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Ireland Truck & Bus Theory Test study materials
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Ireland Truck & Bus Theory Test practice questions

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Question 1Rules of the Road

On a standard two-way road with no signs or markings, what is the general speed limit for a bus?

  1. 50 km/h
  2. 80 km/h Correct answer.
  3. 100 km/h
  4. 65 km/h

Explanation

Under the Road Traffic (Speed Limits) Regulations, the default speed limit on ordinary national and regional roads outside built-up areas is 80 km/h, and this applies to buses unless a lower signposted limit or a specific vehicle restriction applies. Built-up areas carry a default of 50 km/h. Drivers must always reduce speed to suit weather, traffic and road conditions even below the legal limit.

Question 2Rules of the Road

A bus is travelling on a motorway. Which maximum speed applies to the bus itself?

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

Explanation

Buses are subject to a lower motorway limit than private cars. The general motorway limit for cars is 120 km/h, but buses are restricted to 100 km/h on motorways. The driver must still slow down where conditions, roadworks or weather require it.

Question 3Rules of the Road

What does a broken white line along the centre of a two-way road mean for a bus driver?

  1. Overtaking is permitted when it is safe to do so Correct answer.
  2. Overtaking is prohibited at all times
  3. The road has two lanes in the same direction
  4. The line marks the edge of the carriageway

Explanation

A broken white centre line separates traffic moving in opposite directions and may be crossed to overtake when visibility and safety allow. A continuous white line, by contrast, must not be crossed except in limited circumstances. The driver must judge whether there is enough clear road to complete the manoeuvre safely.

Question 4Rules of the Road

A bus approaches a junction controlled by a flashing amber light at the traffic signals. What should the driver do?

  1. Stop completely and wait for a green light
  2. Treat the junction as a stop sign and halt for three seconds
  3. Proceed only if the way is clear, giving way to pedestrians and traffic on the major road Correct answer.
  4. Sound the horn and continue without checking

Explanation

A flashing amber signal means the driver may proceed past the signal but must yield to pedestrians and to traffic on the road being joined. It is not a command to stop as at a red light. The driver must proceed cautiously and only when it is safe.

Question 5Rules of the Road

At a pedestrian crossing marked by flashing amber beacons (a zebra crossing), what is the bus driver's obligation?

  1. Stop only if a pedestrian has already reached the far side
  2. Proceed because pedestrians must wait for vehicles
  3. Sound the horn to warn pedestrians before continuing
  4. Yield to pedestrians on or about to enter the crossing Correct answer.

Explanation

At a zebra crossing the driver must yield to pedestrians who are on the crossing or who are about to step onto it. The flashing beacons warn drivers to slow down and be ready to stop. A bus driver has a particular duty of care because of the vehicle's size and stopping distance.

Question 6Rules of the Road

A bus driver intends to turn left at a junction where a cycle lane runs along the left side of the road. What is the safest correct action?

  1. Rely on the bus's reversing camera to detect cyclists
  2. Check mirrors and blind spots, yield to cyclists going straight, and turn only when clear Correct answer.
  3. Turn quickly to get ahead of any cyclist before the junction
  4. Move into the cycle lane early and block it while waiting

Explanation

When turning left across a cycle lane, the driver must check mirrors and blind spots and give way to cyclists continuing straight ahead. Turning quickly or blocking the cycle lane creates a serious collision risk, often called a left-turn conflict. Large vehicles have significant blind spots, so thorough observation is essential.

Question 7Rules of the Road

On a single carriageway, when may a bus driver use the hard shoulder?

  1. Only in an emergency or where signs specifically permit it Correct answer.
  2. To overtake queuing traffic on the left
  3. Whenever traffic is moving slowly
  4. To allow passengers to board away from a stop

Explanation

The hard shoulder is provided for emergencies and for authorised uses indicated by signs. Driving along it in normal traffic is prohibited because it may be needed by emergency vehicles and is not designed for routine travel. A bus should only use it where specific signage allows, for example at certain bus stops.

Question 8Rules of the Road

What is the correct action when a bus driver hears the siren of an emergency vehicle approaching from behind?

