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NWT Class 7 Test study materials
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NWT Class 7 Test practice questions

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Question 1Traffic signs, signals and road markings

In Northwest Territories, what does a red octagonal sign require a driver to do?

  1. Slow down and proceed only if the way is clear
  2. Yield to traffic already in the intersection
  3. Come to a complete stop before the crosswalk or stop line Correct answer.
  4. Stop only when pedestrians are present

Explanation

A red octagon is the stop sign, and the shape alone identifies it even when snow or dirt obscures the face. The driver must halt completely at the stop line, crosswalk, or edge of the intersecting roadway before moving on. Slowing without stopping is not compliance with a stop sign.

Question 2Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver approaches an intersection with a flashing red signal. How should the driver treat it?

  1. As a warning to reduce speed only
  2. As a stop sign, stopping fully before proceeding when safe Correct answer.
  3. As a green light for the through lane
  4. As a yield sign, slowing only if traffic is present

Explanation

A flashing red light carries the same meaning as a stop sign: the driver must come to a complete stop and then proceed only when it is safe. It is used where traffic volumes do not justify a full signal cycle. Treating it as a mere caution or yield sign is a common and dangerous error.

Question 3Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What does a solid yellow centre line on a two-lane highway indicate?

  1. Passing is prohibited for traffic in both directions Correct answer.
  2. The lane closest to the line is reserved for turning
  3. Traffic in both directions may cross to pass when safe
  4. Passing is permitted for both directions

Explanation

A solid yellow centre line marks a no-passing zone for traffic travelling in both directions. Yellow lines separate opposing flows of traffic, and a solid line means do not cross it to overtake. A broken yellow line, by contrast, permits passing when it is safe.

Question 4Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A steady yellow traffic light appears as you approach an intersection. What is the correct response?

  1. Stop immediately in all circumstances
  2. Accelerate to clear the intersection before red
  3. Stop if you can do so safely, otherwise proceed with caution Correct answer.
  4. Treat it as a green light and continue at the same speed

Explanation

A steady yellow light warns that the signal is about to turn red. The driver should stop if there is enough distance to do so safely, but if stopping abruptly would be hazardous, continuing through with care is appropriate. The light is not a command to speed up.

Question 5Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What is the meaning of a white rectangular sign bearing a black symbol of a bicycle?

  1. A bicycle lane or crossing is present, so watch for cyclists Correct answer.
  2. Cyclists must dismount in this area
  3. Bicycles are prohibited beyond this point
  4. A bicycle repair facility is nearby

Explanation

White rectangular signs with black symbols are regulatory signs that inform drivers about rules or facilities. A bicycle symbol warns that cyclists may be sharing the roadway or crossing ahead, so drivers should expect them. It does not prohibit bicycles or order them to dismount.

Question 6Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended on an undivided road. What must the driver do?

  1. Pass on the left if no children are visible
  2. Sound the horn and continue at the posted limit
  3. Slow to 30 km/h and pass carefully
  4. Stop and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing Correct answer.

Explanation

On an undivided road, traffic in both directions must stop for a school bus displaying flashing red lights and its stop arm. The stop protects children who may be crossing the road to board or leave the bus. Passing while the lights flash is both dangerous and an offence.

Question 7Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What does a sign shaped like an inverted triangle with a red border mean?

  1. Yield the right-of-way to traffic and pedestrians Correct answer.
  2. Stop completely before proceeding
  3. Reduce speed for a curve ahead
  4. Merge without changing lanes

Explanation

The downward-pointing triangle with a red border is the yield sign. The driver must slow down and give way to traffic on the intersecting road and to pedestrians before entering. Unlike a stop sign, it does not always require a full stop if the way is clearly free.

Question 8Traffic signs, signals and road markings

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

  1. No lane changes at any time
  2. Crossing only to make a left turn
  3. Driving in either lane regardless of direction
  4. Changing lanes when it is safe to do so Correct answer.

Explanation

White lines separate traffic moving in the same direction, and a broken white line may be crossed when a lane change can be made safely. The broken pattern signals that crossing is allowed rather than prohibited. Drivers must still signal and check mirrors and blind spots.

Question 9Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver encounters an orange diamond-shaped sign reading "Road Work Ahead." What should the driver do?

