PA Permit Test key terms

The legal priority to proceed through an intersection or roadway space when other vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians are present. It is yielded, not taken, and is decided by signals, signs, and position.

To slow or stop and let other traffic or pedestrians go first when the law gives them priority. Failing to yield when required is a common cause of intersection crashes.

An intersection where every approach has a stop sign. Drivers stop fully, then proceed in the order they arrived; if two arrive at once, the driver on the right goes first.

The maximum lawful speed on a road under normal conditions. Driving slower than the limit may still be unsafe or illegal if it blocks the normal flow of traffic.

The requirement to drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent for current conditions, even when that is below the posted limit. Weather, visibility, traffic, and road surface all count.

The gap between your vehicle and the one ahead, measured in seconds of travel time. A gap of at least three to four seconds gives room to react and stop.

Driving too closely behind another vehicle. It removes your margin for reaction and is a leading factor in rear-end collisions, especially when the leader brakes suddenly.

A solid white line painted across a lane showing where a vehicle must stop for a sign, signal, or crosswalk. If no line exists, stop before the crosswalk or intersection edge.

The part of a roadway set aside for pedestrians to cross, marked with painted lines or left unmarked at intersections. Drivers must yield to pedestrians within it.

A person traveling on foot, including someone using a wheelchair or similar device. Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way in crosswalks and at marked intersections.

A signal requiring a complete stop before the stop line or crosswalk. After stopping, you may turn right unless a sign forbids it, yielding to traffic and pedestrians first.

A permitted right turn after a full stop at a red light, unless a sign prohibits it. You must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and to cross traffic before turning.

A signal that functions like a stop sign: come to a complete stop, then proceed when it is safe. It is often used where a signal is being repaired or at low-volume intersections.

A signal warning you to slow down and proceed with caution. It does not require a stop, but it often marks a hazard or a crossing ahead.

A signal giving a protected turn in the direction of the arrow. Opposing traffic is stopped, but you must still yield to pedestrians already in the crosswalk.

A left turn made on a green arrow when opposing traffic is held by a red light. It is safer than an unprotected turn, which requires judging a gap in oncoming traffic.

A left turn made on a green circle, where you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before turning. Wait for a safe gap rather than assuming others will slow.

The lane where vehicles entering a highway build speed and join the flow of traffic. Entering drivers must yield to traffic already on the road.

A merging method where vehicles in two lanes take turns entering a single lane at the merge point, alternating one by one. It keeps traffic moving and reduces sudden lane changes.

A lane intended for overtaking slower traffic, usually the left lane on a multi-lane highway. Drivers should use it to pass, then return to the right lane when clear.

A section of road where overtaking is prohibited, marked by a solid yellow line on your side or by signs. It is used where sight distance or road width makes passing unsafe.

A pavement marking separating traffic moving in opposite directions. A solid line on your side means do not cross to pass; a double solid line forbids crossing from either side.

A pavement marking that separates opposing traffic and may be crossed to pass when it is safe and legal. It usually appears where sight distance is adequate.

A painted line marking the outer limit of a travel lane, often white on the right and yellow on the left of a divided road. It helps drivers stay in lane and warns of a shoulder.

The paved or unpaved strip beside the travel lane. It may be used for emergencies or to pull over, but driving on it to pass another vehicle is generally illegal.

The area beside and behind a vehicle that mirrors do not show. Drivers must turn their head to check it before changing lanes or merging.

Moving from one travel lane to another. Signal first, check mirrors and the blind spot, and confirm enough space before moving over gradually.

The lights that show other road users your intention to turn or change lanes. Signal well before the maneuver and cancel it afterward.

An arm signal used to indicate a turn or stop when vehicle signals are not working or are not visible. Left arm straight out means left turn; bent upward means right turn.

When tires ride on a layer of water instead of the road, reducing steering and braking control. Slow down in heavy rain and avoid sudden moves to prevent it.

Loss of tire grip that makes a vehicle slide instead of following the driver's input. Ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want the front to go.

The grip between tires and the road surface. It drops on ice, snow, rain, gravel, and painted markings, so drivers must slow and increase following distance.

An area where road construction or maintenance is underway. Speed limits are often lowered, lanes may shift, and fines for violations are commonly increased.

A person who directs traffic through or around a work zone using signs or a paddle. Drivers must obey the flagger's directions, which override normal signals and markings.

A police, fire, or ambulance vehicle using lights or sirens. Drivers must pull to the right and stop until it passes, or clear the way as directed.

A rule requiring drivers to change lanes or slow down when passing stopped emergency, tow, or maintenance vehicles with flashing lights on the roadside.

The stop sign extended from a school bus loading or unloading children. Traffic in both directions must stop unless separated by a physical median or barrier.

An area near a school where lower speed limits apply during posted hours. Watch for children, crossing guards, and stopped buses.

A road user with little physical protection, such as a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist. Drivers must give them extra space and yield as required.

A lane marked for bicycle travel, often with a symbol and arrows. Motor vehicles may not drive in it and should check for riders before turning across it.

The legal idea that by driving on public roads you agree to submit to a chemical test of blood alcohol if lawfully arrested for impaired driving. Refusal can bring license penalties.

Reduced ability to drive safely caused by alcohol, drugs, fatigue, or illness. It slows reaction time and judgment long before a driver feels drunk or drowsy.

Extreme tiredness that harms attention, reaction time, and judgment behind the wheel. The safe response is to stop and rest, not to open a window or turn up music.

Anything that takes your eyes, hands, or mind away from driving, such as texting or adjusting controls. Even a brief glance away can cover a long distance at highway speed.