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Maryland MVA Permit Test study materials
Maryland MVA Permit Test study resources

Maryland MVA Permit Test practice questions

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Question 1Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What shape is a stop sign?

  1. Circle
  2. Octagon Correct answer.
  3. Triangle
  4. Rectangle

Explanation

A stop sign is a red octagon. You must come to a complete stop at the stop line or before entering the intersection.

Question 2Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a double solid yellow center line mean?

  1. Parking is allowed at the curb
  2. Passing is banned both ways Correct answer.
  3. The lane is for buses only
  4. Passing is allowed both ways

Explanation

A double solid yellow line separates opposing traffic, and neither side may cross it to pass. You may cross only for a turn into a driveway or side road where permitted.

Question 3Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a flashing red traffic signal mean?

  1. Proceed without stopping
  2. Slow down and proceed
  3. Stop and proceed when safe Correct answer.
  4. Yield only to bicycles

Explanation

A flashing red signal is treated like a stop sign: stop completely, then proceed when the way is clear.

Question 4Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

When may you turn right at a red light in Maryland?

  1. Never, unless a sign says so
  2. Only during daylight hours
  3. Only when a green arrow is on
  4. After a stop, if allowed Correct answer.

Explanation

Maryland allows a right turn on red after a complete stop unless a sign prohibits it. You must yield to pedestrians and other traffic.

Question 5Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

Who is required to wear a seat belt in the front seat of a moving car in Maryland?

  1. Only the driver must buckle up
  2. Rear-seat riders never need belts
  3. All front-seat occupants must buckle up Correct answer.
  4. Only passengers under 16 buckle up

Explanation

Maryland requires the driver and front-seat passengers to use seat belts. Passengers under 16 also must be properly restrained in any seating position.

Question 6Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What should you do when you enter a posted school zone during school hours?

  1. Stop until a guard waves you on
  2. Sound your horn to warn children
  3. Keep the normal posted speed
  4. Slow to the school-zone limit Correct answer.

Explanation

School zones have lower posted speed limits when children are present or during school hours. Obey the posted limit and watch for children near the roadway.

Question 7Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a yield sign require you to do?

  1. Merge without checking traffic
  2. You have the right of way
  3. Slow down and let traffic pass Correct answer.
  4. Come to a complete stop every time

Explanation

A yield sign means you must slow down and give the right of way to traffic on the road you are entering. Stop only if needed to avoid a collision.

Question 8Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A pedestrian is crossing in a marked crosswalk ahead of you. What must you do?

  1. Proceed if you are turning right
  2. Stop for a pedestrian crossing Correct answer.
  3. Honk so the pedestrian hurries
  4. Drive around the pedestrian

Explanation

Drivers must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. Wait until the pedestrian has cleared your path before moving.

Question 9Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

At a four-way stop, two vehicles arrive at different times. Which vehicle should go first?

  1. The vehicle turning left
  2. The largest vehicle
  3. The first vehicle to arrive Correct answer.
  4. The vehicle on the left

Explanation

At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. If two arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the left yields to the vehicle on the right.

Question 10Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

When entering a roundabout, what should you do?

  1. Enter without yielding to traffic
  2. Stop inside the circle for traffic
  3. Drive clockwise around the center
  4. Yield to traffic in the circle Correct answer.

Explanation

Traffic already in the roundabout has the right of way. Enter counterclockwise only when there is a safe gap.

Question 11Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

When may you turn left at a red light in Maryland?

  1. Only when an officer signals
  2. One-way to one-way after stop Correct answer.
  3. Two-way to one-way only
  4. Any street onto any other street

Explanation

Maryland permits a left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street after a complete stop, unless a sign prohibits it. You must yield to traffic and pedestrians.

Question 12Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does Maryland's Move Over law require when you approach an emergency vehicle stopped with lights flashing on the roadside?

