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NSW Rider Knowledge Test study materials
NSW Rider Knowledge Test study resources

NSW Rider Knowledge Test practice questions

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Question 1Road rules and rider knowledge

In New South Wales, what is the maximum blood alcohol concentration permitted for a learner or provisional rider?

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

Explanation

Learner and provisional licence holders in New South Wales must have a zero blood alcohol concentration whenever they ride. This means no alcohol at all may be consumed before riding, and the same limit applies to all novice riders regardless of age. The general 0.05 limit only applies to fully licensed drivers and riders.

Question 2Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding a motorcycle and approaching a pedestrian crossing where a pedestrian is waiting to step onto the road. What must you do?

  1. Weave around the pedestrian without slowing
  2. Slow down and sound your horn to warn them
  3. Stop and give way to the pedestrian at the crossing Correct answer.
  4. Continue at the same speed because you have right of way

Explanation

A rider must give way to a pedestrian at a marked pedestrian crossing, including one who is waiting to cross. You should approach at a speed that lets you stop safely and come to a full stop if needed. Failing to give way at a crossing is an offence and is especially dangerous for vulnerable road users.

Question 3Road rules and rider knowledge

What does a solid white line in the centre of the road mean for a rider?

  1. You may straddle it whenever traffic is light
  2. You must not cross it to overtake Correct answer.
  3. You may cross it to overtake when it is safe
  4. Overtaking is permitted only at night

Explanation

A solid or continuous centre line means you must keep to your side of the line and must not cross it to overtake. You may only cross a continuous line in limited situations, such as turning into or out of a driveway or avoiding an obstruction. Overtaking across an unbroken line is an offence even when the road appears clear.

Question 4Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding and see a school zone sign showing 40 km/h with flashing lights. What speed limit applies?

  1. 60 km/h unless children are visible
  2. 50 km/h because you are on a main road
  3. 40 km/h during the times shown on the sign Correct answer.
  4. 40 km/h only when a teacher is present

Explanation

A school zone speed limit applies during the times indicated on the sign, usually when the lights flash, and you must reduce speed to the posted limit. The limit applies whether or not children are currently visible. Exceeding it during school zone hours attracts heavy penalties.

Question 5Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the minimum legal tread depth for motorcycle tyres in New South Wales?

  1. 2.0 mm
  2. 1.5 mm Correct answer.
  3. 0.5 mm
  4. 1.0 mm

Explanation

Motorcycle tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.5 mm across the tread width. Worn tyres reduce grip, especially in the wet, and increase the risk of aquaplaning and loss of control. Riders should check tread depth regularly and replace tyres before they reach the limit.

Question 6Road rules and rider knowledge

When must a rider wear a motorcycle helmet?

  1. Only when riding outside built-up areas
  2. Only on roads with a speed limit above 60 km/h
  3. Only on long trips
  4. At all times while riding Correct answer.

Explanation

A rider must wear an approved motorcycle helmet at all times while the motorcycle is moving or in use on a road or road-related area. The helmet must be properly fitted and fastened. This applies to every rider and pillion passenger regardless of trip length or location.

Question 7Road rules and rider knowledge

You are approaching a roundabout and intend to turn left. Which lane position and signal should you use?

  1. Approach in any lane without signalling
  2. Approach in the right lane and signal right
  3. Approach in the centre of the road without signalling
  4. Approach in the left lane and signal left Correct answer.

Explanation

When turning left at a roundabout, approach in the left lane and indicate left before entering and while leaving the roundabout. Signalling early lets other road users anticipate your path. Riders should also check for vehicles in adjacent lanes before changing position.

Question 8Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding at 60 km/h and need to stop quickly. What is the safest braking technique?

  1. Apply only the rear brake firmly
  2. Close the throttle and coast to a stop
  3. Apply only the front brake as hard as possible
  4. Apply both brakes smoothly and progressively Correct answer.

Explanation

The safest emergency stop uses both brakes, applied smoothly and progressively so weight transfers forward without locking either wheel. The front brake provides most stopping power, but the rear brake adds stability. Snatching at either brake can cause a skid or loss of control.

