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NSW Heavy Vehicle Knowledge Test study materials
NSW Heavy Vehicle Knowledge Test study resources

NSW Heavy Vehicle Knowledge Test practice questions

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Question 1Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

At what distance before turning must a driver of a heavy vehicle signal their intention to turn left or right?

  1. At least 100 metres
  2. At least 30 metres
  3. At least 50 metres Correct answer.
  4. At least 5 metres

Explanation

Drivers must signal for long enough to give other road users warning. For a heavy vehicle the required warning distance before a turn is at least 50 metres. Signalling earlier is permitted and often safer in traffic.

Question 2Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is travelling on a road with a posted speed limit of 100 km/h. What is the maximum speed a heavy vehicle with a GVM over 12 tonnes may travel in NSW unless a lower limit applies?

  1. 110 km/h
  2. 90 km/h
  3. 80 km/h
  4. 100 km/h Correct answer.

Explanation

Heavy vehicles are generally bound by the posted speed limit for the road, so on a 100 km/h road they may travel up to 100 km/h. Lower limits apply where signs or vehicle conditions require them. The posted limit is the ceiling, not a target.

Question 3Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the minimum safe following distance a heavy vehicle driver should maintain behind another vehicle in good conditions?

  1. A gap of at least three seconds Correct answer.
  2. Two seconds
  3. One second
  4. Half a vehicle length

Explanation

The general guidance is to leave at least a three-second gap in good conditions. Heavy vehicles need longer stopping distances, so a greater gap is advisable. The gap should increase in rain, at night or when loaded.

Question 4Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A driver is overtaking a slower vehicle on a two-lane road. When may the driver return to the left lane after passing?

  1. Once the driver has flashed headlights
  2. When the overtaken vehicle is visible in the left mirror and there is a safe gap Correct answer.
  3. As soon as the front of the truck passes the other vehicle
  4. Immediately after signalling left

Explanation

A driver should only move back once there is a safe gap and the overtaken vehicle can be seen in the mirror. Returning too early can cut off the other vehicle. Signalling does not by itself make the move safe.

Question 5Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What should a heavy vehicle driver do when approaching a railway level crossing with a stop sign and flashing red lights?

  1. Sound the horn and cross quickly
  2. Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing and it is safe Correct answer.
  3. Proceed slowly if no train is visible
  4. Stop only if a train is within 100 metres

Explanation

At a level crossing with a stop sign and flashing red lights, the driver must stop and remain stopped until the signals stop and the crossing is clear. Trains can approach faster than they appear. Never rely on a quick look alone.

Question 6Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is carrying a load that overhangs the rear by more than the permitted projection. What must the driver do?

  1. Travel only during daylight
  2. Sound the horn at every intersection
  3. Reduce speed to 40 km/h
  4. Display a warning flag or sign at the rear of the load Correct answer.

Explanation

Loads that project beyond the permitted rear overhang must carry a clearly visible warning device such as a flag or sign. This warns following traffic of the projection. Speed or time-of-day restrictions do not replace the warning requirement.

Question 7Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

When is a heavy vehicle driver permitted to use a mobile phone while the vehicle is moving?

  1. When driving below 40 km/h
  2. When using a hands-free device mounted in a cradle Correct answer.
  3. When making a short call
  4. When stopped at traffic lights

Explanation

A driver may use a phone only through a hands-free device that is mounted in a cradle and does not require touching. Holding or touching a phone while driving is illegal. Stopping at lights still counts as being in control of a moving vehicle in traffic.

Question 8Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the purpose of a low gear when a heavy vehicle descends a long steep hill?

  1. To increase vehicle speed
  2. To use engine braking and prevent brake fade Correct answer.
  3. To reduce fuel consumption
  4. To reduce tyre wear

Explanation

Selecting a low gear uses engine braking to help control speed on a descent. Relying only on the footbrake can overheat the brakes and cause fade. The gear should be selected before the descent begins.

Question 9Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a black symbol on a heavy vehicle route typically indicate?

  1. A compulsory stop
  2. A parking zone
  3. A speed camera location
  4. A warning of a hazard or road feature ahead Correct answer.

Explanation

Yellow diamond signs warn drivers of hazards or road features ahead, such as curves or narrow bridges. They are advisory warnings, not commands. Drivers should adjust speed and position accordingly.

Question 10Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle approaches a roundabout and intends to take the second exit. Which lane position and signal should the driver use?

