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Ontario M1 Test study materials
Ontario M1 Test study resources

Ontario M1 Test practice questions

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Question 1Rules of the road

On a two-lane road in Ontario, what does a solid yellow line on your side of the centre line mean?

  1. The lane is reserved for buses during rush hour
  2. You must drive in the left lane to allow faster traffic by
  3. You may not pass, though left turns across the line are allowed Correct answer.
  4. Passing is permitted when the way is clear

Explanation

A solid yellow line on your side of the centre line means you may not pass, because sight distance or road geometry makes passing unsafe. You may still turn left across the line into a driveway or side road when it is safe. Passing is only permitted once the line on your side becomes broken.

Question 2Rules of the road

What is the maximum speed limit on a provincial highway in Ontario unless a sign shows a different limit?

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

Explanation

The default maximum speed limit on Ontario provincial highways is 100 km/h unless signs indicate otherwise. Some divided highways have been posted at 110 km/h, but that applies only where signed. Municipal roads have lower default limits.

Question 3Rules of the road

A school bus with its red lights flashing is stopped on the opposite side of a road divided by a median strip. What must you do?

  1. Stop until the red lights stop flashing
  2. Stop only if children are visible
  3. Slow to 40 km/h and proceed with caution
  4. Continue at the posted speed limit Correct answer.

Explanation

On a road divided by a median strip, traffic approaching from the opposite direction is not required to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights. The stop requirement applies to traffic in the same direction and on undivided roads. You should still stay alert for children near the bus.

Question 4Rules of the road

When a streetcar stops to pick up or drop off passengers and there is no safety island, what are you required to do?

  1. Stop at least two metres behind the rear doors Correct answer.
  2. Sound your horn before passing
  3. Drive around it using the curb lane
  4. Pass on the left after slowing

Explanation

When a streetcar is stopped without a safety island, you must stop at least two metres behind the rear doors and wait until passengers have cleared. Passing on the left is only allowed when there is a safety island. Passing on the right is prohibited.

Question 5Rules of the road

You are approaching a pedestrian crossover with no traffic lights. A pedestrian is waiting at the edge of the roadway. What must you do?

  1. Stop only after the pedestrian steps onto the road
  2. Flash your headlights and continue
  3. Proceed if you are below the speed limit
  4. Yield until the pedestrian has safely crossed Correct answer.

Explanation

At a pedestrian crossover, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians waiting to cross or already crossing. You must stop and let the pedestrian cross completely before proceeding. Failure to yield at a crossover carries significant penalties.

Question 6Rules of the road

What is the normal following distance recommended for a vehicle travelling at highway speed in good conditions?

  1. Four seconds
  2. Two seconds Correct answer.
  3. One second
  4. Ten car lengths

Explanation

The standard recommendation is a minimum two-second following distance in good weather and road conditions. The gap should be increased in rain, snow, darkness, or when following large vehicles. The two-second rule is measured by counting time between the vehicle ahead passing a fixed point and your own arrival at it.

Question 7Rules of the road

At an intersection with no signs or signals, two vehicles arrive at the same time from opposite directions, and one is going straight while the other is turning left. Who has the right of way?

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

Explanation

When two vehicles face each other at an uncontrolled intersection, the vehicle going straight through has the right of way over the one turning left. The left-turning driver must yield and complete the turn only when it is safe. This rule also applies at intersections controlled by stop signs or a green light.

Question 8Rules of the road

How far before a turn must you signal when travelling on a highway?

  1. At least 30 metres Correct answer.
  2. At least 10 metres
  3. At least 100 metres
  4. Signal only once you begin to turn

Explanation

Ontario requires signalling at least 30 metres before a turn on a highway. Signalling earlier gives other drivers time to react. You should keep the signal on until the turn is complete.

Question 9Rules of the road

You are driving and hear the siren of an approaching emergency vehicle. What should you do?

  1. Speed up to stay ahead of it
  2. Move to the left lane and continue
  3. Stop immediately in your lane
  4. Pull to the right and stop until it passes Correct answer.

Explanation

When an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren or lights on, you must pull as close as possible to the right curb and stop until it has passed. Never block an intersection. If you are in an intersection, clear it before pulling over.

Question 10Rules of the road

What does a flashing green light at an intersection mean in Ontario?

  1. Pedestrians must not cross
  2. You may turn left only on a protected arrow
  3. The light is about to turn red
  4. You may turn left, go straight, or turn right, and the opposing direction is stopped Correct answer.

Explanation

A flashing green light in Ontario is an advance green: you may turn left, go straight, or turn right while oncoming traffic is held by a red light. It is not a warning that the light is about to change. The flashing green is used mainly in some municipalities.