Question 9Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding in heavy traffic and a car ahead brakes suddenly. What is the best way to reduce your risk?

  1. Ride close behind so no one can cut in
  2. Keep a following distance of at least three seconds in good conditions Correct answer.
  3. Follow the car as closely as possible to save space
  4. Ride in the driver's blind spot

Explanation

A safe following distance gives you time to react and stop if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly. In good conditions a minimum of three seconds is recommended, and more in rain or darkness. Tailgating leaves no margin for error and is a common cause of rear-end crashes.

Question 10Road rules and rider knowledge

You are turning right at an intersection and a pedestrian is crossing the road you are turning into. Who must give way?

  1. You must give way to the pedestrian Correct answer.
  2. The larger vehicle has right of way
  3. Whoever arrives first has right of way
  4. The pedestrian must wait for you

Explanation

A rider turning at an intersection must give way to pedestrians crossing the road into which the rider is turning. This applies whether the pedestrian is on a marked crossing or not. Vehicle size or arrival order does not override the pedestrian's right of way in this situation.

Question 11Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the effect of riding with a pillion passenger on a learner-approved motorcycle?

  1. It is permitted once you hold a provisional licence
  2. It is not permitted on a learner-approved motorcycle Correct answer.
  3. It is permitted at any time if the passenger wears a helmet
  4. It is permitted only on roads under 60 km/h

Explanation

Learner-approved motorcycles are restricted machines and cannot legally carry a pillion passenger. The restriction exists because these bikes are not designed for the extra load and because novice riders need to build skills without added complexity. Carrying a passenger on a learner-approved bike is an offence.

Question 12Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding and see a bus with its right indicator on, pulling out from a bus stop. What should you do?

  1. Move into the oncoming lane to pass
  2. Sound your horn and maintain speed
  3. Accelerate to pass before it moves
  4. Give way to the bus if it is safe to do so Correct answer.

Explanation

In built-up areas you must give way to a bus that is signalling to leave a bus stop, provided it is safe to do so. Slow down and prepare to stop rather than trying to beat the bus. Passing a pulling-out bus at speed is dangerous and may breach the give-way rule.

Question 13Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding in the left lane of a multi-lane road and want to change to the right lane. What is the correct procedure?

  1. Signal, check mirrors and blind spot, then move when safe Correct answer.
  2. Rely on the vehicle behind to make room for you
  3. Signal and move immediately without checking
  4. Move first, then signal once you are in the lane

Explanation

Before changing lanes you must signal your intention, check your mirrors and perform a head check of the blind spot, then move only when it is safe. Signalling does not give you right of way; it communicates your intention. Riders should also watch for vehicles already in the target lane.

Question 14Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the legal position on lane filtering for a fully licensed motorcycle rider in New South Wales?

  1. It is permitted at speeds up to 30 km/h when safe Correct answer.
  2. It is never permitted under any circumstances
  3. It is permitted at any speed on any road
  4. It is permitted only when traffic is stationary

Explanation

Lane filtering is legal for fully licensed riders in New South Wales when traffic is moving slowly, at speeds up to 30 km/h, and only when it is safe to do so. Riders must not filter in school zones during operating hours or alongside heavy vehicles in certain situations. Learner and provisional riders are not permitted to filter.

Question 15Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding at night on an unlit road and a vehicle approaches from the opposite direction. What should you do with your high beam?

  1. Turn your headlight off briefly
  2. Flash high beam repeatedly
  3. Switch to low beam to avoid dazzling the other driver Correct answer.
  4. Keep high beam on to see better

Explanation

When a vehicle approaches from the opposite direction at night, you must dip your headlights to low beam so you do not dazzle the other driver. Dazzling can cause temporary blindness and lead to a head-on crash. High beam should only be used when there is no oncoming traffic and no vehicle close ahead.

Question 16Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding and your front tyre suddenly loses pressure. What is the safest immediate response?