  1. Speed up to pass the scene quickly
  2. Stop in your lane until waved on
  3. Slow down and move over if safe Correct answer.
  4. Honk and continue at the same speed

Explanation

Drivers must move over to a non-adjacent lane if possible, or slow down if moving over is not safe. This protects emergency and roadside workers.

Question 13Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

In normal driving conditions, what following distance is recommended?

  1. At least three seconds Correct answer.
  2. One car length per year of age
  3. Two car lengths at all speeds
  4. Exactly one second

Explanation

A three-second following distance gives you time to react and stop. Increase the gap in rain, snow, darkness, or heavy traffic.

Question 14Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a broken yellow center line mean?

  1. Passing is allowed when safe Correct answer.
  2. A bus-only lane is ahead
  3. No passing in either direction
  4. The road becomes one-way

Explanation

A broken yellow line separates opposing traffic and permits passing when it is safe and legal. Check for oncoming traffic before crossing.

Question 15Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a solid white line along the right side of the roadway usually mark?

  1. A pedestrian-only zone
  2. Traffic moving opposite ways
  3. Passing is always allowed
  4. The right edge of the roadway Correct answer.

Explanation

A solid white edge line marks the right edge of the travel lane and the start of the shoulder. It helps drivers stay on the roadway.

Question 16Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a diamond symbol painted on a traffic lane indicate?

  1. Truck climbing lane
  2. School bus stop
  3. HOV lane Correct answer.
  4. Bicycle lane

Explanation

A diamond marks a high-occupancy vehicle lane, which may be limited to vehicles with a required number of occupants. Check signs for hours and rules.

Question 17Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What is true about speeding fines in a Maryland work zone?

  1. Fines are the same as elsewhere
  2. Workers may be ignored if absent
  3. The speed limit is always 55 mph
  4. Fines may be doubled for speeding Correct answer.

Explanation

Maryland doubles fines for speeding in work zones when workers are present or signs are posted. Reduced speeds and extra caution are required.

Question 18Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

On a two-lane road, what must you do when a school bus ahead has red lights flashing?

  1. Pass on the left with caution
  2. Stop until the lights stop flashing Correct answer.
  3. Slow down but keep moving
  4. Stop only if children are visible

Explanation

On an undivided two-lane road, traffic in both directions must stop for a school bus with flashing red lights. Remain stopped until the lights stop flashing.

Question 19Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

When does Maryland law require you to turn on your headlights?

  1. Only after dark
  2. Only in parking lots
  3. Only on interstates
  4. Your wipers are on Correct answer.

Explanation

Maryland requires headlights when windshield wipers are in use because of rain, snow, or sleet. Headlights also are required at night and when visibility is poor.

Question 20Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

An ambulance approaches from behind with its siren and lights on. What should you do?

  1. Pull to the right and stop Correct answer.
  2. Speed up to clear the intersection
  3. Stop in the middle of the lane
  4. Follow closely behind it

Explanation

Pull over to the right edge of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle passes. Do not block an intersection.

Question 21Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A yellow pennant-shaped sign on the left side of a roadway indicates what?

  1. A winding road begins
  2. A school crossing is ahead
  3. A railroad crossing is ahead
  4. A no-passing zone begins Correct answer.

Explanation

The pennant shape is used only for no-passing zone signs. It warns that passing is prohibited in the direction of travel.

Question 22Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What do shared center lanes marked with solid and broken yellow lines on both sides allow?

  1. Driving straight through intersections
  2. Parking for delivery vehicles
  3. Passing in both directions
  4. Left turns from either direction Correct answer.

Explanation

These markings identify a two-way left-turn lane. Drivers from either direction may enter it only to make a left turn, not to pass or travel.

Question 23Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

At an intersection with no signs or signals, two vehicles arrive at the same time. Which vehicle should go first?

  1. The vehicle on the right Correct answer.
  2. The larger vehicle
  3. The vehicle on the left
  4. The vehicle going straight

Explanation

At an uncontrolled intersection, a driver must yield to a vehicle approaching from the right when arrivals are simultaneous. Proceed only when the way is clear.

