Stopping Distances & Speed Limits Test (UK)

Stopping Distances & Speed Limits Test (UK)

Theory Test #1 - Using the Official Theory Test Questions

This test uses questions that have been taken from the Official DSA Theory Test Question Practice Bank.

Theory Test #1

1		Before you make a U-turn in the road, you should (mark ONE answer) Knowledge and Understanding If you want to make a U-turn, slow down and ensure that the road is clear in both directions. Make sure that the road is wide enough to carry out the manoeuvre. Give an arm signal as well as using your indicators Signal so that other drivers can slow down for you Look over your shoulder for a final check Select a higher gear than normal
2		In which of these situations should you avoid overtaking? (mark ONE answer) Knowledge and Understanding As you begin to think about overtaking, ask yourself if it is really necessary. If you can't see well ahead stay back and wait for a safer place to pull out. Just after a bend In a one-way street On a 30 mph road Approaching a dip in the road
3		Your mobile phone rings while you are travelling. You should (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingThe safest option is to switch off your mobile phone before you set off, and use a message service. Even hands-free systems are likely to distract your attention. Don't endanger other road users. If you need to make a call, pull up in a safe place when you can, you may need to go some distance before you can find one. It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile or similar device when driving or riding, except in a genuine emergency. Stop immediately Answer it immediately Pull up in a suitable place Pull up at the nearest curb
4		Which of the following may cause loss of concentration on a long journey? (mark FOUR answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingYou should not allow yourself to be distracted when driving. You need to concentrate fully in order to be safe on the road. Loud music could mask other sounds, such as the audible warning of an emergency vehicle. Any distraction which causes you to take your hands off the road could be dangerous. Loud music Arguing with a passenger Using a mobile phone Putting in a cassette tape Stopping to regularly to rest Pulling up to tune the radio
5		At a pelican crossing the flashing amber light means you MUST (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingPelican crossings are signal-controlled crossings operated by pedestrians. Push-button controls change the signals. Pelican crossings have no red-and-amber stage before green. Instead, they have a flashing amber light, which means you MUST give way to pedestrians already on the crossing, but if it is clear, you may continue. Stop and wait for the green light Stop and wait for the red light Give way to pedestrians waiting to cross Give way to pedestrians already on the crossing
6		'Tailgating' means (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and Understanding'Tailgating' is used to describe this dangerous practice, often seen in fast-moving traffic and on motorways. Following the vehicle in front too closely is dangerous because it a) restricts your view of the road ahead b) leaves you no safety margin if the vehicle in front slows down or stops suddenly. Using the rear door of a hatchback car Reversing into a parking space Following another vehicle too closely Driving with rear fog lights on
7		You are following a vehicle on a wet road. You should leave a time gap of at least (mark one answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingWet roads will reduce your tyres' grip on the road. The safe separation gap of at least two seconds in dry conditions should be doubled in wet weather. One second Two seconds Three seconds Four seconds
8		To avoid spillage after refuelling, you should make sure that (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingWhen learning to drive it is a good idea to practice filling your car with fuel. Ask your instructor if you can use a petrol station and fill the fuel tank yourself. You need to know where the filler cap is located on the car you are driving in order to park on the correct side of the pump. Take care not to overfill the tank or spill fuel. Make sure you secure the filler cap as soon as you have replaced the fuel nozzle. Your tank is only three quarters full You have used a locking filler cap You check your fuel gauge is working Your filler cap is securely fastened
9		You are in a one-way street and want to turn right. You should position yourself (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIf you are travelling in a one-way street and wish to turn right you should take up a position in the right-hand lane. This will enable other road users not wishing to turn to proceed on the left. Indicate your intention and take up your position in good time. In the right-hand lane In the left-hand lane In either lane, depending on the traffic Just left of the centre line
10		At which type of crossing are cyclists allowed to ride across with pedestrians? (mark ONE answer) Knowledge and Understanding A toucan crossing is designed to allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross at the same time. Look out for cyclists approaching the crossing at speed. Toucan Puffin Pelican Zebra
11		You are approaching a pelican crossing. The amber light is flashing. You must (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingWhile the pedestrians are crossing don't encourage them to cross by waving or flashing headlights: other road users may misunderstand your signal. Don't harass them by creeping forwards or revving your engine. Give way to pedestrians who are crossing Encourage pedestrians to cross Not move until the green light appears Stop even if the crossing is clear
