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NZ Road Code Car Test study materials
NZ Road Code Car Test study resources

NZ Road Code Car Test practice questions

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Question 1General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

When driving on a New Zealand road at night, when must you use your vehicle's headlights?

  1. Only when driving on the open road outside towns
  2. Between sunset and sunrise, and at any time visibility is poor Correct answer.
  3. Only when it is completely dark and no street lighting is present
  4. Only when another vehicle is approaching from behind

Explanation

Headlights must be on between sunset and sunrise and whenever you cannot clearly see people or vehicles at least 100 metres away, such as in heavy rain, fog or poor light. They help you see and be seen.

Question 2General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

What does a solid yellow line on your side of the centre line mean when you are driving?

  1. You may pass only heavy vehicles
  2. You must move to the left shoulder immediately
  3. You must not pass another vehicle Correct answer.
  4. You may pass when the road ahead is clear

Explanation

A solid yellow line on your side means no passing. You must keep left of the centre line until the yellow line on your side becomes broken.

Question 3General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

At an intersection controlled only by a Give Way sign, what must you do?

  1. Slow down and give way to traffic on the intersecting road Correct answer.
  2. Stop completely before entering the intersection
  3. Proceed at the same speed if no vehicle is visible
  4. Sound your horn before proceeding

Explanation

A Give Way sign requires you to slow down and give way to all traffic on the road you are entering or crossing. You need not come to a full stop if the way is clear.

Question 4General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

What is the maximum speed limit on an open road in New Zealand unless a lower sign is posted?

  1. 80 km/h
  2. 90 km/h
  3. 110 km/h
  4. 100 km/h Correct answer.

Explanation

The default open road speed limit is 100 km/h, though many roads have lower posted limits. You must always drive to the conditions even below the limit.

Question 5General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

When may you use a mobile phone while driving?

  1. When the call lasts less than one minute
  2. When you are stopped at a red light
  3. Only if you hold it in one hand and keep the other on the wheel
  4. When it is used hands-free and does not distract you Correct answer.

Explanation

You may not hold or manipulate a phone while driving. Hands-free use is allowed only if it does not distract you, and you remain fully in control of the vehicle.

Question 6General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

What does a flashing red signal at railway level crossing lights require you to do?

  1. Sound your horn and proceed with caution
  2. Reverse away from the crossing immediately
  3. Stop and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing Correct answer.
  4. Slow down and cross if no train is visible

Explanation

Flashing red lights at a level crossing mean stop. You must stay stopped until the lights stop flashing and the way is clear, even if you cannot see a train.

Question 7General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

How far from a fire hydrant must you avoid parking?

  1. Within 1 metre Correct answer.
  2. Within 3 metres
  3. Within 10 metres
  4. Within 5 metres

Explanation

You must not park within 1 metre of a fire hydrant so firefighters can access it quickly in an emergency.

Question 8General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

When must you indicate before turning or changing lanes?

  1. Only on roads with a speed limit above 50 km/h
  2. Only when other vehicles are nearby
  3. After you begin the manoeuvre
  4. At least 3 seconds before the manoeuvre Correct answer.

Explanation

You must signal for at least 3 seconds before turning, changing lanes or moving out. This gives other road users time to react.

Question 9General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are approaching a pedestrian crossing where a person is waiting to cross. What should you do?

  1. Flash your headlights to warn them to wait
  2. Slow down and be ready to stop to let them cross Correct answer.
  3. Move to the right side of the lane and pass
  4. Continue if you are below the speed limit

Explanation

You must slow down and give way to pedestrians on or waiting to use a pedestrian crossing. Stop if necessary to let them cross safely.

Question 10General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving on a two-lane road and a vehicle is overtaking you. What should you do?

  1. Maintain your speed and keep well to the left Correct answer.
  2. Move to the centre line
  3. Brake hard to force them back
  4. Speed up to prevent the pass

Explanation

When being overtaken, keep your speed steady and stay well to the left so the other driver can complete the pass safely.

Question 11General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

At an uncontrolled T-intersection, who gives way?

  1. The vehicle on the terminating road Correct answer.
  2. The vehicle on the continuing road
  3. The vehicle on the left
  4. The vehicle travelling faster

Explanation

At a T-intersection with no signs, the vehicle on the road that ends must give way to traffic on the continuing road.

Question 12General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving in heavy rain and the road is wet. How should you adjust your following distance?

  1. Keep the same 2-second gap
  2. Follow closer to use the spray as a guide
  3. Increase it to at least 4 seconds Correct answer.
  4. Reduce it so others cannot cut in

Explanation

Wet roads increase stopping distances, so you should at least double the normal 2-second following gap to around 4 seconds.