Question 24Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

Under Maryland law, a child under 8 years old generally must ride in what way?

  1. In an approved child safety seat Correct answer.
  2. Standing behind the front seat
  3. In the front seat with a lap belt
  4. On an adult's lap

Explanation

Maryland requires children under 8 to use an approved child safety seat unless they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall. The seat must be appropriate for the child's size.

Question 25Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a flashing yellow left-turn arrow mean?

  1. Stop and wait for a green arrow signal
  2. Turn only after a full stop
  3. The left turn is prohibited
  4. Yield, then turn left with care Correct answer.

Explanation

A flashing yellow arrow means left turns are permitted but not protected. Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before turning.

Question 26Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

You are approaching an intersection where the traffic signal is flashing red. What must you do?

  1. Come to a full stop, yield, then proceed when it is clear. Correct answer.
  2. Stop only if another vehicle is already in the intersection.
  3. Slow down and roll through the intersection without stopping.
  4. Wait for the signal to display green before entering the intersection.

Explanation

A flashing red signal works exactly like a stop sign: you must come to a complete stop behind the stop line or crosswalk, yield the right of way to cross traffic and pedestrians, and go only when the way is clear. Traffic on the other road may have a flashing yellow, so do not assume you have priority.

Question 27Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A steady yellow light appears as you approach an intersection at normal speed. What should you do?

  1. Keep the same speed regardless of how close you are.
  2. Sound your horn and continue through the intersection.
  3. Stop before the intersection if you can do so safely. Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate to clear the intersection before the light turns red.

Explanation

A steady yellow light warns that the signal is about to turn red. The correct response is to stop if there is enough distance to stop safely; if you are already too close to stop without harsh braking, continue through with caution.

Question 28Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a green arrow signal mean?

  1. You may turn only after yielding to oncoming traffic.
  2. The turn lane is closed and you must choose another lane.
  3. You may drive in any direction if the way is clear.
  4. You have a protected turn in the direction the arrow points. Correct answer.

Explanation

A green arrow gives a protected turn, meaning oncoming traffic and conflicting pedestrian movements are held by red signals while the arrow is displayed. You may complete the turn in the direction of the arrow without yielding to oncoming vehicles.

Question 29Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A steady red arrow pointing left is displayed at an intersection. What does it require?

  1. Turn left only when no pedestrians are present.
  2. Treat it as a flashing yellow arrow and proceed.
  3. Come to a stop and do not turn left until the arrow changes. Correct answer.
  4. Slow down and turn left after yielding to traffic.

Explanation

A steady red arrow is a red signal for the movement it controls, so you must stop and remain stopped. You may complete the left turn only when the signal changes to a green arrow or another signal permits the movement.

Question 30Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

An orange, diamond-shaped sign beside the road generally warns of what?

  1. Road work or construction ahead Correct answer.
  2. A railroad crossing without gates
  3. A hospital zone with emergency access
  4. A recreational area boundary

Explanation

Orange diamond signs are used in work zones to warn drivers of construction, maintenance, or temporary road conditions. Reduced speed limits and increased fines often apply where these signs are posted.

Question 31Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A five-sided, pentagon-shaped yellow sign marks what?

  1. A narrow bridge ahead
  2. A truck route restriction
  3. A divided highway begins
  4. A school zone or school crossing Correct answer.

Explanation

The five-sided pentagon shape is reserved for school advance and school crossing warning signs. When you see one, slow down and watch for children near the roadway, particularly during school hours.

Question 32Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

What does a white X-shaped crossbuck sign at a railroad crossing mean?

  1. Sound your horn before crossing the tracks.
  2. The crossing is closed to all traffic.
  3. Trains must stop before crossing the roadway.
  4. Yield to trains; they have the right of way. Correct answer.

Explanation

A crossbuck sign means the same as a yield sign: slow down, look and listen for trains, and cross only when no train is approaching. Trains cannot stop quickly and always have the right of way.

Question 33Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A round yellow sign with a black 'RR' and two slanted lines appears before a railroad crossing. What does it warn of?