  1. Change to the left lane immediately
  2. Slow down and prepare for workers, equipment, and changed lanes Correct answer.
  3. Stop and wait for a flagger before continuing
  4. Maintain speed because the sign is only advisory

Explanation

Orange diamond signs mark construction and maintenance zones. Drivers must reduce speed and watch for workers, machinery, and temporary lane changes, and fines are often doubled in these zones. The sign is a warning of a real hazard, not a suggestion.

Question 10Traffic signs, signals and road markings

At an intersection controlled by a steady green light, a driver wants to turn left. What is required?

  1. Sound the horn and proceed ahead of oncoming vehicles
  2. Turn immediately because green grants the right-of-way
  3. Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before completing the turn Correct answer.
  4. Wait for a green arrow before turning in any case

Explanation

A steady green light permits movement but does not give a left-turning driver the right-of-way over oncoming traffic. The turning driver must yield to approaching vehicles and to pedestrians in the crosswalk. A green arrow, where provided, would give protected right-of-way.

Question 11Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What does a yellow diamond sign showing a black arrow curving to the right indicate?

  1. A right lane is reserved for turning vehicles
  2. A right turn is prohibited ahead
  3. A sharp curve to the right is ahead, so reduce speed Correct answer.
  4. The road ends and turns right

Explanation

Yellow diamond signs are warnings about road conditions ahead. A curved arrow indicates a bend in the road and advises the driver to slow before reaching it. The sign warns of geometry, not of a turn prohibition or lane restriction.

Question 12Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a pedestrian standing at a marked crosswalk without a signal. What is the driver's obligation?

  1. Yield and stop to allow the pedestrian to cross Correct answer.
  2. Move to the adjacent lane and pass the crosswalk
  3. Continue because the pedestrian has not stepped off the curb
  4. Sound the horn to warn the pedestrian to wait

Explanation

Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and in the Northwest Territories this includes a pedestrian waiting to cross at a marked crosswalk. A person at the curb is signalling an intention to cross. Passing in another lane at a crosswalk with a waiting pedestrian is unsafe and contrary to the rule.

Question 13Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What is indicated by a solid white line on the right edge of a roadway?

  1. A bicycle-only lane at all times
  2. A zone where parking is always allowed
  3. A lane that may be used for passing on the right
  4. The edge of the travelled lane or shoulder boundary Correct answer.

Explanation

A solid white line along the right side marks the edge of the travelled portion of the road, separating it from the shoulder. It helps drivers stay within the roadway, especially in poor visibility. It does not by itself authorize passing or designate parking.

Question 14Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver approaches a railway crossing with flashing red lights but no gate. What must the driver do?

  1. Slow down and cross while watching for trains
  2. Proceed if the train appears distant
  3. Stop only if a bell is also ringing
  4. Stop and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing and the way is clear Correct answer.

Explanation

Flashing red lights at a railway crossing mean a train is approaching, and drivers must stop and stay stopped until the signals cease and it is safe to cross. Judging distance to a train is unreliable because trains are closer and faster than they appear. Gates are an added safeguard, not a condition for obeying the lights.

Question 15Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver faces a red light and wishes to turn right at an intersection where no sign prohibits it. What is allowed?

  1. Turn right only after the light turns green
  2. Turn right without stopping if the way is clear
  3. Turn right after slowing to walking pace
  4. Stop fully, then turn right after yielding to pedestrians and traffic Correct answer.

Explanation

Where right turns on red are not prohibited by signage, the driver must first come to a complete stop and then yield to pedestrians and cross traffic before turning. The turn is permitted, but only after the stop and yield are satisfied. A sign at some intersections forbids the turn entirely.

Question 16Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What does a yellow diamond sign depicting a black pedestrian symbol mean?

  1. A pedestrian-only path begins here
  2. Pedestrians are prohibited in the area
  3. A school playground is adjacent to the roadway
  4. A pedestrian crossing is ahead, so watch for people on the road Correct answer.

Explanation

A yellow diamond with a pedestrian symbol warns that a crosswalk or pedestrian crossing lies ahead. Drivers should reduce speed and scan the roadway and shoulders for people. It does not prohibit pedestrians or mark a separate path.

Question 17Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a sign with a red circle and a diagonal red slash over a black left-turn arrow. What does it mean?

  1. Left turns are prohibited Correct answer.
  2. Left lane ends and merges right
  3. A left curve lies ahead
  4. Left turns are permitted with caution

Explanation

A red circle with a diagonal slash is the universal prohibition symbol. Combined with a left-turn arrow, it means left turns are not allowed at that location. Drivers must choose another route or turn where permitted.