Question 11Rules of the road

When may you legally drive in a high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on an Ontario highway?

  1. Any time traffic is heavy
  2. Only when carrying the required number of occupants or when otherwise permitted by signs Correct answer.
  3. Only if you are driving a truck
  4. Only during off-peak hours

Explanation

HOV lanes are reserved for vehicles carrying the minimum number of occupants shown on signs, typically two or more, plus certain permitted vehicles such as buses and motorcycles. Solo drivers may not use them even in congestion. Signs along the route state the exact requirements and hours.

Question 12Rules of the road

You are parking on a two-way street. How close to a fire hydrant may you legally park?

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

Explanation

Ontario law prohibits parking within 5 metres of a fire hydrant. The clearance ensures firefighters can connect equipment quickly. This limit applies on both sides of the hydrant's location.

Question 13Rules of the road

At a railway crossing with flashing red lights and no gate, what must you do?

  1. Stop and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing Correct answer.
  2. Stop, then proceed if no train is visible
  3. Slow down and cross if the lights just started
  4. Cross only if a flag person signals you

Explanation

Flashing red lights at a railway crossing mean a train is approaching, and you must stop and stay stopped until the lights stop flashing and the way is clear. You must never proceed just because you cannot see a train. Gates, if present, must also be fully raised.

Question 14Rules of the road

When passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway, when may you return to the right lane?

  1. As soon as your front bumper passes the other vehicle
  2. When you can see the passed vehicle in your rear-view mirror Correct answer.
  3. Immediately after signalling
  4. Only after travelling 100 metres

Explanation

You should not return to the right lane until you can see the front of the vehicle you passed in your rear-view mirror. This ensures enough space so you do not cut the other driver off. Signal before moving back and maintain your speed until the pass is complete.

Question 15Rules of the road

Under Ontario's move-over law, what must you do when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with lights flashing on a road with a speed limit under 80 km/h?

  1. Slow down and proceed with caution, giving the vehicle a wide berth Correct answer.
  2. Maintain your speed but sound your horn
  3. Slow to 60 km/h and pass with caution
  4. Change lanes only if there are two lanes in your direction

Explanation

On roads with a speed limit below 80 km/h, drivers must slow down and proceed with caution when passing a stopped emergency vehicle with lights flashing. On roads at 80 km/h or more, you must move into a lane that is not adjacent if it is safe to do so, or slow down. The rule protects roadside workers.

Question 16Rules of the road

A traffic light is green but the intersection ahead is blocked by queued traffic. What should you do?

  1. Stay behind the stop line until you can clear the intersection Correct answer.
  2. Sound your horn until traffic moves
  3. Drive around the queue using the shoulder
  4. Enter the intersection and wait for space

Explanation

Even on a green light, you should not enter an intersection unless you can clear it before the light changes. Blocking the intersection obstructs cross traffic and is an offence. Wait behind the stop line until there is room on the far side.

Question 17Rules of the road

When are you permitted to make a right turn at a red light in Ontario?

  1. Only during daylight hours
  2. Never, unless there is a green arrow
  3. After coming to a full stop, when no sign prohibits it and the way is clear Correct answer.
  4. Without stopping if no traffic is present

Explanation

A right turn on a red light is permitted after a complete stop, provided no sign prohibits it and you yield to pedestrians and cross traffic. Some municipalities prohibit the turn at specific intersections with signs. The full stop is mandatory even when the road appears clear.

Question 18Rules of the road

What is the rule for left turns on a red light in Ontario?

  1. Prohibited in all circumstances
  2. Permitted only with a green arrow
  3. Permitted from any street if no traffic is present
  4. Permitted from a one-way street onto another one-way street after stopping Correct answer.

Explanation

Ontario permits a left turn on red only when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after a full stop and yielding to traffic and pedestrians. It is not permitted from a two-way street. Where prohibited by sign, the turn is not allowed.

Question 19Rules of the road

How should you position your vehicle before making a left turn from a two-way road onto a two-way road?

  1. Angle your wheels left while waiting
  2. Move to the centre line of the road, just left of the lane's centre Correct answer.
  3. Keep to the right edge of your lane
  4. Wait in the oncoming lane

Explanation

Before a left turn, move as close as practicable to the centre line of the roadway, keeping your wheels straight while waiting. Wheels should be turned only when you begin the turn, so a rear-end collision will not push you into oncoming traffic. Yield to oncoming traffic before completing the turn.

Question 20Rules of the road

What does a yield sign require you to do?

