Angola Driving Code Theory cheat sheet
Angola Driving Code Theory · Keep the key ideas within reach.
Road signs, signals and markings
Red circles with a white field indicate a prohibition or restriction; the number inside is the maximum or minimum permitted value.
Triangular signs with a red border are warnings; the symbol inside names the hazard (curve, junction, pedestrian crossing, animals).
Blue circular signs are mandatory: they order an action such as turning direction, minimum speed or a compulsory path for a vehicle class.
Rectangular blue or green signs are information/direction signs; they do not impose obligations and may be overridden by police signals.
Yellow or white road markings: a continuous (solid) line may not be crossed; a broken line may be crossed when it is safe and permitted.
A single continuous centre line prohibits overtaking in both directions; a broken line on your side permits overtaking if visibility allows.
Zebra crossings are marked by broad white stripes; pedestrians on them have priority and stopping on the stripes is prohibited.
Traffic light sequence: red, red+amber, green, amber, red; a flashing amber light means proceed with caution and yield.
A police officer's signals override traffic lights, signs and markings; the officer's arm raised means stop for all approaching traffic.
Traffic rules and priority (right of way)
Default rule at an unmarked intersection: yield to traffic approaching from the right.
At a roundabout, traffic already circulating has priority; entering vehicles yield and give way to the left.
A vehicle turning left must yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
A vehicle leaving a private driveway, garage or parking area must yield to all traffic on the road.
Emergency vehicles with sirens and flashing lights have priority; other drivers must clear the way and stop if necessary.
Pedestrians already on a marked crossing have priority; drivers must stop before the crossing, not on it.
When a road narrows or an obstacle blocks your lane, the vehicle whose side is obstructed yields.
Overtaking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings, on bridges, in tunnels, on curves and where the centre line is continuous.
Safe following distance: at least 2 seconds in dry conditions, doubled to 4 seconds in rain or at night.
Road safety and defensive driving
Stopping distance = perception/reaction distance + braking distance; it increases with the square of speed.
Doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance; a 50 km/h stop needs about a quarter of the distance of a 100 km/h stop.
The 2-second rule is measured by counting the time between the vehicle ahead passing a fixed point and your own arrival at it.
In rain, reduce speed and increase following distance; wet asphalt can double braking distance and cause aquaplaning.
Blind spots must be checked by mirror plus a shoulder glance before any lane change or overtaking manoeuvre.
At night, dip headlights when meeting oncoming traffic or following another vehicle to avoid dazzling other drivers.
In fog, use low beams or fog lights, never high beams, because high beams reflect off the fog and reduce visibility.
Defensive driving assumes other road users may err: cover the brake near junctions, schools and parked cars.
Vehicle knowledge, maintenance and safety equipment
Minimum tyre tread depth commonly required is 1.6 mm; worn tyres increase braking distance and aquaplaning risk.
Tyre pressure is checked cold; under-inflation raises fuel consumption, heat and the risk of a blowout.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic and absorbs water; it must be replaced at manufacturer intervals to avoid brake fade.
Engine oil level is checked with the vehicle level and the engine off; the level must sit between the min and max marks.
Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers; children must use an appropriate child restraint system.
A warning triangle must be placed on the road when a vehicle is immobilised, at a distance visible to approaching traffic.
A fire extinguisher, first-aid kit and reflective vest are standard required safety equipment in many jurisdictions.
Red dashboard oil-pressure or temperature warning lights mean stop the engine as soon as it is safe to do so.
Driver conduct, alcohol, drugs and fatigue
Alcohol slows reaction time, reduces peripheral vision and impairs judgement of speed and distance before legal limits are reached.
Angola's traffic code sets a maximum blood alcohol concentration for drivers; exceeding it is an offence with licence and criminal penalties.
Driving under the influence of drugs or medication that impairs driving is prohibited regardless of prescription.
Refusing a breath or blood test when lawfully requested carries penalties similar to driving over the limit.
