Jordan Driving Theory Heavy cheat sheet
Jordan Driving Theory Heavy · Keep the key ideas within reach.
Traffic Law
Jordan drives on the right; overtaking is performed on the left except when the vehicle ahead is signalling a left turn or in slow queued traffic.
Legal blood alcohol limit in Jordan is 0.00% for all drivers; any detectable alcohol is a violation under the Traffic Law.
Seat belts are mandatory for driver and all passengers in the front and rear; children under 10 must use an appropriate restraint and may not sit in the front seat.
Heavy goods vehicles are generally banned from entering city centres during peak hours unless holding a municipal permit; check posted lorry time windows before routing.
The driver must carry a valid driving licence for the vehicle class, vehicle registration (rukhsa), and insurance certificate at all times and produce them on request.
Use of a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited; only hands-free devices are permitted.
At a pedestrian crossing without signals, vehicles must yield to pedestrians already on the crossing and reduce speed on approach.
Following an injury collision, the driver must stop, render assistance, and report to the nearest police station without delay; leaving the scene is a criminal offence.
Signs and Road Markings
Red circles with a white bar mean prohibition; blue circles mean mandatory instruction; red triangles with a white field mean warning.
A solid white centre line prohibits crossing or overtaking; a broken white line permits crossing when safe and the road ahead is clear.
Yellow kerb markings indicate no parking or stopping restrictions; check accompanying plates for times and exemptions.
A sign showing a lorry silhouette in a red circle bans goods vehicles above the indicated weight from that route.
Weight-limit signs state the maximum permissible gross vehicle weight in tonnes; the limit applies to the vehicle, not the load alone.
Chevron boards and black-and-white edge markers indicate sharp bends; reduce speed before entering the curve, not during it.
Temporary yellow road markings and orange signage override permanent markings during roadworks.
Stop signs require a complete halt at the stop line; give-way signs require yielding only when traffic is present.
Safe Driving and Defensive Driving Techniques
Maintain at least a 3-second following gap in dry conditions; increase to 6 seconds in rain and 9 or more on wet or icy surfaces.
Total stopping distance equals thinking distance plus braking distance; braking distance rises with the square of speed, so doubling speed quadruples braking distance.
Heavy vehicles have large blind spots on both sides, directly behind, and in front; complete mirror checks before every lane change.
Use the Smith System: aim high, get the big picture, keep eyes moving, leave an escape route, and make sure others see you.
On downgrades, select a low gear before descending and use engine braking; continuous service-brake use causes fade and loss of braking.
When overtaking, confirm the lane ahead is clear for the full manoeuvre, signal early, and return to the right only when the overtaken vehicle is visible in the mirror.
In fog, reduce speed, use low beam or fog lamps, and increase the following gap; do not use high beam, which reflects back off the fog.
At roundabouts, yield to traffic already circulating and signal your exit; large vehicles may need to occupy more than one lane.
Vehicle Controls
The clutch pedal must be fully depressed to start a manual vehicle and released progressively to avoid stalling or jerking under load.
Retarder or exhaust brake controls are engaged on long descents to supplement service brakes without overheating them.
Splitter and range-change gears must only be shifted with the clutch depressed and the vehicle at the correct speed range.
The parking brake must be applied and the wheels chocked before leaving the cab on a gradient.
Mirror adjustment is set so that the trailer edge is visible in the lower third of the mirror; adjust before moving off.
Air-brake pressure gauges show both service and secondary circuits; a low-pressure warning buzzer or light requires stopping and investigation.
Power steering should not be held at full lock for more than a few seconds, which can damage the pump and overheat the fluid.
Cruise control must not be used on slippery surfaces, in heavy traffic, or on steep descents where engine braking is needed.
Handling and Pre-Trip Inspection
Pre-trip checks cover tyres, brakes, lights, fluids, mirrors, wipers, load security, and air pressure build-up before moving off.
Tyre tread depth must be at least 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread; check sidewalls for cuts, bulges, and embedded objects.
Cold tyre pressure must match the manufacturer's specification; under-inflation causes heat build-up and blowout risk on long runs.
