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Montana Permit Test study materials
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Montana Permit Test practice questions

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Question 1Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are driving on a two-lane road in Montana and see a solid yellow line on your side of the center line. What does this mean for passing?

  1. Passing is prohibited on your side of the line Correct answer.
  2. Passing is prohibited only during nighttime hours
  3. Passing is permitted if the road ahead is clear
  4. Passing is permitted only for slow-moving farm equipment

Explanation

A solid yellow center line on your side marks a no-passing zone, meaning you may not cross it to overtake another vehicle. The restriction applies regardless of traffic conditions or time of day. A broken yellow line on your side would allow passing when safe.

Question 2Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A flashing red traffic signal at an intersection should be treated in which way?

  1. Slow down and proceed without stopping
  2. Stop completely, then proceed when safe Correct answer.
  3. Yield only to vehicles already in the intersection
  4. Proceed at normal speed because the light is malfunctioning

Explanation

A flashing red signal operates like a stop sign: you must come to a complete stop, yield to cross traffic and pedestrians, and then proceed only when it is safe. It is not a caution-only signal. Failing to stop fully is a violation.

Question 3Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

What shape and color identifies a school zone sign in Montana?

  1. An orange diamond
  2. A yellow diamond
  3. A white rectangle with black lettering
  4. A fluorescent yellow-green pentagon Correct answer.

Explanation

School zone and school crossing signs use a five-sided pentagon shape in fluorescent yellow-green, a color chosen to stand out near schools. The distinctive shape helps drivers recognize the warning even before reading the words. Yellow diamonds are used for general warnings, and orange diamonds mark work zones.

Question 4Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

An eight-sided red sign at an intersection always means which of the following?

  1. Reduce speed and check for trains
  2. Yield to traffic on the right
  3. Merge with caution
  4. Come to a complete stop Correct answer.

Explanation

The octagon shape is reserved exclusively for stop signs, and its red color reinforces the message. The shape is recognizable from behind or when covered with snow, so drivers know to stop even if the word is obscured. No other sign uses the eight-sided design.

Question 5Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A double solid white line painted between lanes on a multi-lane road indicates what?

  1. A carpool lane boundary that may be crossed anytime
  2. Lanes traveling in opposite directions
  3. A shoulder where parking is allowed
  4. Lanes traveling in the same direction where lane changes are discouraged Correct answer.

Explanation

White lines separate traffic moving in the same direction, and a double solid white line marks a boundary that drivers should not cross. It is often used to discourage lane changes in areas such as tunnels or approaching intersections. Yellow lines, by contrast, separate opposing directions of traffic.

Question 6Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

When you approach a steady yellow traffic light, what is the correct action?

  1. Stop if you can do so safely Correct answer.
  2. Stop immediately regardless of your position
  3. Speed up to clear the intersection before red
  4. Continue at the same speed without checking

Explanation

A steady yellow light warns that the signal is about to turn red, so you should stop if you can do so safely. If you are too close to stop without risk, proceed cautiously through the intersection. Accelerating to beat the light is dangerous and unlawful in many circumstances.

Question 7Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a black arrow curving to the right warn you about?

  1. The road curves to the right ahead Correct answer.
  2. A right lane ends ahead
  3. A right turn is prohibited ahead
  4. A one-way street begins to the right

Explanation

Yellow diamond signs are warning signs, and a curved arrow on one indicates that the road ahead bends in the direction shown. Drivers should slow down before entering the curve. Prohibition signs, by contrast, are typically white rectangles with a red circle and slash.

Question 8Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

An orange diamond-shaped sign on a Montana highway most likely relates to which condition?

  1. A railroad crossing
  2. Road construction or maintenance Correct answer.
  3. A school crossing
  4. A hospital zone

Explanation

Orange is the standard color for construction and maintenance zone signs, and the diamond shape is used for warnings. These signs alert drivers to altered conditions such as lane shifts, workers, or equipment. Reduced speed and extra caution are expected in these zones.

Question 9Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are approaching an intersection where a police officer is directing traffic with hand signals while the traffic light shows green. Whose direction should you follow?

  1. Whichever allows you to move fastest
  2. The vehicle in front of you
  3. The police officer's signals Correct answer.
  4. The traffic light, because it is an official signal

Explanation

When a law enforcement officer is directing traffic, the officer's signals override both traffic lights and posted signs. Drivers must obey the officer even if the light indicates otherwise. Following the officer prevents confusion and collisions at the scene.

Question 10Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A solid white line marks the right edge of a Montana roadway. What does the area beyond that line generally represent?