  1. Stop only if another vehicle is within 30 metres
  2. Maintain speed and merge aggressively
  3. Stop completely before proceeding
  4. Slow down and give the right of way to traffic on the through road Correct answer.

Explanation

A yield sign requires you to slow down and give the right of way to traffic on the intersecting road. You need not stop if the way is clearly safe, but you must be prepared to stop. Failing to yield can result in a collision and a charge.

Question 21Rules of the road

When driving at night, when must you dim your headlights?

  1. Only when you enter a city
  2. Never, if your vehicle has automatic lights
  3. Only when it is raining
  4. When approaching an oncoming vehicle or following another vehicle closely Correct answer.

Explanation

High beams must be dimmed when an oncoming vehicle is approaching or when you are following another vehicle closely, to avoid blinding other drivers. Ontario law also requires dimming within a set distance of oncoming traffic. Low beams should be used in fog, rain, and snow.

Question 22Rules of the road

You are driving on a road with a broken yellow line on your side. What does this allow?

  1. Passing when it is safe to do so Correct answer.
  2. Driving in the oncoming lane at all times
  3. Passing only during daylight
  4. Parking on the shoulder

Explanation

A broken yellow line on your side of the centre line means you may pass when it is safe and the way is clear. You must still ensure adequate sight distance and complete the pass before the line becomes solid. Passing is never permitted when a sign or solid line prohibits it.

Question 23Rules of the road

On a one-way street with two lanes, a school bus with red lights flashing is stopped in the left lane. What must you do?

  1. Pass on the right without stopping
  2. Pass on the left using the oncoming lane
  3. Stop and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing Correct answer.
  4. Stop only if children are crossing

Explanation

When a school bus has its red lights flashing, all traffic approaching from behind must stop, regardless of which lane the bus occupies. You may not pass until the lights stop flashing. Passing on the right of a stopped school bus is prohibited.

Question 24Rules of the road

What is the correct action when an amber (yellow) traffic light appears as you approach an intersection?

  1. Reverse out of the intersection
  2. Continue at the same speed regardless of distance
  3. Accelerate to clear the intersection
  4. Stop if you can do so safely Correct answer.

Explanation

An amber light means the signal is about to turn red, so you should stop if you can do so safely. If you are too close to stop safely, proceed through with caution. Accelerating to beat the light is dangerous and may lead to a charge.

Question 25Rules of the road

You are being passed by another vehicle on a two-lane road. What should you do?

  1. Maintain your speed and keep to the right Correct answer.
  2. Move to the centre of the road
  3. Sound your horn continuously
  4. Speed up to prevent the pass

Explanation

When being passed, maintain your speed and keep as far to the right as is safe so the passing driver can complete the manoeuvre. Speeding up is dangerous and contrary to the rules. Do not move left or interfere with the passing vehicle.

Question 26Rules of the road

In Ontario, what is the speed limit in a school zone when the flashing amber lights are operating?

  1. The posted school-zone limit shown on the sign Correct answer.
  2. 50 km/h at all times
  3. 40 km/h only when children are visible
  4. The same as the rest of the road

Explanation

Where a school-zone sign displays a lower limit with flashing lights, that posted limit applies while the lights are flashing. Drivers must slow to the number shown on the sign during those times.

Question 27Rules of the road

A solid white line separates your lane from the lane to your right on a multi-lane road. What does this line mean?

  1. You must merge right immediately
  2. You may change lanes freely across it
  3. Lane changes across it are discouraged, and it marks the right edge of the roadway Correct answer.
  4. It marks a lane reserved for buses only

Explanation

A solid white line marks the right edge of the travelled portion of the road and also warns against lane changes. Drivers should stay within the lane rather than crossing it.

Question 28Rules of the road

What must you do before entering a roundabout?

  1. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout and enter to the right Correct answer.
  2. Stop completely at the yield line every time
  3. Sound your horn to warn circulating drivers
  4. Signal left and wait for a gap in the inner lane

Explanation

Traffic already circulating in a roundabout has the right of way. Entering drivers yield, then proceed counter-clockwise to the right.

Question 29Rules of the road

When a pedestrian is crossing at a crosswalk with no traffic signal, what must a driver do?

  1. Stop and yield the whole roadway to the pedestrian Correct answer.
  2. Tap the horn so the pedestrian hurries
  3. Proceed if the pedestrian is more than halfway across
  4. Slow down and drive around behind the pedestrian

Explanation

Drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians crossing in a crosswalk, whether or not it is marked, until they have safely cleared the driver's path.

Question 30Rules of the road

What does a stop sign require you to do?