Question 13General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

What must you do before reversing out of a driveway onto a road?

  1. Check behind carefully and give way to all road users Correct answer.
  2. Reverse first and check once on the road
  3. Rely on your mirrors only
  4. Sound your horn and reverse quickly

Explanation

Before reversing you must check carefully behind and give way to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles on the road or footpath. Reversing drivers must yield.

Question 14General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

When are you permitted to drive in a bus lane?

  1. Only during the times shown on the sign, if you are turning or permitted Correct answer.
  2. Whenever traffic is heavy
  3. Never under any circumstances
  4. At any time if no bus is visible

Explanation

Bus lanes may only be used by permitted vehicles during the signposted hours, or briefly when turning where allowed. Otherwise you must stay out of them.

Question 15General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

A driver is turning left at an intersection and a cyclist is riding straight ahead in a cycle lane. Who has right of way?

  1. The larger vehicle
  2. Whichever arrives first
  3. The turning driver
  4. The cyclist going straight Correct answer.

Explanation

A turning vehicle must give way to cyclists and other traffic going straight ahead. Cutting across a cycle lane is a common cause of crashes.

Question 16General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

What is the legal blood alcohol limit for a driver aged 20 or over?

  1. 150 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood
  2. 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood
  3. 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood Correct answer.
  4. Zero

Explanation

For drivers aged 20 and over the adult limit is 50 mg per 100 ml of blood (or 250 micrograms per litre of breath). Drivers under 20 must have zero alcohol.

Question 17General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You see a school patrol sign held out at a crossing. What must you do?

  1. Slow down and pass if children are not on the road
  2. Sound your horn to warn the patrol
  3. Continue if you are in the opposite lane
  4. Stop and remain stopped until the sign is withdrawn Correct answer.

Explanation

You must stop at a school crossing when the patrol sign is displayed and stay stopped until it is withdrawn. This applies to both directions of traffic.

Question 18General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

When merging from an on-ramp onto a motorway, what is the correct approach?

  1. Build up to match motorway speed and merge into a safe gap Correct answer.
  2. Stop at the end of the ramp and wait for a gap
  3. Enter slowly and expect motorway traffic to move over
  4. Drive along the shoulder until a gap appears

Explanation

Use the on-ramp to build speed matching the motorway traffic, then merge smoothly into a suitable gap. Motorway traffic is not obliged to change lanes for you.

Question 19General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

What should you do if you feel sleepy while driving on a long trip?

  1. Open a window and keep driving
  2. Stop somewhere safe and rest Correct answer.
  3. Drive faster to arrive sooner
  4. Turn up the radio and continue

Explanation

Fatigue cannot be overcome by fresh air or music. The only safe response is to stop in a safe place and rest until you are alert.

Question 20General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are at a roundabout and intend to take the second exit (straight ahead). How should you signal?

  1. Signal left on approach only
  2. No signal is needed at roundabouts
  3. Signal right on approach and left after passing the exit before yours Correct answer.
  4. Signal right the whole way around

Explanation

For going straight ahead, signal right as you approach, then signal left after you pass the exit before the one you want, to show you are leaving.

Question 21General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

On a road with no marked lanes in a 50 km/h area, what is the general rule for positioning your vehicle?

  1. Use the right side for better visibility
  2. Drive as close to the centre as possible
  3. Keep as far left as is practicable Correct answer.
  4. Drive in the middle of the road

Explanation

Where there are no lane markings you must keep as far left as practicable, unless passing, turning or avoiding an obstruction.

Question 22General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

A vehicle ahead of you has stopped to let a pedestrian use a zebra crossing, and you are behind it. What should you do?

  1. Stop and wait behind the vehicle Correct answer.
  2. Drive around on the left
  3. Overtake the stopped vehicle
  4. Sound your horn to hurry the pedestrian

Explanation

You must not pass a vehicle that has stopped at a pedestrian crossing. Wait behind it until the pedestrian has cleared the crossing.

Question 23General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving and a police officer signals you to stop. What must you do?

  1. Stop immediately in the middle of the lane
  2. Continue if you have done nothing wrong
  3. Ignore the signal and drive to the nearest station
  4. Stop as soon as it is safe to do so Correct answer.

Explanation

You must obey a police officer's direction to stop and pull over as soon as it is safe. Failing to stop when directed is an offence.

Question 24General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

What is the correct action when an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens and flashing lights while you are in a queue at a red light?

  1. Move forward through the red light to clear a path
  2. Reverse into the vehicle behind
  3. Move as far as safely possible to let it pass, even if that means entering the intersection carefully Correct answer.
  4. Stay put and block the way

Explanation

You should make every reasonable effort to clear a path for an emergency vehicle. If you must move into the intersection to do so, do it carefully and only when safe.

