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Bulgaria Driver CPC study materials
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Bulgaria Driver CPC practice questions

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Question 1Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Under EU rules on driving and rest periods, after a continuous driving period of four and a half hours a driver must take an uninterrupted break of at least how long?

  1. 45 minutes Correct answer.
  2. 60 minutes
  3. 15 minutes
  4. 30 minutes

Explanation

Regulation (EC) 561/2006 requires a break of at least 45 minutes after no more than four and a half hours of driving, unless a rest period is taken instead. The break may be split into 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes, taken in that order.

Question 2Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver has used a digital tachograph card for several years. When must the card normally be renewed?

  1. Every five years Correct answer.
  2. Every ten years
  3. Every year
  4. Every two years

Explanation

Driver cards are issued for a limited validity period and must be renewed before expiry so that records remain legally valid. The standard validity is five years, after which a replacement card is required.

Question 3Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

When should a driver begin the daily walk-around check of the vehicle?

  1. At the end of the shift
  2. Only when a warning light appears
  3. Before the first journey of the day Correct answer.
  4. After the first delivery is completed

Explanation

A pre-departure check allows defects to be found and reported before the vehicle is used on the road. Checking after driving starts defeats the purpose, because a dangerous defect may already have affected safety.

Question 4Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the main purpose of the driver's daily walk-around inspection?

  1. To identify defects before they cause a breakdown or crash Correct answer.
  2. To clean the windscreen
  3. To record the vehicle's fuel consumption
  4. To confirm the delivery schedule

Explanation

The inspection is a safety measure: tyres, lights, brakes, fluids and load security are checked so that faults are corrected before driving. It is not a commercial or administrative task.

Question 5Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Which factor most increases the stopping distance of a fully loaded lorry compared with the same lorry empty?

  1. The greater mass increases the kinetic energy that the brakes must absorb Correct answer.
  2. The engine runs at lower revolutions
  3. The tyres become smaller
  4. The steering becomes lighter

Explanation

Kinetic energy rises with mass, so a laden vehicle needs more braking effort and travels further before stopping. Drivers must therefore increase the following gap when carrying a heavy load.

Question 6Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why does a driver need to make extra allowance for reaction time when travelling at high speed?

  1. The vehicle covers more ground before the driver can act Correct answer.
  2. The brakes become weaker at speed
  3. The tyres lose pressure
  4. The steering responds more slowly

Explanation

During the perception and reaction phase the vehicle continues at its current speed, so at higher speed it travels much further before braking even begins. This distance must be added to the braking distance.

Question 7Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the safest way to secure a heavy pallet in a curtainsider?

  1. Use straps or bars anchored to the vehicle structure Correct answer.
  2. Place it against the rear doors
  3. Leave it free to settle during travel
  4. Rely on the curtain alone

Explanation

Loads must be secured to the vehicle structure with suitable restraints so they cannot shift under braking or cornering. Curtains are weather protection, not load restraint.

Question 8Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What does defensive driving primarily mean?

  1. Relying on other drivers to obey the rules
  2. Always taking the shortest route
  3. Anticipating the mistakes of others and leaving room to react Correct answer.
  4. Driving as slowly as possible at all times

Explanation

Defensive driving means reading the road ahead, predicting hazards and keeping space and time to respond. It is about anticipation rather than simply reducing speed.

Question 9Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver approaching a long downhill gradient with a heavy load should take which action?

  1. Coast in neutral to save fuel
  2. Increase speed to carry momentum
  3. Select a lower gear before the descent to use engine braking Correct answer.
  4. Apply the brakes continuously

Explanation

Selecting a low gear before the slope keeps engine braking available and prevents the brakes from overheating. Continuous braking or coasting in neutral can lead to brake fade or loss of control.

Question 10Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

On a wet road, how should a driver adjust the following distance?

  1. Reduce it because wet tyres grip better
  2. Keep it the same as in dry weather
  3. Reduce it to prevent others entering the gap
  4. Increase it substantially because grip and braking are reduced Correct answer.

