Sri Lanka Motorcycle Written Test flashcards

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

Which side to drive in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka uses left-hand traffic. Ride on the left side of the road, overtake on the right, and keep left unless turning right or avoiding an obstruction.

Default rural speed limit

On rural roads outside built-up areas, the default limit for motorcycles is 70 km/h unless a lower limit is signposted. Slow down for bends and junctions.

Motorcycle licence class

A motorcycle requires a Class A driving licence. Learners must display L plates and may not carry a pillion passenger until they pass the test.

Helmet rule

Both rider and pillion passenger must wear an approved crash helmet at all times while riding. Riding without a helmet is an offence.

Pillion passenger limit

A motorcycle may carry only one pillion passenger, and only if it is designed with a proper seat and footrests for that passenger.

Amber traffic light meaning

Amber means stop before the stop line unless stopping is unsafe. Red plus amber together means prepare to move but do not proceed until the light turns green.

Uncontrolled junction rule

At a junction without signs or signals, give way to traffic approaching from your right and to any vehicle already in the junction.

Police hand signals

Hand signals given by a police officer directing traffic override traffic lights, road signs, and markings. Obey the officer immediately.

Red circle signs

Red circular signs give prohibitions: speed limits, no entry, no overtaking, no parking, and similar restrictions. They must be obeyed.

Blue circle signs

Blue circular signs give mandatory instructions, such as turn left, keep left, or pass on a specified side. They indicate what you must do.

Red triangle signs

Triangular signs with red borders are warnings, such as bend, junction, pedestrian crossing, slippery road, or narrow bridge. Slow down and prepare.

Stop sign shape

The stop sign is a red octagon. Come to a complete stop at the stop line, check for traffic, and proceed only when the way is clear.

Give Way sign

The Give Way sign is an inverted triangle. Slow down, yield to traffic on the priority road, and stop if necessary before entering the junction.

Solid white centre line

A solid white centre line means you must not cross it or overtake. A broken white line permits overtaking only when it is safe to do so.

Double yellow lines

Two solid yellow lines along the edge of the road mean no parking and no crossing the lines. A single broken yellow line marks a parking restriction zone.

Zebra crossing rule

Zebra crossings have broad white stripes. Stop before the stripes when pedestrians are crossing, and do not overtake a vehicle stopped at a crossing.

Flashing amber signal

A flashing amber light at a junction means the signals are not operating normally. Proceed with caution, obeying the normal give-way rules.

Two-second rule

Maintain at least a two-second gap behind the vehicle ahead in dry conditions. Increase it to four seconds or more in rain, at night, or on gravel.

Front brake use

The front brake provides most of a motorcycle's stopping power. Apply both brakes progressively and avoid locking the front wheel on wet or gravel roads.

Look through the bend

In a bend, look where you want to go rather than at the hazard. Target fixation on an obstacle makes you ride toward it.

Riding in rain

Rain reduces grip and visibility. Slow down, increase following distance, use low beam, and avoid painted markings and metal covers that become slippery.

Blind spot check

Mirrors do not show everything. Turn your head to check the blind spot before changing lanes, and avoid riding alongside large vehicles.

Night riding lights

Use low beam in traffic and when following another vehicle. Dip headlights for oncoming traffic to avoid dazzling other road users.

Pillion effect on braking

A pillion passenger adds weight and raises the centre of gravity. Braking distances increase, so allow more room and brake more progressively.

Hazard scanning

Scan for pedestrians stepping out, animals, potholes, sand or gravel on bends, and vehicles emerging from side roads. Expect the unexpected.

Revenue licence

The revenue licence is the annual road tax. It must be current and displayed on the motorcycle. Riding with an expired revenue licence is an offence.

Compulsory insurance

Third-party insurance is compulsory for motorcycles. Carry the certificate and produce it on demand to police or at a vehicle inspection.

Documents to carry

When riding, carry a valid driving licence, the registration certificate, the revenue licence, and the insurance certificate. Produce them on demand.

Vehicle registration

A new motorcycle must be registered with the Department of Motor Traffic and issued a number plate. Plates must be displayed correctly and legibly.

Emission test certificate

Motorcycles require an annual emission test. A valid emission test certificate is needed to renew the revenue licence.

Transfer of ownership

When a motorcycle is sold, the transfer of ownership must be recorded with the Department of Motor Traffic using the prescribed transfer forms.

Illegal modifications

Modifying the exhaust or engine beyond permitted limits is illegal. It can lead to fines and cause the motorcycle to fail the emission or vehicle inspection.