  1. Ease off the throttle, keep the bars steady, and slow gradually Correct answer.
  2. Lean sharply to the side to compensate
  3. Brake hard on the front brake
  4. Accelerate to stabilise the bike

Explanation

If a tyre deflates suddenly, ease off the throttle, hold the handlebars firmly and avoid sudden braking or steering while the bike slows. Hard braking or sharp steering can cause a loss of control. Once you have slowed safely, move off the road and stop.

Question 17Road rules and rider knowledge

What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a black symbol on an Australian road indicate?

  1. A warning of a hazard or road feature ahead Correct answer.
  2. A compulsory direction of travel
  3. A speed limit change
  4. A parking restriction

Explanation

Yellow diamond-shaped signs are warning signs that alert riders to a hazard or road feature ahead, such as a curve, crest or slippery surface. They tell you to slow down and prepare for a change in conditions. Regulatory signs, by contrast, are usually circular or rectangular with red or blue borders.

Question 18Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding in a 100 km/h zone and feel tired. What is the safest action?

  1. Turn up the music and keep riding
  2. Stop at a rest area and take a break Correct answer.
  3. Open the throttle to finish the trip faster
  4. Ride close behind a truck for shelter

Explanation

Fatigue seriously impairs reaction time and judgement, and the only effective remedy is to stop and rest. Pull into a rest area or safe stopping place, take a break and, if necessary, have a nap before continuing. Pushing on while tired greatly increases the risk of a crash.

Question 19Road rules and rider knowledge

You are approaching a railway level crossing with flashing red lights and a boom gate lowered. What must you do?

  1. Sound your horn and continue across
  2. Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing and the gate lifts Correct answer.
  3. Proceed if you can cross before the train arrives
  4. Drive around the boom gate if no train is visible

Explanation

At a level crossing, flashing red lights and a lowered boom gate mean a train is approaching, and you must stop and wait. Never drive around a lowered gate or attempt to beat a train. Trains cannot stop quickly, and collisions at crossings are usually fatal.

Question 20Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the correct way to carry a load on a motorcycle?

  1. Hold the load in one hand while riding
  2. Place the load on the fuel tank without securing it
  3. Secure the load so it does not affect balance or visibility Correct answer.
  4. Hang the load from the handlebars

Explanation

Any load carried on a motorcycle must be securely fastened so it does not shift, obstruct your view or interfere with steering and balance. An unsecured or poorly placed load can cause a loss of control. Loads must also stay within legal width and projection limits.

Question 21Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding and a dog runs onto the road ahead. What is the best response?

  1. Accelerate and try to pass in front of the dog
  2. Swerve sharply into the oncoming lane
  3. Slow down smoothly and prepare to stop if needed Correct answer.
  4. Brake hard and lock the front wheel

Explanation

When an animal enters the road, reduce speed smoothly and be ready to stop, while keeping control of the motorcycle. Sharp swerving or hard braking can cause a crash, especially if the road is slippery. Avoid sudden movements and give the animal time to move away.

Question 22Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding in wet weather and the road surface looks shiny at an intersection. What is the main hazard?

  1. The road is likely to have better traction
  2. The road is likely to be slippery due to oil and water Correct answer.
  3. The road is likely to be warmer and grippier
  4. The road is likely to be clearer of traffic

Explanation

A shiny, reflective surface at an intersection often indicates a build-up of oil and water, which greatly reduces grip, especially for motorcycles. Riders should slow down, avoid sudden braking or acceleration and keep the bike upright where possible. Wet or oily surfaces are a common cause of single-vehicle motorcycle crashes.

Question 23Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding at 80 km/h and need to swerve around an obstacle. What technique gives the best chance of avoiding it safely?

  1. Brake hard and then swerve with the front wheel locked
  2. Swerve sharply while accelerating hard
  3. Close your eyes and lean the bike over as far as possible
  4. Keep speed constant, look at the gap, and countersteer smoothly Correct answer.

Explanation

At speed, a motorcycle turns by countersteering: pressing forward on the handlebar in the direction you want to go. Keep your speed steady, look at the gap you intend to use and make a smooth, controlled input rather than a jerky one. Braking hard during the swerve reduces stability and grip.