  1. A crossing where trains stop
  2. A railroad crossing ahead Correct answer.
  3. A railroad yard entrance
  4. A crossing with gates only

Explanation

The round yellow advance warning sign tells you a railroad crossing is ahead and to prepare to slow down, look, and listen. It is placed in advance of the tracks so you have time to react.

Question 34Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A single flashing yellow light at an intersection means you should:

  1. Wait until the light turns green
  2. Stop completely before entering
  3. Yield only to vehicles on your right
  4. Slow down and proceed with caution Correct answer.

Explanation

A flashing yellow light warns of a hazard or cross traffic at the intersection. Reduce speed, check carefully for other vehicles and pedestrians, and proceed only when it is safe.

Question 35Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A broken white line separates two lanes traveling in the same direction. What does it mean?

  1. Traffic in the right lane must exit ahead.
  2. The lane to the left is for turning only.
  3. You may change lanes when it is safe to do so. Correct answer.
  4. Passing is prohibited in both lanes.

Explanation

Broken white lines divide lanes of traffic moving in the same direction and may be crossed when it is safe. Signal your intention and check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.

Question 36Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

Two solid white lines separate lanes carrying traffic in the same direction. What do they indicate?

  1. A carpool lane boundary you may cross anytime
  2. A lane reserved for buses only
  3. Crossing the lines is discouraged or prohibited Correct answer.
  4. The left lane will end ahead

Explanation

Double solid white lines mark a boundary that drivers should not cross, such as the edge of an exit-only or managed lane. Cross only if an emergency requires it and it can be done safely.

Question 37Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

On a two-lane road, the center line is solid yellow on your side and broken yellow on the other side. What does this mean for you?

  1. You may not pass; oncoming traffic may pass when safe. Correct answer.
  2. You may pass only if the vehicle ahead is slow-moving.
  3. You may pass whenever the oncoming lane looks clear.
  4. Passing is permitted for traffic in both directions.

Explanation

A solid yellow line on your side of the center line means passing is prohibited for your direction of travel. The broken line on the other side permits oncoming drivers to pass when they have a clear view and safe gap.

Question 38Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

You approach an intersection and the traffic signal is completely dark because of a power outage. What should you do?

  1. Treat the intersection as an all-way stop and take your turn. Correct answer.
  2. Proceed through without stopping because the signal is off.
  3. Stop only if a vehicle is already in the intersection.
  4. Wait at the intersection for an officer to arrive.

Explanation

When a traffic signal is not working, the intersection becomes an all-way stop. Stop, yield to traffic already there or approaching from the right, and proceed in turn when it is safe.

Question 39Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

You want to turn right at a red light in Maryland. What does the law allow?

  1. Stop, yield, then turn unless a sign prohibits it. Correct answer.
  2. Turn only from a lane marked with a right-turn arrow signal.
  3. Wait until the signal turns green before making any turn at the intersection.
  4. Turn immediately without stopping whenever no traffic is approaching from the left.

Explanation

Maryland permits a right turn on red after a complete stop, provided you yield to pedestrians and cross traffic and no sign prohibits the turn. The turn must be made from the proper position into the correct lane.

Question 40Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A pedestrian signal shows a flashing raised hand or 'DON'T WALK.' What does it mean for a pedestrian who has not yet stepped into the crosswalk?

  1. Wait for the parallel light to turn yellow.
  2. Cross only if no vehicles are turning.
  3. Begin crossing quickly before the signal changes.
  4. Do not begin crossing. Correct answer.

Explanation

A flashing 'DON'T WALK' warns that the walk interval is ending and pedestrians should not start crossing. Anyone already in the crosswalk should finish crossing without delay.

Question 41Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

An overhead lane-use signal shows a red X above a highway lane. What does it mean?

  1. The lane is closed; do not drive in it. Correct answer.
  2. The lane ahead is a left-turn lane.
  3. The lane is reserved for high-occupancy vehicles.
  4. Traffic in that lane must speed up.

