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Question 1Road signs, markings and signals
In the UK, what does a circular sign with a red border and a white background generally indicate?
- A route for heavy goods vehicles
- A motorway service area
- A prohibition or restriction Correct answer.
- A warning of a hazard ahead
Explanation
Circular signs with a red border are regulatory signs that impose a prohibition or restriction, such as a speed limit or a no-entry rule. Warning signs use a red triangle, while blue rectangles give information or directions.
Question 2Road signs, markings and signals
What does a red triangle road sign indicate to a driver?
- A compulsory direction to follow
- A warning of a hazard ahead Correct answer.
- A parking restriction zone
- A national speed limit applies
Explanation
Triangular signs with a red border are warning signs alerting drivers to a hazard such as a bend, junction or slippery road. They tell you to expect the hazard rather than imposing an order.
Question 3Road signs, markings and signals
What does a blue circular sign with a white arrow pointing left mean?
- A one-way street begins to the left
- Turn left ahead is compulsory Correct answer.
- A left bend is approaching
- Left turns are prohibited
Explanation
Blue circular signs give positive instructions that must be obeyed, so a white arrow on blue means you must follow that direction. A warning of a bend would be shown on a red triangle instead.
Question 4Road signs, markings and signals
What does a circular sign showing a white background with a black diagonal band mean?
- End of a restricted zone
- The national speed limit applies Correct answer.
- A minimum speed limit applies
- No overtaking is permitted
Explanation
The white circle with a single black diagonal stripe marks the point where the national speed limit applies for that road type and vehicle. The actual limit depends on the road and the class of vehicle.
Question 5Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a red circle containing the number 30. What does this sign mean?
- The maximum speed is 30 mph Correct answer.
- End of a 30 mph zone
- Advisory speed of 30 mph on a bend
- The minimum speed is 30 mph
Explanation
Numerals inside a red-bordered circle set the maximum legal speed in miles per hour. Exceeding it is an offence, and the limit applies from the sign onwards until another limit sign appears.
Question 6Road signs, markings and signals
What is the meaning of a double yellow line along the edge of the carriageway?
- Parking permitted for permit holders only
- A bus stop clearway
- No waiting at any time Correct answer.
- No loading at any time
Explanation
Double yellow lines mean waiting is prohibited at all times, including brief stops to park. They do not by themselves ban loading, which is controlled by kerb markings or signs.
Question 7Road signs, markings and signals
What does a broken white line down the centre of a two-way road mean?
- It marks the edge of the carriageway
- It separates a cycle lane from traffic
- You must never cross it
- You may cross it to overtake when it is safe Correct answer.
Explanation
A broken centre line separates opposing traffic flows and may be crossed to overtake or turn when it is safe and legal. A solid white line imposes the stricter rule.
Question 8Road signs, markings and signals
At a pelican crossing, what does a flashing amber light mean to drivers?
- Proceed only if the crossing is empty of vehicles
- The crossing is out of order
- Stop and wait until the light turns green
- Give way to pedestrians still on the crossing Correct answer.
Explanation
At pelican crossings the flashing amber phase means drivers must give way to any pedestrian still on the crossing but may proceed if it is clear. A steady red light requires a full stop.
Question 9Road signs, markings and signals
A driver approaches a junction where a traffic officer is signalling with an arm raised vertically. What should the driver do?
- Sound the horn before proceeding
- Continue if the way ahead appears clear
- Reverse away from the junction
- Stop and wait for further instruction Correct answer.
Explanation
An officer's arm raised with the palm facing traffic is the signal to stop. Instructions given by a police officer or authorised traffic officer override normal signs and signals.
Question 10Road signs, markings and signals
What does a red X displayed above a lane on a smart motorway mean?
- The lane is reserved for heavy goods vehicles
- The lane is closed and must not be used Correct answer.
- The lane is for emergency vehicles only
- The lane has a lower speed limit
Explanation
A red X on an overhead gantry closes that lane, often because of an incident or a stopped vehicle. Drivers must move out of the lane as soon as it is safe and must not continue in it.