Explanation

Wet surfaces lower the coefficient of friction, so braking distance increases and the risk of aquaplaning rises. A larger gap gives the driver time to stop safely.

Question 11Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the first sign that a driver may be experiencing brake fade on a long descent?

  1. The engine temperature rises sharply
  2. The horn sounds weaker
  3. The steering becomes heavier
  4. The brake pedal feels less effective for the same pressure Correct answer.

Explanation

Brake fade occurs when friction surfaces overheat, so the same pedal pressure produces less retardation. The correct response is to reduce speed using a lower gear and allow the brakes to cool.

Question 12Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver is tired during a night shift. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Open the window and continue
  2. Stop at a safe place and take a proper rest Correct answer.
  3. Turn up the radio and press on
  4. Drink coffee and drive faster

Explanation

Fatigue impairs attention and reaction time, and only rest restores alertness. Short-term tricks such as fresh air or caffeine do not replace sleep and may mask the danger briefly.

Question 13Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Which statement about alcohol and driving is correct?

  1. Alcohol slows reactions and impairs judgement even below the legal limit Correct answer.
  2. Strong coffee removes alcohol from the blood
  3. Alcohol affects only inexperienced drivers
  4. A small amount improves concentration

Explanation

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system, reducing reaction speed and judgement before the legal limit is reached. No drink is a safe preparation for driving.

Question 14Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

How does a driver best manage blind spots when changing lanes in a large vehicle?

  1. Sound the horn continuously
  2. Rely only on the mirrors
  3. Use mirrors and a direct look, and signal in good time Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate sharply to clear the lane

Explanation

Large vehicles have significant blind areas that mirrors alone may not cover, so a direct check and early signalling are needed. This gives other road users time to react.

Question 15Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the recommended technique for eco-driving on a motorway?

  1. Maintain a steady speed and anticipate traffic flow Correct answer.
  2. Accelerate and brake hard repeatedly
  3. Drive in the highest gear at all costs
  4. Keep the engine idling during long stops

Explanation

Smooth, anticipatory driving avoids unnecessary acceleration and braking, cutting fuel use and emissions. Repeated hard acceleration wastes energy that braking then dissipates.

Question 16Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why should a driver check the load restraints again shortly after starting a journey?

  1. The tachograph requires it
  2. The load may settle and restraints can loosen Correct answer.
  3. The vehicle's tyres warm up
  4. The fuel level changes

Explanation

Vibration and movement during the first kilometres can cause a load to settle, leaving straps slack. A re-check restores tension and prevents shifting later in the journey.

Question 17Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver must reverse into a loading bay with poor visibility. What is the best practice?

  1. Reverse quickly to minimise exposure
  2. Use a trained banksman or get out and check the path Correct answer.
  3. Ask a passer-by to shout instructions
  4. Rely on the reversing camera alone

Explanation

Where visibility is limited, a competent assistant or a direct check of the area is the safest way to reverse. Cameras and mirrors can leave blind areas that a person on the ground can cover.

Question 18Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What should a driver do if a tyre pressure warning appears while driving on a motorway?

  1. Reduce speed carefully and stop at the next safe place Correct answer.
  2. Brake hard immediately in the live lane
  3. Increase speed to reach a service area faster
  4. Ignore it until the destination

Explanation

A pressure warning may indicate a developing puncture or overheating, so the driver should slow gently and find a safe stopping place. Sudden braking in a live lane risks a collision.

Question 19Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

How should a driver use engine braking on a slippery surface?

  1. Declutch and coast
  2. Hold a high gear and brake hard
  3. Change down smoothly and avoid sudden engine braking Correct answer.
  4. Change down abruptly to slow quickly

Explanation

On low-grip surfaces, abrupt engine braking can lock the driven wheels and cause a skid. Smooth downward changes keep control while still assisting retardation.