Question 24Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding behind a large truck and cannot see its mirrors. What does this indicate?

  1. The truck is travelling too slowly
  2. You are in the driver's blind spot Correct answer.
  3. The truck is about to change lanes
  4. The truck driver can see you clearly

Explanation

If you cannot see the truck driver's mirrors, the driver cannot see you, which means you are in a blind spot. Large vehicles have significant blind areas around them, and riders should avoid lingering in these zones. Move through or drop back so you remain visible.

Question 25Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding and the front wheel begins to skid under braking. What should you do?

  1. Accelerate to regain grip
  2. Release the front brake smoothly and reapply with less pressure Correct answer.
  3. Lean the bike further into the corner
  4. Apply more front brake pressure

Explanation

If the front wheel locks and skids, release the brake smoothly to let the wheel start rolling again, then reapply with less pressure. Keeping the brake locked will almost certainly cause a crash. Riders should practise progressive braking so they can feel the limit of grip before it is exceeded.

Question 26Road rules and rider knowledge

What must a rider do before changing lanes on a multi-lane road?

  1. Speed up and merge without signalling
  2. Check mirrors and blind spot, then signal Correct answer.
  3. Sound the horn and move across
  4. Flash the headlight and change lanes

Explanation

A lane change requires a head check of the blind spot plus a mirror check, and the indicator must be given long enough for other drivers to react. Signalling alone does not make the move safe because mirrors leave blind spots.

Question 27Road rules and rider knowledge

At an intersection with a stop sign and a solid white stop line, where must you bring the motorcycle to a complete stop?

  1. Anywhere within five metres of the sign
  2. Level with the signpost itself
  3. At the stop line, before the crossing Correct answer.
  4. Just past the stop line for a better view

Explanation

A stop sign requires a full stop at the stop line, and if there is no line, at the edge of the intersection. Stopping past the line can obstruct pedestrians and place the rider in the path of crossing traffic.

Question 28Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the default speed limit on a road in a built-up area in New South Wales when no sign is displayed?

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

Explanation

When no speed sign is posted, a built-up area carries a default limit of 50 km/h. Riders must still slow below this where conditions such as rain, poor visibility or roadworks demand it.

Question 29Road rules and rider knowledge

How should a rider position the motorcycle when parked on a street?

  1. Facing against the traffic flow
  2. Parallel to the kerb, facing the direction of traffic Correct answer.
  3. Across the footpath for security
  4. Angled nose-in towards the kerb

Explanation

A parked motorcycle should sit parallel to the kerb and face the same direction as the traffic on that side of the road. Parking against the flow forces riders to move into oncoming traffic when leaving.

Question 30Road rules and rider knowledge

What does a broken white line between lanes on a multi-lane road mean?

  1. The lane ends ahead
  2. You must stay in your lane at all times
  3. Overtaking is prohibited in both directions
  4. You may cross it to change lanes when safe Correct answer.

Explanation

A broken white line separates lanes travelling in the same direction and may be crossed when it is safe to do so. A solid white line, by contrast, should not be crossed except in limited circumstances.

Question 31Road rules and rider knowledge

When are you permitted to sound your motorcycle horn?

  1. Whenever traffic is heavy
  2. To warn other road users of your approach or danger Correct answer.
  3. To greet a friend on the footpath
  4. To hurry a slow vehicle ahead

Explanation

The horn is a warning device, used to alert others to your presence or an impending hazard. Using it for greetings or to pressure other drivers is misuse of the horn.

Question 32Road rules and rider knowledge

What must you do when an emergency vehicle approaches with flashing red and blue lights and a siren?

  1. Continue at the same speed and lane
  2. Move left as soon as safe and give way Correct answer.
  3. Speed up to clear the area
  4. Brake hard in your lane and stop

Explanation

Riders must give way to emergency vehicles displaying lights and sirens by moving left when it is safe and allowing them to pass. Stopping abruptly in a live lane creates a collision risk.