  1. Approach in any lane and signal right throughout
  2. Approach in the left lane, signal left on exit Correct answer.
  3. Approach in the right lane and stay there
  4. Approach in the left lane without signalling and exit

Explanation

For a straight-through or second exit, a driver generally approaches in the left lane and signals left when leaving the roundabout. This tells other drivers of the exit intention. Signalling left on exit is required.

Question 11Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

How should a heavy vehicle driver adjust following distance when the road is wet?

  1. Reduce the gap to avoid other vehicles
  2. Keep the same gap as in dry conditions
  3. Increase the gap well beyond three seconds Correct answer.
  4. Follow at exactly one second

Explanation

Wet roads increase stopping distances, so the following gap should be increased well beyond the dry-weather minimum. A heavier vehicle takes longer to stop when traction is reduced. Extra space gives time to react.

Question 12Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the effect of fatigue on a heavy vehicle driver's ability to drive safely?

  1. It slows reaction time and impairs judgement Correct answer.
  2. It has no effect on professional drivers
  3. It improves concentration on long trips
  4. It only affects drivers at night

Explanation

Fatigue slows reaction time, reduces attention and impairs judgement, all of which increase crash risk. Rest breaks and adequate sleep are essential. Fatigue affects all drivers regardless of experience.

Question 13Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is involved in a crash where a person is injured. What must the driver do?

  1. Continue to the destination first
  2. Move the vehicle without stopping
  3. Stop, render assistance and report to police Correct answer.
  4. Leave the scene to report to the depot

Explanation

A driver involved in a crash causing injury must stop, give assistance as far as possible and report the crash to police. Failing to stop is an offence. The driver must exchange details with other parties.

Question 14Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

When should a heavy vehicle driver use hazard warning lights?

  1. When driving in light rain
  2. When parking in a loading zone
  3. When overtaking a slow vehicle
  4. When the vehicle is broken down or moving slowly as a hazard Correct answer.

Explanation

Hazard lights warn other road users of a stationary or slow-moving hazard, such as a breakdown. They are not for normal driving or routine manoeuvres. Misuse can confuse other drivers.

Question 15Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A driver of a heavy vehicle must check the load before departure. What is the main reason for this check?

  1. To speed up loading times
  2. To improve vehicle appearance
  3. To ensure the load is secure and within limits Correct answer.
  4. To reduce fuel use

Explanation

Loads must be secured so they cannot shift or fall, and must be within mass and dimension limits. An unsecured load can cause a crash or spill onto the road. The check protects the driver and other road users.

Question 16Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

On a multi-lane road, a heavy vehicle driver wants to change lanes. What is the safest procedure?

  1. Rely only on the left mirror
  2. Signal and move immediately
  3. Change lanes without signalling
  4. Signal, check mirrors and blind spot, then move when clear Correct answer.

Explanation

A lane change requires signalling, checking mirrors and checking the blind spot before moving. Heavy vehicles have large blind spots, so a head check is important. Moving only when clear avoids side-swipe collisions.

Question 17Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is a heavy vehicle's blind spot?

  1. A section of road with no speed limit
  2. A defect in the windscreen
  3. An area the driver cannot see in mirrors or directly Correct answer.
  4. A zone where parking is prohibited

Explanation

Blind spots are areas around the vehicle that the driver cannot see through mirrors or direct vision. Heavy vehicles have large blind spots, especially close beside and behind. Drivers should check blind spots before manoeuvring.

Question 18Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is parked on a road at night. What lighting must be displayed?

  1. Parking lights or hazard lights as required by the rules Correct answer.
  2. Only interior lights
  3. High beam headlights
  4. No lights are required if parked off the carriageway

Explanation

At night, a parked vehicle on or near a road must display appropriate lights so it can be seen, such as parking lights or hazard lights where required. This prevents collisions with other road users. High beam is not appropriate for a parked vehicle.

Question 19Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A driver is approaching a pedestrian crossing where a pedestrian is waiting to cross. What should the driver do?

  1. Continue at the same speed
  2. Sound the horn to warn the pedestrian
  3. Accelerate to pass before the pedestrian steps out
  4. Slow down and be prepared to stop for the pedestrian Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers must give way to pedestrians at crossings and should slow down and prepare to stop. Heavy vehicles need longer stopping distances, so early preparation is important. Horn use does not give a driver priority.

Question 20Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the correct action when a heavy vehicle's brakes feel spongy or the pedal sinks toward the floor?