  1. Check mirrors and, if safe, pull over or make room to let it pass Correct answer.
  2. Continue at the same speed and ignore the siren
  3. Brake sharply in the middle of the lane and stop immediately
  4. Speed up to stay ahead of the emergency vehicle

Explanation

The driver should check mirrors, signal if appropriate, and move aside or stop where it is safe to let the emergency vehicle pass. Braking sharply without warning can cause a collision or block the emergency vehicle. The aim is to clear a path safely without endangering other road users.

Question 9Rules of the Road

A bus is stopped at a bus stop. What must the driver do before pulling out into traffic again?

  1. Rely on other drivers to slow down for the bus
  2. Flash the headlights and move out without signalling
  3. Pull out immediately because buses have priority when leaving a stop
  4. Check mirrors and blind spots and signal, giving way to passing traffic Correct answer.

Explanation

A bus leaving a stop does not have automatic priority over traffic already on the road. The driver must check mirrors and blind spots, signal the intention to move out, and give way to vehicles already passing. Only when it is safe should the bus rejoin the flow of traffic.

Question 10Rules of the Road

What is the meaning of a continuous white line in the centre of the road?

  1. It indicates the edge of the carriageway
  2. It marks a lane reserved for buses
  3. It may be crossed freely whenever the road ahead is clear
  4. Crossing it is prohibited except in limited circumstances such as overtaking a cyclist when safe Correct answer.

Explanation

A continuous white centre line generally must not be crossed. Limited exceptions exist, for example to overtake a cyclist, a horse or a broken-down vehicle when it is safe to do so. The line is a strong warning that overtaking is unsafe, usually because of restricted visibility.

Question 11Rules of the Road

A bus lane sign shows a bus symbol with the times of operation. Outside those times, what does the lane become?

  1. A parking area for buses only
  2. A cycle lane reserved for cyclists
  3. A general traffic lane available to all vehicles Correct answer.
  4. A mandatory bus lane at all hours

Explanation

Where a bus lane operates only during specified hours, outside those hours it reverts to a general traffic lane. The times are shown on the accompanying sign. Drivers must observe the sign carefully, as operating hours vary between lanes.

Question 12Rules of the Road

When should a bus driver use dipped headlights during the day?

  1. Never, because daytime running lights are sufficient
  2. Only between sunset and sunrise
  3. In poor visibility such as rain, fog or dull conditions Correct answer.
  4. Only when driving on a motorway

Explanation

Dipped headlights must be used when visibility is seriously reduced, for example in heavy rain, fog or dull daytime conditions. They help other road users see the bus and are more effective than daytime running lights in poor visibility. Full beams should not be used where they could dazzle others.

Question 13Rules of the Road

A bus driver is following another vehicle on a wet road. What is the recommended minimum following gap?

  1. At least two seconds
  2. At least one second
  3. At least half a second
  4. At least four seconds Correct answer.

Explanation

In wet conditions the two-second rule should be doubled to at least four seconds because stopping distances increase on a slippery surface. A heavier vehicle such as a bus needs additional distance. The gap should be increased further in heavy rain or poor visibility.

Question 14Rules of the Road

What does a yellow box junction marking require of a bus driver?

  1. Treat the box as a pedestrian crossing
  2. Enter the box and wait for a gap in traffic
  3. Stop inside the box until the lights change
  4. Do not enter unless the exit is clear, except when turning right and blocked only by oncoming traffic Correct answer.

Explanation

A yellow box junction is designed to keep a junction clear. A driver must not enter unless the exit road is clear, with a limited exception when turning right and prevented only by oncoming traffic. Blocking the box obstructs cross traffic and is an offence.

Question 15Rules of the Road

At a roundabout with no lane markings, a bus driver intends to take the third exit. Which approach is generally correct?

  1. Approach in the left-hand lane and signal left on entry
  2. Approach in the right-hand lane and signal left after passing the exit before the intended one Correct answer.
  3. Approach in the left-hand lane and signal right throughout
  4. Approach in the right-hand lane and never signal

Explanation

For an exit beyond the first two, the usual approach is from the right-hand lane, signalling left only after passing the exit before the one intended. This warns following traffic of the intention to leave. The driver must still give way to traffic already on the roundabout.