Question 11Road signs, markings and signals
What does a white diagonal stripe pattern enclosed by solid white lines on the carriageway indicate?
- A lane reserved for overtaking
- An area that traffic should not enter except in an emergency Correct answer.
- A pedestrian crossing area
- A lay-by for short stops
Explanation
Chevron or hatched areas bordered by solid white lines separate traffic streams and should not be entered except in an emergency. Where the border is broken, drivers may enter if necessary and safe.
Question 12Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a sign showing a red circle with a white horizontal bar on a blue background at the entrance to a road. What does it mean?
- No entry for vehicular traffic Correct answer.
- End of a dual carriageway
- One-way traffic ahead
- Give way to oncoming vehicles
Explanation
The no-entry sign is a red circle containing a white horizontal bar and prohibits vehicles from entering that road. It is often placed at the exit of a one-way street to prevent wrong-way driving.
Question 13Road signs, markings and signals
What does a sign showing a red circle with a bicycle inside mean?
- A cycle route is recommended
- Cycles are prohibited Correct answer.
- A cycle lane ends ahead
- Cyclists must dismount
Explanation
A red-bordered circle containing a vehicle or symbol prohibits that class of traffic. A blue circle or rectangle with a bicycle would instead indicate a route or lane for cyclists.
Question 14Road signs, markings and signals
What does a solid white line along the left edge of the carriageway on a rural road indicate?
- A no-stopping zone
- A mandatory cycle lane
- A bus lane boundary
- The edge of the carriageway Correct answer.
Explanation
A continuous white line at the left edge marks the boundary of the carriageway, helping drivers judge their position, especially in poor visibility. It is not a restriction on stopping or a lane for a specific user.
Question 15Road signs, markings and signals
At a crossroads controlled by traffic lights, the amber light appears as a driver approaches. What is the correct action?
- Accelerate to clear the junction
- Continue at the same speed regardless
- Reverse back from the stop line
- Stop unless it is unsafe to do so Correct answer.
Explanation
Steady amber means stop, and you should only continue if you have already crossed the line or stopping would be unsafe. Treating amber as an instruction to speed up is dangerous and can cause collisions.
Question 16Road signs, markings and signals
What does a flashing red light at a level crossing mean to a driver?
- Proceed with caution if no train is visible
- Stop and remain stopped until the lights go out Correct answer.
- Stop only if the barrier is down
- Sound the horn and continue
Explanation
Flashing red lights at a level crossing require drivers to stop and stay stopped until the lights cease flashing, even if no train is visible. The barriers and lights work together to protect the crossing.
Question 17Road signs, markings and signals
What does a yellow box junction marked with criss-cross lines mean?
- Give way to traffic from the right
- Park only within the marked hours
- No overtaking within the box
- Do not enter unless your exit is clear Correct answer.
Explanation
A box junction is designed to keep the junction clear, so drivers must not enter unless their exit is clear. The exception is when turning right and only oncoming traffic prevents completion.
Question 18Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a red circle containing a car and a motorcycle side by side. What does this sign mean?
- End of a motor vehicle restriction
- Parking for cars and motorcycles
- Motor vehicles only
- No motor vehicles allowed Correct answer.
Explanation
A red-bordered circle showing vehicles prohibits those classes from proceeding beyond the sign. Such signs are often used on pedestrian streets or routes restricted to certain traffic.
Question 19Road signs, markings and signals
What is the purpose of a stop line marked across a lane at a junction?
- To mark where parking is permitted
- To show where vehicles must stop when required Correct answer.
- To separate opposing traffic flows
- To indicate the start of a bus lane
Explanation
A stop line, often accompanied by a STOP sign or signals, shows the exact point where a vehicle must halt. Stopping beyond it can obstruct other traffic or block a crossing.
Question 20Road signs, markings and signals
A driver approaches a mini-roundabout and sees a blue circular sign with three white arrows in a circle. What should the driver do?
- Give way to traffic from the right and follow the arrows Correct answer.