Question 18Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What is the meaning of a two-way left-turn lane marked by solid and broken yellow lines on each side?

  1. A lane shared by left-turning traffic from both directions Correct answer.
  2. A passing lane for faster vehicles in either direction
  3. A lane reserved for buses and emergency vehicles
  4. A shoulder where parking is permitted

Explanation

A two-way left-turn lane sits in the centre of the road and is marked by solid yellow lines on the outside and broken yellow lines on the inside. It allows left-turning vehicles from either direction to wait clear of through traffic. It is not a passing lane or a parking area.

Question 19Traffic signs, signals and road markings

What does a flashing yellow traffic light at an intersection require?

  1. Proceed with caution after slowing and checking for cross traffic Correct answer.
  2. Treat it as a green light without reducing speed
  3. A complete stop before proceeding
  4. Yield only to vehicles on the right

Explanation

A flashing yellow light warns drivers to proceed cautiously, slowing and watching for cross traffic and pedestrians. It is typically used where a full signal is not warranted or during low-traffic hours. It does not require a stop the way a flashing red does.

Question 20Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver approaches a stop sign at a T-intersection where the through road runs left and right. After stopping, what must the driver do?

  1. Wait for a green light before turning
  2. Proceed straight ahead across the through road
  3. Turn left without yielding because left turns have priority
  4. Yield to traffic on the through road before turning either way Correct answer.

Explanation

At a T-intersection the driver on the terminating road faces a stop sign and must yield to traffic on the through road. After stopping, the driver may turn left or right only when the through road is clear. There is no straight-ahead path across the through road.

Question 21Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a sign reading "Maximum 50" with a black numeral on a white rectangle. What does it mean?

  1. A speed advisory of 50 km/h for the curve ahead
  2. The maximum permitted speed is 50 km/h Correct answer.
  3. A distance of 50 metres to the next exit
  4. The minimum speed is 50 km/h

Explanation

A white rectangular sign with black numerals and the word maximum sets the legal speed limit in kilometres per hour. Exceeding it is an offence. Yellow speed signs, by contrast, give advisory speeds for specific hazards such as curves.

Question 22Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver is in a lane marked with a white left-turn arrow painted on the pavement. What does the marking require?

  1. The driver may use the lane for passing
  2. The driver must merge right before the intersection
  3. The driver must turn left from that lane Correct answer.
  4. The driver may turn left or continue straight

Explanation

Pavement arrows are regulatory markings that assign lane use. A left-turn arrow means vehicles in that lane must turn left when they reach the intersection. Continuing straight from a dedicated turn lane can cause a collision with adjacent traffic.

Question 23Traffic signs, signals and road markings

In a roundabout with no signals, a driver entering must yield to which traffic?

  1. Traffic already circulating in the roundabout Correct answer.
  2. Traffic behind the entering vehicle
  3. Traffic approaching from the left on the entering road
  4. No traffic, because entering vehicles have priority

Explanation

Roundabouts operate with entering vehicles yielding to traffic already circulating in the circle. Drivers should also watch for pedestrians at the crosswalks on each approach. Signage at the entry reinforces the yield requirement.

Question 24Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of a truck on a downhill grade. What is the main hazard it warns of?

  1. Steep downgrade where heavy vehicles may lose control, so use lower gears Correct answer.
  2. A truck route where cars are prohibited
  3. An upcoming lane closure for trucks only
  4. A weigh station ahead requiring all vehicles to stop

Explanation

A yellow warning sign showing a truck on a slope warns of a steep downgrade where heavy vehicles risk brake fade and loss of control. All drivers should select a lower gear and control speed rather than relying on brakes alone. The sign is a hazard warning, not a regulatory instruction to stop.

Question 25Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver approaches a signal displaying a green arrow pointing left while the main light is red. What does the arrow permit?

  1. No movement until the main light turns green
  2. A protected left turn while oncoming traffic is stopped Correct answer.
  3. A left turn only if the lane is marked for turning
  4. A left turn only after yielding to oncoming traffic

Explanation

A green arrow gives protected right-of-way for the indicated movement, meaning conflicting traffic is held by a red light. The driver may turn left without yielding to oncoming vehicles, though pedestrians in the crosswalk must still be respected. The main red light applies only to other movements.

Question 26Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver approaches an intersection where a traffic signal is dark and completely unpowered. What does the NWT Driver's Handbook require the driver to treat the intersection as?