Question 25General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are towing a trailer on the open road. Which statement about your speed and following distance is correct?

  1. The trailer has no effect on your safe speed
  2. You may follow closer because the trailer brakes help
  3. You must keep a greater following distance and drive to the lower safe speed for the combination Correct answer.
  4. You may travel at the full 100 km/h limit

Explanation

Towing increases stopping distance and reduces stability, so you should increase your following gap and travel at a safe speed for the conditions, even below the posted limit.

Question 26General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving at night and an oncoming vehicle's headlights are dazzling you. What is the safest response?

  1. Flash your high beams repeatedly to warn the other driver
  2. Speed up so you pass the oncoming vehicle more quickly
  3. Look directly at the oncoming headlights so your eyes adjust faster
  4. Slow down, look towards the left edge of your lane, and keep your speed low until the vehicle has passed Correct answer.

Explanation

When headlights dazzle you, the road code advice is to slow down and avert your gaze towards the left side of your lane so you keep your position without staring into the glare. Reducing speed gives you more time to react to hazards you cannot see clearly. Flashing lights or speeding up increases risk rather than reducing it.

Question 27General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

On a New Zealand road, when may you legally use your vehicle's horn?

  1. To encourage a slower vehicle ahead to move out of your lane
  2. To let other drivers know you are annoyed with their driving
  3. To warn other road users of danger or of your vehicle's approach Correct answer.
  4. To greet pedestrians or friends you recognise on the footpath

Explanation

The horn is a warning device, so it may be used to alert other road users to danger or to signal that your vehicle is approaching, for example around a blind corner. It must not be used as a way of expressing irritation, greeting people, or pressuring other drivers. Misuse of the horn can breach road rules and creates confusion.

Question 28General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving on a road where the speed limit is 100 km/h. What does the speed limit mean?

  1. It is a target speed that applies regardless of weather or traffic
  2. It is the speed you must travel to keep traffic flowing
  3. It is the minimum speed allowed in the right-hand lane
  4. It is the maximum legal speed in good conditions, and you may need to go slower Correct answer.

Explanation

A speed limit is the maximum permitted speed when conditions are good; it is never a target. Drivers must reduce speed when visibility, weather, road surface or traffic make the limit unsafe. Travelling at the limit in poor conditions can still be too fast and may breach the requirement to drive safely.

Question 29General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are approaching a pedestrian crossing and the traffic signal for drivers shows a flashing yellow light. What does this mean?

  1. Speed up to clear the crossing before the light changes to red
  2. The signal is out of order, so normal give-way rules no longer apply
  3. Proceed with caution because pedestrians may still be on the crossing Correct answer.
  4. Stop immediately and remain stopped until the light turns green

Explanation

A flashing yellow signal at a pedestrian crossing warns drivers that the pedestrian phase is ending or that people may still be crossing. You should approach with caution and be ready to stop for anyone still on the crossing. It is not a stop signal, and normal give-way duties to pedestrians continue to apply.

Question 30General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving a car and want to turn right into a driveway on the opposite side of the road. What is the correct procedure?

  1. Signal left briefly, then swing wide to the right before turning into the driveway
  2. Signal right and turn immediately, because vehicles turning across traffic have priority
  3. Signal right, move to the centre line or right-turn position, give way to oncoming traffic, then turn when it is safe Correct answer.
  4. Stop in your lane without signalling and wait for a gap in oncoming traffic

Explanation

Before turning right you must signal for at least three seconds, position your vehicle correctly near the centre line or in a right-turn bay, and give way to oncoming traffic. You then complete the turn only when there is a safe gap. Turning across oncoming traffic does not give you priority.

Question 31General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are parked on a steep downhill slope facing downhill. Which action best keeps the vehicle secure if the brakes fail?

  1. Leave the wheels straight ahead and apply only the foot brake while parked
  2. Turn the front wheels towards the centre of the road and leave it in reverse
  3. Turn the front wheels towards the kerb and leave the vehicle in a low forward gear or park Correct answer.
  4. Leave the transmission in neutral and rely on the handbrake alone

Explanation

When parked facing downhill, turn the front wheels towards the kerb so that if the vehicle rolls it will be caught by the kerb rather than rolling into traffic. Select a low forward gear or park and apply the handbrake firmly. Leaving the vehicle in neutral or with wheels pointing into the road increases the risk of a runaway vehicle.

Question 32General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving and your vehicle begins to aquaplane on a wet road. What is the best immediate response?