Question 33Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the minimum legal tread depth for a motorcycle tyre in New South Wales?

  1. No minimum is specified
  2. 1.0 mm across the tread
  3. 2.5 mm across the tread
  4. 1.5 mm across the tread Correct answer.

Explanation

Motorcycle tyres must retain at least 1.5 mm of tread depth across the main tread grooves. Worn tyres reduce grip, especially in the wet, and fail a vehicle inspection.

Question 34Road rules and rider knowledge

You are approaching a pedestrian crossing where a person is waiting to cross. What should you do?

  1. Slow down and stop to let them cross Correct answer.
  2. Move to the centre line and pass
  3. Continue at the same speed if you have right of way
  4. Sound the horn to warn them

Explanation

Drivers and riders must give way to pedestrians at marked crossings, so slowing and stopping allows the person to cross safely. Continuing at speed risks a collision if the pedestrian steps out.

Question 35Road rules and rider knowledge

You plan to turn left at an intersection and there is a bike lane on your left. What is the correct approach?

  1. Turn across the bike lane without checking
  2. Signal, check, and merge into the bike lane before turning if permitted Correct answer.
  3. Wait behind the bike lane and never enter it
  4. Ride in the bike lane for the whole block

Explanation

Where permitted, a rider should signal, check for cyclists, and move into the bike lane close to the corner before turning. Turning across the lane without checking can cut off a cyclist travelling straight ahead.

Question 36Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding near a parked car and see the driver's door beginning to open. What is the best response?

  1. Slow and move away from the row of parked cars Correct answer.
  2. Accelerate past the door quickly
  3. Brake hard and stay in line
  4. Sound the horn and hold your line

Explanation

Dooring is a common motorcycle hazard, so creating space from parked cars and reducing speed gives time to react. Passing close at speed leaves no margin if the door swings wide.

Question 37Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the effect of alcohol on a rider's ability to control a motorcycle?

  1. It improves confidence and therefore control
  2. It has no effect below the legal limit
  3. It slows reactions and impairs balance and judgement Correct answer.
  4. It only affects vision at night

Explanation

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system, slowing reaction time and impairing balance, coordination and judgement. Any alcohol increases risk, and riding above the legal limit is an offence.

Question 38Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding and the rear wheel locks under hard braking. What should you do?

  1. Apply more front brake immediately
  2. Ease off the rear brake to let the wheel roll again Correct answer.
  3. Keep the rear brake fully applied until stopped
  4. Release both brakes completely

Explanation

A locked rear wheel can slide sideways, so easing the rear brake allows the tyre to regain grip and roll. Keeping it locked increases the chance of a skid and loss of control.

Question 39Road rules and rider knowledge

How should a rider approach a curve on a road they do not know?

  1. Coast with the clutch pulled in through the bend
  2. Brake hard while leaning into the curve
  3. Slow before the curve and accelerate gently through it Correct answer.
  4. Enter fast and adjust mid-corner

Explanation

Speed should be reduced before entering an unfamiliar curve so the bike can be steered smoothly with gentle throttle. Braking hard while leaned over reduces grip and can cause a slide.

Question 40Road rules and rider knowledge

When should a rider use the front brake most strongly?

  1. While leaned over in a corner
  2. On a straight, upright road with good grip Correct answer.
  3. While the handlebars are turned sharply
  4. On loose gravel or wet grass

Explanation

The front brake provides most stopping power when the bike is upright and the tyre has good grip. Applying strong front braking while leaned or on loose surfaces can cause the front wheel to lose traction.

Question 41Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding in fog with visibility reduced to about 50 metres. What should you do?

  1. Reduce speed and use a low beam or fog light Correct answer.
  2. Ride on the road shoulder to stay clear
  3. Maintain the speed limit and follow the car ahead closely
  4. Use high beam to see further

Explanation

Fog scatters high-beam light back at the rider, so low beam or fog lights with reduced speed give the best visibility. Following closely is dangerous because stopping distances are hard to judge.

Question 42Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the safest way to carry a pillion passenger for the first time?