  1. Come to a complete stop and proceed only when safe Correct answer.
  2. Slow to a rolling pace and continue if clear
  3. Stop for three seconds and then accelerate
  4. Stop only when another vehicle is approaching

Explanation

A stop sign requires a full stop at the marked line or before the intersection. You may proceed only after yielding to traffic and pedestrians and confirming the way is clear.

Question 31Rules of the road

What is the safest way to share the road with a large commercial truck making a right turn?

  1. Speed up to get past before the turn begins
  2. Stay well back and avoid entering the space to its right Correct answer.
  3. Pass the truck on the right as it slows
  4. Drive alongside the cab so the driver can see you

Explanation

Large trucks need extra room and often swing left before turning right, leaving a wide blind spot on their right side. Staying back keeps you out of the area the truck will sweep through.

Question 32Rules of the road

When may you use a handheld cell phone while driving in Ontario?

  1. Only to call 911 in an emergency Correct answer.
  2. When using the speakerphone
  3. When stopped at a red light
  4. When traffic is moving slowly

Explanation

Ontario's distracted driving law bans holding or using a handheld device while driving, with a limited exception for calling emergency services such as 911.

Question 33Rules of the road

You are approaching a pedestrian crossover marked with overhead flashing amber lights. A pedestrian is waiting to cross. What should you do?

  1. Stop and let the pedestrian cross completely Correct answer.
  2. Continue if the pedestrian has not stepped off the curb
  3. Move into the oncoming lane to go around
  4. Flash your headlights to signal the pedestrian to wait

Explanation

At a pedestrian crossover you must stop for a pedestrian who is waiting to cross or is already crossing, and remain stopped until the crossing is complete.

Question 34Rules of the road

You are driving on a highway and a vehicle is tailgating you closely. What is the safest response?

  1. Wave the driver past and slow abruptly
  2. Speed up well beyond the limit to open a gap
  3. Brake sharply to warn the driver
  4. Increase the space ahead of you and let the driver pass when safe Correct answer.

Explanation

When someone follows too closely, creating extra room ahead lets you slow gradually rather than brake suddenly. Allowing the impatient driver to pass removes the hazard.

Question 35Rules of the road

You are driving in heavy rain and your vehicle begins to hydroplane. What should you do?

  1. Turn the wheel sharply to test grip
  2. Brake firmly and steer to the shoulder
  3. Ease off the accelerator and steer straight Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate to regain traction

Explanation

Hydroplaning means the tires are riding on water rather than pavement. Easing off the accelerator and holding the wheel steady lets the tires regain contact with the road.

Question 36Rules of the road

You are driving at night and an oncoming vehicle's high beams are blinding you. What should you do?

  1. Flash your high beams repeatedly at the other driver
  2. Look toward the right edge of your lane and slow down Correct answer.
  3. Close your eyes briefly until the vehicle passes
  4. Look directly at the oncoming headlights

Explanation

Looking toward the right edge of your lane keeps you on course without staring into the glare. Slowing down gives you more time to react while your vision recovers.

Question 37Rules of the road

You are approaching a hill crest on a two-lane road and a solid yellow line is on your side. What does the line tell you?

  1. You may cross the line to reach a driveway
  2. Passing is prohibited in your direction Correct answer.
  3. You must move to the centre of the road
  4. Passing is permitted if the road looks clear

Explanation

A solid yellow line on your side marks a zone where passing is unsafe, such as on a hill or curve with limited sight distance. You must not cross it to overtake.

Question 38Rules of the road

You are driving and your vehicle's brakes fail on a downhill grade. What should you do first?

  1. Turn off the engine immediately
  2. Pump the brake pedal firmly and downshift to a lower gear Correct answer.
  3. Steer into the ditch at full speed
  4. Shift to neutral and coast

Explanation

Pumping the pedal can build pressure in a failing system, and downshifting uses engine braking to slow the vehicle. Both actions help reduce speed while you look for a safe place to stop.

Question 39Rules of the road

You are stopped at a red light and an emergency vehicle with lights and siren approaches from behind. What should you do?

  1. Stay put until the light turns green
  2. Turn right immediately without checking
  3. Move through the intersection to clear a path if it is safe Correct answer.
  4. Reverse away from the intersection

Explanation

Drivers are expected to clear the way for an emergency vehicle, and at a red light this may mean cautiously moving through the intersection once it is safe. Remaining stopped can block the emergency route.

Question 40Rules of the road

You are driving on a road with a median and want to turn left into a driveway. How should you approach the turn?

  1. Stop in the lane and wait for a gap in traffic behind you
  2. Signal early, slow down, and turn from as close to the centre line as possible Correct answer.
  3. Turn from the right lane without signalling
  4. Swing wide into the oncoming lane before turning

Explanation

Left turns should be made from the position nearest the centre line after signalling and reducing speed. This keeps the turn predictable and avoids cutting across other lanes.

