons authorised to direct traffic. With the traffic officer facing you, a palm facing towards you will generally mean to stop and a palm facing away from you will generally mean to proceed.
27.
[Vehicle Handling]
You have driven through deep water. What should you check at the first safe opportunity?
HintIf you have driven through deep water your brakes may be less effective. Test them at the first safe opportunity by pushing gently on the brake pedal to make sure that they work. If they are not fully effective, gently apply light pressure while driving slowly. This will help to dry them out.
28.
[Rules of the Road]
You are in queuing traffic approaching a pedestrian crossing. Another vehicle is blocking the other side of the crossing. You should:
HintYou MUST NOT park on a crossing or in the area covered by the zig-zag lines.
29.
[Vulnerable Road Users]
It is particularly important to be aware of: (Select all that apply)
HintThe most vulnerable road users are pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders. It is particularly important to be aware of children, older and disabled people, and learner and inexperienced drivers and riders.
30.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
If you see this traffic light with both red and amber lights showing, which light or lights will appear next?
HintYou may only proceed through a traffic light with right of way when the light is green. If the amber light is flashing at a pedestrian crossing, then you may proceed with caution provided no pedestrians are crossing. Whenever the amber light is visible and not flashing, then you should prepare to stop. Red and amber lights on together mean the same as a red light alone.
31.
[Safety and Your Vehicle]
You are travelling in heavy traffic in wet weather. Rain and spray from the road are limiting visibility. You should: (Select all that apply)
HintWhen visibility decreases, you should switch on your headlights to help other road users see you. Do not dazzle other drivers. Only use your fog lights if visibility drops below 100m.
32.
[Attitude]
Another road user pulls out of a junction into your path. You should:
HintDo not allow yourself to become agitated or involved if someone is behaving badly on the road. This will only make the situation worse. Pull over, calm down and, when you feel relaxed, continue your journey.
34.
[Hazard Awareness]
If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, you should:
HintIn the event of a developing hazard, it is almost always safer to slow down and stop if necessary.
35.
[Safety Margin]
You are about to overtake a person riding a mobility scooter in windy weather. What should you do as you overtake?
HintVulnerable road users should be given extra space in case they are blown across the traffic lane.
36.
[Hazard Awareness]
Which of these hand signals implies the vehicle will slow down or stop?
HintFor use when direction indicator signals are not used, or when necessary to reinforce direction indicator signals and stop lights. Also for use by pedal cyclists and those in charge of horses.
37.
[Safety Margin]
What is the total typical stopping distance for a car travelling at 30mph (48 km/h)?
HintYou should always drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distance you can see to be clear. Total stopping distance includes both thinking distance and braking distance.
38.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
What does this sign mean?
HintThis sign only restricts motorised vehicles, but allows other types (e.g. bicycles). Typically this will be near or in a pedestrianised zone.
39.
[Rules of the Road]
You are approaching a roundabout and intend to turn right. You should:
HintWhen approaching a roundabout, signal in the direction you wish to turn. Always signal left before leaving the roundabout on the exit you wish to take.
40.
[Hazard Awareness]
Your car has been covered in snow. In addition to clearing the windows, why is it a good idea to remove any snow from the roof?
HintAll snow and ice should be cleared from the car's lights, mirrors, number plates and windows. Whilst driving in all poor weather, you must be able to see and be seen. If you need to brake suddenly, snow from the roof may fall forward and obscure the windscreen.
41.
[Vulnerable Road Users]
When overtaking a horse and rider, what should you NOT do?
HintAnimals can be unpredictable and become easily frightened by loud noises. You should drive slowly and be ready to stop if necessary. Only overtake if it safe and leave them plenty of room.
42.
[Rules of the Road]
What do GREEN stud marks or reflective cat's eyes indicate?
HintReflective road studs or "cat's eyes" are used with white line markings. Green studs mark the edge of the main carriageway at lay-bys and slip roads.
43.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
Which of these signs designates a tram ONLY road with no other vehicular traffic allowed?
HintBus lanes are shown by road markings and signs that indicate which (if any) other vehicles are permitted to use the bus lane. Unless otherwise indicated, you should not drive in a bus lane during its period of operation. You may enter a bus lane to stop, to load or unload where this is not prohibited.
44.
[Vehicle Handling]
The typical stopping distance for a vehicle travelling at 20 mph (32 km/h) on a dry road is 12 metres (40 feet). What is the typical stopping distance for this vehicle in WET weather?
HintIn wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads. This is because your tyres have less grip on the road.
45.
[Hazard Awareness]
Which other road users should you be especially alert for on a country or single-track road? (Select all that apply)
HintExtra care should be taken on country and single-track roads for pedestrians, farm vehicles and horse riders. Slow down when passing pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.
46.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
Why would a puffin crossing stop traffic for a longer time than a pelican crossing?
HintPuffin crossings can detect when pedestrians are waiting to cross, are crossing or have finished crossing. The traffic lights will stay red until all pedestrians have finished crossing.
47.
[Motorway Rules]
When you plan your route, why is it a good idea to also plan an alternative route?
HintIt is a good idea to plan an alternative route that doesn't use motorways in case there are roadworks, diversions or accidents blocking your planned route. Having an alternative already planned will reduce driver stress. Modern sat-navs are sometimes capable are automatically routing around blockages, but you should always carry a suitable map as a backup.
48.
[Hazard Awareness]
You are travelling slowly behind a cyclist in front of you. Why might they suddenly swerve or move across the traffic lane?
HintMotorcyclists and cyclists may suddenly need to avoid uneven road surfaces and obstacles such as drain covers or oily, wet or icy patches on the road. Give them plenty of room and pay particular attention to any sudden change of direction they may have to make.
49.
[Other Types of Vehicles]
You see an emergency vehicle with a flashing green beacon. What type of vehicle is it?
HintAn emergency vehicle with a green flashing light is a doctor responding to an emergency call. If one is approaching you, just pull your vehicle over and allow them to pass.
50.
[Road and Traffic Signs]
This road sign pictured indicates:
HintBus lanes are shown by road markings and signs that indicate which (if any) other vehicles are permitted to use the bus lane. Unless otherwise indicated, you should not drive in a bus lane during its period of operation. You may enter a bus lane to stop, to load or unload where this is not prohibited.
Thank you for completing the 'Car Practice Test'
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