Norway Theory Test - Category C1 study materials
Norway Theory Test - Category C1 study resources

Norway Theory Test - Category C1 cheat sheet

Norway Theory Test - Category C1 · Keep the key ideas within reach.

Quick reference

Road Traffic Law (Category C1)

  • Norwegian speed limits unless signed otherwise: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h outside built-up areas, 90 km/h on motorways.

  • General rule: the driver must always adapt speed to conditions; a posted limit is a maximum, not a target.

  • Vehicle class C1: motor vehicle with permissible maximum mass above 3 500 kg but not exceeding 7 500 kg, designed and constructed for carrying goods; may tow a trailer up to 750 kg.

  • Right-hand traffic; overtaking normally happens on the left. Overtaking on the right is only allowed where lanes are designated for it or when the vehicle ahead is turning left.

  • Seat belts and approved child restraints are mandatory for all occupants where fitted; driver is responsible for occupants under 15 years.

  • Duty to stop after an accident involving injury or significant damage; give assistance, identify yourself, and notify police.

  • Driving under the influence: Norway's general limit is 0.2 per mille (0.02 % BAC). Refusing a breath or blood test is punishable.

  • Penalty points (prikkbelastning) accrue for defined traffic offences; 8 points within three years leads to loss of driving rights for a period.

Quick reference

Signs and Markings

  • Norwegian danger warning signs are triangular with red border and white/yellow field; they are placed in good time before the hazard (typically 150–250 m outside built-up areas, closer inside).

  • Prohibition signs are circular with red border; mandatory signs are circular with blue field.

  • Priority road sign is a yellow diamond with white border; end-of-priority road is the same diamond with a diagonal black bar.

  • Yield (vikeplikt) sign: inverted red-bordered triangle. Stop sign: red octagon, requires a full stop at the stop line.

  • Edge line is a continuous white line; centre line separating opposing traffic is yellow. Broken lines may be crossed when safe; a solid line may not.

  • Zigzag markings and pedestrian crossing signs indicate crossing points; stopping or parking on the crossing is prohibited.

  • Maximum mass and axle-load restriction signs are round with red border; they apply to the vehicle's actual or permitted values as stated.

  • Supplementary plates (tabeller/tekstplater) under a sign restrict or extend its meaning, e.g. distance, time of day, or vehicle category.

Quick reference

Vehicle Knowledge (C1 Lorries)

  • C1 vehicles are typically fitted with air-over-hydraulic or full air brakes; pressure must build before the low-pressure warning extinguishes.

  • Air-brake system has a service brake circuit, parking (spring) brake, and often an emergency/secondary circuit; loss of pressure applies the spring brakes automatically.

  • Diesel engines: check oil level with engine off and vehicle level; overfilling can cause seal failure and oil burning.

  • Coolant is checked cold; never open a pressurised expansion tank cap while hot.

  • Tyre load index and speed rating must match the vehicle's permissible axle loads; under-inflation raises temperature and risk of blowout.

  • Retarder or exhaust brake reduces service-brake fade on long descents; service brakes should not be used continuously.

  • ABS warning lamp staying lit after start indicates a fault; normal braking remains but anti-lock function may be lost.

  • Pre-trip check items: tyres and pressures, lights, mirrors, load securing, brake and air pressure, fluids, and warning lamps.

Quick reference

Loading and Dimensions for C1

  • C1 permissible maximum mass: over 3 500 kg and up to 7 500 kg. Trailer without overrun brake up to 750 kg.

  • Maximum authorised dimensions in Norway: width 2.55 m (refrigerated vehicles 2.60 m), height 4.00 m, length for a single motor vehicle 12.00 m.

  • Load must be secured so it cannot shift, fall, or cause danger; use certified straps, chains, or nets with sufficient lashing capacity.

  • The load must not obscure lights, reflectors, registration plate, or driver's view.

  • Load projecting more than 1 m behind the vehicle must be marked; at night or in poor visibility, use a red light/reflector at the rear and white at the front.

  • Axle loads and total mass must not exceed the vehicle's permitted values; overloading is fined and affects braking and stability.

  • Distribute the load low and centred; a high centre of gravity increases rollover risk in curves.

  • When towing, the trailer's permitted mass must not exceed the towing vehicle's permitted towing capacity; check coupling and safety cable.

Quick reference

Driving Technique and Vehicle Control

  • Use the two-second rule as minimum following distance; double it in rain, and multiply further on ice or in poor visibility.

  • Brake progressively and early; with air brakes, a light initial application takes up slack before full braking.

  • On long descents select a low gear and use engine braking/retarder; keep service brakes cool to avoid fade.

  • Steering: keep both hands on the wheel; for C1 vehicles with large turning circles, swing wide but check mirrors for cyclists and pedestrians.

  • Hill starts with a heavy vehicle: use parking brake or hill-hold, engage low gear, release brake smoothly to avoid rollback.