  1. A bicycle-only lane in all cases
  2. The shoulder, which is not a normal travel lane Correct answer.
  3. A parking lane at all hours
  4. A passing lane

Explanation

A solid white edge line separates the travel lane from the shoulder, which is intended for emergencies, stops, and pedestrians rather than routine travel. Driving for extended distances on the shoulder is not permitted. The line helps drivers keep their vehicle within the travel lane.

Question 11Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You see a round yellow sign with a black X and two R letters. What should you expect ahead?

  1. A wildlife crossing
  2. A railroad crossing Correct answer.
  3. A roundabout
  4. A four-way intersection

Explanation

The round yellow sign with an X and the letters RR is the railroad advance warning sign, placed before a crossing. It tells drivers to slow down, look, and listen for an approaching train. A separate crossbuck sign marks the crossing itself.

Question 12Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A white rectangular sign with black lettering reading 'SPEED LIMIT 65' is best classified as which type of sign?

  1. A guide sign
  2. A construction sign
  3. A regulatory sign Correct answer.
  4. A warning sign

Explanation

Regulatory signs set rules that drivers must obey, such as speed limits, and they typically use white rectangles with black lettering. Warning signs use yellow, and guide signs use green or blue. Disobeying a regulatory sign is a traffic violation.

Question 13Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are in a lane marked with a white left-turn arrow painted on the pavement, and you intend to go straight. What should you do?

  1. Turn left and then make a U-turn to return
  2. Wait in the lane until the arrow changes
  3. Change to a lane marked for through travel before the intersection Correct answer.
  4. Proceed straight from that lane anyway

Explanation

Pavement arrows designate the permitted movement for each lane, and a left-turn arrow means that lane is reserved for left turns. To go straight, you must move into a lane marked with a through arrow before reaching the intersection. Turning from the wrong lane or going straight from a turn-only lane is unsafe and often illegal.

Question 14Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

What does a flashing yellow traffic signal at an intersection mean?

  1. Yield only to vehicles from the left
  2. Stop completely before proceeding
  3. Slow down and proceed with caution Correct answer.
  4. The signal is broken and should be ignored

Explanation

A flashing yellow signal tells drivers to slow down and proceed carefully while watching for cross traffic and pedestrians. Unlike a flashing red, it does not require a full stop. It is commonly used at intersections where traffic is light or where a full signal is not warranted.

Question 15Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A green arrow traffic signal pointing left is displayed while the circular light is red. What does the arrow permit?

  1. A protected left turn with the right of way Correct answer.
  2. No movement until the circular light turns green
  3. A U-turn only
  4. A left turn after yielding to oncoming traffic

Explanation

A green arrow gives a protected movement, meaning oncoming traffic is stopped and you may turn in the direction of the arrow. You still must yield to pedestrians and check that the way is clear. A circular green without an arrow, by contrast, requires yielding to oncoming traffic when turning left.

Question 16Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

Two solid yellow lines are painted between opposing lanes of traffic. What rule applies to crossing them?

  1. Crossing is allowed only to make a left turn into a driveway
  2. Crossing is prohibited for traffic in both directions Correct answer.
  3. Either direction may cross to pass when safe
  4. Only trucks may cross them

Explanation

Double solid yellow lines prohibit crossing for traffic in both directions, marking a no-passing zone for both sides. Drivers should stay in their lane until the marking changes to a broken line. Limited exceptions such as turning into a driveway may exist, but passing is not allowed.

Question 17Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are driving and see a yellow diamond sign showing a pedestrian figure with a diagonal slash through it. What does this sign indicate?

  1. A hiking trail entrance is ahead
  2. A school bus stop is ahead
  3. Pedestrians are prohibited in the area Correct answer.
  4. A pedestrian crossing is ahead

Explanation

A diagonal slash through a symbol on a sign indicates a prohibition, so a pedestrian figure with a slash means pedestrians are not allowed. The sign is regulatory in effect even though it uses a symbol. Drivers should still watch for people who may not obey the restriction.

Question 18Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A sign with a red circle and a diagonal red slash over a black left-turn arrow means what?

  1. Left turns are required
  2. Left turns are prohibited Correct answer.
  3. Left turns are permitted with caution
  4. A left curve is ahead

Explanation

The red circle with a diagonal slash is the universal prohibition symbol, so this sign means left turns are not allowed. Drivers must choose another route or movement. Warning signs for curves use yellow diamonds instead.