Question 20Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver's tachograph shows a total of nine hours of driving in a day. Under the standard daily limit, what is the position?

  1. The daily limit may be extended to ten hours twice a week Correct answer.
  2. Driving time is counted only on motorways
  3. Nine hours is always permitted every day
  4. The limit is eight hours with no extension

Explanation

The normal daily driving limit is nine hours, but it may be extended to ten hours no more than twice in a week. Nine hours therefore requires that the extension allowance is available and recorded correctly.

Question 21Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver is involved in a collision and continues to the depot. What is the correct approach to the tachograph record?

  1. Ask a colleague to record the time as driving
  2. Ignore it because the vehicle was damaged
  3. Erase the day's data to avoid confusion
  4. Make a manual record of the interruption and retain it Correct answer.

Explanation

Where the record is interrupted or cannot be made automatically, the driver must make a manual entry so the day's activity remains accurate. Falsifying or erasing records is an offence.

Question 22Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A vehicle's ABS warning light stays on after the self-test. What does this indicate?

  1. The handbrake is applied
  2. The tyres are correctly inflated
  3. The anti-lock function may be unavailable and the fault should be reported Correct answer.
  4. The brakes are fully operational in all conditions

Explanation

A persistent ABS warning means the system has detected a fault and may not prevent wheel lock under heavy braking. The vehicle should be checked by a competent person before continued use.

Question 23Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why can a lightly loaded vehicle have a longer braking distance on a wet road than a heavily loaded one?

  1. The tyres are always older
  2. The engine produces less power
  3. The brakes are physically smaller
  4. Less weight on the driven and braked wheels reduces available grip Correct answer.

Explanation

Load transfer and wheel loading affect the grip available at the contact patch, and a light vehicle may have less pressure pressing the tyres onto the road. This can reduce the friction available for braking on a wet surface.

Question 24Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver must plan a journey that includes a ferry crossing and night driving. Which planning element best supports compliance with driving-time rules?

  1. Assuming delays will be recovered by driving faster
  2. Skipping the daily rest to catch up
  3. Building the break and rest periods into the schedule in advance Correct answer.
  4. Recording the ferry time as a break without checking the rules

Explanation

Effective planning places breaks and rest periods where they are legally required, so the driver is not forced to exceed limits when delays occur. Ferry interruptions may count as breaks only under specific conditions that must be verified.

Question 25Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Under EU rules, what is the minimum continuous daily rest a driver must normally take within each 24-hour period after the end of the previous daily or weekly rest?

  1. Twelve hours, which may be split into three equal parts
  2. Eleven hours, which may be reduced to nine hours no more than three times between weekly rests Correct answer.
  3. Ten hours, which may be reduced to eight hours on any day
  4. Eight hours, provided the driver compensates within the following week

Explanation

The standard daily rest period is eleven consecutive hours within 24 hours of the end of the previous daily or weekly rest. It may be reduced to nine hours, but only three times between two weekly rest periods, and the reduction is not compensated. This limit protects alertness on the following shift.

Question 26Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

After a maximum of how many hours of driving must a driver normally take a break under the EU driving time rules?

  1. Two hours
  2. Four and a half hours Correct answer.
  3. Six hours
  4. Three hours

Explanation

A driver must take a break of at least 45 minutes after no more than four and a half hours of driving. The break may be split into 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes. This rule exists to limit fatigue-related risk on long journeys.

Question 27Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

How may the 45-minute break after four and a half hours of driving be taken?

  1. As a single 45-minute period, or as 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes Correct answer.
  2. As 30 minutes followed by 15 minutes
  3. As three separate 15-minute stops in any order
  4. Only as one uninterrupted 45-minute period

Explanation

The break can be taken in one block of 45 minutes or split into a 15-minute part and a 30-minute part, in that order. The order matters because the second part must be the longer one. Splitting it differently does not satisfy the rule.

