Ireland Truck & Bus Theory Test flashcards

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

Motorway speed limit

The national speed limit on Irish motorways is 120 km/h unless a lower limit is signposted. Learner drivers and vehicles incapable of 50 km/h are prohibited.

Learner permit accompaniment

A learner permit holder must be accompanied by a driver who has held a full licence for at least two years in the same category, and must display L plates.

Roundabout priority

Traffic already on the roundabout has priority. Entering drivers must yield at the yield line and give way to vehicles approaching from the right.

Continuous white line

A continuous white centre line means overtaking is prohibited. A broken white line may be crossed only when it is safe and visibility allows.

Parking near a junction

Parking within 5 metres of a junction is prohibited unless signs or road markings permit it. Parking on footpaths or cycle lanes is also prohibited.

Professional driver alcohol limit

Learner, novice and professional drivers must not exceed 20 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood. Other drivers are limited to 50 mg per 100 ml.

Child restraint requirement

Children under 150 cm in height or 36 kg in weight must use an appropriate child restraint. Seat belts must be worn by all occupants where fitted.

Flashing amber at pelican

A flashing amber light at a pelican crossing means you must yield to pedestrians already on the crossing, but may proceed if the crossing is clear.

Two-second rule

Maintain at least a two-second gap behind the vehicle ahead in dry conditions. Double the gap to four seconds in wet weather and increase further in ice or fog.

Stopping distance at 100 km/h

At 100 km/h the total stopping distance is approximately 108 metres: about 70 metres thinking distance plus 38 metres braking distance on a dry road.

Fog light use

Use fog lights only when visibility is seriously reduced, generally below 100 metres. Switch them off when visibility improves to avoid dazzling other drivers.

Cyclist clearance

Give cyclists at least 1 metre clearance when overtaking at speeds up to 50 km/h, and at least 1.5 metres at higher speeds.

Aquaplaning response

If tyres lose contact with the road on standing water, ease off the accelerator, avoid sharp braking and hold the steering steady until grip returns.

Night driving speed

At night, drive at a speed from which you can stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights. Use main beam only when it will not dazzle others.

Hazard perception scanning

Scan near, middle and far distance every few seconds. Watch for brake lights, junction activity and pedestrian movement to identify developing hazards early.

Vulnerable road users

Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders are vulnerable road users. Reduce speed and increase clearance when passing them, especially at junctions.

Tyre tread depth

Minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm for cars and light vehicles across the central three-quarters of the tread, and 1.0 mm for heavy goods vehicles.

Tyre pressure check

Check tyre pressures when tyres are cold and adjust for load. Under-inflation increases fuel consumption, tyre wear and the risk of a blowout.

Pre-journey checks

Before a journey check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid, lights, indicators, mirrors and tyre condition. Report any defect before driving.

ABS warning light

If the ABS warning light stays on after the engine starts, a fault exists. Normal braking remains but anti-lock assistance may be unavailable; have it checked.

NCT certificate

Cars over four years old require a valid National Car Test certificate. Heavy goods vehicles require annual roadworthiness testing after one year.

Load security

Loads must be secured so they cannot move or fall. A load projecting more than 1 metre beyond the rear must be marked with a red flag by day and a red light at night.

Diesel particulate filter

Diesel particulate filters require periodic regeneration. Short urban journeys can prevent regeneration, causing the filter to clog and the warning light to illuminate.

Brake fade

Brake fade occurs when brakes overheat through prolonged use. On long descents, use engine braking and a lower gear to reduce reliance on the service brake.

Daily driving limit

The daily driving limit is 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice in a week. The weekly limit is 56 hours and the fortnightly limit is 90 hours.

Driving break rule

After no more than 4.5 hours of driving, take a break of at least 45 minutes. The break may be split into 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes.

Daily rest requirement

Daily rest is normally 11 hours, reducible to 9 hours no more than three times between weekly rests. Weekly rest is 45 hours, reducible to 24 hours with compensation.

Tachograph recording modes

A tachograph records driving, other work, availability and rest. Manual entries are required for periods not automatically recorded, such as work before inserting the card.

Driver card use

Insert the driver card at the start of the shift and remove it at the end. Do not withdraw it during the working day unless authorised by an enforcement officer.

Record retention

Operators must retain tachograph records for at least 12 months. Drivers must produce records on request to an enforcement officer during a roadside check.

Documents to carry

Drivers must carry their driver card and, where required, printouts of the current day and the previous 28 days for inspection by enforcement officers.

Driver CPC periodic training

The Driver CPC requires 35 hours of periodic training every five years. Initial qualification includes a theory test and a practical driving test.