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Question 1Traffic signs, signals and road markings
In the United Kingdom, what does a circular road sign with a red border and a white background generally indicate?
- A prohibition or restriction that drivers must obey Correct answer.
- A warning of a hazard ahead
- A direction to a motorway service area
- Information about local facilities
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 and directions. Recognising the shape and colour lets a driver predict the type of instruction before reading the symbol.
Question 2Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What does a red triangle sign with its apex pointing upwards warn the driver about?
- The end of a restricted parking zone
- The start of a motorway
- A hazard or danger on the road ahead Correct answer.
- A compulsory minimum speed
Explanation
Triangular signs with a red border are warning signs, alerting drivers to a hazard such as a bend, junction or slippery surface. The symbol inside the triangle identifies the specific danger. Drivers should reduce speed and be prepared to react when they see one.
Question 3Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver approaches a circular sign showing a red circle with a white horizontal bar. What does this mean?
- No waiting at any time
- Give way to traffic on the right
- End of a one-way street
- No entry for vehicular traffic Correct answer.
Explanation
The red circle with a white horizontal bar is the no entry sign, meaning vehicles must not proceed past it. It is commonly placed at the exit of a one-way street to prevent traffic entering against the flow. It is a prohibition sign and must be obeyed.
Question 4Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What is the meaning of a blue circular sign?
- A warning of an upcoming hazard
- A prohibition on all vehicles
- A recommended route for tourists
- A mandatory instruction that must be followed Correct answer.
Explanation
Blue circular signs give positive instructions that must be followed, such as a minimum speed, a compulsory direction of travel, or a route for a particular class of vehicle. They are regulatory rather than warning signs. Ignoring them is an offence, just as ignoring a red-bordered prohibition is.
Question 5Traffic signs, signals and road markings
At a junction controlled by traffic lights, a flashing amber light alongside the green signal means the driver should:
- Reverse away from the junction immediately
- Stop and wait until the light turns green
- Treat the junction as a stop sign
- Give way to pedestrians crossing but proceed if the way is clear Correct answer.
Explanation
A flashing amber light at a pelican crossing means drivers must give way to pedestrians still on the crossing but may proceed if the crossing is clear. It does not require a full stop when no one is crossing. This differs from a steady amber, which means stop unless it is unsafe to do so.
Question 6Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What does a solid white line along the centre of the road normally mean?
- The road is a one-way street
- Parking is permitted on both sides
- Overtaking is encouraged when safe
- Vehicles must not cross it except in limited circumstances Correct answer.
Explanation
A solid white centre line means drivers must not cross or straddle it except to enter premises or a side road, or to pass a stationary vehicle or certain slow-moving road users where it is safe. A broken line, by contrast, may be crossed when overtaking is safe. The solid line warns of restricted visibility or a hazard.
Question 7Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What do yellow zig-zag lines outside a school entrance indicate?
- Drivers must not park or wait on them during the times shown Correct answer.
- The area is reserved for buses only
- Drivers may stop briefly to drop off children
- Loading is permitted for up to thirty minutes
Explanation
Yellow zig-zag lines outside schools mean drivers must not stop or park on them during the times indicated on the accompanying sign. Keeping the area clear protects children's visibility and safety. The restriction applies even if no children are present at that moment.
Question 8Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a red circle containing the number 30. What does this sign mean?
- The maximum permitted speed is 30 mph Correct answer.
- The road is 30 metres ahead
- The minimum permitted speed is 30 mph
- Fuel is available in 30 miles
Explanation
A red-bordered circle containing a number is a speed limit sign showing the maximum speed in miles per hour. Drivers must not exceed that speed. A minimum speed would instead appear on a blue circular sign.
Question 9Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver approaches a give way sign at a junction where the main road markings are also present. What is the correct action?
- Slow down, look, and give priority to traffic on the main road Correct answer.
