Overtaking
Before you pull out
Overtaking is one of the highest-risk manoeuvres on the test. The sequence is fixed: mirror, signal, manoeuvre - check mirrors and blind spot, signal if it helps others, then move out only when the road ahead is clear and no one is already overtaking you.
You must not overtake:
- where a solid line separates you from the other lane;
- at or approaching a pedestrian crossing, junction, bend, crest, or anywhere visibility is limited;
- when a vehicle behind has already begun to overtake you;
- when you would have to exceed the speed limit to complete the move.
Passing safely
Give cyclists and motorcyclists at least as much room as a car - a common exam point. Never cut back in front of the vehicle you passed; wait until you can see it in your interior mirror before returning to lane. When being overtaken, hold your speed and position; do not accelerate.
Traps to watch
- A question may describe a broken line on your side but a solid line beyond - you may cross only while the line is broken.
- Overtaking on the left is normal in right-hand traffic; overtaking on the right is generally only for a vehicle signalling to turn left.
- A slow-moving tractor or cyclist near a junction: wait, do not squeeze past.
Rule of thumb
If you have to ask whether there is enough room, there is not. Wait for a clear straight stretch with full visibility.