Test brakes by building full air pressure, then checking that the low-pressure warning activates below the specified threshold.
Check all lamps: headlights, indicators, brake lights, reversing lamps, marker lights, and hazard flashers.
Inspect for air leaks by listening for hissing and observing gauge drop with the engine off and brakes applied.
Check the fifth wheel, coupling pin, and safety catch engagement on articulated units; tug-test the trailer after coupling.
Wheel nut indicators (yellow or red arrows) should all point the same way; misaligned indicators signal a loose nut.
Load Securing
The load must be secured so it cannot shift, roll, or fall; use straps, chains, or nets rated to at least the load weight.
Lashing capacity must exceed the load's tendency to move; use at least two independent securing devices where practicable.
The centre of gravity should be as low and as close to the vehicle's centreline as possible to preserve stability.
Loads must not project beyond the vehicle's rear by more than the permitted overhang without a marker board and, at night, a red light.
Cover loose aggregates or sand with a tarpaulin to prevent spillage onto the road.
Check load security again after the first 20–30 km and at every rest stop during the journey.
Never exceed the rated capacity of the lashing points or the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating.
Distribute the load evenly across the axles to avoid overloading one axle or reducing steering-axle grip.
Weight Limits and Axle Loading
Gross vehicle weight (GVW) is the maximum permissible total weight of the vehicle plus load; gross combination weight (GCW) applies to the tractor and trailer together.
Axle load is the weight carried by a single axle or axle group; each axle has a rated maximum that must not be exceeded.
Payload equals GVW minus the vehicle's kerb weight; never plan a load that pushes the total above GVW.
Overloading increases braking distance, tyre heat, and road damage and is an offence with fines and possible vehicle detention.
Distribute weight so that no single axle exceeds its rating; use a weighbridge to confirm axle loads before departure.
Fifth-wheel position and trailer axle spacing affect the weight split between tractor and trailer; adjust to balance the load.
A tandem or tri-axle group has a combined rating lower than the sum of individual axle ratings; check the plate.
The vehicle's weight plate (VIN plate) lists the permissible axle loads and must be consulted, not estimated.
Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems and Air Brakes
Air-brake systems operate at a normal working pressure of about 8–8.5 bar (approximately 120 psi); the low-pressure warning should activate around 4.5 bar.
The compressor must build pressure from zero to the working range within the manufacturer's specified time; slow build-up indicates a fault.
Perform a leak test: with the engine off and brakes applied, pressure drop should not exceed the manufacturer's limit over a set period.
The parking (spring) brake is held by spring pressure and released by air; loss of air pressure causes it to apply automatically.
Brake fade occurs when drums or discs overheat on long descents; prevent it by using engine braking and a retarder.
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents wheel lock-up; keep firm pressure on the pedal during an emergency stop and do not pump it.
Brake adjustment and slack adjuster travel must be within specification; excessive travel reduces braking force.
Drain air tanks daily to remove moisture that can freeze or corrode the system; check the air dryer function regularly.
Hazard Perception and Emergency Response
Scan 12–15 seconds ahead of the vehicle and check mirrors every 5–8 seconds to detect developing hazards.
If a tyre blows out, hold the steering firmly, ease off the accelerator, and avoid hard braking until control is regained.
If brakes fail, downshift through the gears, use the retarder or exhaust brake, and apply the parking brake progressively.
In a skid, steer in the direction of the skid and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering inputs.
If the vehicle catches fire, stop, switch off the engine, evacuate occupants upwind, and call the fire service before attempting to fight a small fire.
At a collision scene, secure the area, switch on hazard lights, place warning triangles, and call emergency services with location and casualty details.
Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or oncoming traffic.
If the vehicle stalls on a level crossing, evacuate immediately and move away from the tracks before calling the railway emergency number.
Driver Hours, Rest Periods and Fatigue Management
Continuous driving must be interrupted by a break of at least 15 minutes after no more than 4 hours of driving, and a 45-minute break after 4.5 hours under common heavy-vehicle rules.