  1. Use the handbrake only for the rest of the trip
  2. Stop safely and have the braking system checked before continuing Correct answer.
  3. Ignore it until the next scheduled service
  4. Pump the brakes repeatedly and continue at speed

Explanation

A spongy or sinking brake pedal can indicate a fault in the braking system. The driver should stop safely and have the system inspected before continuing. Driving with faulty brakes is dangerous and illegal.

Question 21Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is travelling down a hill and the driver notices the brakes overheating and losing effectiveness. What is the best response?

  1. Continue and use the brakes harder
  2. Select a lower gear and use engine braking to slow down Correct answer.
  3. Accelerate to cool the brakes
  4. Turn off the engine while moving

Explanation

Brake fade occurs when brakes overheat and lose effectiveness. Selecting a lower gear engages engine braking to help control speed without relying solely on the footbrake. The driver should also find a safe place to stop and let the brakes cool.

Question 22Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What does the term 'GVM' mean on a heavy vehicle?

  1. Gross Vehicle Mass, the maximum loaded mass of the vehicle Correct answer.
  2. General Vehicle Maintenance
  3. Gross Vehicle Movement, the distance travelled
  4. Ground Vehicle Manoeuvre

Explanation

GVM stands for Gross Vehicle Mass, the maximum mass a vehicle is permitted to operate at when loaded. It includes the vehicle and its load. Exceeding the GVM is an offence and reduces safety.

Question 23Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is driving in fog during the day. Which action is most appropriate?

  1. Use high beam headlights to see further
  2. Turn on hazard lights and maintain speed
  3. Switch off headlights to avoid glare
  4. Use low beam headlights and reduce speed Correct answer.

Explanation

In fog, low beam headlights reduce glare and improve visibility, and speed should be reduced to match conditions. High beam reflects off the fog and worsens visibility. Hazard lights are not a substitute for appropriate lighting while moving.

Question 24Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is required to keep a work diary. What is the main purpose of this record?

  1. To record delivery addresses only
  2. To track fuel purchases
  3. To record work and rest hours to manage fatigue Correct answer.
  4. To list vehicle repairs

Explanation

A work diary records a driver's work and rest hours so that fatigue-related limits can be checked. It helps ensure drivers take required rest breaks. Accurate records protect both the driver and the public.

Question 25Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is stopped at an intersection and the driver intends to turn left. A cyclist is in the left lane beside the vehicle. What should the driver do?

  1. Sound the horn and turn
  2. Turn left, expecting the cyclist to stop
  3. Move forward slowly and turn
  4. Wait until the cyclist has cleared the turn path Correct answer.

Explanation

The driver must give way to the cyclist travelling in the same direction and wait until the cyclist clears the turn path. Heavy vehicles have large blind spots on the left, so extra care is needed. Turning across a cyclist risks a serious collision.

Question 26Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the general speed limit for a heavy vehicle in a built-up area in New South Wales unless signs show otherwise?

  1. 60 km/h
  2. 40 km/h
  3. 50 km/h Correct answer.
  4. 80 km/h

Explanation

In built-up areas the default speed limit is 50 km/h unless posted signs indicate a different limit. Drivers must always obey the lower of the signposted limit or the default.

Question 27Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is about to reverse in a yard where visibility behind the vehicle is limited. What is the safest action?

  1. Rely on the reversing camera alone
  2. Reverse slowly while sounding the horn continuously
  3. Ask another driver to move the vehicle instead
  4. Use a spotter or check behind before reversing and reverse slowly Correct answer.

Explanation

When visibility behind is limited, the driver should walk around the vehicle or use a spotter, then reverse slowly and keep checking. Mirrors and cameras help but do not replace direct observation.

Question 28Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What does a 'give way' sign require a heavy vehicle driver to do?

  1. Stop completely before proceeding
  2. Sound the horn before entering
  3. Proceed if the road looks clear without slowing
  4. Slow down and give way to traffic already on the road Correct answer.

Explanation

A give way sign requires the driver to slow down and yield to vehicles already on the intersecting road or roundabout. A full stop is only required if necessary to give way safely.

Question 29Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is travelling on a road with a solid white edge line. What does this line generally indicate?

  1. A lane reserved for overtaking
  2. A line that can be crossed freely at any time
  3. The edge of the carriageway, which should not be crossed except for a permitted reason Correct answer.
  4. The centre of the road

Explanation

A solid edge line marks the edge of the carriageway. Drivers should stay within the line except when permitted, for example to enter a driveway or park.

