NT Driver Knowledge Test key terms

To let another road user go first when road rules or signs require it, slowing or stopping so they can proceed safely before you move.

A solid white line painted across your lane at a stop sign or traffic light. You must stop completely before the line, not on or past it.

A red octagonal sign meaning you must bring the vehicle to a complete stop at the stop line or sign, then give way to all other traffic before continuing.

A triangular sign telling you to slow down and yield to traffic on the road you are entering or crossing, stopping only if necessary to avoid conflict.

A circular intersection where traffic flows one way around a central island. You give way to vehicles already circulating and signal when leaving.

A crossing with no signs, lights, or markings deciding priority. Default give-way rules apply, often requiring you to yield to vehicles on your right.

The flashing light on a vehicle used to signal turning, changing lanes, or leaving a roundabout, warning other road users of your intended movement.

An area around the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors. You must turn your head to check it before changing lanes or reversing.

A quick look over your shoulder into the blind spot before changing lanes or pulling out, confirming no vehicle, cyclist, or motorcyclist is hidden there.

The gap between your vehicle and the one ahead. A safe gap gives you time to stop if traffic slows suddenly, commonly measured using a time-based rule.

The moment between noticing a hazard and beginning to brake or steer. During this time the vehicle keeps travelling, adding to your total stopping distance.

The distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it stops. It increases with speed and on wet or loose surfaces.

The maximum legal speed allowed on a road, shown by signs or set by default rules. Exceeding it is an offence regardless of traffic conditions.

Choosing a speed below the limit to suit actual conditions such as rain, darkness, traffic, or roadworks, so you can stop within the distance you can see.

An area near a school with a reduced speed limit during set times, marked by signs and often flashing lights, where children may cross unexpectedly.

A marked section of road where pedestrians have priority. Drivers must slow down, be ready to stop, and give way to anyone on or entering the crossing.

Moving from one marked lane to another. You must signal, check mirrors and blind spots, and give way to traffic already in the lane you want.

The rule that you drive on the left side of the road in Australia, staying in the left lane unless overtaking or turning right.

Passing a slower vehicle travelling in the same direction. It must be done safely, with clear visibility, enough space, and without exceeding the speed limit.

A solid line along the centre of the road that you must not cross to overtake or turn, except in limited circumstances such as entering a driveway.

The amount of alcohol in your blood, measured for legal limits. Learner and provisional drivers must have zero alcohol while driving.

A rule requiring learner and provisional licence holders to have no alcohol in their blood at all while driving, with penalties for any reading above zero.

A penalty recorded against your licence for a traffic offence. If you collect too many points within a set period, your licence can be suspended.

A period during which your driver licence is withdrawn and you are not allowed to drive, often due to too many demerit points or a serious offence.

A permit allowing a person to learn to drive under supervision, usually after passing a knowledge test, while displaying learner plates and obeying special conditions.

An intermediate licence held after the learner stage and before a full licence, carrying conditions such as passenger limits, display rules, and a zero alcohol limit.

A fully licensed driver who sits beside a learner and is responsible for the vehicle, giving guidance and ensuring the learner obeys the road rules.

A safety restraint that must be worn by the driver and all passengers where fitted. The driver is responsible for ensuring children are properly restrained.

An approved seat or booster designed for a child's size and age, required by law until the child meets the height or age rules for an adult belt.

The condition of a vehicle that is safe to drive, with working brakes, lights, tyres, steering, and no defects that could endanger others on the road.

The official record and label showing a vehicle is licensed to be used on public roads, with compulsory third-party insurance attached to it.

Insurance included with vehicle registration that covers injury to other people in a crash, regardless of who caused it.

Extreme tiredness that slows reactions and judgement. Drivers should stop and rest regularly on long trips and never drive when drowsy.

Using a hand-held phone while driving, such as calling, texting, or browsing, which is illegal because it takes your eyes and attention off the road.

Anything that could cause a crash or require you to change speed or direction, such as a pedestrian, parked car, pothole, or wet road surface.

An ambulance, fire truck, or police vehicle displaying flashing lights or sirens. You must give way and, where safe, move out of its path.

A place where the road meets train tracks, marked by signs, flashing lights, or boom gates. You must stop if a train is approaching and never queue over the tracks.