Question 28Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the standard maximum daily driving time for a driver under the EU rules?

  1. Eleven hours
  2. Nine hours, extendable to ten hours twice a week Correct answer.
  3. Eight hours
  4. Ten hours

Explanation

Daily driving is normally capped at nine hours, with an extension to ten hours allowed no more than twice in a week. The extension is optional and must be recorded correctly. Exceeding the cap without justification is an infringement.

Question 29Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the maximum total driving time permitted in any two consecutive weeks?

  1. Seventy hours
  2. Ninety hours Correct answer.
  3. Eighty hours
  4. One hundred hours

Explanation

The weekly limit is 56 hours, and the total across any two consecutive weeks may not exceed 90 hours. A driver who uses the full 56 hours in one week must therefore keep the next week to 34 hours or less. This prevents cumulative fatigue building over a fortnight.

Question 30Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver has driven for four hours and is 30 minutes from the depot. What is the correct action?

  1. Stop and take the required break before completing the journey Correct answer.
  2. Record the remaining time as other work instead of driving
  3. Reduce speed and complete the journey without stopping
  4. Continue to the depot because the journey is nearly finished

Explanation

The four and a half hour driving limit applies wherever the vehicle is, including the final approach to base. The driver must stop and take the required break rather than complete the trip first. Fatigue risk does not disappear because the destination is close.

Question 31Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Which document must a driver be able to produce for inspection when requested by an authorised enforcement officer?

  1. The vehicle's service handbook
  2. The delivery schedule for the current week
  3. A copy of the employer's insurance policy
  4. Records of driving time and rest periods for the current day and the previous 28 days Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers must be able to show their tachograph records covering the current day and the preceding 28 days. Manual entries and any recorded periods of other work also form part of what may be checked. Failure to produce these records can lead to penalties.

Question 32Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver performs work for another employer on a rest day. How should this be handled in relation to driving time rules?

  1. It should be recorded as a break because it was not driving
  2. It may be ignored because no driving took place
  3. It only needs reporting if it exceeded four hours
  4. It must be recorded as other work so that weekly rest and total working time are assessed correctly Correct answer.

Explanation

All work for any employer counts towards working time and affects the assessment of rest. It must be declared and recorded as other work. Undeclared work can invalidate the rest periods shown in the records.

Question 33Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the purpose of the digital tachograph driver card?

  1. To authorise the driver to exceed speed limits in an emergency
  2. To record only the vehicle's mileage for maintenance planning
  3. To measure the vehicle's fuel consumption
  4. To identify the driver and store that driver's activity data securely Correct answer.

Explanation

The driver card identifies the individual driver and stores their activity records, including driving, other work, availability and rest. It allows enforcement officers to link records to a specific person. The card must not be used by anyone other than its rightful holder.

Question 34Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver makes a manual entry on a digital tachograph to cover a period of other work. What should the entry reflect?

  1. The time the driver estimates the employer expects
  2. The actual activity performed during that period Correct answer.
  3. A default rest period to simplify the record
  4. Only the time spent driving

Explanation

Manual entries must accurately reflect the activity actually carried out, whether that is other work, availability or rest. They are made so the record is complete and truthful. Inaccurate entries undermine the whole compliance system.

Question 35Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Which of these best describes the legal maximum speed limit for a heavy goods vehicle over 3.5 tonnes on a motorway in Bulgaria, unless a lower limit is posted?

  1. 80 km/h Correct answer.
  2. 100 km/h
  3. 90 km/h
  4. 120 km/h

Explanation

Heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes are generally limited to 80 km/h on motorways unless signs indicate otherwise. Lower limits on other roads also apply. The driver must always obey posted signs even when they are lower than the general limit.

Question 36Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the general maximum permitted blood alcohol concentration for a professional driver in Bulgaria?

  1. 0.5 g/l
  2. 0.2 g/l
  3. 0.8 g/l
  4. 0.0 g/l Correct answer.