  1. An uncontrolled intersection where no stopping is required at any time
  2. An all-way stop, with a full stop before entering and right-of-way yielded to traffic already there Correct answer.
  3. A closed intersection that may only be crossed with a police escort
  4. A yield intersection, slowing but not stopping unless another vehicle is present

Explanation

When a signal is dark because of a power failure, the law treats the intersection as an all-way stop. Every driver must come to a complete stop and then proceed in the order of arrival, yielding as at any four-way stop. Proceeding without stopping is dangerous because no signal is assigning right-of-way.

Question 27Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a steady red light and a green arrow pointing left at the same time. What does the green arrow allow?

  1. A left turn with no need to yield to anyone
  2. A left turn only after waiting for the main light to turn green
  3. A left turn in the direction of the arrow, after yielding to pedestrians and traffic already lawfully in the intersection Correct answer.
  4. No movement at all until the main light changes

Explanation

A green arrow gives a protected movement in the direction shown even while the main light is red. The driver may turn left but must still yield to pedestrians and to any traffic already lawfully in the intersection. Other traffic facing a red light is stopped, which is why the arrow is called protected.

Question 28Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of an airplane. What hazard does this sign warn of?

  1. A ferry terminal serving aircraft
  2. Low-flying aircraft or an airport in the vicinity Correct answer.
  3. A military base with restricted access
  4. An airport terminal entrance ahead

Explanation

The airplane symbol on a yellow warning diamond alerts drivers that they are near an airport or that low-flying aircraft may be crossing overhead. It is a warning of a possible distraction and sudden noise rather than a direction to a terminal. Drivers should stay alert and keep their attention on the road.

Question 29Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver wants to know the maximum speed permitted on a stretch of NWT highway. Which sign conveys that legal limit?

  1. A white rectangle with a black numeral and the word Maximum Correct answer.
  2. An orange diamond with a black numeral
  3. A yellow diamond with a black numeral
  4. A green guide sign with white lettering

Explanation

Regulatory speed limits are shown on white rectangular signs with black numerals, often with the word Maximum. Yellow diamonds are warnings, green signs are guides, and orange diamonds mark construction zones. The white regulatory sign carries the legal limit.

Question 30Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a sign with a red circle and diagonal slash over a black symbol of a right turn. What does this sign mean?

  1. Right turns are prohibited Correct answer.
  2. Right turns are permitted only on a green arrow
  3. Right turns require a stop first
  4. Right turns are recommended

Explanation

A red circle with a diagonal slash is the universal prohibition symbol. Placed over a right-turn arrow, it means right turns are not allowed at that location. A driver must find another route rather than turning.

Question 31Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign showing a black symbol of a traffic signal. What does this sign warn of?

  1. A pedestrian crossing with no lights
  2. A railway crossing with lights
  3. A signal that is permanently out of service
  4. A signal ahead that may not be visible until the driver is close Correct answer.

Explanation

The signal-ahead warning tells drivers that a traffic light is coming and may be hidden by a curve, hill, or vegetation until they are close. Drivers should slow down and be ready to stop. The sign warns of a signal, not of a crossing or a dead light.

Question 32Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of a slippery road surface. Under what conditions should the driver reduce speed most?

  1. Only at night with headlights on
  2. Only when another vehicle is following closely
  3. On a hot, dry afternoon
  4. When the road is wet, icy, or covered with loose gravel Correct answer.

Explanation

The slippery-road warning indicates that traction may be reduced, most often when the surface is wet, icy, or covered with loose material. Drivers should slow down and avoid sudden braking or steering in those conditions. Dry weather may reduce the hazard but does not remove the need for caution.

Question 33Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of a deer. What should the driver do?

  1. Slow down and watch both sides of the road for animals, especially at dawn and dusk Correct answer.
  2. Speed up to pass the area quickly
  3. Stop and wait for a guide vehicle
  4. Sound the horn continuously to scare animals away

Explanation

The deer warning sign indicates that wildlife may cross the road. Drivers should reduce speed and scan the shoulders and ditches, since animals are most active at dawn and dusk. Braking suddenly or swerving can be more dangerous than a controlled slowdown.

Question 34Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of a curve arrow bending sharply to the left, and the recommended speed on an attached plaque reads 40 km/h. What does the plaque mean?