  1. Increase speed to keep the bike stable
  2. Ride as normal without any adjustments
  3. Adjust tyre pressure and suspension, then brief the passenger on leaning Correct answer.
  4. Ask the passenger to lean opposite to the bike

Explanation

A passenger adds weight, so tyre pressure and suspension preload may need adjustment, and the passenger should be told to lean with the rider. Unbriefed passengers can upset balance in corners.

Question 43Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding and a strong crosswind pushes the bike sideways. What should you do?

  1. Ease off the throttle and allow room to correct Correct answer.
  2. Lean hard into the wind
  3. Accelerate to push through the gust
  4. Brake hard immediately

Explanation

In a crosswind, reducing speed and leaving space in the lane allows gentle steering corrections. Hard braking or abrupt inputs can compound the instability caused by the gust.

Question 44Road rules and rider knowledge

What does a sign showing a red circle with a white horizontal bar mean?

  1. One-way street ahead
  2. No entry for all vehicles Correct answer.
  3. Road closed to heavy vehicles only
  4. Stop and give way

Explanation

A red circle with a white horizontal bar is a no-entry sign, meaning traffic must not proceed past it. Riders must find another route rather than entering the prohibited road.

Question 45Road rules and rider knowledge

What is the correct way to perform a shoulder check before changing lanes?

  1. Turn your head briefly to look into the blind spot Correct answer.
  2. Rely only on the mirrors
  3. Look down at the road surface
  4. Check after you have begun moving across

Explanation

A brief head turn lets the rider see the area the mirrors cannot cover, catching vehicles in the blind spot. Checking after moving across is too late to avoid a collision.

Question 46Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding a motorcycle with a sidecar and approaching a left-hand bend. How does the sidecar affect handling?

  1. It removes the need to slow for bends
  2. The outfit handles differently and may lift a wheel in some turns Correct answer.
  3. It improves cornering grip in all conditions
  4. It behaves exactly like a solo motorcycle

Explanation

A sidecar changes the balance of the machine, and in some turns a wheel can lift, so speed must be reduced and inputs kept smooth. It does not handle like a solo bike and requires different technique.

Question 47Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding at night and your headlight suddenly fails on an unlit road. What is the safest action?

  1. Turn on the hazard lights and keep riding
  2. Continue at the speed limit using the road markings
  3. Follow closely behind another vehicle for light
  4. Slow down and stop in a safe place as soon as possible Correct answer.

Explanation

Without a working headlight the rider cannot see hazards or be seen, so the safest response is to slow and stop in a safe location. Continuing, even behind another vehicle, leaves the bike invisible to oncoming traffic.

Question 48Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding a motorcycle that begins to wobble at speed. What is the best response?

  1. Apply the front brake firmly
  2. Lean back and pull on the bars
  3. Ease off the throttle and avoid gripping the bars tightly Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate hard to stabilise the bike

Explanation

A speed wobble is worsened by tight grip and hard braking, so easing off the throttle and holding the bars lightly lets the machine settle. Once stopped, the cause such as tyre pressure or steering bearings should be checked.

Question 49Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding in a lane where the road surface has a painted arrow that is wet and glossy. What is the main risk?

  1. A legal requirement to change lanes
  2. Improved visibility for following traffic
  3. Increased grip from the paint texture
  4. Reduced grip because painted markings are slippery when wet Correct answer.

Explanation

Painted road markings offer less grip than asphalt, especially when wet, so a rider should avoid braking or leaning sharply on them. Treating them as normal road surface risks a slide.

Question 50Road rules and rider knowledge

You are riding behind a vehicle that has just passed a large puddle, and spray is reducing your vision. What is the best action?

  1. Overtake immediately to escape the spray
  2. Turn on high beam to cut through the spray
  3. Move closer to use the vehicle as a shield
  4. Increase your following distance and reduce speed Correct answer.

Explanation

Spray from the vehicle ahead shortens the time available to react, so increasing the gap and slowing down restores a safe margin. Overtaking in poor visibility exposes the rider to unseen hazards.