- Stop completely before proceeding in all cases
- Accelerate to merge ahead of main road traffic
- Sound the horn and continue without stopping
Explanation
The give way sign (an inverted triangle) requires the driver to slow down, look and give priority to traffic on the road being joined. A complete stop is only necessary if traffic requires it, unlike a stop sign. Failing to give way can cause a collision at the junction.
Question 10Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What is the purpose of a box junction marked with yellow criss-cross lines?
- To reserve the area for turning vehicles only
- To indicate a pedestrian crossing point
- To allow vehicles to queue across the junction
- To keep the junction clear so that crossing traffic is not blocked Correct answer.
Explanation
A yellow box junction must not be entered unless the exit is clear, so that the junction is not blocked by stationary traffic. The exception is when turning right and only oncoming traffic prevents the turn. Keeping the box clear allows cross traffic to flow.
Question 11Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a sign showing a white arrow pointing down and to the left on a blue circle. What does it require?
- Turn left at the next junction
- Keep left of the traffic island or obstruction Correct answer.
- No left turn permitted
- Give way to traffic from the left
Explanation
A blue circular sign with a white arrow directing traffic to the left is a keep left instruction, telling drivers to pass a traffic island or obstruction on its left side. It is a mandatory sign. It does not mean turn left at a junction.
Question 12Traffic signs, signals and road markings
On a motorway, what does a red cross displayed above a lane mean?
- The lane has a minimum speed of 70 mph
- The lane is for emergency vehicles only
- The lane is reserved for overtaking
- The lane is closed and drivers must not use it Correct answer.
Explanation
A red cross above a motorway lane means the lane is closed, for example because of an incident or roadworks. Drivers must move out of that lane safely and must not continue in it. Ignoring the red cross is dangerous and may be enforced by cameras.
Question 13Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What does a double yellow line along the edge of the road mean?
- No waiting during the times shown on nearby plates
- Loading is permitted at all times
- Waiting is permitted for up to two hours
- No waiting at any time Correct answer.
Explanation
Double yellow lines mean no waiting at any time, regardless of whether signs are displayed. Single yellow lines restrict waiting only during the times shown on nearby plates. Drivers should not stop to wait, although brief boarding or alighting may be allowed where it is safe.
Question 14Traffic signs, signals and road markings
At a pelican crossing, the steady amber light means the driver should:
- Reverse away from the crossing
- Continue at the same speed
- Sound the horn to warn pedestrians
- Stop unless it is unsafe to do so Correct answer.
Explanation
A steady amber light at a pelican crossing means stop, unless the vehicle is so close to the crossing that stopping could cause a collision. It is a warning that the red light is about to appear. Continuing at the same speed risks entering the crossing on red.
Question 15Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a sign with a red border showing a car and a motorcycle side by side. What does it mean?
- Motorcycles only permitted
- No motor vehicles permitted Correct answer.
- Cars must give way to motorcycles
- A parking area for cars and motorcycles
Explanation
A red-bordered circular sign showing motor vehicle symbols prohibits the classes of vehicle depicted. Where both a car and a motorcycle are shown, no motor vehicles may proceed beyond the sign. The restriction does not apply to pedestrians or, generally, to pedal cycles unless shown.
Question 16Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What does a broken white line with long marks and short gaps along the centre of the road indicate?
- A hazard warning line where overtaking is discouraged Correct answer.
- A lane reserved for buses
- A parking restriction line
- A cycle lane boundary
Explanation
A hazard warning line has long white marks with short gaps and warns of a hazard ahead, such as a bend or junction. Drivers should not overtake unless they can see the road is clear. It is more restrictive than a standard broken centre line.
Question 17Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver approaches a junction where the traffic lights are out of order. What should the driver do?
- Proceed as if the lights were green
- Wait indefinitely for the lights to be repaired
- Treat the junction with great care and apply the normal priority rules Correct answer.
- Assume the junction is closed and turn around
Explanation
When traffic lights are not working, no signal gives priority, so drivers must approach with caution and follow the normal rules of the road, giving way as appropriate. Proceeding as though the light were green is dangerous. Police or temporary signs may direct traffic in such situations.