Daily driving time is typically capped at 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice a week under EU-style rules; check the applicable national limit.
A daily rest period of at least 11 hours must be taken within each 24-hour period; reduced rest of 9 hours is allowed a limited number of times.
A weekly rest of at least 45 hours is required, with reduced weekly rest of 24 hours compensated later.
The tachograph or logbook must record driving, other work, availability, and rest; falsification is a serious offence.
Fatigue signs include heavy eyelids, lane drifting, yawning, and missed signs; the only remedy is stopping for rest, not caffeine or fresh air.
The 15-hour spreadover limit means all duty including breaks must finish within 15 hours of the start of the shift.
Night driving between 00:00 and 06:00 carries higher fatigue risk; plan additional breaks and avoid long unbroken stretches.
First Aid
The primary survey is DRABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation; check and act in that order.
For severe bleeding, apply direct pressure with a clean dressing and elevate the limb if no fracture is suspected.
For a suspected spinal injury, keep the casualty still and support the head until emergency services arrive.
For burns, cool with running water for at least 20 minutes and do not remove clothing stuck to the burn.
Place an unconscious but breathing casualty in the recovery position and monitor breathing continuously.
Begin CPR at 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths for adults; compress at 100–120 per minute to a depth of 5–6 cm.
For suspected fractures, immobilise the limb in the position found and do not attempt to realign it.
Record the casualty's condition, time of incident, and any first aid given for the emergency services and the incident report.
Fire Safety and Incident Procedures
Vehicle fires most often start in the engine bay, brakes, tyres, or electrical wiring; switch off the engine and battery isolator if safe.
Use a CO2 or dry-powder extinguisher on electrical and fuel fires; never use water on fuel or electrical fires.
Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire and sweep side to side; only tackle a small fire with an escape route behind you.
Fuel fires spread rapidly; evacuate to at least 100 metres upwind and call the fire service.
After any fire, do not restart the engine; isolate the battery and await inspection by a qualified technician.
Place warning triangles about 50 metres behind the vehicle on ordinary roads and further back on motorways or blind bends.
Report all incidents to the operator and insurer promptly; preserve evidence and complete an incident report with times and location.
Keep the fire extinguisher serviced and within its inspection date; check the pressure gauge during the pre-trip inspection.
Environmental and Fuel-Efficient Driving
Progressive gear changes at around 1,500–2,000 rpm in a heavy diesel reduce fuel consumption compared with revving to the red line.
Anticipate traffic and coast or use engine braking instead of accelerating then braking sharply; smooth driving cuts fuel use.
Idling for more than a minute wastes fuel; switch off the engine when stationary for extended periods, subject to local rules.
Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance; under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption and wear.
Remove unnecessary weight and avoid carrying unused roof racks or equipment that increases aerodynamic drag.
Plan routes to avoid congestion and steep gradients; use telematics or route planning to reduce empty running.
Regular servicing, clean air filters, and correct injector timing keep emissions and fuel use within specification.
Excessive engine idling and harsh acceleration increase particulate and NOx emissions, which are regulated in urban areas.
Vehicle Documentation, Licensing and Insurance
The driving licence must match the vehicle class; heavy goods vehicles require a Category C or C+E entitlement, and passenger-carrying heavy vehicles require D.
The vehicle registration document (rukhsa) must be current and carried in the vehicle.
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory; operating without valid insurance is an offence and voids claims.
The vehicle must pass periodic technical inspection (MOT-equivalent) at the intervals set by the licensing authority.
A tachograph calibration certificate must be current and kept with the vehicle for enforcement checks.
Drivers of commercial heavy vehicles may require a goods-transport permit and driver qualification card depending on the operation.
Insurance may be voided by unlicensed drivers, unroadworthy vehicles, or undeclared commercial use; check the policy terms.
Keep copies of licences, insurance, permits, and inspection certificates accessible for roadside inspection.
Traffic Law (Supplement)
Speed limits for heavy goods vehicles are lower than for cars on the same road; observe the posted lorry limit and the vehicle's governed speed.