Question 41Rules of the road

What is the correct way to signal a lane change on a highway?

  1. Use hand signals instead of the turn signal
  2. Signal only if another vehicle is nearby
  3. Signal after you begin moving into the new lane
  4. Signal well in advance, check mirrors and blind spot, then move Correct answer.

Explanation

Signalling well before the move gives other drivers time to react, and checking mirrors and the blind spot confirms the lane is clear. Only then should you change lanes.

Question 42Rules of the road

You are driving in fog and visibility is reduced. Which lights should you use?

  1. Hazard lights while moving
  2. Low beams, and fog lights if equipped Correct answer.
  3. High beams for maximum reach
  4. Parking lights only

Explanation

Low beams aim light down at the road, while high beams reflect off fog and make visibility worse. Fog lights, where fitted, add low, wide light that cuts under the fog.

Question 43Rules of the road

You are driving and a tire blows out at highway speed. What should you do?

  1. Accelerate to stabilize the vehicle
  2. Turn sharply to the left to counter the pull
  3. Hold the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and slow gradually Correct answer.
  4. Brake hard and steer for the shoulder

Explanation

A blowout causes a strong pull, so the priority is a firm grip on the wheel and a gradual reduction in speed. Once control is regained, you can move off the road safely.

Question 44Rules of the road

You are driving on a road where children are playing near the curb ahead. What should you do?

  1. Maintain speed and sound your horn
  2. Reduce speed and be ready to stop Correct answer.
  3. Assume the children will stay off the road
  4. Move closer to the centre line and accelerate

Explanation

Children can move unpredictably, so reducing speed and preparing to stop gives you time to react. Extra caution is required wherever children are near the roadway.

Question 45Rules of the road

You are driving at night on an unlit road and see a vehicle approaching with only one working headlight. What should you do?

  1. Flash your high beams and hold them on
  2. Speed up to pass before it gets close
  3. Assume it is a motorcycle and keep your speed
  4. Slow down and keep well to the right of your lane Correct answer.

Explanation

A single light may be a motorcycle or a vehicle with a failed headlight, and its true width is hard to judge. Slowing down and staying right gives you room to react.

Question 46Rules of the road

You are approaching a railway crossing where the signal lights begin flashing after you have already entered the crossing area. What should you do?

  1. Reverse off the crossing
  2. Stop immediately on the tracks
  3. Continue through without stopping Correct answer.
  4. Get out to check the tracks

Explanation

Once you have committed to the crossing, stopping on the tracks is extremely dangerous. The correct action is to keep moving and clear the tracks without delay.

Question 47Rules of the road

You are driving on a multi-lane highway and traffic in your lane suddenly slows. What is the best way to reduce the risk of a rear-end collision?

  1. Check your mirrors, brake progressively, and activate hazard lights if traffic stops Correct answer.
  2. Keep speed and change lanes without signalling
  3. Brake hard and swerve to another lane
  4. Follow the vehicle ahead more closely to discourage merging

Explanation

Progressive braking gives following drivers time to react, and hazard lights warn them if traffic comes to a stop. Checking mirrors first confirms it is safe to slow and shows what is behind you.

Question 48Rules of the road

You are driving on a road where a cyclist is ahead in your lane and the lane is too narrow to pass safely. What should you do?

  1. Pass closely while sounding your horn
  2. Tailgate the cyclist to encourage them to move over
  3. Wait behind at a safe distance until you can pass with adequate clearance Correct answer.
  4. Drive onto the shoulder to get around

Explanation

Cyclists are entitled to space, and passing too closely endangers them. Waiting behind at a safe distance until there is room for a proper pass is the correct approach.

Question 49Rules of the road

You are driving on a road with a broken white line separating two lanes travelling in the same direction. What does this line permit?

  1. Changing lanes when it is safe to do so Correct answer.
  2. Turning across oncoming traffic
  3. Driving in either lane at any time
  4. Passing in either direction

Explanation

A broken white line separates lanes moving in the same direction and allows lane changes when it is safe. It does not mark a passing zone for oncoming traffic.

Question 50Rules of the road

When you are driving and an emergency vehicle with its siren and lights on is approaching from any direction, what must you do?

  1. Pull over to the right side of the road and stop Correct answer.
  2. Speed up to get out of its way
  3. Continue driving normally
  4. Stop immediately in your lane

Explanation

Ontario law requires drivers to pull over to the right side of the road and stop when an emergency vehicle with lights and siren is approaching, unless they are in an intersection.