Question 18Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What is indicated by a sign showing a white 'P' on a blue rectangle with a red border and a red line through it?
- No parking is permitted in that area Correct answer.
- Parking is free for a limited time
- A park-and-ride facility is nearby
- Parking is reserved for permit holders
Explanation
A blue parking sign with a red border and a diagonal red line through the P indicates that parking is prohibited. It is a regulatory sign, not an information sign offering parking. Drivers must find another place to park.
Question 19Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What does a white diagonal stripe pattern bordered by solid white lines on the road indicate?
- A pedestrian refuge only
- A lane reserved for overtaking
- A loading bay for goods vehicles
- An area that vehicles should not enter except in an emergency Correct answer.
Explanation
Chevron or hatched areas bordered by solid white lines mark areas of the carriageway that vehicles should not enter, often separating traffic streams or protecting a hazard. Drivers should stay out of them except in an emergency. Entering them can be dangerous and may be an offence.
Question 20Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a triangular sign showing a bicycle symbol. What does it warn of?
- A cycle lane that vehicles must use
- A cycle route crossing or cyclists ahead Correct answer.
- A ban on cyclists
- A parking area for bicycles
Explanation
A red triangle containing a bicycle warns of cyclists or a cycle route crossing ahead. Drivers should slow down and look out for cyclists, particularly when turning. It is a warning sign, not a prohibition or an instruction to use a cycle lane.
Question 21Traffic signs, signals and road markings
On a road with a bus lane marked by a solid white line, when may a car driver enter the lane?
- Only when overtaking a bus
- Never, under any circumstances
- Only during the times when the bus lane is not in operation, or to access a property Correct answer.
- At any time if no bus is visible
Explanation
A bus lane operates during the times shown on its signs; outside those times other vehicles may use it. A driver may also enter to access premises or turn where permitted. Entering during operating hours without a valid reason can result in a penalty.
Question 22Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver approaches a stop sign at a junction with a solid white stop line. What is the correct procedure?
- Sound the horn and continue through the junction
- Slow down and proceed if no traffic is visible
- Stop completely at the line, then proceed only when it is safe Correct answer.
- Stop only if another vehicle is approaching
Explanation
A stop sign requires a complete stop at the stop line, regardless of whether other traffic is visible. The driver must then give way before proceeding. Rolling slowly past the line without stopping does not satisfy the requirement.
Question 23Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What does a sign showing a red circle with a white arrow pointing straight ahead crossed by a red diagonal bar mean?
- A compulsory straight-ahead route
- One-way traffic straight ahead
- No entry for vehicles travelling straight ahead Correct answer.
- A recommended route straight ahead
Explanation
A red-bordered circle with an arrow crossed by a red bar prohibits the movement shown; here it forbids proceeding straight ahead. Drivers must follow another permitted direction. A compulsory direction would instead be shown by a blue circle with an uncrossed arrow.
Question 24Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a sign with a red border showing a pedestrian symbol. What does it mean?
- No pedestrians permitted Correct answer.
- Pedestrians crossing ahead
- A footpath is closed
- Pedestrians have priority over all traffic
Explanation
A red-bordered circle containing a pedestrian symbol prohibits pedestrians from proceeding beyond the sign, often where a footpath ends near a fast road. A warning of pedestrians ahead would be shown on a red triangle. Drivers should not confuse the two shapes.
Question 25Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver approaches a junction where a white arrow on the road surface points left in the lane they are in. What does this indicate?
- The lane is for traffic turning left only Correct answer.
- The lane is for overtaking on the left
- The lane is closed to all traffic
- The lane allows both left turns and straight ahead
Explanation
A white arrow painted on the road shows the direction traffic in that lane must take; a left-pointing arrow means the lane is for left turns only. Drivers intending to go straight should be in a different lane. Lane arrows help prevent late, dangerous lane changes at junctions.