Question 30Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the minimum legal blood alcohol concentration for a driver holding a heavy vehicle licence?

  1. 0.02
  2. 0.05
  3. 0.08
  4. 0.00 Correct answer.

Explanation

Heavy vehicle drivers must have a zero blood alcohol concentration while driving. Any alcohol in the system breaches the law for these licence holders.

Question 31Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

How should a heavy vehicle driver secure a load that could shift during travel?

  1. Use appropriate restraints such as straps or chains rated for the load Correct answer.
  2. Place the load against the tailgate only
  3. Rely on the load's own weight to hold it in place
  4. Ask a passenger to watch the load

Explanation

Loads must be restrained with suitable equipment rated for the load so they cannot move or fall. Weight alone is not a restraint.

Question 32Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

When must a heavy vehicle driver stop at a railway level crossing with flashing red lights?

  1. Only if a train is visible
  2. Only if the crossing has a boom gate
  3. Only when carrying dangerous goods
  4. Always, until the lights stop flashing and it is safe Correct answer.

Explanation

Flashing red lights at a level crossing mean the driver must stop and remain stopped until the lights stop and it is safe to cross. A driver must not proceed while the lights are flashing.

Question 33Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is driving at night on an unlit road. When should high beam be dimmed?

  1. Never, because heavy vehicles need maximum visibility
  2. Only when the road has no centre line
  3. When approaching another vehicle or following closely behind one Correct answer.
  4. Only when driving in a built-up area

Explanation

High beam must be dipped when approaching oncoming traffic or following another vehicle closely so the driver is not dazzled. Low beam should be used in those situations.

Question 34Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is planning a long trip and wants to manage fatigue. Which practice best supports this?

  1. Driving through the night to avoid traffic
  2. Driving faster to reach the destination sooner
  3. Relying on coffee to stay awake
  4. Planning regular rest breaks and stopping when tired Correct answer.

Explanation

Fatigue is best managed by planning adequate rest breaks and stopping when tired. Stimulants and speed do not replace sleep.

Question 35Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What should a heavy vehicle driver do when a 'load limit' sign shows a mass lower than the vehicle's current mass?

  1. Take an alternative route or reduce the load before proceeding Correct answer.
  2. Proceed if the load is evenly distributed
  3. Proceed carefully because the sign is only advisory
  4. Proceed only at low speed

Explanation

A load limit sign is a legal restriction on the mass permitted on that road or structure. The driver must not proceed if the vehicle exceeds it and should use another route or reduce the load.

Question 36Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is towing a trailer and the driver wants to overtake. What must the driver consider?

  1. Only the speed of the vehicle ahead
  2. The colour of the vehicle ahead
  3. Whether the trailer is loaded
  4. The extra length and reduced acceleration of the combination Correct answer.

Explanation

A towing combination is longer and accelerates more slowly, so more clear road is needed to overtake safely. The driver must judge the gap accordingly.

Question 37Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the effect of a heavy vehicle's high centre of gravity when cornering?

  1. It has no effect on handling
  2. It increases the risk of rollover if cornering too fast Correct answer.
  3. It makes the vehicle more stable in turns
  4. It improves braking performance

Explanation

A high centre of gravity means the vehicle is more prone to rolling over when cornering too fast or changing direction sharply. Drivers should reduce speed before entering a turn.

Question 38Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver sees a 'bridge load limit' sign showing a mass lower than the vehicle's gross mass. What is the correct action?

  1. Cross slowly to reduce stress on the bridge
  2. Cross if the vehicle is empty
  3. Do not cross and find an alternative route Correct answer.
  4. Cross only if the bridge looks strong

Explanation

A bridge load limit is a legal maximum mass for the structure. A vehicle exceeding it must not cross and should use another route.

Question 39Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the main purpose of a pre-trip inspection of a heavy vehicle?

  1. To check the vehicle is safe and roadworthy before use Correct answer.
  2. To check the weather forecast
  3. To record the trip distance
  4. To plan the route

Explanation

A pre-trip inspection identifies defects that could affect safety before the vehicle is used. It covers items such as tyres, brakes, lights and load security.

Question 40Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle is travelling on a freeway and the driver misses the intended exit. What is the safest action?