  1. Brake firmly and steer sharply towards the edge of the road
  2. Ease off the accelerator and hold the steering steady until grip returns Correct answer.
  3. Turn the steering wheel quickly from side to side to find grip
  4. Accelerate gently to push the tyres through the water

Explanation

Aquaplaning happens when water lifts the tyres off the road surface so they lose contact. Easing off the accelerator lets the vehicle slow gradually and the tyres regain contact, while holding the wheel steady avoids a skid. Firm braking or sharp steering while the tyres are not gripping can cause a loss of control.

Question 33General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are driving a car that is towing a light trailer on a road with a posted speed limit of 90 km/h. What is the maximum speed you may travel?

  1. 90 km/h, the same as any other vehicle on that road Correct answer.
  2. 80 km/h, because towing reduces the legal maximum
  3. 70 km/h, because trailers must always travel well below the limit
  4. 100 km/h, because the trailer is light

Explanation

A light trailer does not automatically reduce the posted speed limit, so the maximum remains the limit shown for that road, in this case 90 km/h. You must still drive slower if the trailer, load, weather or road conditions make the limit unsafe. The key point is that no separate blanket towing limit overrides the sign.

Question 34General road code (road rules and driving behaviour)

You are waiting at a give-way sign at an intersection and a vehicle approaching from your right is indicating a left turn into your road. What should you do?

  1. Reverse away from the intersection to give the other vehicle more room
  2. Wait until the indicating vehicle has actually begun to turn and it is clearly safe, then proceed Correct answer.
  3. Proceed immediately, because an indicating vehicle must always be given the chance to turn
  4. Sound your horn to confirm the other driver's intention before moving

Explanation

An indicator shows intention, not a guarantee, so you should not assume the other driver will turn until their movement confirms it. At a give-way sign you must give way to traffic on the intersecting road, and moving out early risks a collision if the indicator was left on by mistake. Proceed only when you are sure the way is clear.

Question 35About other road users (sharing the road)

You are driving past a group of children standing on the footpath near a school crossing. What is the safest action?

  1. Maintain your speed because the children are not on the road
  2. Slow down and be ready to stop if a child steps onto the road Correct answer.
  3. Move closer to the kerb to show you have seen them
  4. Sound your horn continuously until you have passed them

Explanation

Children are unpredictable and may step or run onto the road without checking. The road code requires drivers to slow down and prepare to stop whenever children are near the roadway, especially around schools and crossings.

Question 36About other road users (sharing the road)

What does a school patrol sign displayed at a crossing require you to do?

  1. Slow to 30 km/h and pass with care
  2. Stop and remain stopped until the sign is withdrawn Correct answer.
  3. Stop only if children are already on the crossing
  4. Continue if no children are visible on the crossing

Explanation

A school patrol sign held out at a crossing has the same effect as a stop sign. You must stop and stay stopped until the patrol lowers the sign, regardless of whether you can see children.

Question 37About other road users (sharing the road)

When passing a cyclist on a road with a speed limit of 50 km/h, what minimum clearance should you aim to leave?

  1. At least 0.75 metres
  2. At least 3 metres
  3. At least 1.5 metres Correct answer.
  4. At least 0.5 metres

Explanation

On roads where the speed limit is 60 km/h or less, drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres when passing cyclists. A wider gap is needed at higher speeds because the airflow and stopping distances are greater.

Question 38About other road users (sharing the road)

You are following a cyclist who is approaching a roundabout. What should you do?

  1. Drive close behind so the cyclist knows to hurry
  2. Hold back and give the cyclist space to choose a position and signal Correct answer.
  3. Overtake on the left before the cyclist reaches the roundabout
  4. Overtake on the right while the cyclist is signalling

Explanation

Cyclists often need to change position and use hand signals at roundabouts. Following at a safe distance lets them negotiate the roundabout safely and lets you react to their movements.

Question 39About other road users (sharing the road)

A bus has stopped at a bus stop ahead of you and is indicating to pull out. What should you do?

  1. Sound your horn to warn the bus driver
  2. Give way to the bus when it is safe to do so Correct answer.
  3. Pass on the left of the bus
  4. Accelerate past before the bus moves

Explanation

Drivers should watch for buses signalling to re-enter the traffic stream and give way when it is safe. This keeps traffic flowing predictably and protects passengers who may be near the bus.

Question 40About other road users (sharing the road)

What should you do when an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren and flashing lights on?

  1. Continue at the same speed and lane position
  2. Speed up to stay ahead of the emergency vehicle
  3. Stop immediately wherever you are on the road
  4. Move as far left as is safe and slow down or stop to let it pass Correct answer.