- Turn right at the roundabout
- Sound the horn before entering
- Stop completely before entering
Explanation
The blue circular sign with arrows shows the direction of travel around a roundabout. Normal roundabout rules apply, so drivers give way to traffic approaching from the right unless signs say otherwise.
Question 21Road signs, markings and signals
What does a sign showing a white triangle with a red border and the words GIVE WAY mean?
- Traffic on the minor road has priority
- Stop completely before proceeding
- Give way to traffic on the major road Correct answer.
- No vehicles may pass the sign
Explanation
The give way sign requires drivers to yield to traffic on the road they are joining or crossing. Unlike a stop sign, a complete stop is only needed if traffic requires it.
Question 22Road signs, markings and signals
An emergency vehicle is approaching with blue flashing lights and a siren from behind on a road with a solid white centre line. What should the driver do?
- Cross the solid line immediately to make room
- Pull over safely where possible without crossing the solid line Correct answer.
- Brake sharply and stop in the lane
- Speed up to stay ahead of the vehicle
Explanation
Drivers should help emergency vehicles pass by pulling over where it is safe, but must not break the law such as crossing a solid white line or stopping dangerously. The aim is to let them through without creating a new hazard.
Question 23Road signs, markings and signals
A driver is in a lane marked with a white arrow pointing straight ahead at a junction, but wants to turn right. What is the correct action?
- Reverse to change into the right-turn lane
- Stop in the lane and wait for a gap
- Continue straight and find a legal route to turn later Correct answer.
- Turn right from the straight-ahead lane regardless
Explanation
Direction arrows in lanes are regulatory, so drivers must follow the direction shown by the arrow in their lane. If you are in the wrong lane, you should continue and turn later rather than cutting across or reversing.
Question 24Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a double white line system where the line nearest them is solid and the line further away is broken. What does this mean?
- The driver must not cross or straddle the lines Correct answer.
- The lines mark a cycle lane boundary
- Both directions may cross the lines
- The driver may cross to overtake if safe
Explanation
In a double white line system, the line nearest the driver governs their side. If the nearest line is solid, they must not cross or straddle it, even though traffic on the other side may cross because their nearest line is broken.
Question 25Road signs, markings and signals
A driver is waiting at a red light and a green filter arrow appears pointing left while the main light stays red. What does this allow?
- Proceed straight ahead as well as left
- Treat the whole junction as green
- Proceed in the direction of the arrow if the way is clear Correct answer.
- Ignore the main red light entirely
Explanation
A green filter arrow permits movement only in the direction it points, provided the way is clear. The main red light still applies to all other directions, so proceeding straight ahead would be an offence.
Question 26Road signs, markings and signals
A driver passes a circular sign with a blue background showing a white arrow pointing down and to the left. What does this sign require the driver to do?
- Give way to traffic approaching from the left
- Keep left of the traffic island or obstruction ahead Correct answer.
- Turn left at the next junction only
- Leave the carriageway at the next exit
Explanation
Blue circular signs give positive instructions that must be obeyed. A white arrow angled down to the left on a blue circle directs traffic to pass on the left-hand side of an obstruction such as a bollard or traffic island. It is a keep-left instruction rather than a routing or priority instruction.
Question 27Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a triangular warning sign showing a red border with a symbol of a car skidding. What hazard does this warn of?
- Loose chippings on the road surface
- Slippery road ahead Correct answer.
- Risk of flooding across the road
- Uneven road surface ahead
Explanation
Red-bordered triangles are warning signs. The skidding car symbol specifically warns that the road ahead may be slippery, for example after rain or in icy conditions, so the driver should reduce speed and avoid sudden braking or steering. Other surface hazards such as loose chippings and uneven roads have their own distinct symbols.
Question 28Road signs, markings and signals
On a single carriageway, a driver sees a broken white line running along the left-hand edge of the carriageway. What does this marking indicate?
- A cycle lane reserved for cyclists only
- A bus lane that operates at all times
- The edge of the carriageway, with the hard shoulder beyond Correct answer.