Question 26Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver passes a circular sign with a blue background showing a white bicycle. What does this sign indicate?
- A route or lane that is reserved for cyclists Correct answer.
- A warning that cyclists often cross ahead
- A parking area reserved for bicycles
- A prohibition on cyclists using the road
Explanation
Blue circles give mandatory instructions or identify facilities; with a bicycle symbol they mark a route or lane intended for cyclists. Warning signs are triangular with a red border, and prohibition signs are red circles.
Question 27Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a triangular warning sign showing a symbol of a car skidding with wavy tyre tracks. What hazard does it warn of?
- Loose chippings being thrown up
- A steep downhill gradient
- A concealed level crossing
- Slippery road surface ahead Correct answer.
Explanation
The skidding-car symbol on a red-bordered triangle warns of a slippery road where grip may be reduced, so the driver should slow down and avoid sudden braking or steering. Other hazards such as loose chippings and steep hills have their own distinct symbols.
Question 28Traffic signs, signals and road markings
At traffic lights, a green filter arrow pointing left is showing alongside a red main light. What may the driver do?
- Sound the horn and turn left without checking the road
- Proceed only in the direction of the arrow if the way is clear Correct answer.
- Wait behind the stop line until the main light turns green
- Proceed straight ahead because a green light is showing
Explanation
A green filter arrow applies only to the direction it points, so a driver may turn left even while the main light is red, provided the way is clear and it is safe. The red main light still controls all other directions.
Question 29Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a circular sign with a red border containing a white horizontal bar across a blue background. What does it mean?
- No through road ahead
- End of a restricted parking zone
- No entry for vehicular traffic Correct answer.
- Give way to oncoming vehicles
Explanation
A red circle with a white horizontal bar is the 'no entry' sign, meaning vehicles must not pass it from this direction. It is commonly placed at the exit of one-way streets and at restricted entrances.
Question 30Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver approaches a roundabout and sees an upright triangular sign showing three arrows chasing each other in a circle. What does it mean?
- The driver has priority over traffic already circulating
- A one-way system begins at the next junction
- A roundabout is ahead and traffic on it comes from the right Correct answer.
- The road ahead forms a sharp hairpin bend
Explanation
The circular-arrows triangle warns that a roundabout is ahead. In the UK, traffic approaching must normally give way to vehicles already on the roundabout, which approach from the right.
Question 31Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What do road markings consisting of a single broken white line across the carriageway at a junction normally indicate?
- A stop line requiring a complete halt in all circumstances
- A give way line where the driver must yield to traffic on the main road Correct answer.
- A line showing where overtaking is prohibited
- A line marking the boundary of a parking bay
Explanation
A broken white line across the driver's lane at a junction is a give way line; the driver must yield to traffic on the road being joined. A solid white line across the lane is the stop line used with a stop sign.
Question 32Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a sign with a red border showing a black locomotive symbol on a white background. What does it warn of?
- A bridge with a weight restriction
- A railway level crossing without a barrier ahead Correct answer.
- A tunnel where headlights are required
- A tram stop where passengers cross the road
Explanation
A red-bordered triangle with a steam locomotive symbol warns of a railway level crossing without gates or barriers. Drivers should be prepared to stop and check that no train is approaching.
Question 33Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a circular sign with a red border containing a white arrow pointing up and to the right, crossed by a red diagonal bar. What does it require?
- Right-turning traffic must give way to oncoming vehicles
- No right turn at the junction ahead Correct answer.
- A right turn is compulsory at the next junction
- Turn right only when the light is green
Explanation
A red circle with a red diagonal bar through an arrow is a prohibition sign, so this one forbids turning right. A compulsory direction is shown by a blue circle with a white arrow and no bar.
Question 34Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What is the meaning of a double white line along the centre of the road where the line nearest the driver is solid and the further line is broken?
- The driver must not cross or straddle the lines except in limited permitted circumstances Correct answer.