Explanation

You must make way for emergency vehicles on urgent duty. Move left when it is safe, slow down or stop, and never block an intersection while doing so.

Question 41About other road users (sharing the road)

You are approaching a pedestrian crossing where a person is waiting to cross. What must you do?

  1. Continue at the speed limit because they have not stepped out
  2. Flash your headlights so the pedestrian waits
  3. Slow down and be ready to stop, giving way to the pedestrian Correct answer.
  4. Move to the centre line to pass the pedestrian

Explanation

Drivers must give way to pedestrians at a pedestrian crossing, including those waiting to cross. Approaching with care and preparing to stop is the required behaviour.

Question 42About other road users (sharing the road)

How should you treat a pedestrian who is using a white cane or a guide dog?

  1. Drive closer to guide them across
  2. Give them extra time and space to cross safely Correct answer.
  3. Sound your horn so they know you are there
  4. Expect them to cross quickly because of the dog

Explanation

A white cane or guide dog indicates a person who is blind or has low vision. They may need more time to cross, so slow down and allow them plenty of space.

Question 43About other road users (sharing the road)

What is the safest way to share the road with a motorcycle rider who is filtering slowly between lanes in stopped traffic?

  1. Open your door to warn them
  2. Leave them room and check mirrors before changing lanes Correct answer.
  3. Move into the centre of the lane quickly
  4. Block the gap so they cannot pass

Explanation

Motorcyclists may filter slowly through stopped traffic. Drivers should check mirrors and blind spots and avoid sudden lane changes that could close the gap.

Question 44About other road users (sharing the road)

You are behind a large truck that is turning left at an intersection. Why should you avoid passing on the left?

  1. The truck will always stop before completing the turn
  2. Trucks are not allowed to turn left at intersections
  3. The truck may swing right before turning and needs the full width Correct answer.
  4. Passing on the left is only prohibited at night

Explanation

Large vehicles often swing wide in the opposite direction before a turn to clear the corner. Passing on the left can put you in the space the truck needs and lead to a crash.

Question 45About other road users (sharing the road)

A horse rider is ahead of you on a rural road. How should you pass?

  1. Sound your horn to let the rider know you are passing
  2. Accelerate past quickly to minimise the time alongside
  3. Drive close behind until the rider moves aside
  4. Slow down, leave plenty of room and pass quietly at low speed Correct answer.

Explanation

Horses can be startled by noise and fast movement. Slow down, give the horse and rider a wide berth, and pass quietly at low speed.

Question 46About other road users (sharing the road)

What should you do when you see a mobility scooter travelling on the road ahead?

  1. Slow down and pass only when you can leave a safe gap Correct answer.
  2. Drive close behind until it turns off
  3. Use your horn to ask the rider to move onto the footpath
  4. Pass immediately without changing speed

Explanation

Mobility scooters are slow-moving and their riders are vulnerable road users. Reduce speed and pass only when there is enough clear space to leave a safe gap.

Question 47About other road users (sharing the road)

You are driving at night and a cyclist ahead has no lights. What is the best response?

  1. Slow down and pass only when you can leave a wide, safe gap Correct answer.
  2. Overtake quickly and closely to reduce exposure
  3. Sound your horn and maintain your speed
  4. Drive close behind with your headlights on high beam

Explanation

An unlit cyclist is hard to see and may be unable to judge your approach. Slow down, use dipped beams so you do not dazzle them, and pass only with a wide, safe gap.

Question 48About other road users (sharing the road)

At an intersection, a pedestrian is crossing the road you are turning into. Who has right of way?

  1. The pedestrian, so you must wait until they have cleared your path Correct answer.
  2. You, because you are already in the intersection
  3. You, because you have a green light
  4. Whoever moves first has right of way

Explanation

When you turn into a road, you must give way to pedestrians already crossing it. This applies even when you have a green light, because the turn brings you across their path.

Question 49About other road users (sharing the road)

How should you respond to a person using a powered wheelchair who is crossing at a marked crossing?

  1. Expect them to hurry because the crossing is marked
  2. Wave them back so you can proceed
  3. Give way and allow them to cross at their own pace Correct answer.
  4. Pass behind them while they are still crossing

Explanation

People using wheelchairs are pedestrians for the purposes of crossings. Give way and let them cross at their own pace without pressure.

Question 50About other road users (sharing the road)

What is the main risk when passing a parked car with someone sitting in the driver's seat?

  1. The occupant may switch on the hazard lights
  2. The door may open into your path Correct answer.
  3. The car will always pull out immediately
  4. The car may sound its horn

Explanation

A person in a parked car may open the door without checking. Leave a door's width of clearance and reduce speed when passing parked vehicles with occupants.