- A line marking the boundary of a parking bay
Explanation
A broken white line along the left edge marks the edge of the carriageway. On roads where there is a hard shoulder or verge beyond it, the line separates the running lane from that area. It is not a lane boundary for a reserved traffic lane unless accompanied by the relevant signs and continuous markings.
Question 29Road signs, markings and signals
A driver approaches traffic lights showing a green arrow pointing to the right, while the main circular light is red. What does this mean?
- Traffic must give way and may proceed straight ahead only
- Traffic may proceed only in the direction shown by the arrow Correct answer.
- Traffic may proceed in any direction because the signal is green
- Traffic must wait until the main light also turns green
Explanation
A green filter arrow permits movement only in the direction the arrow points, even when the main signal shows red. Other movements remain prohibited until the main light changes. Drivers must still check that the path is clear before moving off.
Question 30Road signs, markings and signals
A driver is travelling on a road and passes a circular sign with a red border containing the number 30 in black. What does this sign mean?
- Advisory speed of 30 mph in wet conditions
- End of a 30 mph speed restriction
- The maximum permitted speed is 30 mph Correct answer.
- The minimum permitted speed is 30 mph
Explanation
A red-bordered circle containing a number is a mandatory maximum speed limit sign. The figure shows the maximum speed in miles per hour permitted on that road until another limit sign changes it. Minimum speeds and advisory speeds are shown by different sign designs.
Question 31Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a sign showing a red circle with a white arrow pointing straight up crossed by a red diagonal line. What does this sign mean?
- No right turn permitted
- No entry for all vehicles Correct answer.
- No through road ahead
- No overtaking permitted
Explanation
A red circle with a white arrow struck through by a red diagonal line is the no entry sign. It prohibits all vehicles from proceeding past it, and drivers must find another route. It is commonly placed at the exit of one-way streets and at restricted access points.
Question 32Road signs, markings and signals
A driver is on a motorway and sees a red circle on an overhead gantry showing the number 40 with a red border. What does this mean?
- A mandatory maximum speed of 40 mph Correct answer.
- The distance to the next exit in miles
- A recommended speed of 40 mph in poor weather
- The minimum speed permitted in that lane
Explanation
Speed limits displayed in red circles on motorway gantries are mandatory and enforceable, not advisory. The displayed figure replaces the national limit for the length of road covered by the signal. Drivers who exceed it commit an offence in the same way as exceeding a fixed sign.
Question 33Road signs, markings and signals
A driver approaches a junction and sees a solid white line across their lane together with a STOP sign. What is the correct action?
- Slow down and proceed if the junction appears clear
- Sound the horn before moving off
- Stop at the line and proceed only when it is safe Correct answer.
- Stop only if another vehicle is approaching
Explanation
A STOP sign is always accompanied by a solid white stop line across the approach lane. The driver must bring the vehicle to a complete stop at the line, then proceed only when the road is clear. Rolling slowly past the line without stopping is an offence even when nothing is coming.
Question 34Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a sign showing a red circle containing a white horizontal bar on a blue background with a white arrow beneath it. What does this combination indicate?
- No vehicles carrying dangerous goods
- Give way to oncoming traffic
- No entry except for buses Correct answer.
- No stopping at any time
Explanation
The red circle with a white horizontal bar is the no entry sign, and when a supplementary plate or arrow shows a bus, it means the prohibition applies to all vehicles except buses. The exception is shown by the additional symbol beneath the main sign. Other vehicle classes are still prohibited from entering.
Question 35Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a pedestrian crossing marked by zig-zag lines along the approach, with flashing yellow beacons on poles at each end. What does this identify?
- A zebra crossing where pedestrians have priority Correct answer.
- A pelican crossing controlled by traffic lights
- A toucan crossing shared with cyclists
- A school crossing patrol point only
Explanation
Zig-zag markings with flashing yellow globes on poles identify a zebra crossing. Drivers must give way to pedestrians on the crossing and must not park or overtake within the zig-zag area. Crossings controlled by signals use different markings and light sequences.