Question 19Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You approach a crossbuck sign (an X-shaped sign reading RAILROAD CROSSING) at a crossing with no gates or lights. What is the safest action?

  1. Slow down, look both ways, and listen before crossing Correct answer.
  2. Maintain speed because no lights are present
  3. Stop only if a train is visible
  4. Sound your horn and proceed without slowing

Explanation

A crossbuck marks a passive crossing without active warnings, so drivers must slow down, look and listen for trains, and cross only when clear. Trains can approach quickly and quietly, and they cannot stop for vehicles. Yielding to trains is always required.

Question 20Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A white rectangular sign shows a black symbol of a bicycle inside a lane marking. What does this sign indicate?

  1. A bicycle lane or shared lane is designated here Correct answer.
  2. Bicycles must ride on the sidewalk
  3. A bicycle race is in progress
  4. Bicycles are prohibited on this road

Explanation

This sign designates a bicycle lane or shared lane where cyclists have a right to ride. Drivers should expect bicycles and give them appropriate space. Prohibition signs would use a red circle and slash, which this sign lacks.

Question 21Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A blue rectangular sign with a white 'H' symbol on a Montana highway indicates what?

  1. A highway rest area
  2. A historical marker
  3. A hospital is nearby Correct answer.
  4. A hazardous materials route

Explanation

Blue signs with a white H indicate a hospital or medical facility is accessible from that exit or route. Blue is also used for other motorist services such as fuel and lodging. Brown signs, by contrast, mark recreation and historical sites.

Question 22Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are driving in the left lane of a road with a broken yellow line on your left and a solid yellow line on the right side of the center marking. What does this combination allow?

  1. Passing from your direction when it is safe Correct answer.
  2. Passing only from the opposite direction
  3. Passing only during daylight hours
  4. No passing in either direction

Explanation

When the broken yellow line is on your side of the center marking, you may cross it to pass when the road ahead is clear. The solid line applies to the opposite direction, where passing is prohibited. Drivers must still judge whether the maneuver can be completed safely.

Question 23Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

At an intersection, a green light is displayed but the intersection is blocked by stopped traffic ahead. What should you do?

  1. Enter the intersection and wait inside it
  2. Sound your horn until traffic moves
  3. Drive around the stopped traffic on the shoulder
  4. Wait behind the stop line until you can clear the intersection Correct answer.

Explanation

A green light authorizes movement only if you can clear the intersection; entering when space is blocked can leave you stranded in the crossing and obstruct cross traffic. You should wait behind the stop line until there is room to proceed fully. Blocking an intersection is a violation even on a green light.

Question 24Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A sign shows a yellow diamond with a symbol of a traffic signal ahead. Why is this warning placed before an intersection that already has a visible signal?

  1. To mark a signal that applies only to trucks
  2. To warn drivers who may not see the signal in time, such as on a curve or hill Correct answer.
  3. To indicate the signal is out of service
  4. To show that the signal is optional

Explanation

The signal-ahead warning alerts drivers to a traffic light that may be hidden by a curve, hill, or other obstruction so they can prepare to stop. It is a warning sign, not an indication that the signal is broken or optional. All drivers approaching must obey the signal once it is visible.

Question 25Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A two-way left-turn lane is marked in the center of a road by two solid yellow lines on the outside and broken yellow lines on the inside. What is the correct use of this lane?

  1. For making left turns from either direction, entering only shortly before the turn Correct answer.
  2. For passing slower traffic in either direction
  3. For parking while waiting for a passenger
  4. For through travel when the regular lanes are congested

Explanation

A two-way left-turn lane is shared by traffic from both directions for left turns into driveways or side streets. Drivers should enter it only shortly before turning and should not use it for passing or through travel. Using it for other purposes creates head-on conflict risk.

Question 26Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A Montana road sign is shaped like an inverted triangle with a red border and white center. What does this sign require you to do?

  1. Slow down and yield the right-of-way to traffic on the intersecting road Correct answer.
  2. Stop only when a vehicle is visible on the crossroad
  3. Come to a complete stop and yield to cross traffic
  4. Reduce speed and prepare to merge with traffic already on the roadway

Explanation

The inverted triangle with a red border is the YIELD sign. Montana law requires a driver facing it to slow down and grant the right-of-way to vehicles on the intersecting road, and to stop only if necessary to avoid conflict. It is not a mandatory full stop like the red octagon.

Question 27Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

On a Montana two-lane road, you see a solid yellow line on your side of the center and a broken yellow line on the other side. What does this marking mean for your direction of travel?