Explanation

A red X over a lane means that lane is closed to traffic, often because of a crash, work zone, or incident ahead. Move to a lane marked with a green or yellow signal.

Question 42Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

Fluorescent yellow-green signs are used mainly to warn drivers of what?

  1. Wildlife and farm animals
  2. Pedestrians, bicyclists, or school crossings Correct answer.
  3. Construction and maintenance work
  4. Emergency vehicle stations

Explanation

The bright yellow-green color is reserved for warning signs about non-motorized traffic, such as pedestrian, bicycle, and school crossings. It is intended to be especially visible so drivers slow down and watch for people.

Question 43Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A blue rectangular sign along a highway typically shows:

  1. Regulatory speed limits
  2. Construction detour routes
  3. Services such as fuel, food, or lodging Correct answer.
  4. Recreation and cultural points of interest

Explanation

Blue signs guide motorists to services such as gas, food, lodging, and hospitals. They also identify some evacuation routes and traveler information.

Question 44Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A brown rectangular sign along a highway typically indicates:

  1. A recreational or cultural area Correct answer.
  2. A hazardous material route
  3. Motorist services at the next exit
  4. A mandatory speed reduction

Explanation

Brown signs point out parks, historic sites, and other recreational or cultural attractions. They are informational rather than regulatory.

Question 45Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A white square sign showing a red circle with a diagonal slash through a symbol means:

  1. Proceed with caution
  2. The action shown is prohibited Correct answer.
  3. The sign applies only to trucks
  4. The action is required by law

Explanation

A red circle with a diagonal slash is the universal symbol for prohibition. The picture inside tells you what is not allowed, such as a turn or a type of vehicle.

Question 46Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

You approach a stop sign at an intersection that has a painted stop line. Where must you stop?

  1. At the curb line of the cross street
  2. Wherever you can see cross traffic clearly
  3. Before the stop line Correct answer.
  4. Past the stop line but before the crosswalk

Explanation

A stop line shows the exact place to stop so you do not intrude into the crosswalk or intersection. If no stop line exists, stop before the crosswalk, and if there is no crosswalk, stop before entering the intersection.

Question 47Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

Yellow diagonal stripes bordered by solid lines separate a travel lane from an exit ramp. What do these markings mean?

  1. A parking area for disabled drivers
  2. A lane where you may pass slower traffic
  3. A shoulder where you may stop briefly
  4. A paved area you should not drive on Correct answer.

Explanation

Diagonal stripes in a gore area show pavement that separates diverging paths of traffic and is not meant for travel. Enter the exit ramp only after the striped area ends, using the proper lane.

Question 48Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A flashing red arrow appears for a left-turn lane. What should a driver do?

  1. Continue the left turn without slowing if no cars are near.
  2. Wait in the lane until a green arrow appears.
  3. Treat it as a green arrow and turn immediately.
  4. Stop, then turn left when it is safe and clear. Correct answer.

Explanation

A flashing red arrow functions like a stop sign for that turn movement. Stop, yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, and complete the turn when a safe gap exists.

Question 49Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A police officer at an intersection waves you through while the traffic signal is red. What should you do?

  1. Obey the officer's direction and proceed. Correct answer.
  2. Stop and ask the officer to repeat the signal.
  3. Follow the signal because lights override officers.
  4. Wait for the light to turn green before moving.

Explanation

Directions from a police officer or authorized traffic control person take priority over signals, signs, and markings. Follow the officer's hand signal carefully and proceed as directed.

Question 50Traffic Laws, Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings (draft domain - not enumerated in source)

A yellow diamond sign shows a black arrow with a lane merging into another. What should you expect?

  1. The road will divide into two separate routes
  2. A lane will end and traffic must merge Correct answer.
  3. A sharp curve is immediately ahead
  4. The lane will widen into a passing lane

Explanation

Lane-merge warning signs tell you that one lane is ending and its traffic must merge with another lane. Adjust your speed and position early, and yield as needed to merge safely.