12		You are driving along a country road. A horse and rider are approaching. What should you do? (mark TWO answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingIt is important that you reduce your speed. passing too closely at speed could startle the horse and unseat the rider. Increase your speed Sound your horn Flash your headlights Drive slowly past Give plenty of room Rev your engine
13		You stop for pedestrians waiting to cross at a zebra crossing. They do not start to cross. What should you do? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIf you stop for pedestrians and they don't start to cross don't wave then across or sound your horn. This could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching which hasn't seen or heard your signal. Be patient and wait Sound your horn Carry on Wave then to cross
14		Which TWO are badly affected if the tyres are under-inflated? (mark TWO answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingYour tyres are your only contact with the road so it is very important to ensure that they are free from defects, have sufficient tread depth and are correctly inflated. Correct tyre pressures help reduce the risk of skidding and provide a safer and more comfortable drive or ride. Braking Steering Changing gear Parking
15		You must NOT sound your horn (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingVehicles can be noisy. Every effort must be made to prevent excessive noise, especially in built-up areas at night. Don't rev the engine or sound your horn unnecessarily. It is illegal to sound your horn in a built-up area between 11.30 pm and 7 am, except when another vehicle poses danger. Between 10 pm and 6 am in a built-up area At any time in a built-up area Between 11.30 pm and 7 am in a built-up area Between 11.30 pm and 6 am on any road
16		Catalytic converters are fitted to make the (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingHarmful gases in the exhaust system pollute the atmosphere. These gases are reduced by up to 90% if a catalytic converter is fitted. Cleaner air benefits everyone, especially people who live or work near congested roads. Engines produce more power Exhaust systems easier to replace Engines run quietly Exhaust fumes cleaner
17		Road humps, chicanes, and road narrowings are (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingTraffic calming measures help keep vehicle speeds low in congested areas where there are pedestrians and children. A pedestrian is much more likely to survive a collision with a vehicle travelling at 20 mph than at 40 mph. Always at major road works Used to increase traffic speed At toll-bridge approaches only Traffic calming measures
18		How should you dispose of a used battery? (mark TWO answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingBatteries contain acid which is hazardous and must be disposed of safely. Take it to a local authority site Put it in the dustbin Break it into pieces Leave it on wasteland Take it to a garage Burn it in a fire
19		What is the most likely cause of high fuel consumption? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingAccelerating and braking gently and smoothly will help to save fuel, reduce wear on your vehicle and is better for the environment. Poor steering control Accelerating around bends Staying in high gears Harsh braking and accelerating
20		The fluid level in your battery is low. What should you top it up with? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingSome modern batteries are maintenance-free. Check your vehicle handbook and, if necessary, make sure that the plates in each battery cell are covered. Battery acid Distilled water Engine oil Engine coolant
21		Before starting a journey it is wise to plan your route. How can you do this? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingPlanning your journey before setting out can help to make it much easier, more pleasant and may help to ease traffic congestion. Look at a map to help you to do this. You may need different scale maps depending on where and how far you are going. Printing or writing out the route can also help. Look at a map Contact your local garage Look in your vehicle handbook Check your vehicle registration document
22		What percentage of all emissions does road transport account for? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingTransport is an essential part of modern life but it does have environmental effects. In heavily populated areas traffic is the biggest source of air pollution. Eco-safe driving and riding will reduce emissions and can make a surprising difference to local air quality. 10% 20% 30% 40%
23		Braking distances on ice can be (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIn icy and snowy weather, your stopping distance will increase by up to ten times compared to good, dry conditions. Take extra care when braking, accelerating and steering, to cut down the risk of skidding. Twice the normal distance Give times the normal distance Seven times the normal distance Ten times the normal distance
24		Freezing conditions will affect the distance it takes you to come to a stop. You should expect stopping distances to increase by up to (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingYour tyre grip is greatly reduced on icy roads and you need to allow up to ten times the normal stopping distance. Two times Three times Five times Ten times
25		In very hot weather the road surface can become soft. Which TWO of the following will be most affected? (mark TWO answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingOnly a small part of your tyre is in contact with the road. This is why you must consider the surface on which your are travelling, and alter your speed to suit the road conditions. The suspension The grip of the tyres The braking The exhaust
