Gibraltar Theory Test flashcards

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

Mirror-signal-manoeuvre routine

Before changing direction or speed, check mirrors, signal your intention if needed, then act. This sequence gives other road users time to react to your move.

Two-second following rule

Pick a fixed point ahead; if you reach it before counting two seconds after the vehicle in front, you are too close. Increase the gap in poor conditions.

Wet-road stopping distance

On a wet road, braking distance roughly doubles compared with dry tarmac. Leave about twice the normal following gap to allow for the longer stop.

Icy-road stopping distance

On ice, braking distance can be up to ten times the dry distance. Drive slowly, use gentle inputs, and avoid sudden braking or steering.

Stopping distance formula

Total stopping distance equals thinking distance plus braking distance. Thinking distance grows with speed; braking distance grows with the square of speed.

Minimum tyre tread depth

The legal minimum is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around the whole circumference. Worn tyres lengthen stopping distance and risk aquaplaning.

ABS function

Anti-lock braking prevents wheel lock under heavy braking, so you keep steering control. It does not guarantee a shorter stop on gravel, snow or ice.

Child seat rule

Children must use an appropriate child restraint until they are 12 years old or 135 cm tall, whichever comes first. The driver is responsible for children under 14.

Tyre pressure check

Check pressures when tyres are cold, at least monthly and before long journeys. Under-inflation raises fuel consumption and the risk of a blow-out.

Load security

Loads must be secured so they cannot shift. An unsecured load can cause loss of control, and roof loads raise the centre of gravity and fuel use.

Drink-drive limit Gibraltar

The limit is 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, or 22 micrograms per 100 ml of breath. The safest approach is not to drink at all before driving.

Tiredness warning signs

Heavy eyelids, yawning, drifting lane position and missed junctions signal fatigue. Stop at a safe place such as services or a lay-by, not the hard shoulder.

Hard shoulder purpose

The hard shoulder is for emergencies only. It is not a rest area or a place to stop for tiredness, food or phone calls.

Night driving visibility

Drive at a speed that lets you stop within the distance lit by your headlights. Use dipped headlights in lit built-up areas to avoid dazzling others.

Medicine and driving

Check prescription and over-the-counter labels for drowsiness warnings. If a medicine affects your alertness, do not drive until you are safe.

Tailgater response

Increase the gap ahead so you can slow gradually, and let the tailgater pass when safe. Never brake sharply to punish them.

Zebra crossing rule

Give way to pedestrians on the crossing, but do not wave them across, as another road user may be overtaking and not expecting them to step out.

Emergency vehicle response

Make progress to let sirens and flashing lights through only when safe. Do not mount kerbs or run red lights to clear a path.

Horn use rule

Use the horn only to warn others of your presence, not to express annoyance. Avoid horn use in built-up areas at night unless danger is imminent.

Speed limit meaning

Speed limits are maximums, not targets. The correct speed depends on visibility, traffic, road surface and the presence of pedestrians.

Courtesy and aggression

A patient, courteous response reduces collision risk more than asserting right of way. Aggressive driving raises stress and the chance of error.

Seat belt responsibility

The driver must be belted and is responsible for passengers under 14. Adults are responsible for their own seat belts.

Weekly light check

Test headlights, brake lights, indicators and hazard lights weekly. A failed brake light is a common and dangerous defect.

Engine oil check

Check oil with the engine cold and the car level. Low coolant risks overheating and head gasket damage, so check both regularly.

Tunnel stopping gap

When stationary in a tunnel, leave at least a 5-metre gap from the vehicle ahead and switch off the engine if the stop is prolonged.

Cyclist overtaking clearance

Give cyclists at least 1.5 m clearance at speeds up to 30 mph, and more at higher speeds. Drop back if you cannot pass safely.

Large vehicle blind spots

If you cannot see a lorry or bus driver in their mirrors, they cannot see you. Drop back rather than sitting alongside or close behind.

Cornering technique

Slow before the bend, keep a steady speed through it, and accelerate gently on exit. Braking mid-bend reduces grip and risks a skid.

Static hazard scanning

Parked cars, junctions, bends, crests and roadworks are static hazards. Scan for the door that may open or the car that may pull out.

Unmarked junction rule

At an unmarked junction, give way to traffic from the right. At a T-junction, give way to traffic on the through road.

Roundabout priority

Give way to traffic already on the roundabout approaching from the right. Signal left to leave, and check mirrors before changing lane.

Occlusion hazard

A parked lorry or bus can hide a pedestrian. Slow down and look past the obstruction before proceeding, as someone may step out.