- The driver may park on the road beside the lines at any time
- The road ahead becomes a dual carriageway
- Either line may be crossed freely to overtake slower vehicles
Explanation
Where the solid line is on the driver's side, crossing or straddling it is prohibited except for limited purposes such as turning into premises or passing a stationary obstruction. The broken line on the other side applies to traffic coming the other way.
Question 35Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a red-bordered triangle showing a symbol of two children walking. What does it warn of?
- A compulsory route for pedestrians only
- A pedestrian zone where vehicles are banned
- A school or children's play area where children may be in the road Correct answer.
- A footpath crossing the road with no other traffic
Explanation
The children symbol on a warning triangle alerts drivers to a school or play area where children may step into the road. Drivers should reduce speed and be ready to stop.
Question 36Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a blue rectangular sign showing a white 'P' with the words 'controlled zone' and times below it. What does this indicate?
- Stopping to set down passengers is prohibited at all times
- Parking is allowed only within the stated times and conditions Correct answer.
- The area is reserved for permit holders only, with no time limits
- Parking is free and unrestricted at all times
Explanation
A controlled parking zone sign sets out when and where parking is permitted within the zone, often with charges or permits. Outside the stated times, the restrictions normally do not apply.
Question 37Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver approaches a pedestrian crossing where the amber beacon is flashing and people are waiting on the pavement. What must the driver do?
- Continue at the same speed because the beacon gives no instruction
- Sound the horn to warn pedestrians to wait
- Give way to pedestrians on the crossing and be ready to stop for those waiting Correct answer.
- Stop only if a pedestrian has already stepped into the road
Explanation
A flashing amber beacon marks a zebra crossing, where drivers must give way to pedestrians already on the crossing and should be prepared to stop for those waiting to cross.
Question 38Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a white line along the edge of the carriageway with raised ribbed markings alongside it. What do the ribbed markings indicate?
- A hard shoulder where any vehicle may stop for a rest
- A lane reserved for buses during peak hours
- A cycle lane that vehicles may enter to park
- The edge of the carriageway, giving an audible warning if driven over Correct answer.
Explanation
Ribbed or corrugated edge markings mark the edge of the carriageway and produce noise and vibration if a vehicle drifts over them, helping to alert a tired or distracted driver.
Question 39Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a circular sign with a red border containing a black and white symbol of two vehicles side by side. What does it mean?
- No overtaking by goods vehicles over a stated weight Correct answer.
- Vehicles must pass on the left only
- No vehicles carrying dangerous goods
- Two-way traffic ahead on a narrow road
Explanation
A red circle showing a car beside a lorry prohibits goods vehicles above the stated weight from overtaking. The restriction applies to the heavier vehicles, not to all traffic.
Question 40Traffic signs, signals and road markings
What does a broken white line along the centre of the road with short marks and long gaps indicate?
- A line marking the edge of a bus stop clearway
- A line showing that the road has three lanes
- A line that may never be crossed for any reason
- A hazard warning line where overtaking should be undertaken only with great care Correct answer.
Explanation
Short marks with long gaps form a hazard warning line, used on the approach to a hazard such as a bend or junction. Overtaking is not prohibited but should be attempted only when it is clearly safe.
Question 41Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a sign showing a white arrow on a blue circle pointing straight ahead. What does it require?
- Stop and wait for a signal from an officer
- Proceed straight ahead only in the direction shown Correct answer.
- Give way to traffic from the right
- Turn left at the next junction
Explanation
A blue circle with a white arrow gives a positive instruction, so this sign means traffic must continue straight ahead. Turning against the arrow would breach a mandatory direction.
Question 42Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a rectangular sign with a red border showing the word 'CLEARWAY' and a red line through a blue circle. What does this mean?
- The road is closed to all traffic permanently
- Only loading and unloading is permitted at all times
- Stopping on the road is prohibited during the times shown on the sign Correct answer.
- Parking is allowed for up to one hour at any time
Explanation
A red route clearway sign means vehicles must not stop on the carriageway during the times shown, except in marked bays or for reasons beyond the driver's control. The red lines along the road reinforce the restriction.