Question 16Rules of the Road

What is the correct response when a bus driver sees a red traffic light at a level crossing?

  1. Proceed slowly if no train is visible
  2. Sound the horn and cross quickly
  3. Stop only if the barrier is already down
  4. Stop and remain stopped until the signals show it is safe to proceed Correct answer.

Explanation

A red light at a level crossing means stop and stay stopped until the signals indicate it is safe. Never proceed merely because no train is visible, as trains approach quickly and quietly. Barriers and lights exist to protect road users.

Question 17Rules of the Road

A bus driver wishes to overtake a cyclist on a narrow road. What is the recommended minimum passing distance at speeds above 50 km/h?

  1. At least 0.5 metres
  2. At least 0.25 metres
  3. At least 3 metres
  4. At least 1.5 metres Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers should leave a safe passing distance when overtaking cyclists, with at least 1.5 metres recommended at higher speeds. A smaller gap risks the cyclist being struck or forced off the road by the vehicle's slipstream. If a safe gap cannot be given, the driver should wait.

Question 18Rules of the Road

What does a clearway sign indicate to a bus driver?

  1. Stopping or parking is prohibited during the times shown Correct answer.
  2. The road is closed to all traffic
  3. Buses may park there to pick up passengers at any time
  4. A bus lane begins at that point

Explanation

A clearway prohibits stopping or parking during the times indicated, to keep traffic flowing. A bus driver must not set down or wait there unless a specific exemption or bus stop applies. The restriction is shown on the accompanying plate.

Question 19Rules of the Road

When a bus driver is parking on a hill facing downhill, in which direction should the front wheels be turned?

  1. Straight ahead
  2. It makes no difference
  3. Towards the kerb Correct answer.
  4. Away from the kerb

Explanation

When parking facing downhill, the wheels should be turned towards the kerb so that if the vehicle rolls it is stopped by the kerb. The handbrake should also be firmly applied and the vehicle left in gear. This reduces the risk of a runaway vehicle.

Question 20Rules of the Road

A bus driver is approaching a school warden displaying a stop sign. What must the driver do?

  1. Stop and remain stopped until the warden lowers the sign Correct answer.
  2. Slow down and pass if children are not on the road
  3. Sound the horn and proceed slowly
  4. Continue because the warden controls only children

Explanation

A school warden's stop sign has the same effect as a stop sign, and drivers must stop and remain stopped until the sign is lowered. Children may step out unexpectedly, so patience is essential. Passing the sign while it is displayed is an offence.

Question 21Rules of the Road

What is the purpose of a rumble strip on the approach to a hazard?

  1. To mark the boundary of a bus lane
  2. To indicate a designated parking area
  3. To drain surface water from the road
  4. To alert drivers through vibration to slow down Correct answer.

Explanation

Rumble strips are raised or grooved sections that cause vibration and noise when driven over, alerting drivers to a hazard ahead. They are particularly useful for reducing fatigue-related incidents on long routes. Drivers should respond by checking speed and conditions.

Question 22Rules of the Road

A bus driver is entering a motorway from a slip road. What is the correct procedure?

  1. Drive along the hard shoulder until a gap appears
  2. Merge immediately regardless of traffic
  3. Build up speed on the slip road and merge when a safe gap exists, giving way to traffic already on the motorway Correct answer.
  4. Stop at the end of the slip road and wait for a gap

Explanation

The slip road allows the driver to match the speed of motorway traffic and merge into a safe gap. Traffic already on the motorway has priority, so the entering driver must give way. Stopping at the end of a slip road is dangerous and should be avoided.

Question 23Rules of the Road

When may a bus driver use the horn in a built-up area at night?

  1. To signal intention to overtake
  2. To greet other drivers
  3. To ask pedestrians to hurry across
  4. Only to warn of immediate danger Correct answer.