26		What should you do when overtaking a motorcyclist in strong winds? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIn strong winds riders of two-wheeled vehicles are particularly vulnerable. When you overtake them allow plenty of room. Always check to the left as you pass. Pass close Pass quickly Pass wide Pass immediately
27		To avoid a collision when entering a contraflow system, you should (mark THREE answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingIn a contraflow system you will be travelling close to oncoming traffic and sometimes in narrow lanes. You should obey the temporary speed limit signs, get into the correct lane at the proper time and keep a safe separation distance from the vehicle ahead. When traffic is at a very low speed, merging in turn is recommended if it is safe and appropriate. Reduce speed in good time Switch lanes at any time to make progress Choose an appropriate lane in good time Keep the correct separation distance Increase speed to pass through quickly Follow other motorists closely to avoid long queues
28		What is the most common cause of skidding? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingA skid happens when the driver changes the speed or direction of their vehicle so suddenly that the tyres can't keep their grip on the road. Remember that the risk of skidding on a wet or icy road is much greater than in dry conditions. Worn tyres Driver error Other vehicles Pedestrians
29		You are driving on an icy road. How can you avoid wheelspin? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIf you are travelling on a icy road extra caution will be required to avoid loss of control. Keeping your speed down and using the highest gear possible will reduce the risk of the tyres losing their grip on this slippery surface. Drive at a slow speed in as high gear as possible Use the handbrake if the wheels start to slip Brake gently and repeatedly Drive in a low gear at all times
30		You are turning left on a slippery road. The back of your vehicle slides to the right. You should (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingSteer into the skid but be careful not to overcorrect with too much steering. Too much movement may lead to a skid in the opposite direction. Skids don't just happen, they are caused. The three important factors in order are the driver, the vehicle and the road surface. Brake firmly and not turn the steering wheel Steer carefully to the left Steer carefully to the right Brake firmly and steer to the left
31		When driving in falling snow you should (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingBraking on snow can be extremely dangerous. Be gentle with both the accelerator and brake to prevent wheelspin. Brake firmly and quickly Be ready to steer sharply Use sidelights only Brake gently in plenty of time
32		You wish to park facing DOWNHILL. Which TWO of the following should you do? (mark TWO answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingTurning the wheels towards the kerb will allow it to act as a chock, preventing any forward movement of the vehicle. It will also help to leave it in gear, or select Park if you have an automatic. Turn the steering wheel towards the kerb Park close to the bumper of another car Park with two wheels on the kerb Put the handbrake on firmly Turn the steering wheel away from the kerb
33		Anti-lock brakes prevent wheels from locking. This means the tyres are less likely to (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIf an anti-lock braking system is fitted it activates automatically when maximum braking pressure is applied or when it senses that the wheels are about to lock. It prevents the wheels from locking so you can continue to steer the vehicle during braking. It does not remove the need for good driving practices such as anticipation and correct speed for the conditions. Aquaplane Skid Puncture Wear
34		You are planning a long journey. Do you need to plan rest stops? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingTry to plan your journey so that you can take rest stops. It is recommended that you take a break of at least 15 minutes after every two hours of driving. This should help to maintain your concentration. Yes, you should plan to stop every half hour Yes, regular stops help concentration No, you will be less tired if you get there as soon as possible No, only fuel stops will be needed
35		A driver does something that upsets you. You should (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingThere are times when other road users make a misjudgment or mistake. When this happens try not to get annoyed and don't react by showing anger. Sounding your horn, flashing your headlights or shouting won't help the situation. Good anticipation will help to prevent these incidents becoming collisions. Try not to react Let them know how you feel Flash your headlights several times Sound your horn
36		You are following a slow-moving vehicle on a narrow country road. There is a junction just ahead on the right. What should you do?Knowledge and UnderstandingYou should never overtake as you approach a junction. If a vehicle emerged from the junction while you were overtaking, a dangerous situation could develop very quickly. Overtake after checking your mirrors and signalling Stay behind until you are past the junction Accelerate quickly to pass before the junction Slow down and prepare to overtake on the left
37		You think the driver in the vehicle in front has forgotten to cancel their right indicator. You should (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingThe driver may be unsure of the location of a junction and turn suddenly. Be cautious and don't attempt to overtake. Flash your lights to alert the driver Sound your horn before overtaking Overtake on the left if there is room Stay behind and not overtake