Overtaking is prohibited where a solid line, a no-overtaking sign, or a crest or bend restricts visibility.
Drivers must give way to emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights and sirens; pull over safely and stop if necessary.
Loading or unloading on a pedestrian crossing, at a bus stop, or on a clearway is prohibited.
A driver involved in a collision with property must stop and leave details if the owner is not present.
Driving without due care and attention, including tailgating and using a phone, carries penalties and possible licence points.
Vehicle lights must be used between dusk and dawn and in poor visibility; heavy vehicles need side marker and rear lights.
The vehicle must not be left unattended with the engine running on a public road except where permitted for specialised equipment.
Safe Driving and Defensive Driving (Supplement)
At junctions, look left, right, and left again before emerging; heavy vehicles need a larger gap because of slow acceleration.
When reversing, use a banksman or guide where visibility is restricted; if no guide is available, get out and check the area first.
Maintain a larger gap when following motorcycles, cyclists, and pedestrians, who may stop or swerve unpredictably.
On wet roads, allow at least double the dry following distance; on ice, allow up to ten times.
Use dipped headlights in rain and low visibility; high beam reduces visibility in fog and spray.
Before descending a long gradient, check the brake system, select a low gear, and engage the retarder.
At night, reduce speed so that you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights.
Defensive driving assumes other road users may make errors; always keep an escape route and a planned reaction.
Vehicle Controls (Supplement)
The tachograph mode switch must be set to the correct activity: driving, other work, availability, or rest.
The differential lock should only be engaged when stationary or moving very slowly and must be disengaged before normal road driving.
The exhaust brake or engine brake must not be used on slippery surfaces, where it can cause the drive wheels to lose grip.
The suspension levelling control must be set correctly before coupling or uncoupling a trailer.
The horn must not be used in built-up areas at night except to warn of immediate danger.
The hazard warning lights are used to warn other road users of a breakdown or hazard, not for parking.
The retarder should be tested during the pre-trip check and used on descents to prevent brake fade.
The steering wheel should be held with both hands at the ten-to-two or quarter-to-three position for maximum control.
Handling and Pre-Trip Inspection (Supplement)
Check the engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels when the engine is cold and the vehicle is on level ground.
Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, security, and excessive smoke, which may indicate a fault or emissions problem.
Check the battery terminals for corrosion and security, and confirm the charge warning light extinguishes after starting.
Test the parking brake on a slope before relying on it; it must hold the vehicle fully loaded.
Check the coupling, air lines, and electrical connections between tractor and trailer; confirm the trailer brake test.
Inspect the load bed and side gates for damage or insecure latches before loading.
Check the fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, warning triangle, and reflective vest are present and in date.
Record the pre-trip inspection results and any defects; do not drive a vehicle with a safety-critical defect.
Load Securing (Supplement)
Use a headboard or bulkhead to prevent load movement toward the cab during braking.
Strap tension should be sufficient to prevent movement but not so tight that it damages the load or the lashing points.
Sharp edges must be protected before lashings are applied to prevent chafing and failure.
Loads must be checked after any emergency braking or sudden manoeuvre.
The load must not obstruct lights, mirrors, or registration plates; reposition or remove obstructions.
Heavy items should be placed low and over the rear axles, not high or over the steering axle.
Use dunnage or chocks to prevent cylindrical loads from rolling.
Comply with the maximum height and width limits; oversized loads need permits, escorts, and marker boards.
Weight Limits and Axle Loading (Supplement)
The gross train weight is the maximum combined weight of the towing vehicle and trailer, including loads.
Axle load distribution is affected by the position of the fifth wheel; moving it forward transfers weight to the steering axle.
A weighbridge ticket is the accepted evidence of axle and gross weights for enforcement and insurance purposes.
Overloading an axle by more than the permitted tolerance can result in a prohibition notice and a fine.
Tyre load ratings must match or exceed the axle load; check the load index on the sidewall.
The sum of axle loads must never exceed the gross vehicle weight, even if each axle is individually within its rating.
Loads must be distributed so that the steering axle retains enough weight for grip and steering control.