Question 43Traffic signs, signals and road markings
At a junction controlled by traffic lights, a driver sees a green light but the junction ahead is blocked by queuing traffic. What should the driver do?
- Stay behind the stop line until there is room to clear the junction Correct answer.
- Enter the junction and wait in the middle until traffic moves
- Sound the horn until the queuing vehicles move
- Drive around the queue using the opposing lane
Explanation
Even on a green light, a driver must not enter a junction if the exit is blocked, because doing so could obstruct cross traffic and block the junction when the lights change. The driver should wait behind the stop line until there is space to clear it.
Question 44Traffic signs, signals and road markings
A driver sees a triangular sign showing a symbol of a gate or barrier. What does it warn of?
- A lifting bridge over a waterway
- A railway level crossing with barriers or gates ahead Correct answer.
- A cattle grid across the road
- A toll booth where a fee must be paid
Explanation
A red-bordered triangle showing a gate or barrier warns of a railway level crossing equipped with barriers or gates. Drivers should be ready to stop if the barriers are closing or the lights show.
Question 45Traffic rules, right of way and intersections
You are approaching a junction where a traffic light is green but a police officer is signalling you to stop. What must you do?
- Continue, because a green light always permits you to proceed
- Stop, because the officer's signal overrides the light Correct answer.
- Sound your horn and proceed slowly
- Stop only if a pedestrian is crossing
Explanation
Directions given by a police officer controlling traffic take precedence over traffic lights and road signs. A green light normally permits you to go, but the officer's instruction replaces it, so you must stop and wait until signalled to continue.
Question 46Traffic rules, right of way and intersections
At an unmarked T-junction, you are on the road that ends and want to turn onto the through road. Who has priority?
- Vehicles on the through road Correct answer.
- Vehicles turning right
- Whichever vehicle arrives first
- Vehicles on the road that ends
Explanation
Where a road ends at a T-junction, traffic on the terminating road must give way to traffic on the continuous through road. Arrival order does not create a right of way here; priority belongs to the through road.
Question 47Traffic rules, right of way and intersections
You intend to turn left at a junction and a pedestrian is already crossing the road you are entering. What should you do?
- Turn because vehicles have priority over pedestrians at junctions
- Sound your horn so the pedestrian hurries
- Edge forward and pass behind the pedestrian
- Wait and let the pedestrian finish crossing Correct answer.
Explanation
A pedestrian already crossing the road into which you are turning has priority, and you must give way. You should wait until the pedestrian has cleared your path before completing the turn.
Question 48Traffic rules, right of way and intersections
What does a flashing amber light at a pelican crossing mean for drivers?
- Give way to pedestrians on the crossing, otherwise proceed Correct answer.
- Stop only if a pedestrian presses the button
- Proceed at normal speed regardless of pedestrians
- Stop and wait until the light turns green
Explanation
At a pelican crossing the flashing amber phase means drivers must yield to anyone still on the crossing but may continue if it is clear. It is not a full stop signal like red.
Question 49Traffic rules, right of way and intersections
You are joining a dual carriageway from a slip road. Which statement is correct?
- Traffic on the carriageway must give way to you
- You must give way to traffic already on the carriageway Correct answer.
- You have priority because you are accelerating
- You should stop at the end of the slip road in all cases
Explanation
A slip road is an acceleration lane, and vehicles entering must match the speed of traffic and merge without forcing others to change course. Traffic already on the dual carriageway has priority.
Question 50Traffic rules, right of way and intersections
At a roundabout, you intend to take the second exit (straight ahead). Which signal should you use?
- No signal on approach, then signal left after passing the exit before yours Correct answer.
- Signal left on approach
- Signal right on approach and left on exit
- Signal right throughout
Explanation
For a straight-ahead exit you normally do not signal on approach, then signal left after you pass the exit before the one you want. This tells following drivers you are leaving at the next exit.