Sri Lanka Motorcycle Written Test key terms

Allowing other road users to proceed first when they have priority, usually by slowing or stopping. At junctions and roundabouts you must give way to traffic on your right unless signs, signals or markings say otherwise.

The legal entitlement of a road user to move first through a particular stretch of road. It is granted by law, signs, signals or markings and is never taken by force or by gesture alone.

Passing a slower vehicle travelling in the same direction. It must be done only where visibility and markings permit, from the right in normal traffic, and never at pedestrian crossings, bends or crests.

The maximum speed permitted on a road as set by law or shown on a circular sign with a red border. Riding above it is an offence regardless of traffic conditions, and lower speeds may still be required.

A speed that lets you stop within the distance you can see to be clear, allowing for rain, gravel, night, traffic and your own skill. It can be well below the posted limit and remains the rider's responsibility.

A circular junction where traffic travels in one direction around a central island. Enter only when it is safe, give way to traffic already circulating, signal your exit and avoid stopping on the circulatory carriageway.

A marked section of road where people on foot have priority. Riders must slow down, be ready to stop and never overtake a vehicle that has stopped at a crossing, because pedestrians may be hidden.

A solid white line painted across the lane at a junction, signal or crossing. At a STOP sign or red light you must bring the motorcycle to a complete standstill before this line, not on or past it.

A broken white line marking where you must yield. You may cross it only after checking that no traffic with priority is approaching, slowing or stopping as necessary rather than treating it like a stop line.

A continuous solid line along the centre of the road that must not be crossed or straddled to pass another vehicle. It warns of restricted visibility such as bends, hills or narrow sections.

A dashed line dividing opposing traffic streams that may be crossed when it is safe and legal to do so, for example to overtake or turn. It does not give an automatic right to change lane.

Coloured lights controlling traffic: red means stop before the line, amber means stop unless it is unsafe to do so, and green means proceed if the way is clear. Flashing amber usually warns of a hazard or faulty signal.

Gestures by a police officer directing traffic, which override signs, markings and signal lights. A raised hand or arm usually means stop, and an arm waved onward means proceed when it is safe.

A sign, commonly triangular with a red border, that alerts riders to a hazard ahead such as a bend, junction, steep descent, slippery surface or school. Slow down and be prepared to react.

A sign that imposes a legal requirement or prohibition, such as a speed limit, no entry, stop or no parking. Ignoring it is a traffic offence, unlike advisory or information signs which mainly guide.

A red circle with a white horizontal bar meaning entry is prohibited, often marking a one-way street or restricted lane. Riding past it is an offence and can put you head-on into oncoming traffic.

A sign giving guidance rather than a command, such as directions to a town, hospital, fuel station or parking area. It helps with route planning but does not remove the need to obey regulatory signs.

Lines, arrows, hatched areas and words painted on the road surface that regulate or guide traffic. Treat them as legally binding instructions, and remember they become hard to see in rain or at night.

The gap kept behind the vehicle ahead, ideally at least two seconds in good conditions and more in rain or darkness. It gives time to react and stop if the vehicle brakes suddenly.

The total distance covered from seeing a hazard to coming to rest, made up of thinking distance plus braking distance. It grows with speed, load, wet roads and tiredness, so never assume a short stop.

An area around the motorcycle that cannot be seen in the mirrors. Check it by turning your head before changing lane or turning, since a vehicle beside you may otherwise go unnoticed.

A quick glance over the shoulder before changing position, turning or joining traffic. It covers the blind spot mirrors miss and is essential before any manoeuvre, especially on busy roads.

Looking in the mirrors frequently, and always before slowing, stopping or changing direction, to build a picture of traffic behind. Mirrors supplement rather than replace a direct look over the shoulder.

Loss of tyre grip when a layer of water builds between the tyre and road, making steering and braking feel vague. Ease off the throttle, avoid harsh braking or steering, and keep steady until grip returns.

Loss of traction in which the wheels slide instead of rolling, often from braking too hard or leaning too much on a slippery surface. Stay smooth, avoid sudden inputs and look where you want to go.

The technique of pressing the handlebar on the side you want to turn towards, which leans the motorcycle into the turn at speed. It is the normal way to steer a moving bike through bends.

The tendency to steer towards whatever you stare at, such as an obstacle or the edge of the road. Train your eyes on the safe path ahead so the motorcycle follows your gaze.

Noticing and anticipating risks early, such as a pedestrian stepping out, a parked vehicle door opening, sand on a bend or an animal on the road. Early detection gives time to adjust speed and position.

How easily your motorcycle is seen by others. It is improved by riding with the headlamp on, wearing bright or reflective clothing, keeping out of blind spots and using signals correctly.

Gear worn to reduce injury in a fall: a certified helmet, eye protection, gloves, jacket, long trousers and sturdy enclosed footwear. It is required by law or strongly advised for every ride.

A hard shell with impact-absorbing liner worn to protect the head in a crash. It must fit snugly, be fastened under the chin and meet recognised safety standards; carrying a passenger without one is an offence.

A person carried on the seat behind the rider. The motorcycle must be designed for a passenger, with proper footrests, and the passenger must wear an approved helmet and sit astride facing forward.

The maximum weight a motorcycle may carry, set by the manufacturer and by law. Overloading affects braking, balance and steering, and loads must be secure and not obstruct lights, plates or control.

The official permit authorising you to ride a particular class of motorcycle on public roads. It must be valid, carry the correct class or endorsement, and be produced when requested by police.

Categories that group motorcycles by engine capacity or power, such as mopeds, light motorcycles and larger machines. Each class has its own licence requirements, minimum age and riding restrictions.

A provisional authorisation allowing a person to learn to ride under stated conditions, such as displaying L plates and being accompanied or restricted to certain machines. Full licence rules apply once it is upgraded.

The official document recording a vehicle's registration number, owner, make and engine details. The motorcycle must be registered and the certificate kept available for inspection, with changes of ownership properly recorded.

The periodic licence confirming that the vehicle tax for the current period has been paid. It is displayed on the motorcycle and riding without a valid one is an offence that can lead to a fine.

Compulsory cover for injury or damage you cause to other people or their property. It does not pay for your own motorcycle, so many riders add comprehensive cover for their own losses.

The plate showing the vehicle's registered number, fixed at the rear and kept clean, visible and unaltered. Obscuring or using a false plate is an offence and helps no one if the bike is stolen.