Explanation

Bulgarian law applies a zero-tolerance approach, so professional drivers must not have any alcohol in the blood while driving. Even small amounts can impair judgement and reaction. The safest approach is to avoid alcohol entirely before driving.

Question 37Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver is prescribed a medicine that may cause drowsiness. What should the driver do before driving?

  1. Ask the prescriber or pharmacist whether it is safe to drive and follow the advice Correct answer.
  2. Take half the dose and drive normally
  3. Drive only on quiet roads to reduce the risk
  4. Drink strong coffee and drive as usual

Explanation

Medicines can affect alertness and reaction time, and some are incompatible with driving. The driver should seek advice from the prescriber or pharmacist about the specific effects. Driving while impaired by medication can be an offence and is dangerous.

Question 38Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why is it important for a driver to signal intentions early and clearly when approaching a junction?

  1. It allows other road users to anticipate the vehicle's movement and adjust safely Correct answer.
  2. It removes the need to check mirrors before turning
  3. It guarantees the driver has the right of way
  4. It is only needed when other vehicles are directly behind

Explanation

Early, clear signals give other road users time to understand and respond to the intended manoeuvre. Large vehicles may need more space and time to turn, so advance warning is especially valuable. A signal does not confer priority or replace observation.

Question 39Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A large vehicle is turning left at a junction and a cyclist is alongside on the left. What is the main hazard?

  1. The cyclist will always stop automatically
  2. The cyclist is required to give way in all circumstances
  3. The vehicle may cut across the cyclist's path during the turn Correct answer.
  4. The turn will be easier because the cyclist clears space

Explanation

Large vehicles often need to swing out or cut in when turning, and a cyclist on the inside can be trapped or struck. The driver should check mirrors and blind spots and, where possible, allow the cyclist to pass before turning. Vulnerable road users have little protection in a collision.

Question 40Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the main reason for leaving extra space when passing a cyclist on an open road?

  1. To give the driver more time to change gear
  2. To allow for sudden movements such as avoiding a pothole Correct answer.
  3. To avoid splashing them in wet weather
  4. Because cyclists often ride faster than lorries

Explanation

Cyclists may need to swerve to avoid potholes, drains or debris, and they can be affected by wind from passing vehicles. Leaving a generous gap gives room for these unexpected movements. It also reduces the effect of the vehicle's draught.

Question 41Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why should a driver be especially cautious near a pedestrian crossing on a road with parked vehicles?

  1. Crossings are only dangerous at night
  2. The road surface is always worse near parked cars
  3. Parked vehicles may hide pedestrians stepping out until the last moment Correct answer.
  4. Pedestrians are required to wait for a signal in all cases

Explanation

Parked vehicles can screen pedestrians from view, so a person may emerge with very little warning. Reducing speed and scanning between the parked vehicles gives time to react. The driver should be ready to stop.

Question 42Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the correct response when a driver feels the vehicle aquaplaning on a wet motorway?

  1. Ease off the accelerator and hold the steering steady until grip returns Correct answer.
  2. Change down a gear and apply the handbrake
  3. Brake firmly and steer sharply
  4. Accelerate to clear the water quickly

Explanation

Aquaplaning occurs when water lifts the tyres from the road, so sudden braking or steering can cause a loss of control. Easing off the accelerator allows speed to fall gently and grip to return. Steering should be held steady and smooth.

Question 43Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why should a driver reduce speed in strong crosswinds when driving a high-sided vehicle?

  1. To reduce fuel consumption on the open road
  2. To allow the engine to cool more effectively
  3. To comply with a legal minimum speed requirement
  4. Because the vehicle may be pushed sideways or even overturned Correct answer.

Explanation

High-sided vehicles present a large surface area to the wind, so gusts can push them off course or, in extreme cases, overturn them. Reducing speed lowers the risk and gives the driver more time to correct. Exposed bridges and gaps between buildings are particularly hazardous.