  1. Passing is prohibited for your direction of travel Correct answer.
  2. You may cross the center only to make a left turn into a driveway
  3. Both directions may pass whenever traffic permits
  4. You may pass when the road ahead is clear and passing is safe

Explanation

When the solid yellow line is on your side of the centerline, passing is prohibited for your direction of travel. The broken line on the opposite side means drivers coming toward you may pass when it is safe. The restriction follows the line nearest your lane.

Question 28Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

What does a pentagon-shaped sign with a black pedestrian symbol on a yellow background indicate?

  1. A trail crossing used only by hikers
  2. A hospital entrance where pedestrians are common
  3. A school zone or school crossing ahead Correct answer.
  4. A pedestrian crossing zone where you must stop for anyone on foot

Explanation

The five-sided pentagon shape is reserved for school area warning signs. A yellow pentagon with a pedestrian symbol warns of a school zone or school crossing where children may be present. Drivers should slow down and watch carefully for students.

Question 29Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are driving at night and a traffic signal ahead shows a flashing red light. What must you do?

  1. Stop, yield to traffic and pedestrians, then proceed when it is safe Correct answer.
  2. Slow down and proceed without stopping if no traffic is near
  3. Wait for the light to turn green before moving
  4. Treat it as a warning to increase speed through the intersection

Explanation

A flashing red signal operates like a stop sign. You must come to a complete stop, yield to cross traffic and pedestrians, and then proceed when the way is clear. It does not change to green; you proceed on your own judgment once you have yielded.

Question 30Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A white rectangular sign with black lettering reading 'ONE WAY' with an arrow is posted at an intersection. What does it tell you?

  1. You must turn in the direction of the arrow
  2. Traffic on that street moves only in the direction of the arrow Correct answer.
  3. The street has a single lane in each direction
  4. The road ahead is closed to through traffic

Explanation

The ONE WAY sign is a regulatory sign telling drivers that traffic on that roadway flows only in the direction shown by the arrow. It does not order you to turn; it describes the flow of the street you are looking at. Entering against that flow would be driving the wrong way.

Question 31Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

What do the broken white lines that separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction indicate?

  1. Lanes that may be crossed when it is safe to change lanes Correct answer.
  2. A boundary where lane changes are prohibited
  3. A lane reserved for buses only
  4. The edge of the roadway where parking is allowed

Explanation

Broken white lines separate lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction and may be crossed when a lane change can be made safely. They are advisory lane dividers, not barriers. Solid white lines in the same position discourage or prohibit lane changes.

Question 32Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A yellow diamond sign shows a black symbol of a road narrowing on both sides. What should you expect and do?

  1. The travel lanes will narrow ahead, so reduce speed and adjust position Correct answer.
  2. The road will widen into an additional lane
  3. The pavement ends ahead and becomes gravel
  4. A bridge with a weight limit is ahead

Explanation

Yellow diamond signs are warnings about conditions ahead. A symbol showing the road narrowing on both sides warns that the travel lanes will constrict, so you should slow down and prepare to adjust your lane position. Warning signs call for reduced speed and increased attention.

Question 33Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

On a Montana highway you see a white rectangular sign with black lettering reading 'NO PASSING ZONE' accompanied by a pennant symbol. What does this mean?

  1. Passing is prohibited only for trucks and buses
  2. Passing is allowed if the vehicle ahead is moving slowly
  3. Passing is prohibited until a sign or marking indicates it is permitted again Correct answer.
  4. Passing is prohibited only during nighttime hours

Explanation

The NO PASSING ZONE pennant marks the start of a section where passing is prohibited. The restriction continues until a marking or sign shows that passing is allowed again, such as the end of a no-passing zone sign. It applies to all drivers regardless of vehicle type or time of day.

Question 34Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are approaching an intersection where the traffic light is dark because of a power failure. No officer is present. How should you treat the intersection?

  1. Wait at the intersection until power is restored
  2. Proceed through without slowing because no signal is displayed
  3. Yield only to vehicles approaching from your right
  4. Treat it as an all-way stop, stopping and yielding before proceeding Correct answer.

Explanation

When a traffic signal is not functioning and no officer is directing traffic, the intersection is treated as an all-way stop. Each driver must stop and yield before proceeding in a safe order. Waiting indefinitely for power to return is not required.

Question 35Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A white rectangular sign shows a black symbol of a person walking within a diagonal line pattern. What type of sign is this and what does it convey?