Explanation

The horn should be used only to warn other road users of immediate danger, and its use is restricted in built-up areas at night. It is not a device for greeting, signalling overtaking or hurrying pedestrians. Excessive or unnecessary use can cause alarm and is an offence.

Question 24Rules of the Road

What does a broken yellow line along the edge of the carriageway indicate?

  1. A bus stop clearway
  2. The centre line of a dual carriageway
  3. The edge of the road where parking may be permitted subject to signs Correct answer.
  4. A mandatory cycle lane

Explanation

A broken yellow line along the kerb marks the edge of the carriageway and generally indicates that parking may be allowed, subject to any signs. A continuous yellow line indicates parking is prohibited. Drivers must check signage before stopping.

Question 25Rules of the Road

A bus driver is driving in fog. Which lights should be used?

  1. Dipped headlights and fog lights where fitted, switching fog lights off when visibility improves Correct answer.
  2. Full headlights at all times
  3. Hazard warning lights while moving
  4. Side lights only

Explanation

In fog, dipped headlights should be used, with fog lights where fitted, and fog lights must be switched off once visibility improves to avoid dazzling others. Full beams reflect off fog and reduce visibility. Hazard lights should not be used while driving except to warn of a hazard.

Question 26Rules of the Road

In the Republic of Ireland, what is the general speed limit on a national secondary road unless signs show otherwise?

  1. 120 km/h
  2. 100 km/h
  3. 80 km/h Correct answer.
  4. 50 km/h

Explanation

National secondary roads carry a default limit of 80 km/h for cars and buses unless a different limit is posted. Drivers must always check signs, because local bye-laws can set lower limits on particular stretches.

Question 27Rules of the Road

A bus driver is travelling on a road with a broken white centre line. What does this marking permit?

  1. Driving on the right-hand side at all times
  2. Overtaking when it is safe to do so Correct answer.
  3. Exceeding the posted speed limit to overtake
  4. Parking on the carriageway overnight

Explanation

A broken white centre line separates opposing traffic flows and may be crossed to overtake or turn when it is safe. The driver must still be satisfied that the road ahead is clear and that the manoeuvre can be completed legally.

Question 28Rules of the Road

What is the default speed limit on a motorway in Ireland for a bus?

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

Explanation

The motorway default limit is 120 km/h for cars, but buses are restricted to 100 km/h on motorways. A professional driver must apply the lower vehicle-class limit even when signs show the general limit.

Question 29Rules of the Road

A bus driver approaches a junction where a garda is directing traffic with hand signals while the traffic lights show green. Whose instruction takes priority?

  1. The green traffic light
  2. The vehicle behind
  3. The garda's signals Correct answer.
  4. The road markings

Explanation

Directions given by a garda on point duty override traffic lights, signs and road markings. The driver must obey the garda even where the light appears to permit movement.

Question 30Rules of the Road

What does a flashing amber light at a pelican crossing require a bus driver to do?

  1. Treat it exactly like a red light
  2. Proceed only if the crossing is clear of pedestrians Correct answer.
  3. Sound the horn before moving off
  4. Stop and wait until the light turns green

Explanation

At a pelican crossing the flashing amber phase means drivers must yield to any pedestrian still on the crossing but may proceed once it is clear. It is not an absolute stop like a red light.

Question 31Rules of the Road

A bus driver is waiting at a junction controlled by traffic lights and the amber light appears after green. What should the driver do?

  1. Reverse away from the stop line
  2. Continue at the same speed regardless
  3. Stop unless it is unsafe to do so Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate to clear the junction

Explanation

An amber light warns that the signal is about to turn red and drivers should stop, unless they are so close that stopping could cause a collision. Accelerating to beat the light is a common cause of junction collisions.

Question 32Rules of the Road

What does a regulatory sign showing a red circle with a white horizontal bar mean for a bus driver?

  1. Stop and yield
  2. End of speed limit
  3. No entry for vehicular traffic Correct answer.
  4. One-way street ahead

Explanation

A red circle containing a white horizontal bar is the no-entry sign and prohibits vehicles from entering that road. A bus driver must find an alternative route rather than proceeding.

Question 33Rules of the Road

A bus driver sees a sign showing a blue circle with a white arrow pointing straight ahead. What does it require?