Fatigue signs: yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting between lanes, missing signs; the only cure is stopping to rest or sleep.
Coffee, fresh air and loud music do not reverse fatigue impairment; a 15-20 minute nap is more effective.
Aggressive driving such as tailgating, horn abuse and sudden braking is a punishable conduct offence.
Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless hands-free and does not distract the driver.
Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures
Protect the scene first: switch on hazard lights, place the warning triangle and wear a reflective vest before approaching.
Call emergency services and give location, number of casualties, injuries and hazards; do not hang up until told to.
Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or oncoming traffic.
Check responsiveness and breathing; if absent, start chest compressions at 100-120 per minute, about 5-6 cm deep.
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure on the wound using a clean cloth; elevate the limb if no fracture is suspected.
Do not remove a motorcycle helmet from an injured rider unless breathing is obstructed.
A driver involved in an accident must stop, give identity and vehicle details, and report to police where required.
Never leave the scene of an accident involving injury; failure to stop is a serious criminal offence.
Traffic law, penalties and documentation
A valid driving licence of the correct category must be carried while driving; driving without one is an offence.
Vehicle registration and insurance documents must be valid and available for inspection on request.
Driving licence categories indicate the vehicle class authorised; driving outside your category is an offence.
Penalties escalate for repeat offences and can include fines, licence suspension, vehicle impoundment and imprisonment.
A driver must present documents and permit a breath test when lawfully requested by a traffic authority.
The vehicle owner is responsible for keeping the vehicle roadworthy, insured and registered.
Traffic fines must be paid within the stated period; unpaid fines can block vehicle registration renewal.
An accident involving injury must be reported to police within the period set by law, even if settled privately.
Vehicle categories, licensing and environmental awareness
Category A covers motorcycles; category B covers light passenger cars up to the prescribed maximum mass.
Heavy goods vehicles and buses require higher categories (C and D); the licence must match the vehicle driven.
Learner drivers must display learner plates and be accompanied by a qualified licensed driver.
A minimum age applies to each licence category; the exact age is set by national traffic legislation.
Eco-driving techniques: smooth acceleration, early gear changes, steady speed and anticipating traffic reduce fuel use.
Excessive idling, harsh braking and over-revving increase fuel consumption and emissions.
Regular maintenance, correct tyre pressure and clean air filters lower emissions and fuel consumption.
Illegal dumping of oil, batteries and tyres pollutes soil and water; they must go to authorised collection points.
Signals, markings and priority - integrated decision rules
Priority order: police signals > traffic lights > road signs > road markings > default right-hand rule.
A stop sign requires a complete stop at the line, then yield to all traffic before proceeding.
A yield sign requires slowing and giving way; you need not stop if the way is clearly free.
At an intersection with a stop line and a sign, stop at the line; if there is no line, stop where you can see approaching traffic.
A driver signalling to turn does not gain priority; the signal indicates intention only.
Flashing amber at a crossing means pedestrians have priority and drivers must proceed with caution.
When traffic lights fail, treat the intersection as unmarked and apply the right-hand priority rule.
Speed, distance and stopping rules
Speed limits are set per road type and are shown by circular red-bordered signs; the number is km/h.
A driver must always be able to stop within the distance they can see to be clear ahead.
In built-up areas, limits are lower than on open roads; near schools and hospitals extra caution is required.
Minimum speed limits, where posted, prohibit driving slower than the stated value without justification.
When towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load, the maximum permitted speed is reduced.
Speed must be reduced in rain, fog, at night and on gravel, because stopping distance increases.
The 2-second rule is a minimum; 4 seconds is the safe rule in adverse weather.
Loads, passengers and vehicle use restrictions
A load must be secured so it cannot shift, fall or obstruct lights, mirrors or the number plate.
Passengers must not be carried in a way that obstructs the driver or exceeds the vehicle's seating capacity.
Children under the prescribed height/weight must use an approved child restraint.