  1. A regulatory sign prohibiting pedestrian crossing at that location Correct answer.
  2. A guide sign pointing to a pedestrian mall
  3. A construction sign for a sidewalk detour
  4. A warning sign alerting to pedestrians ahead

Explanation

White rectangular signs with black symbols are regulatory signs that state a rule. A pedestrian symbol crossed by a diagonal line prohibits pedestrians from crossing at that spot. Warning signs about pedestrians are yellow diamonds without the slash.

Question 36Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A yellow diamond sign displays a black symbol of a traffic signal with a supplemental plaque reading 'PREPARE TO STOP'. What is the purpose of this warning?

  1. It indicates the signal is permanently out of service
  2. It marks a pedestrian-activated signal you must ignore unless someone is crossing
  3. It alerts you that a signalized intersection is ahead so you can slow and be ready to stop Correct answer.
  4. It tells you the signal ahead is green and you may continue at speed

Explanation

The signal-ahead warning sign tells drivers a traffic signal controls the upcoming intersection. The supplemental plaque reinforces that a stop may be required, so you should slow down and be prepared. It does not guarantee any particular signal color.

Question 37Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are in a lane marked with a white diamond symbol painted on the pavement and a matching white sign. What does this marking mean?

  1. The lane ends ahead and traffic must merge
  2. The lane is a bicycle lane only
  3. The lane is reserved for emergency vehicles
  4. The lane is reserved for high-occupancy vehicles or other specified users Correct answer.

Explanation

A white diamond pavement marking designates a preferential-use lane, such as a high-occupancy vehicle lane, and a sign states who may use it. Other drivers should stay out of that lane unless the sign permits them. The diamond does not mean the lane ends or is reserved for bicycles or emergency vehicles alone.

Question 38Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A black-and-white rectangular sign shows a symbol of a train and the letters 'RR' with a distance figure below. What is this sign telling you?

  1. Trains are prohibited from using the crossing
  2. A railroad crossing is ahead at the stated distance Correct answer.
  3. A railroad yard entrance is at that exact location
  4. You must stop immediately before the sign

Explanation

The advance railroad warning sign uses an 'RR' symbol with a train graphic and may include a distance plaque. It warns that a railroad crossing is ahead at the distance shown so you can slow and prepare to stop if needed. It does not itself require a stop.

Question 39Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

What does a solid double white line between two lanes traveling in the same direction mean?

  1. The left lane is a passing lane only
  2. Lane changes are permitted when traffic is light
  3. Lane changes across the line are prohibited Correct answer.
  4. The right lane must exit ahead

Explanation

A double solid white line between lanes moving in the same direction means crossing the line to change lanes is prohibited. It is used where lane changes would be unsafe, such as near tunnels or interchanges. Drivers should choose their lane before reaching such a marking.

Question 40Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You are turning left at an intersection and see a white box with a bicycle symbol painted in the lane. What does this marking indicate?

  1. A parking area for bicycles on the roadway
  2. A bicycle box where cyclists position ahead of traffic at the light Correct answer.
  3. A lane where bicycles are prohibited
  4. A warning that bicycles must yield to all vehicles

Explanation

A bicycle box is a marked area at the head of a lane where cyclists may wait ahead of motor vehicles at a signal. Drivers should stop behind the box rather than in it. It improves cyclist visibility and safety at intersections.

Question 41Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A green rectangular guide sign on a Montana interstate shows an exit number and a destination city. What is the primary purpose of this sign?

  1. To warn of a hazard on the exit ramp
  2. To state a regulatory speed limit
  3. To guide drivers to destinations and exits Correct answer.
  4. To mark a construction detour

Explanation

Green guide signs provide navigational information such as exit numbers, destinations, and distances. They help drivers plan lane changes and route choices. Warning signs are yellow and regulatory signs are white with black lettering.

Question 42Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You encounter a yellow diamond sign showing a black symbol of a slippery road surface. Under what conditions should you be most cautious?

  1. Only when towing a trailer
  2. When the pavement is wet, icy, or covered with loose material Correct answer.
  3. When the road is dry and straight
  4. Only when driving at night

Explanation

The slippery-when-wet warning sign alerts drivers that traction is reduced when the surface is wet, icy, or contaminated with loose material. You should reduce speed and avoid abrupt braking or steering in those conditions. Dry pavement generally offers normal traction.

Question 43Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A white rectangular sign reads 'KEEP RIGHT' with an arrow pointing right and is placed at a traffic island. What does it require?