  1. Turn left at the next junction
  2. Park in the direction of the arrow
  3. Give way to oncoming traffic
  4. Proceed straight ahead only Correct answer.

Explanation

A blue circular sign with a white arrow is a mandatory direction sign requiring traffic to proceed in the direction shown. It is not advisory and must be obeyed.

Question 34Rules of the Road

At a junction where a stop sign is displayed, what must a bus driver do before proceeding?

  1. Stop only if another vehicle is visible
  2. Slow down and continue if the road looks clear
  3. Sound the horn and proceed
  4. Come to a complete stop and yield to traffic on the major road Correct answer.

Explanation

A stop sign requires a complete stop at the stop line, followed by yielding to traffic on the road being entered. Rolling slowly through the line does not satisfy the requirement.

Question 35Rules of the Road

A bus driver is entering a roundabout and intends to take the second exit. Which lane is generally correct where lanes are marked?

  1. The left-hand lane Correct answer.
  2. Either lane regardless of markings
  3. The lane reserved for oncoming traffic
  4. The right-hand lane

Explanation

Where a roundabout has marked lanes, taking the second exit (straight ahead) is normally done from the left lane unless signs or markings indicate otherwise. The driver should follow the lane markings and signal appropriately.

Question 36Rules of the Road

What is the correct way for a bus driver to use a two-lane dual carriageway when not overtaking?

  1. Keep to the right lane
  2. Use whichever lane is quieter
  3. Straddle both lanes
  4. Keep to the left lane Correct answer.

Explanation

On a dual carriageway drivers should keep to the left lane unless overtaking or preparing for a right turn. Remaining in the right lane when the left is clear obstructs faster traffic.

Question 37Rules of the Road

A bus driver wishes to make a U-turn on a road where a continuous white line is on the driver's side of the centre. What is required?

  1. The U-turn is prohibited because the line must not be crossed Correct answer.
  2. The U-turn is allowed if the bus is empty
  3. The U-turn is allowed at night only
  4. The U-turn is allowed if no traffic is coming

Explanation

A continuous white centre line on the driver's side means it must not be crossed, so a U-turn across it is not permitted. The driver must continue to a location where the manoeuvre is legal and safe.

Question 38Rules of the Road

What does a hatched area bounded by a continuous white line in the centre of the road indicate to a bus driver?

  1. It is a parking bay for buses
  2. It is an overtaking lane
  3. It must not be entered except in an emergency Correct answer.
  4. It is a pedestrian refuge to drive through

Explanation

A hatched area with a continuous boundary line separates opposing traffic and must not be entered except in an emergency. Drivers should keep clear of it during normal driving.

Question 39Rules of the Road

A bus driver is approaching a bend marked with a series of chevron signs pointing left. What do these signs indicate?

  1. A bus stop ahead
  2. A change to the speed limit
  3. A pedestrian crossing
  4. A sharp change of direction to the left Correct answer.

Explanation

Chevron signs warn of a sharp bend and indicate the direction of the curve. The driver should reduce speed before the bend and keep to the correct side of the road.

Question 40Rules of the Road

What is the purpose of a supplementary plate beneath a regulatory sign?

  1. It gives additional information such as times or exceptions Correct answer.
  2. It indicates a speed camera
  3. It replaces the main sign
  4. It marks the end of the road

Explanation

A supplementary plate adds detail to the main sign, such as operating times, vehicle exceptions or distances. Drivers must read both the sign and the plate to understand the restriction.

Question 41Rules of the Road

A bus driver is driving at night on an unlit road and meets an oncoming vehicle. What should the driver do with the headlights?

  1. Switch to full beam to see better
  2. Use the hazard warning lights
  3. Turn the headlights off completely
  4. Dip the headlights to avoid dazzling the other driver Correct answer.

Explanation

When meeting oncoming traffic at night, the driver should dip the headlights so the other driver is not dazzled. Full beam may be restored once the oncoming vehicle has passed.

Question 42Rules of the Road

What is the correct action for a bus driver whose vehicle breaks down on a motorway?