Seat belts must be worn by all occupants where fitted; the driver is responsible for ensuring this.
Overloading beyond the permitted gross vehicle mass is an offence and affects braking and stability.
Towing requires a suitable coupling, safety chain and working lights on the trailer.
Carrying dangerous goods requires proper packaging, marking and documentation under transport regulations.
Licence points, suspension and vehicle impoundment
Serious offences such as drink-driving or driving without a licence can lead to immediate licence suspension.
Demerit/points systems, where applied, accumulate against a driver; reaching the threshold suspends the licence.
Repeated traffic offences escalate penalties and can lead to licence withdrawal.
A vehicle may be impounded for unlicensed driving, unroadworthiness or involvement in certain offences.
Driving while disqualified or suspended is a separate, more serious offence.
A driver must produce licence and vehicle documents on request; failing to do so can result in a fine.
Insurance must be valid; driving uninsured can result in penalties and personal liability for damage.
Emergency braking, skids and breakdowns
If a tyre blows out, grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator and steer straight; do not brake hard.
If the vehicle skids, steer into the skid and avoid harsh braking or acceleration.
If brakes fail, pump the pedal, use engine braking by downshifting, and use the handbrake gradually.
On a breakdown, move to the hard shoulder or as far off the carriageway as possible, then place the warning triangle.
Occupants should exit on the side away from traffic and stand behind the barrier where possible.
Hazard lights are used to warn others of a stationary or slow-moving hazard, not to justify illegal parking.
After a breakdown, rejoin traffic only when you have built up speed to match the flow safely.
Pedestrians, cyclists and vulnerable road users
Drivers must yield to pedestrians on marked crossings and to pedestrians already crossing at junctions.
When turning at a junction, yield to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.
Cyclists and motorcyclists are entitled to a safe passing distance; give them room when overtaking.
Children, the elderly and people with reduced mobility need extra caution near schools, markets and residential areas.
Motorcyclists are less visible; check blind spots carefully before changing lanes or turning.
Honking near animals or vulnerable users can startle them; use the horn only to warn of danger.
In poor visibility, vulnerable users are harder to see; reduce speed and increase following distance.
Documents, inspection and roadworthiness
The vehicle must pass periodic technical inspection where required; an expired inspection is an offence.
Registration, insurance and inspection certificates must be valid and kept in the vehicle.
Tyres, brakes, lights, steering and wipers must be in working order before the vehicle is used on the road.
Number plates must be clean, visible and correctly fitted; obscured plates are an offence.
Lights must be used at night and in poor visibility; defective lights make the vehicle unroadworthy.
A vehicle involved in an accident must be re-checked for roadworthiness before returning to service.
The registered owner is responsible for the vehicle's roadworthiness regardless of who drives it.
Environmental awareness and eco-driving
Smooth acceleration and early gear changes reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Anticipating traffic and coasting to a stop instead of hard braking saves fuel and brake wear.
Correct tyre pressure and regular servicing reduce fuel use and emissions.
Excessive idling wastes fuel and increases emissions; switch off the engine when stationary for long periods.
Used oil, batteries and tyres must go to authorised collection points, not be dumped.
A well-maintained engine with a clean air filter burns fuel more efficiently.
Car-pooling and using public transport reduce emissions per passenger.
Signals and communication with other road users
Indicators must be used before turning, changing lanes or pulling out, and cancelled after the manoeuvre.
The horn is used only to warn of danger, not to express impatience or annoyance.
Headlight flashing may warn others of your presence or a hazard; it does not confer priority.
Hazard lights warn of a stationary or slow-moving hazard; they do not authorise illegal parking.
Brake lights warn following drivers of deceleration; tapping them early gives others time to react.
Hand signals may be used where indicators fail, but must be clear and unambiguous.
A signal of intention does not give the right of way; other road users must still be yielded to.
Parking, stopping and prohibited places
Parking is prohibited on pedestrian crossings, on the pavement, at bus stops and in front of driveways.