  1. Stop and wait for a gap to reverse
  2. Continue to the next exit and turn around safely Correct answer.
  3. Make a U-turn across the median
  4. Reverse along the shoulder to the exit

Explanation

Missing an exit should be handled by continuing to the next exit and turning around safely. Reversing or U-turning on a freeway is dangerous and illegal.

Question 41Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What must a heavy vehicle driver do before entering a tunnel carrying dangerous goods?

  1. Switch off all lights
  2. Check whether dangerous goods are permitted and comply with any restrictions Correct answer.
  3. Increase speed to clear the tunnel quickly
  4. Sound the horn to warn other drivers

Explanation

Some tunnels restrict dangerous goods. Drivers must check the restrictions and comply before entering, and must not proceed if their load is prohibited.

Question 42Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is following a motorcycle. What should the driver do to reduce risk?

  1. Allow extra following distance and avoid sudden braking Correct answer.
  2. Overtake immediately regardless of conditions
  3. Flash high beam to warn the rider
  4. Follow closely so the motorcycle does not change lanes

Explanation

Motorcyclists are vulnerable and may stop or swerve suddenly. Allowing extra following distance and avoiding abrupt movements reduces the risk of collision.

Question 43Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the correct way for a heavy vehicle driver to approach a steep descent?

  1. Coast in neutral to save fuel
  2. Select a low gear before the descent and use engine braking Correct answer.
  3. Increase speed to clear the descent quickly
  4. Rely only on the foot brake throughout the descent

Explanation

Selecting a low gear before the descent allows engine braking to control speed and reduces reliance on the foot brake. This helps prevent brake fade.

Question 44Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is parked on a road with a slope. What should the driver do to prevent the vehicle moving?

  1. Apply the parking brake and select a suitable gear Correct answer.
  2. Leave it in neutral without a brake
  3. Rely on the foot brake only
  4. Chock only the front wheels

Explanation

On a slope the parking brake should be applied and a suitable gear selected to help hold the vehicle. Wheels should also be chocked where appropriate.

Question 45Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver notices a tyre with a deep cut in the sidewall during a pre-trip check. What should the driver do?

  1. Report the defect and not use the vehicle until it is repaired Correct answer.
  2. Drive at reduced speed and monitor it
  3. Only replace it if it loses pressure
  4. Cover the cut with tape and proceed

Explanation

A sidewall cut can weaken the tyre and lead to failure. The vehicle should be reported as defective and not used until the tyre is repaired or replaced.

Question 46Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is required to display a 'long vehicle' sign. What is the main purpose of this sign?

  1. To indicate the vehicle's route
  2. To warn other road users that the vehicle is unusually long Correct answer.
  3. To show the driver's experience level
  4. To show the vehicle's mass

Explanation

A long vehicle sign warns other road users that the vehicle is longer than usual so they can allow extra room. It is a warning device, not a mass or route marker.

Question 47Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is approaching a sharp left bend on a narrow road and a large vehicle is coming the other way. What is the safest action?

  1. Sound the horn and continue at the same speed
  2. Slow down and keep as far left as is safe Correct answer.
  3. Accelerate to pass before the other vehicle arrives
  4. Maintain speed and stay close to the centre line

Explanation

On a narrow bend the driver should slow down and keep well to the left to allow room for the oncoming vehicle. Maintaining speed near the centre line risks a collision.

Question 48Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

What is the main reason heavy vehicle drivers should use a lower gear when driving on a slippery road?

  1. To reduce wheelspin and improve control Correct answer.
  2. To reduce engine noise
  3. To increase top speed
  4. To increase fuel efficiency

Explanation

A lower gear reduces the risk of wheelspin and gives better control on slippery surfaces. It also allows engine braking to be used smoothly.

Question 49Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is carrying a load that makes the vehicle taller than usual. What should the driver check before travelling?

  1. The fuel level only
  2. The number of passengers
  3. Clearance heights on the planned route Correct answer.
  4. The load's colour

Explanation

An overheight load can strike bridges, tunnels or overhead structures. The driver must check clearance heights on the route before travelling.

Question 50Heavy vehicle road rules and safe driving

A heavy vehicle driver is involved in a crash and another driver is injured. What is the driver's legal obligation?

  1. Stop, render assistance and report the crash to police Correct answer.
  2. Continue to the destination and report later
  3. Leave the scene if the vehicle is drivable
  4. Only exchange details if the other driver asks

Explanation

After a crash involving injury the driver must stop, give assistance and report the crash to police as required by law. Leaving the scene is an offence.