38		Motorcyclists will often look round over their right shoulder just before turning right. This is because (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIf you see a motorcyclist take a quick glance over their shoulder, this could mean they are about to change direction. Recognising a clue like this helps you to be prepared and take appropriate action, making you safer on the road. They need to listen for following traffic Motorcycles do not have mirrors Look around helps them balance as they turn They need to check for traffic in their blind area
39		You are dazzled at night by a vehicle behind you. You should (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingThe interior mirror of most vehicles can be set to the anti-dazzle position. You will still be able to see the lights of the traffic behind you, but the dazzle will be greatly reduced. Set you mirror to anti-dazzle Set your mirror to dazzle the other driver Brake sharply to a stop Switch your rear lights on and off
40		Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingAnother road user failing to see a motorcyclist is a major cause of collisions at junctions. Wherever streams of traffic join or cross there is the potential for this type of incident to occur. When moving off On dual carriageways When approaching junctions On motorways
41		You are following two cyclists. They approach a roundabout in the left-hand lane. In which direction should you expect the cyclists to go? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingCyclists approaching a roundabout in the left-hand lane may be turning right but may not have been able to get into the correct lane due to the heavy traffic. They may also feel safer keeping to the left all the way round the roundabout. Be aware of them and give them plenty of room. Left Right Any direction Straight ahead
42		You are driving in town. There is a bus at the bus stop on the other side of the road. Why should you be careful? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIf you see a bus ahead watch out for pedestrians. They may not be able to see you if they are crossing from behind the bus. The bus may have broken down Pedestrians may come from behind the bus The bus may move off suddenly The bus may remain stationary
43		You keep well back waiting to overtake a large vehicle. A car fills the gap. You should? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingIt is very frustrating when your separation distance is shortened by another vehicle. React positively, stay calm and drop further back. Sound your horn Drop back further Flash your headlights Start to overtake
44		You have just driven out of fog. Visibility is now good. You must (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingYou MUST turn off your fog lights if visibility is over 100 metres (328 feet). However, be prepared for the fact that the fog may be patchy. Switch off all your fog lights Keep your rear fog lights on Keep your front fog lights on Leave fog lights on in case fog returns
45		On a three-lane motorway which lane should you normally use? (mark one answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingOn a three-lane motorway you should travel in the left-hand lane unless you are overtaking. This applies regardless of the speed at which you are travelling. Left Right Centre Either the right or centre
46		You are on a motorway. What colour are the reflective studs on the left of the carriageway? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingRed studs are placed between the edge of the carriageway and the hard shoulder. Where slip roads leave or join the motorway the studs are green. Green Red White Amber
47		An MOT certificate is normally valid for (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingMake a note of the date your MOT certificate expires. Some garages remind you that your vehicle is due an MOT but not all do. You may take your vehicle for MOT up to one month in advance and have the certificate post-dated. Three years after the date it was issued 10,000 miles One year after the date it was issued 30,000 miles
48		You are at the scene of an accident. Someone is suffering from shock. You should (mark FOUR answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingThe signs of shock may not be immediately obvious. Prompt treatment can help to minimise the effects. Lay the casualty down, loosen tight clothing, call an ambulance and check their breathing and pulse. Reassure then constantly Offer them a cigarette Keep them warm Avoid moving them if possible Avoid leaving them alone Give them a warm drink
49		How can you stop a caravan snaking from side to side? (mark ONE answer)Knowledge and UnderstandingKeep calm and don't brake harshly or you could lose control completely. Ease off the accelerator until the unit is brought back under control. The most dangerous time is on long downhill gradients. Turn the steering wheel slowly to each side Accelerate to increase your speed Stop as quickly as you can Slow down very gradually
50		Overloading your vehicle can seriously affect the (mark TWO answers)Knowledge and UnderstandingAny load will have an effect on the handling of your vehicle and this becomes worse as you increase the load. Any changes in the centre of gravity or weight the vehicle is carrying will affect its braking and handling on bends. You need to be aware of this when carrying passengers, heavy load, fitting a roof rack or towing a trailer. Gearbox Steering Handling Battery life Journey time

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