  1. A safe speed for the curve under good conditions is about 40 km/h Correct answer.
  2. The curve is 40 metres long
  3. Drivers must stop if they cannot maintain 40 km/h
  4. The absolute legal speed limit for the next kilometre is 40 km/h

Explanation

An advisory speed plaque shows a speed judged safe for the warned condition, such as a sharp curve, in good weather. It is not a legal maximum, and drivers should go slower in rain, snow, or ice. The plaque guides drivers rather than setting a limit or a stopping requirement.

Question 35Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a white rectangular sign with a black symbol of a bicycle and the word "Lane." What does this sign indicate?

  1. Bicycles must yield to all motor vehicles at every intersection
  2. A lane is designated for bicycle use Correct answer.
  3. A bicycle rental shop is ahead
  4. Bicycles are prohibited from the road ahead

Explanation

A regulatory sign showing a bicycle with the word Lane designates that lane for bicycle traffic. Drivers of motor vehicles should not use that lane except when permitted to cross it, for example when turning. The sign reserves space rather than banning bicycles.

Question 36Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of a vehicle skidding, accompanied by the word "Slippery." The road is currently dry. How should the driver interpret the sign?

  1. Ignore it, because the warning applies only when it is raining
  2. Treat it as a warning that the surface can lose traction, and drive at a speed that allows for unexpected loss of grip Correct answer.
  3. Assume the road is closed ahead
  4. Stop immediately and wait for the surface to change

Explanation

Warning signs describe a condition that exists at the location, not only during the weather the driver happens to see. A slippery-surface warning means traction can be poor at times, so the driver should choose a speed that leaves room to react. Ignoring it because the road is dry now is unsafe.

Question 37Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of a road narrowing on both sides. What does this sign warn of?

  1. The roadway ahead is narrower than the current roadway Correct answer.
  2. A bridge is out
  3. A passing lane is being added
  4. The pavement ends and becomes gravel

Explanation

The road-narrows warning tells drivers that the travelled width ahead is reduced, often because of construction, a bridge, or a change in the road. Drivers should be prepared to adjust speed and lane position. It does not by itself mean the pavement ends or that a lane is being added.

Question 38Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a yellow diamond sign with a black symbol of a flagger holding a sign. What should the driver expect?

  1. A parade route with no traffic control
  2. A parking attendant directing vehicles
  3. A flagger ahead controlling traffic through a work zone Correct answer.
  4. A toll booth ahead

Explanation

The flagger warning sign alerts drivers that a person will be controlling traffic, usually in a construction or maintenance zone. Drivers should slow down and be ready to stop as directed. The flagger's directions override normal traffic flow at that point.

Question 39Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver approaches an intersection where a police officer is directing traffic with hand signals while the traffic light shows green. Whose direction must the driver follow?

  1. The traffic light, because signals always take priority
  2. The vehicle ahead, by following it through the intersection
  3. The police officer, because an officer directing traffic overrides the signal Correct answer.
  4. Whichever direction allows the driver to proceed fastest

Explanation

When a police officer is directing traffic, the officer's signals take precedence over the traffic light and over posted signs. Drivers must obey the officer even if the light shows green. Following another vehicle or choosing the fastest route is not a lawful substitute.

Question 40Traffic signs, signals and road markings

A driver sees a white rectangular sign with a black arrow curving back on itself, indicating a U-turn is prohibited. What does this sign mean?

  1. U-turns are not allowed at this location Correct answer.
  2. U-turns are permitted only at night
  3. U-turns are recommended for returning traffic
  4. U-turns are allowed only for trucks

Explanation

A regulatory sign with a U-turn arrow and a red prohibition mark means U-turns are not permitted there. The driver must continue to a location where a U-turn is lawful. The restriction applies to all vehicles and at all times unless a plaque says otherwise.

Question 41Rules of the road and right-of-way

Under the collision regulations, which vessel must keep out of the way when a power-driven vessel meets a sailing vessel in open water?

  1. Neither vessel, because open water has no right-of-way rules
  2. The power-driven vessel, because the sailing vessel is the stand-on vessel Correct answer.
  3. Both vessels, because sail and power have equal status
  4. The sailing vessel, because it is under sail alone

Explanation

A power-driven vessel underway must keep out of the way of a vessel under sail, because the sailing vessel is the stand-on vessel and the power-driven vessel is the give-way vessel. The give-way vessel takes early and substantial action to keep well clear.

Question 42Rules of the road and right-of-way

Two power-driven vessels are approaching head-on with risk of collision. What action does the rule require each vessel to take?