Stopping is prohibited where it would obstruct traffic, block a junction or hide a sign or signal.
Park with the vehicle facing the direction of traffic where required, and within marked bays.
On a hill, apply the handbrake, engage a gear and turn the wheels toward the kerb where appropriate.
Do not park within the prescribed distance of a junction, crossing or traffic light.
When leaving a parked position, yield to all traffic already on the road.
Double parking and blocking emergency access routes are prohibited.
Motorcycle and two-wheeler safety
A helmet is mandatory for riders and passengers; it must be correctly fastened.
Motorcyclists must use headlights to increase visibility, day and night.
Riders should wear protective clothing, gloves and footwear to reduce injury severity.
Lane splitting and weaving between vehicles increase the risk of collision and are restricted.
Motorcycles must not carry more passengers than the seat is designed for.
Braking on a motorcycle requires both brakes applied progressively, more front than rear.
Riders should position themselves to be visible in other drivers' mirrors and avoid blind spots.
Night driving and reduced visibility
Use low beams when meeting oncoming traffic or following another vehicle to avoid dazzling.
High beams are for unlit roads with no oncoming traffic; dip them when others approach.
In fog, use fog lights or low beams; high beams reflect off fog and reduce visibility.
At night, reduce speed so you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights.
Keep the windscreen and lights clean; dirt scatters light and reduces visibility.
Drowsiness is more dangerous at night; plan rest stops on long journeys.
In rain, headlights must be on; visibility and stopping distance are both reduced.
Railway crossings and special hazards
At a railway crossing, stop if the barrier is down, lights are flashing or a train is approaching; never cross.
Do not stop on the tracks; ensure the exit is clear before crossing.
A St Andrew's cross marks a railway crossing without barriers.
At a crossing without signals, stop, look and listen before proceeding.
Never overtake at a railway crossing or on the approach to one.
Steep descents require a lower gear to use engine braking and avoid brake fade.
On gravel or loose surfaces, reduce speed and avoid sudden steering or braking.
Alcohol and drug testing procedures
A breath test may be requested by a traffic officer when there is reasonable suspicion of alcohol use.
Refusing a lawful breath or blood test carries penalties similar to driving over the limit.
A blood sample may be taken for testing where a breath test is not possible or is disputed.
The legal blood alcohol limit is set by national legislation; exceeding it is an offence.
Driving under the influence of drugs is prohibited regardless of prescription status.
Impairment can occur below the legal limit; the safest choice is not to drink and drive.
Penalties for drink-driving can include fines, licence suspension and imprisonment.
First aid: bleeding, burns and fractures
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure using a clean cloth; do not remove soaked dressings, add more on top.
For burns, cool with clean running water for at least 10 minutes; do not apply ice, butter or ointments.
Do not pop blisters from a burn; cover with a clean, non-stick dressing.
For a suspected fracture, immobilise the limb and do not attempt to straighten it.
For suspected spinal injury, keep the casualty still and do not move them unless in immediate danger.
For shock, lay the casualty down, keep them warm and reassure them while awaiting help.
Do not give food or drink to a casualty who is unconscious or may need surgery.
CPR and the recovery position
Check responsiveness and breathing before starting CPR; call emergency services first.
Chest compressions: 100-120 per minute, about 5-6 cm deep, with full recoil between compressions.
Compression-to-breath ratio for adults is 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths where trained.
If untrained, perform continuous chest compressions until help arrives.
Use an AED as soon as available; follow its voice prompts and do not touch the casualty during analysis.
Place an unconscious but breathing casualty in the recovery position to keep the airway open.
Continue CPR until the casualty responds, help arrives or you are too exhausted to continue.
Accident scene management and reporting
Secure the scene first: hazard lights, warning triangle and reflective vest.
Call emergency services and give location, number of casualties, injuries and hazards.
Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic.