Question 36Road signs, markings and signals
A driver is approaching a junction where the traffic lights have failed and are showing no illumination. How should the driver proceed?
- Treat the junction as uncontrolled and proceed with great care Correct answer.
- Proceed at normal speed because the lights no longer apply
- Wait at the stop line until an engineer repairs the lights
- Follow the vehicle in front without checking the junction
Explanation
When traffic lights are dark or failed, the signals no longer control the junction and drivers must treat it as uncontrolled. This means approaching with caution, giving way as necessary, and being prepared for other drivers to make unexpected moves. Waiting indefinitely for a repair is not required and would obstruct traffic.
Question 37Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a broken white line marking the boundary of a lane reserved for buses and cycles, with an upright sign showing operating times. Outside those times, what does the marking mean for a car driver?
- The lane remains reserved for buses and cycles at all times
- The lane may only be used for overtaking
- The lane is closed to all traffic
- The lane may be used by any permitted traffic Correct answer.
Explanation
Where a bus lane is marked with operating times, the restriction applies only during those times. Outside them, the lane reverts to general use and any vehicle permitted on the road may use it. Drivers should still check for upright signs, since some lanes operate at all times.
Question 38Road signs, markings and signals
A driver sees a sign showing a red circle with a white arrow curving to the right and a red diagonal line through it, mounted beside a road. What does this sign prohibit?
- Overtaking on the right-hand side
- Turning right at the junction ahead Correct answer.
- Parking on the right-hand side of the road
- Entering a one-way street from the right
Explanation
A red circle containing a curved arrow with a red diagonal bar is a prohibition on turning in the direction shown. In this case, right turns are banned at the junction, usually because of sight lines or traffic flow. The driver must follow an alternative route.
Question 39Road signs, markings and signals
A driver is on a road with a solid white line on their side of a double white line system. A slow-moving cyclist is ahead and the road beyond is clear for a long distance. What is the correct action?
- Sound the horn continuously until the cyclist moves aside
- Cross the solid line briefly and return immediately
- Remain behind the cyclist and do not cross the solid line Correct answer.
- Overtake the cyclist because the road ahead is clear
Explanation
Where the line nearest the driver is solid, the driver must not cross or straddle it except in limited circumstances such as passing a stationary vehicle or entering premises. Overtaking a moving cyclist is not one of the permitted exceptions, so the driver must stay behind until the restriction ends. Patience is required even when the road ahead appears clear.
Question 40Road signs, markings and signals
A driver approaches a junction with a yellow box marked on the carriageway and wants to turn right. The exit road is blocked by stationary traffic. What should the driver do?
- Enter the box and wait in it until the exit clears
- Enter the box and stop on the right-hand side
- Enter the box only if signalling to turn right
- Wait behind the box until the exit is clear Correct answer.
Explanation
A yellow box junction must not be entered unless the exit is clear, with one exception: a driver may wait in the box when turning right if they are prevented from completing the turn only by oncoming traffic. If the exit road itself is blocked, the driver must wait before the box even when turning right.
Question 41Traffic rules and right-of-way
Under the standard right-hand-traffic priority rule, at an unmarked intersection of two equally important roads, which vehicle must yield?
- The larger vehicle
- The vehicle approaching from the left Correct answer.
- The faster-moving vehicle
- The vehicle approaching from the right
Explanation
Where no signs or signals establish priority, the default rule in right-hand-traffic jurisdictions is priority to the right: a driver yields to traffic approaching from their right. The driver coming from the left therefore has to give way. Size and speed do not create priority.
Question 42Traffic rules and right-of-way
You are turning left across an oncoming stream of traffic at a green circular light. Who has priority?
- Oncoming vehicles going straight or turning right Correct answer.
- You, because you have a green light
- The vehicle with the more powerful engine
- Whoever enters the junction first
Explanation
A green circular light authorizes movement but does not grant priority over oncoming traffic when turning across it. A driver turning left must wait for a safe gap and yield to oncoming vehicles continuing straight or turning right. Only a dedicated green arrow would give protected priority.