  1. Both alter course to starboard and pass port side to port side Correct answer.
  2. Both alter course to port and pass starboard side to starboard
  3. Both reduce speed and pass on whichever side has more room
  4. The larger vessel holds course while the smaller one turns away

Explanation

When two power-driven vessels meet nearly head-on, each must alter course to starboard so that they pass port side to port side. This predictable maneuver avoids ambiguity about which side each will take.

Question 43Rules of the road and right-of-way

You are in a power-driven vessel and see another power-driven vessel on your starboard side, both crossing with risk of collision. Who is the stand-on vessel?

  1. The vessel with the greater speed
  2. Your vessel, because you are the one observing
  3. The other vessel, because it is on your starboard side Correct answer.
  4. The vessel closer to the nearest shore

Explanation

In a crossing situation between two power-driven vessels, the vessel that has the other on its starboard side is the give-way vessel, so the other vessel is the stand-on vessel. You must keep out of its way, preferably by passing astern of it.

Question 44Rules of the road and right-of-way

What does the term 'stand-on vessel' mean in the collision regulations?

  1. A vessel anchored in a designated waiting area
  2. A vessel that must maintain course and speed and keep a careful watch Correct answer.
  3. A vessel that has priority to enter a lock first
  4. A vessel that must always alter course to avoid the other

Explanation

The stand-on vessel is required to keep her course and speed while the give-way vessel maneuvers, but she must still maintain a proper lookout. If collision becomes imminent, she may take action to avoid it.

Question 45Rules of the road and right-of-way

When must a vessel show the lights and shapes required for a vessel not under command?

  1. Whenever the vessel is unable to maneuver as required and cannot keep out of the way Correct answer.
  2. Only when towing another vessel
  3. Only at night, and only while moving
  4. Only when anchored in a designated anchorage

Explanation

A vessel not under command displays two all-round red lights in a vertical line and, by day, two black balls in a vertical line. These signals warn others that the vessel cannot maneuver as the rules require.

Question 46Rules of the road and right-of-way

A power-driven vessel underway at night shows which combination of lights?

  1. Two all-round red lights and a sternlight
  2. A sternlight and two all-round yellow lights
  3. A masthead light, sidelights, and a sternlight Correct answer.
  4. Sidelights and a single all-round white light only

Explanation

A power-driven vessel underway shows a masthead light forward, sidelights (red to port, green to starboard), and a sternlight. This combination lets other vessels determine her heading and type.

Question 47Rules of the road and right-of-way

What is the required action when your vessel is in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the give-way vessel?

  1. Wait until the other vessel sounds one short blast
  2. Maintain course and speed regardless of the situation
  3. Sound at least five short and rapid blasts and take action if needed Correct answer.
  4. Reduce speed to bare steerageway and hold course

Explanation

The doubt signal is at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle, warning the other vessel that her intentions are unclear or that collision risk exists. The stand-on vessel may then take action to avoid collision.

Question 48Rules of the road and right-of-way

Which vessel is required to keep out of the way of a vessel engaged in fishing?

  1. A vessel not under command
  2. A vessel under sail only
  3. A power-driven vessel underway Correct answer.
  4. A vessel constrained by her draft

Explanation

A power-driven vessel underway must keep out of the way of a vessel engaged in fishing. Fishing vessels are limited in their ability to maneuver because of their gear, so other power-driven vessels give way.

Question 49Rules of the road and right-of-way

A power-driven vessel is overtaking another vessel in a narrow channel. Which statement correctly describes the overtaking vessel's obligation?

  1. The vessel being overtaken must alter course to allow passage
  2. The overtaking vessel may pass on either side without signaling
  3. The overtaking vessel must keep clear of the vessel being overtaken until finally past and clear Correct answer.
  4. Both vessels share equal responsibility to avoid each other

Explanation

The overtaking vessel is always the give-way vessel and must keep clear until finally past and clear. The vessel being overtaken must hold her course and speed so the maneuver is predictable.

Question 50Rules of the road and right-of-way

In a narrow channel, a vessel proceeding along the channel must keep as close to which side as is safe and practicable?

  1. Whichever side has the deeper water
  2. The port side of the channel
  3. The starboard side of the channel Correct answer.
  4. The center of the channel at all times

Explanation

Vessels in a narrow channel keep to the starboard side of the channel as far as is safe and practicable. This keeps opposing traffic separated and reduces head-on conflict.