  • Reversing: use mirrors and, where possible, a guide; if view is obstructed, stop and check before continuing.

  • Curves: reduce speed before the curve, not in it; heavy vehicles have high rollover risk due to high centre of gravity.

  • Wet or icy roads: increase distance, avoid sudden steering or braking, and be aware of aquaplaning at higher speeds.

Quick reference

Traffic Behaviour, Interaction and Hazard Perception

  • Blind spots: large vehicles have significant blind areas in front, at the sides, and behind; always check mirrors and signal before manoeuvring.

  • When turning right, watch for cyclists and pedestrians on the inside; use the 'lifesaving look' over the shoulder.

  • Yield rules: at uncontrolled junctions, yield to traffic from the right unless signs or road markings say otherwise.

  • Pedestrian crossings: give way to pedestrians who are on or about to enter the crossing; do not block the crossing when queuing.

  • Anticipate hazards from parked cars, side roads, and vulnerable road users; scan far ahead and reduce speed in dense areas.

  • Overtaking: ensure clear view, sufficient gap, and that no vehicle is overtaking you; return to the right lane without cutting in.

  • Roundabouts: yield to traffic already circulating (in Norway, normally to the left); signal on exit.

  • Fatigue and distraction are major hazards: take breaks at least every two hours, avoid phone use while driving.

Quick reference

Driving and Rest Time Rules, Tachograph and Transport Documentation

  • EU/EEA rules apply to goods vehicles over 3.5 t: daily driving max 9 hours (extendable to 10 twice per week); weekly driving max 56 hours; two-week total max 90 hours.

  • Continuous driving max 4.5 hours, then a break of at least 45 minutes, which may be split into 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes.

  • Daily rest: normally 11 hours, reducible to 9 hours up to three times between weekly rests. Weekly rest: at least 45 hours, reducible to 24 hours with compensation.

  • Tachograph: driver card is personal; insert card before driving begins and withdraw at end of shift. Manual entries required for other work and availability.

  • Record mode switch correctly: driving, other work, availability, break/rest. Failure to record can lead to fines.

  • Transport documents: driving licence (C1), driver card, vehicle registration, insurance, and where applicable ADR certificate and CMR/consignment note.

  • Keep tachograph records for at least one year; produce them on request during roadside checks.

  • Drivers must be able to show proof of activities for the current day and previous 28 days.

Quick reference

Safety, First Aid and Incident Handling

  • At an accident scene: secure the area first - hazard lights, warning triangle (at least 150 m behind on fast roads), and reflective vest before exiting.

  • Call emergency number 113 (medical) or 112 (police) in Norway; give location, number of injured, and hazards.

  • ABC of first aid: Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Check responsiveness and breathing; start CPR with 30 compressions to 2 breaths if not breathing.

  • Severe bleeding: apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or pressure bandage; do not remove embedded objects.

  • Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic); keep them warm and calm.

  • Fire extinguisher: use PASS - Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep; only tackle small fires and keep an escape route.

  • After a breakdown on a motorway, get occupants behind the barrier and away from the carriageway; use hazard lights.

  • Report accidents to the police when there are injuries or significant property damage; exchange details with other parties.

Quick reference

Environment, Economy and Vehicle Maintenance

  • Fuel economy: maintain steady speed, use the highest practical gear, anticipate traffic, and avoid unnecessary idling.

  • Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance and fuel consumption; check monthly and before long trips.

  • Regular servicing (oil, filters, brakes, air system) prevents breakdowns and keeps emissions within limits.

  • Plan routes to avoid congestion and unnecessary detours; eco-driving can cut fuel use by 10–20 %.

  • Avoid carrying unnecessary weight; empty roof racks and unused loads increase drag and fuel use.

  • Use engine braking and retarders to save brake wear; replace worn brake pads and discs before they reach the limit.

  • Check lights, wipers, and fluids weekly; keep a record of maintenance and inspections.

  • Dispose of used oil, batteries, and tyres at approved collection points; never pour chemicals into drains.

Quick reference

Environment, Economy and Vehicle Maintenance (C1 Specific)

  • C1 vehicles often run on diesel; use the correct grade and never refuel with engine running.

  • DPF (diesel particulate filter) requires periodic regeneration; short trips can clog it, so follow the manufacturer's procedure.

  • AdBlue (urea) is used in modern Euro 6 diesel engines; low AdBlue can trigger power reduction - top up in good time.

  • Air-brake system: drain moisture from air tanks regularly; water in the system can freeze and cause brake failure.

  • Check tyre tread depth: minimum 1.6 mm for cars, but 1.0 mm for C1 vehicles over 3.5 t (winter tyres have specific rules).

  • Winter tyres: required in winter conditions; check date and condition; studded tyres have seasonal rules in Norway.

  • Keep the vehicle clean, especially lights and mirrors; dirt reduces visibility and increases fuel use.

  • Record fuel and maintenance costs to identify inefficiencies and plan replacements.