Check the vehicle's plate for the maximum permissible gross and axle weights before planning a load.
Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems and Air Brakes (Supplement)
The air dryer removes moisture from the system; a faulty dryer allows water to reach the tanks and valves.
The low-pressure warning must activate before the spring brakes apply automatically.
A brake test should include a static test and a moving test at low speed before the vehicle is used on the road.
The emergency brake system applies the trailer brakes if the coupling or air line fails.
Brake chambers and diaphragms must be inspected for cracks, leaks, and correct pushrod travel.
The ABS warning light should extinguish after the self-test; if it stays on, the ABS may be inoperative and the vehicle should be checked.
Do not use the parking brake for normal stopping; use the service brake and apply the parking brake only when stationary.
Brake fluid and air system components must be maintained to the manufacturer's schedule; keep records of inspections.
Hazard Perception and Emergency Response (Supplement)
Scan for hazards at junctions, bends, hill crests, and pedestrian crossings, and plan a response before reaching them.
If a load shifts, reduce speed gradually, avoid sudden steering, and stop in a safe place to check the load.
If a wheel detaches or a tyre deflates, hold the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and steer to a safe stop.
If the vehicle becomes stuck on a level crossing, evacuate and call the railway emergency number before attempting recovery.
At an incident, do not smoke or use naked flames near spilled fuel; isolate the battery if safe.
Use the hazard lights and warning triangle to warn approaching traffic, especially on motorways and blind bends.
If a casualty is not breathing, start CPR and send for an AED if available.
Record the sequence of events, weather, road conditions, and any witnesses for the incident report.
Driver Hours, Rest Periods and Fatigue Management (Supplement)
A break may be taken in two parts, for example 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes, to make up the required 45 minutes.
Daily rest may be taken in the vehicle if it has a suitable bunk and the vehicle is stationary.
The weekly driving limit is typically 56 hours, and the two-week limit is 90 hours under EU-style rules.
Drivers must keep records for the period required by law and produce them on request.
A reduced daily rest of 9 hours may be taken no more than three times between weekly rests.
Fatigue management includes planning routes with rest stops, avoiding long night shifts, and recognising early warning signs.
The tachograph must be used correctly; manual entries are required for work done away from the vehicle.
Employers must schedule work so that drivers can comply with driving and rest limits.
First Aid (Supplement)
Check for danger before approaching a casualty, including traffic, fire, and spilled fuel.
If a casualty is not breathing, call emergency services, start CPR, and use an AED as soon as it is available.
For choking, encourage coughing; if the airway is blocked, give back blows and abdominal thrusts.
For suspected head injury, keep the casualty still and monitor consciousness and breathing.
For shock, lay the casualty down, keep them warm, and do not give food or drink.
For eye injuries, do not remove embedded objects; cover the eye and seek medical help.
For chemical burns, flush with copious water and remove contaminated clothing while flushing.
Hand over first-aid information to the emergency services on arrival.
Fire Safety and Incident Procedures (Supplement)
A fire in the engine bay should be tackled from a safe distance through a gap, not by fully opening the bonnet, which feeds oxygen.
Tyres and brakes can ignite after overheating; allow them to cool and check for smoke before continuing.
Electrical fires require the battery to be isolated before using an extinguisher.
Fuel fires should not be tackled with water; use foam, dry powder, or CO2.
After a fire, the vehicle must be inspected and cleared before returning to service.
Keep a fire extinguisher within reach of the driver's seat and check its gauge during the pre-trip inspection.
Evacuate passengers upwind and to a safe distance, and account for them.
Report the incident to the operator, insurer, and authorities as required.
Environmental and Fuel-Efficient Driving (Supplement)
Use cruise control on flat motorways where safe to maintain a steady speed and reduce fuel use.
Avoid harsh acceleration and late braking; smooth inputs reduce fuel consumption and wear.
Keep the vehicle serviced and the tyres correctly inflated to minimise rolling resistance.
Plan routes to avoid congestion and minimise empty running.
Switch off the engine when stationary for extended periods, subject to local rules.