Do not remove a motorcycle helmet unless breathing is obstructed.
A driver involved in an accident must stop, give identity and vehicle details, and report to police where required.
Never leave the scene of an accident involving injury; failure to stop is a serious offence.
Exchange details with other parties and note witnesses and vehicle registration numbers.
Licensing categories and learner rules
Category A covers motorcycles; category B covers light passenger cars up to the prescribed maximum mass.
Heavy goods vehicles and buses require higher categories (C and D).
Learner drivers must display learner plates and be accompanied by a qualified licensed driver.
A minimum age applies to each licence category, set by national traffic legislation.
Driving outside your licence category is an offence.
A licence must be valid and carried while driving; driving without one is an offence.
Learner drivers are subject to restrictions on speed, passengers and road types where prescribed.
Insurance, liability and claims
Third-party insurance covers damage or injury caused to others; it is the minimum commonly required.
Comprehensive insurance also covers damage to your own vehicle.
Driving uninsured can result in penalties and personal liability for damage caused.
After an accident, exchange insurance details and report to your insurer within the required period.
Do not admit fault at the scene; report the facts to your insurer and police.
Keep the insurance certificate in the vehicle and produce it on request.
Insurance may be void if the driver was unlicensed or driving under the influence.
Signs: shapes, colours and meanings
Red circles with a white field indicate a prohibition or restriction.
Triangular signs with a red border are warnings; the symbol names the hazard.
Blue circular signs are mandatory and order an action.
Rectangular blue or green signs are information/direction signs.
A stop sign is octagonal and red; a yield sign is an inverted triangle.
Yellow or white markings: a continuous line may not be crossed; a broken line may be crossed when safe.
Zebra crossings are marked by broad white stripes; pedestrians on them have priority.
Traffic light phases and failure
Traffic light sequence: red, red+amber, green, amber, red.
Red means stop at the line; do not proceed until green.
Amber means stop unless it is unsafe to do so.
Red+amber means prepare to go but do not move until green.
A flashing amber light means proceed with caution and yield to pedestrians.
When traffic lights fail, treat the intersection as unmarked and apply the right-hand priority rule.
A police officer's signals override traffic lights, signs and markings.
Following distance and overtaking rules
Safe following distance: at least 2 seconds in dry conditions, doubled to 4 seconds in rain or at night.
Overtaking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings, on bridges, in tunnels, on curves and where the centre line is continuous.
Before overtaking, check mirrors, signal, check blind spot and ensure the road ahead is clear.
Do not overtake a vehicle that is already overtaking or that has signalled to turn.
Return to your lane only when you can see the overtaken vehicle in your mirror.
A driver being overtaken must not accelerate; keep a steady speed and position.
Overtake on the left unless the vehicle ahead is signalling a right turn and there is room to pass on the right.
Roundabouts and junctions
At a roundabout, traffic already circulating has priority; entering vehicles yield to the left.
Signal right before leaving a roundabout and check mirrors before exiting.
At an unmarked intersection, yield to traffic approaching from the right.
A vehicle turning left must yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
A stop sign requires a complete stop at the line, then yield to all traffic.
A yield sign requires slowing and giving way; you need not stop if the way is clearly free.
A vehicle leaving a private driveway must yield to all traffic on the road.
Emergency vehicles and priority
Emergency vehicles with sirens and flashing lights have priority; other drivers must clear the way.
Do not follow an emergency vehicle closely or use its passage to gain advantage.
When an emergency vehicle approaches, pull over to the side and stop if necessary.
Do not block junctions or crossings when an emergency vehicle is approaching.
Emergency vehicles may be exempt from certain traffic rules when responding to an emergency.
Give way to ambulances, fire engines and police vehicles showing blue or red flashing lights.
Failure to give way to an emergency vehicle is an offence.
Vehicle checks before driving
Check tyres for tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm) and correct pressure when cold.
Check that all lights, indicators and brake lights work.