  1. Reverse back to the previous exit
  2. Move to the hard shoulder, switch on hazard lights and contact the emergency services Correct answer.
  3. Stop in the right lane and wait for assistance
  4. Continue driving at reduced speed

Explanation

A broken-down vehicle should be moved as far left as possible onto the hard shoulder, hazard lights switched on and the emergency services contacted. Occupants should wait in a safe place away from the carriageway.

Question 43Rules of the Road

What does a broken white line along the edge of a motorway carriageway indicate?

  1. A lane reserved for overtaking
  2. A pedestrian crossing point
  3. The start of a bus lane
  4. The boundary of the hard shoulder Correct answer.

Explanation

On a motorway a broken white line marks the edge of the running carriageway and the boundary of the hard shoulder. Drivers should not cross it except in an emergency or when directed.

Question 44Rules of the Road

A bus driver is involved in a collision in which another person is injured. What is the driver's first legal duty?

  1. Drive on to the nearest depot
  2. Leave the scene to call the depot
  3. Continue the route and report later
  4. Stop the vehicle and give assistance Correct answer.

Explanation

After a collision involving injury the driver must stop, give reasonable assistance and ensure the emergency services are called. Leaving the scene without stopping is a serious offence.

Question 45Rules of the Road

What does a single yellow line along the edge of a road generally indicate to a bus driver?

  1. Parking restrictions apply during specified times Correct answer.
  2. Overtaking is prohibited
  3. Parking is free at all times
  4. The road is a clearway at all times

Explanation

A single yellow line along the kerb indicates that parking is restricted during the times shown on nearby signs or plates. Drivers must check the accompanying signage before stopping.

Question 46Rules of the Road

A bus driver is approaching a junction and the traffic light turns green but the exit beyond the junction is blocked by queuing traffic. What should the driver do?

  1. Sound the horn until traffic moves
  2. Mount the kerb to pass the queue
  3. Enter the junction and stop across it
  4. Wait before the junction until the exit is clear Correct answer.

Explanation

A driver should not enter a junction unless the exit is clear, even on a green light, to avoid blocking the junction. The driver should wait behind the stop line until space is available.

Question 47Rules of the Road

What is the correct procedure for a bus driver who needs to turn right at a junction on a two-way road?

  1. Turn without signalling if the road is clear
  2. Position in the left lane and turn across traffic
  3. Position near the centre line, give way to oncoming traffic and signal Correct answer.
  4. Wait in the left lane until the lights change

Explanation

For a right turn the driver should position correctly near the centre of the road, signal in good time and yield to oncoming traffic. The turn should only be completed when it is safe.

Question 48Rules of the Road

What does a sign showing a red circle with the number 50 inside mean for a bus driver?

  1. The road is 50 metres ahead
  2. The maximum permitted speed is 50 km/h Correct answer.
  3. The minimum permitted speed is 50 km/h
  4. A 50-metre stopping distance applies

Explanation

A red circle containing a number is a regulatory speed limit sign showing the maximum permitted speed. The driver must not exceed that figure on the stretch of road covered.

Question 49Rules of the Road

A bus driver is following a learner driver who is signalling to turn right. What is the safest response?

  1. Reduce speed and allow space for the manoeuvre Correct answer.
  2. Sound the horn to warn the learner
  3. Overtake on the right immediately
  4. Close up to prevent other vehicles entering the gap

Explanation

When following a vehicle that is preparing to turn, the driver should ease off, keep a safe gap and be ready for the vehicle to slow or stop. Anticipation prevents rear-end collisions.

Question 50Rules of the Road

A bus driver is driving in a built-up area and sees a pedestrian waiting at a zebra crossing. What is the driver's obligation?

  1. Accelerate to pass before the pedestrian steps out
  2. Sound the horn to warn the pedestrian
  3. Yield to the pedestrian on or about to use the crossing Correct answer.
  4. Continue if no pedestrian has stepped onto the crossing

Explanation

At a zebra crossing drivers must yield to pedestrians who are on the crossing or clearly about to use it. The driver should slow down in good time and be prepared to stop.