Use the retarder and engine braking to reduce brake wear and fuel use on descents.
Avoid unnecessary idling and excessive revving, which increase emissions and fuel use.
Record fuel use and monitor for changes that may indicate a fault or poor driving habits.
Vehicle Documentation, Licensing and Insurance (Supplement)
The driving licence must be valid for the vehicle class and carried at all times.
The vehicle registration document must be current and carried in the vehicle.
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory; operating without it is an offence.
The vehicle must pass periodic technical inspection at the intervals set by the authority.
The tachograph calibration certificate must be current and kept with the vehicle.
Commercial heavy vehicle operations may require a goods-transport permit and driver qualification card.
Insurance may be voided by unlicensed drivers, unroadworthy vehicles, or undeclared commercial use.
Keep copies of licences, insurance, permits, and inspection certificates accessible for roadside inspection.
Traffic Law (Supplement 2)
Observe the posted speed limit for the vehicle class; heavy goods vehicles have lower limits than cars.
Do not overtake where a solid line, a no-overtaking sign, or restricted visibility applies.
Give way to emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights and sirens; pull over safely and stop if necessary.
Do not load or unload on a pedestrian crossing, at a bus stop, or on a clearway.
A driver involved in a collision with property must stop and leave details if the owner is not present.
Driving without due care and attention, including tailgating and phone use, carries penalties and licence points.
Use lights between dusk and dawn and in poor visibility; heavy vehicles need side marker and rear lights.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running on a public road except where permitted.
Safe Driving and Defensive Driving (Supplement 2)
At junctions, look left, right, and left again before emerging; heavy vehicles need a larger gap.
When reversing, use a banksman or guide where visibility is restricted.
Maintain a larger gap when following motorcycles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
On wet roads, allow at least double the dry following distance; on ice, allow up to ten times.
Use dipped headlights in rain and low visibility; high beam reduces visibility in fog and spray.
Before descending a long gradient, check the brakes, select a low gear, and engage the retarder.
At night, reduce speed so that you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights.
Defensive driving assumes other road users may make errors; keep an escape route and a planned reaction.
Vehicle Controls (Supplement 2)
Set the tachograph mode switch to the correct activity: driving, other work, availability, or rest.
Engage the differential lock only when stationary or moving very slowly and disengage before normal road driving.
Do not use the exhaust brake or engine brake on slippery surfaces, where it can cause the drive wheels to lose grip.
Set the suspension levelling control correctly before coupling or uncoupling a trailer.
Do not use the horn in built-up areas at night except to warn of immediate danger.
Use hazard warning lights to warn of a breakdown or hazard, not for parking.
Test the retarder during the pre-trip check and use it on descents to prevent brake fade.
Hold the steering wheel with both hands at the ten-to-two or quarter-to-three position for maximum control.
Handling and Pre-Trip Inspection (Supplement 2)
Check engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels when the engine is cold and the vehicle is on level ground.
Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, security, and excessive smoke.
Check battery terminals for corrosion and security, and confirm the charge warning light extinguishes after starting.
Test the parking brake on a slope before relying on it; it must hold the vehicle fully loaded.
Check the coupling, air lines, and electrical connections between tractor and trailer; confirm the trailer brake test.
Inspect the load bed and side gates for damage or insecure latches before loading.
Check the fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, warning triangle, and reflective vest are present and in date.
Record the pre-trip inspection results and any defects; do not drive a vehicle with a safety-critical defect.
Load Securing (Supplement 2)
Use a headboard or bulkhead to prevent load movement toward the cab during braking.
Strap tension should be sufficient to prevent movement but not so tight that it damages the load or lashing points.
Protect sharp edges before applying lashings to prevent chafing and failure.
Check loads after any emergency braking or sudden manoeuvre.
Do not obstruct lights, mirrors, or registration plates; reposition or remove obstructions.
Place heavy items low and over the rear axles, not high or over the steering axle.
Use dunnage or chocks to prevent cylindrical loads from rolling.
Comply with maximum height and width limits; oversized loads need permits, escorts, and marker boards.