Question 43Traffic rules and right-of-way
At a roundabout in a right-hand-traffic country, which rule governs entering vehicles?
- Entering vehicles have priority over circulating vehicles
- Entering vehicles must yield to traffic already circulating Correct answer.
- Priority alternates between entering and circulating vehicles
- Circulating vehicles must yield to entering vehicles
Explanation
The standard roundabout rule is that traffic already on the circulatory carriageway has priority, and entering drivers yield. This keeps the ring flowing and avoids blocking the roundabout. Drivers signal their exit and give way at the entry line.
Question 44Traffic rules and right-of-way
An emergency vehicle approaches from behind with flashing blue lights and a siren. What must you do?
- Speed up to stay ahead of it
- Stop immediately wherever you are
- Continue at the same speed and lane
- Give way as soon as it is safe to do so Correct answer.
Explanation
Drivers must facilitate the passage of emergency vehicles using warning signals, but only when it is safe. Braking suddenly or stopping in a live lane can cause a collision. The correct response is to clear a path or pull over when conditions allow.
Question 45Traffic rules and right-of-way
What does a solid white stop line at an intersection require of you?
- Stop on the line so the front wheels cross it
- Slow down but continue if the way looks clear
- Stop completely behind the line before proceeding Correct answer.
- Stop only if another vehicle is visible
Explanation
A stop line marks where a vehicle must come to a complete halt, with the front of the vehicle behind the line. Stopping beyond it can obstruct pedestrians and crossing traffic. You then proceed only when it is safe and permitted.
Question 46Traffic rules and right-of-way
A pedestrian is waiting at a marked zebra crossing. What is your obligation?
- Pass behind them if there is room
- Continue if you are below the speed limit
- Sound the horn to warn them
- Give way and let the pedestrian cross Correct answer.
Explanation
At a marked pedestrian crossing, drivers must give way to pedestrians who are crossing or clearly intending to cross. Approaching vehicles should slow and be prepared to stop. Horn use and squeezing past do not satisfy this duty.
Question 47Traffic rules and right-of-way
Before changing lanes on a multi-lane road, which action best satisfies the priority and safety rules?
- Signal only after starting the manoeuvre
- Rely on the vehicle behind to slow down
- Check mirrors and blind spot, signal, and move only when clear Correct answer.
- Move first and signal once established in the new lane
Explanation
A lane change requires mirror and blind-spot checks, a timely signal, and enough space so that other road users are not forced to change speed or direction. The vehicle already in the lane has priority. Signalling after moving defeats its purpose.
Question 48Traffic rules and right-of-way
Which statement correctly describes the meaning of a yellow (amber) traffic light?
- Treat it as a green light in all cases
- Accelerate to clear the junction quickly
- Stop unless it is unsafe to do so Correct answer.
- Proceed if no police officer is present
Explanation
A steady amber light warns that the signal is about to turn red and requires drivers to stop, unless stopping abruptly would be unsafe. It never authorizes acceleration. Drivers already within the junction when it appears should clear it.
Question 49Traffic rules and right-of-way
You approach a junction where a police officer is directing traffic with arm signals while the traffic lights show green. Which instruction applies?
- The police officer's signals Correct answer.
- The road markings at the junction
- Whichever allows you to proceed first
- The traffic light, because it is automated
Explanation
When a police officer is controlling traffic, their signals override both traffic lights and signs. Drivers must follow the officer's directions even if the light shows green. This hierarchy ensures order during incidents or signal failure.
Question 50Traffic rules and right-of-way
Two vehicles arrive at the same time at a four-way stop from opposite directions, and both intend to go straight. Who proceeds first?
- Both may proceed simultaneously Correct answer.
- The vehicle on the right
- The vehicle that sounds its horn first
- The vehicle on the left
Explanation
After both drivers have stopped and checked that the intersection is clear, opposing vehicles travelling straight may proceed simultaneously because their paths do not conflict. The priority-to-the-right rule concerns vehicles approaching on intersecting roads, so neither opposing driver gains priority under that rule here.