  1. Turn right at the next intersection
  2. Pass to the right of the island or obstruction Correct answer.
  3. Merge right into the adjacent lane
  4. Stop before the island and wait

Explanation

The KEEP RIGHT sign is a regulatory sign directing traffic to pass on the right side of an island or obstruction. It is about positioning around a physical feature, not about turning or merging. Drivers must follow the arrow's direction.

Question 44Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You see a solid yellow line on the left edge of a divided highway's leftmost lane. What does this marking indicate?

  1. A shoulder where parking is allowed
  2. A lane where passing on the left is permitted
  3. A bicycle lane along the median
  4. The left edge of the roadway, beyond which is a median or opposing traffic Correct answer.

Explanation

On divided highways, a solid yellow line marks the left edge of the travel lanes, separating them from the median or opposing traffic. You should not cross it to travel in the median area. Yellow markings always relate to the left edge or opposing traffic.

Question 45Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A yellow diamond sign shows a black symbol of a curve with an advisory speed plaque reading '35 MPH'. What does the advisory speed mean?

  1. The minimum speed you must maintain through the curve
  2. A speed that applies only to trucks
  3. The legal speed limit for the entire road
  4. The maximum safe speed recommended for the curve under good conditions Correct answer.

Explanation

An advisory speed plaque on a warning sign recommends a safe speed for the hazard, here a curve, under favorable conditions. It is not a posted legal limit, though exceeding it may be unsafe or used as evidence of careless driving. In poor conditions you should go even slower.

Question 46Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

Two lanes are separated by a broken white line that becomes solid as you approach an intersection, and a white arrow in your lane points straight while the adjacent lane has a left-turn arrow. What is the safest interpretation?

  1. The arrows are advisory only and may be ignored
  2. You may change into the turn lane at any point before the intersection
  3. You should choose your lane before the line becomes solid, since crossing it near the intersection is discouraged Correct answer.
  4. You may use the turn lane to pass slower traffic going straight

Explanation

A broken white line permits lane changes, but where it becomes solid near an intersection, crossing is discouraged because traffic is positioning for turns. Pavement arrows assign lane use, so you should be in the correct lane before the line solidifies. Using a turn lane to pass is unsafe and often unlawful.

Question 47Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

At an intersection you face a steady red arrow pointing left while a circular green light is also displayed. What does the red arrow mean for your left turn?

  1. You may turn left because the circular green permits all movements
  2. You may turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic
  3. You may turn left only if no pedestrians are present
  4. You must stop and may not turn left until the red arrow changes Correct answer.

Explanation

A red arrow applies specifically to the movement it indicates and overrides a general circular green for that movement. Facing a red left arrow, you must stop and wait; the circular green governs other movements such as going straight. Turning left on the red arrow would conflict with protected traffic.

Question 48Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A white rectangular sign with black lettering reads 'LEFT LANE MUST TURN LEFT' and is mounted over the leftmost lane. A driver in that lane intends to continue straight. What is the correct action?

  1. Change lanes to the right before the intersection if it is safe to do so Correct answer.
  2. Proceed straight after signaling to nearby drivers
  3. Stop in the lane and wait for a green light to go straight
  4. Continue straight because the sign is only a suggestion

Explanation

The sign is a regulatory lane-use control requiring the left lane's traffic to turn left. A driver who wants to go straight must move to another lane before the intersection when it is safe. Remaining in the lane and going straight would violate the required movement.

Question 49Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

A yellow diamond sign shows a black symbol of a divided highway ending ahead, and beyond it the opposing traffic shares the same roadway with only a broken yellow centerline. What change in driving should you anticipate?

  1. The road will become a one-way street
  2. You will share a two-way road and must watch for oncoming traffic where none existed before Correct answer.
  3. The centerline will prohibit all passing for both directions
  4. Traffic will move faster with no need to adjust

Explanation

When a divided highway ends, the separated directions merge onto a single roadway with two-way traffic. Drivers must adjust to the possibility of oncoming vehicles and use the centerline markings to judge passing rules. A broken yellow line permits passing when safe for the side with the broken line.

Question 50Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

You approach a crosswalk marked only by white transverse lines with no signs or signals, and a pedestrian is stepping into it from your side. What does the marking require of you?

  1. Continue because unmarked crosswalks carry no legal weight
  2. Yield and stop to let the pedestrian cross Correct answer.
  3. Sound your horn and proceed around the pedestrian
  4. Stop only if the pedestrian has already reached your lane

Explanation

White transverse lines mark a crosswalk, and drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing within it. Montana law also treats intersections as crosswalks even without painted lines, so marking presence is not what creates the duty. You must stop and let the pedestrian cross safely.