KSA Driving Theory key terms

A red octagonal sign that requires the driver to bring the vehicle to a complete halt at the stop line, give way to all traffic and pedestrians, and move off only when the way is clear.

An inverted triangular sign telling drivers to slow down and let other road users go first. A driver stops only when traffic or pedestrians make it necessary.

A solid white line painted across the lane at a stop sign or traffic signal where the vehicle must halt. Stopping beyond it can block crossings and is detected by cameras.

White stripes painted across the road where pedestrians cross. Drivers must slow down and stop to let people on or about to enter the crossing pass safely.

The middle phase of a traffic signal warning that the light is about to turn red. A driver should stop unless doing so suddenly would be unsafe.

A signal that flashes yellow to warn of a hazard or that a junction is uncontrolled. Drivers may proceed only with caution and after giving way where required.

An unbroken road marking that must not be crossed or straddled. It bans overtaking and lane changes where visibility or space is limited.

A dashed lane marking separating lanes that travel in the same direction. It may be crossed to change lanes or overtake when it is safe to do so.

A circular sign with a red border showing the maximum permitted speed in kilometres per hour on that road, whatever the traffic conditions.

Turning the vehicle to travel in the opposite direction. It is allowed only where signs and markings permit and where it will not obstruct or endanger other traffic.

Passing another vehicle travelling in the same direction. It is permitted only where sight distance is clear, markings allow it, and no junction or hazard is involved.

A circular junction where traffic already on the ring has priority and entering drivers give way. Vehicles travel anticlockwise and signal before leaving the circle.

The rule deciding which road user moves first when paths cross. It is set by signs, signals and markings, and failing to yield causes many junction crashes.

Staying within the correct lane, keeping right unless overtaking, and changing lanes only after checking mirrors and blind spots and signalling in good time.

A driving style in which the driver assumes others may make mistakes and constantly scans ahead, keeps space and plans an escape route to avoid crashes.

A guide to safe following distance: after the vehicle ahead passes a fixed point, at least two seconds should pass before your vehicle reaches the same point.

Following another vehicle too closely, leaving no time to stop if it brakes suddenly. It is a leading cause of rear-end crashes and is treated as an offence.

The area beside and behind a vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors. Drivers must turn their head to check it before changing lane or overtaking.

Loss of tyre grip when a film of water lifts the tyres off the road surface, making steering and braking ineffective until speed is reduced.

Loss of tyre grip that makes the vehicle slide. The driver should ease off the accelerator, avoid harsh braking and steer smoothly in the direction the car should go.

Driving while tired or sleepy, which slows reactions and can cause brief lapses of sleep. Long journeys need rest breaks of around every two hours.

Four indicators flashing together to warn others that the vehicle is stopped, broken down or creating an unexpected hazard. They do not give permission to park illegally.

An electronic system that stops the wheels locking under hard braking so the driver can keep steering. The pedal may pulse; press firmly and do not pump it.

The depth of the grooves cut into a tyre. Worn tread reduces grip, especially in rain, and tyres must be replaced when tread reaches the legal minimum.

A separate brake that holds the vehicle still when parked. It should be applied whenever the car is left and released fully before driving away.

When coolant temperature rises above normal. The driver should stop safely, switch off and let the engine cool before checking coolant, never opening the cap while hot.

Rules requiring the driver and all passengers to wear seat belts, and children to use suitable child restraints. Not wearing a belt is a punishable traffic offence.

Penalty points added to a driver's record for certain offences. Collecting too many within a set period can lead to a driving ban or loss of the licence.

The minimum motor cover that pays for injury or damage the driver causes to other people and their property. It does not pay for damage to the insured vehicle.

The official permit allowing a person to drive a stated category of vehicle on public roads. Driving without a valid licence for that category is an offence.

A monetary penalty for breaking traffic law, in Saudi Arabia often recorded automatically by roadside cameras and paid through the official electronic system.

A reflective triangle placed behind a broken-down vehicle to warn approaching traffic. It is set well back from the vehicle, especially on fast roads.

The first step at any crash: switch on hazard lights, move people to a safe place and check for fire, traffic and other dangers before helping casualties.

Chest compressions, with rescue breaths if trained, given to someone who is unresponsive and not breathing normally, to keep blood and oxygen moving until help arrives.

A stable side-lying position for an unconscious person who is breathing normally. It keeps the airway open and stops the casualty choking on vomit or the tongue.