Check engine oil, coolant and brake fluid levels.
Check that mirrors, wipers and washers are clean and functional.
Check that the seat belt and child restraints are correctly fastened.
Check that the warning triangle, fire extinguisher and first-aid kit are present.
Check that the number plate is clean, visible and correctly fitted.
Warning lights and breakdowns
Red dashboard oil-pressure or temperature warning lights mean stop the engine as soon as it is safe to do so.
A battery warning light indicates a charging fault; reduce electrical load and seek repair.
On a breakdown, move to the hard shoulder or as far off the carriageway as possible.
Place the warning triangle at a distance visible to approaching traffic.
Occupants should exit on the side away from traffic and stand behind the barrier where possible.
Hazard lights warn of a stationary or slow-moving hazard; they do not justify illegal parking.
Rejoin traffic only when you have built up speed to match the flow safely.
Seat belts, child restraints and loads
Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers where fitted.
Children under the prescribed height/weight must use an approved child restraint.
The driver is responsible for ensuring all occupants are belted.
A load must be secured so it cannot shift, fall or obstruct lights, mirrors or the number plate.
Overloading beyond the permitted gross vehicle mass is an offence and affects braking and stability.
Towing requires a suitable coupling, safety chain and working lights on the trailer.
Carrying dangerous goods requires proper packaging, marking and documentation.
Fatigue and distraction
Fatigue signs: yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting between lanes, missing signs.
The only cure for fatigue is stopping to rest or sleep; coffee and fresh air do not reverse impairment.
A 15-20 minute nap is more effective than coffee for reversing fatigue.
Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless hands-free and does not distract the driver.
Eating, smoking or adjusting devices while driving increases distraction risk.
Plan rest stops on long journeys and avoid driving during normal sleep hours.
Aggressive driving such as tailgating and sudden braking is a punishable conduct offence.
Pedestrian crossings and school zones
Pedestrians already on a marked crossing have priority; drivers must stop before the crossing, not on it.
When turning at a junction, yield to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.
Zebra crossings are marked by broad white stripes; stopping on the stripes is prohibited.
In school zones, reduce speed and be ready to stop for children.
Honking near animals or vulnerable users can startle them; use the horn only to warn of danger.
In poor visibility, vulnerable users are harder to see; reduce speed and increase following distance.
Children, the elderly and people with reduced mobility need extra caution near schools, markets and residential areas.
Speed limits and safe speed
Speed limits are set per road type and shown by circular red-bordered signs; the number is km/h.
A driver must always be able to stop within the distance they can see to be clear ahead.
In built-up areas, limits are lower than on open roads; near schools and hospitals extra caution is required.
Minimum speed limits, where posted, prohibit driving slower than the stated value without justification.
When towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load, the maximum permitted speed is reduced.
Speed must be reduced in rain, fog, at night and on gravel, because stopping distance increases.
Doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance.
Parking and stopping rules
Parking is prohibited on pedestrian crossings, on the pavement, at bus stops and in front of driveways.
Stopping is prohibited where it would obstruct traffic, block a junction or hide a sign or signal.
Park with the vehicle facing the direction of traffic where required, and within marked bays.
On a hill, apply the handbrake, engage a gear and turn the wheels toward the kerb where appropriate.
Do not park within the prescribed distance of a junction, crossing or traffic light.
When leaving a parked position, yield to all traffic already on the road.
Double parking and blocking emergency access routes are prohibited.
Environmental and eco-driving rules
Smooth acceleration and early gear changes reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Anticipating traffic and coasting to a stop instead of hard braking saves fuel and brake wear.
Correct tyre pressure and regular servicing reduce fuel use and emissions.
Excessive idling wastes fuel and increases emissions; switch off the engine when stationary for long periods.
Used oil, batteries and tyres must go to authorised collection points, not be dumped.
A well-maintained engine with a clean air filter burns fuel more efficiently.
Car-pooling and using public transport reduce emissions per passenger.