Cyprus Driving Theory Test flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Left-hand traffic rule

In Cyprus, traffic keeps to the left. At junctions without signs or markings, you must give way to vehicles approaching from your right, and you should look right first before emerging.

Urban speed limit

The default speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h unless a sign states otherwise. Lower limits apply near schools and where signed, and exceeding the limit carries penalties.

Motorway speed limit

On Cypriot motorways the maximum for cars and motorcycles is 100 km/h, while vehicles towing trailers are limited to 80 km/h. Limits may be lower where signed.

Two-second rule

Maintain at least a two-second gap behind the vehicle ahead in dry conditions. Double it to four seconds in rain, at night or when visibility is reduced.

Alcohol limit for novices

Novice and professional drivers must not exceed 0.2 g/L blood alcohol, while experienced drivers are limited to 0.5 g/L. Penalties increase sharply above these thresholds.

Child restraint requirement

Children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm must travel in an approved child restraint suited to their weight and height. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.

Red octagon sign

A red octagonal sign means STOP. You must bring the vehicle to a complete halt at the stop line and give way to traffic before moving off, even if the road looks clear.

Give way sign

An inverted red-and-white triangle means give way. Slow down, be prepared to stop and yield to traffic on the priority road before entering or crossing it.

Priority road sign

A yellow diamond with a white border marks a priority road. The same sign with a black diagonal bar indicates the end of priority, so normal give-way rules then apply.

Solid white centre line

A continuous solid white line must not be crossed or straddled. It marks a section where overtaking is unsafe, such as on bends or where visibility is restricted.

Flashing amber light

A flashing amber signal means you may proceed only if the way is clear, and you must give way to pedestrians already crossing. It is not the same as a green light.

Red traffic light

A red light requires a complete stop before the stop line. You may not proceed until the signal changes and the junction exit is clear.

Diesel versus petrol

Diesel engines ignite fuel by compression, while petrol engines use a spark plug. Misfuelling a diesel car with petrol can destroy the fuel system, so do not start the engine.

Cold tyre pressure

Tyre pressures should be checked when tyres are cold. Under-inflation increases fuel use and wear, while over-inflation reduces the tyre's contact patch and grip.

Minimum tread depth

Car tyres must have at least 1.6 mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the width and around the entire circumference. Worn tyres fail inspection and reduce grip.

ABS function

Anti-lock braking prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, preserving steering control. It does not always shorten stopping distance, especially on loose or slippery surfaces.

Hydraulic brake warning

A spongy brake pedal or falling fluid level suggests air in the hydraulic system or a leak. The vehicle must not be driven until the fault is repaired.

Dipped headlights use

Dipped headlights are required at night and in poor visibility. Switch from main beam to dipped when meeting oncoming traffic or following another vehicle to avoid dazzling.

Periodic technical inspection

Private cars must pass a periodic technical inspection at the prescribed intervals. The valid certificate must be produced on request and is a condition of lawful road use.

Pre-journey vehicle checks

Before driving, check tyres and pressures, lights and indicators, brakes, fluid levels, mirrors, wipers and washers. Faults found must be corrected before the journey begins.

Tyre sidewall markings

Sidewall markings show tyre size, load index and speed rating. Tyres fitted on the same axle should match in size, type and construction for safe handling.

Emission test failure

Excessive exhaust smoke or a faulty catalytic converter or particulate filter causes the inspection to fail. Emissions must be within the prescribed limits for the vehicle type.

Windscreen damage rule

Damage in the driver's line of sight, or large chips and cracks elsewhere, can fail inspection because they impair visibility and weaken the screen's structure.

Provisional licence rules

A learner must hold a valid provisional licence, display L plates and be accompanied by a qualified driver. Learners may not use motorways.

Licence category B

Category B covers cars up to 3,500 kg with limited trailer weight. Towing heavier trailers requires category BE, which involves a separate test.

Compulsory third-party cover

Third-party liability insurance is the legal minimum required to drive. It covers damage or injury caused to others but not damage to your own vehicle.

Void insurance risk

Insurance may be void if the driver is unlicensed, disqualified or using the vehicle outside the declared purpose. In such cases claims can be refused entirely.

No-claims bonus

A no-claims bonus is a discount earned for claim-free years of insurance. It is reduced or lost after an at-fault claim, raising future premiums.

Accident reporting duty

After a collision you must stop, exchange details and report the incident to the police and insurer within the required time. Failing to stop is a criminal offence.

Roundabout priority

Traffic already circulating on a roundabout has priority. Signal left before exiting, give way on entry and do not change lanes while on the roundabout.

Overtaking prohibitions

Overtaking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings, on bends with limited visibility, at junctions and where a solid white line is present.

Motorway restrictions

Motorways exclude pedestrians, bicycles, mopeds and slow vehicles. The hard shoulder is for emergencies only, and a warning triangle should be placed behind a stopped vehicle.