Question 44Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the main danger of driving with a heavily misted windscreen that the driver has not fully cleared?

  1. The driver's field of view is reduced and hazards may be missed Correct answer.
  2. The mirrors will become misaligned
  3. The wipers will wear out faster
  4. The heater will use more fuel

Explanation

Mist reduces visibility and can obscure pedestrians, signals and other vehicles. The demister and ventilation should be used until the screen is fully clear before moving off. Partial clearing leaves blind areas that can hide danger.

Question 45Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A driver is following a vehicle on a country road at night and the headlights of an oncoming vehicle cause glare. What is the best action?

  1. Close one eye until the vehicle has passed
  2. Look towards the left edge of the road and slow down if necessary Correct answer.
  3. Speed up to get past the oncoming vehicle quickly
  4. Switch on main beam to see better

Explanation

Looking towards the left edge of the road avoids direct glare while keeping the vehicle's path in view. Reducing speed gives more time to react if a hazard appears while vision is impaired. Main beam would worsen the situation for the other driver.

Question 46Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why is it important to check the tyre tread depth regularly on a heavy goods vehicle?

  1. It changes the engine oil pressure
  2. It controls the operation of the tachograph
  3. It determines the vehicle's legal payload
  4. Tread depth affects grip and water dispersal, especially in wet conditions Correct answer.

Explanation

Tread channels water away from the contact patch, so insufficient depth increases the risk of aquaplaning and lengthens braking distances on wet roads. Legal minimum depths apply, and worn tyres should be replaced. Regular checks help catch wear before it becomes dangerous.

Question 47Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What should a driver do if the load shift indicator shows that part of the load has moved during the journey?

  1. Continue to the destination and report it at the end of the shift
  2. Stop in a safe place and secure or reposition the load before continuing Correct answer.
  3. Increase speed to reduce the time the load is unstable
  4. Ignore it if the vehicle still steers normally

Explanation

A shifted load can alter weight distribution, affect stability and braking, and may fall from the vehicle. The driver must stop safely and correct the load before continuing. Continuing with an unstable load endangers the driver and other road users.

Question 48Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

What is the purpose of a pre-journey walk-around check?

  1. To record the driver's rest periods
  2. To confirm the vehicle is roadworthy and the load is secure before setting off Correct answer.
  3. To replace the need for periodic maintenance
  4. To calculate the fuel cost of the trip

Explanation

The walk-around check identifies defects such as faulty lights, damaged tyres or insecure loads before the vehicle is used on the road. It allows problems to be fixed or reported early. It supplements rather than replaces scheduled maintenance.

Question 49Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

Why does a driver need to understand the vehicle's maximum authorised mass when planning a route?

  1. It sets the maximum speed on all roads
  2. It controls the tachograph calibration interval
  3. It determines the type of driving licence needed for a car
  4. It may affect which roads, bridges and tunnels the vehicle may legally use Correct answer.

Explanation

Weight and height restrictions on bridges, tunnels and some roads depend on the vehicle's mass and dimensions. Planning with the maximum authorised mass in mind avoids illegal or unsafe routes. Overloading beyond that mass is also an offence.

Question 50Advanced training in rational driving based on safety regulations

A lorry driver is descending a long, steep mountain gradient with a full load. Which driving technique best keeps the vehicle under control and protects the braking system?

  1. Select a lower gear before the descent and use engine braking together with controlled, intermittent service braking Correct answer.
  2. Keep the vehicle in the highest gear and rely mainly on continuous light pressure on the footbrake
  3. Descend in neutral to save fuel and brake firmly whenever the speed rises too much
  4. Switch off the engine briefly on the steepest section to let the brakes cool before continuing

Explanation

On a long descent, gravity constantly accelerates a loaded vehicle, so the driver should engage a low gear before the slope and let engine braking absorb most of the speed. The service brakes are then used in short, controlled applications so they have time to cool, which prevents fade and loss of stopping power.