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HTV Driving Theory study materials
HTV Driving Theory study resources

HTV Driving Theory practice questions

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Question 1Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You approach a red octagonal sign bearing the word STOP. What does this sign require you to do?

  1. Stop completely at the stop line and yield to priority traffic. Correct answer.
  2. Stop only when another vehicle is already crossing your path.
  3. Reduce speed and continue without stopping if you can see that the intersecting road is clear.
  4. Sound the horn and proceed through the junction without stopping.

Explanation

A STOP sign always requires a full stop at the marked stop line, even when no other traffic is visible. After stopping, the driver must give way to vehicles and pedestrians that have priority on the intersecting road.

Question 2Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

What is the meaning of an inverted triangular sign with a red border and a white centre?

  1. The sign requires you to give way to traffic on the intersecting road. Correct answer.
  2. The sign closes the road ahead to all motor vehicles.
  3. The sign gives you priority over traffic on the road you are joining.
  4. The sign requires a complete stop before every junction.

Explanation

The inverted triangle is the give-way sign. It requires the driver to yield to traffic on the road being entered; a complete stop is required only when necessary to give way safely.

Question 3Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A continuous solid white line runs along the centre of a two-way carriageway. What is the general rule for crossing it?

  1. The line separates same-direction traffic and may be crossed to change lanes.
  2. The line must not be crossed or straddled to overtake. Correct answer.
  3. The line may be crossed whenever you intend to overtake a slower vehicle.
  4. The line marks the edge of a parking bay and may be crossed freely.

Explanation

A continuous centre line is a restrictive marking. Drivers must keep to their own side and must not cross or straddle the line to overtake, although specific local exceptions may allow crossing to enter premises or a side road.

Question 4Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

Two vehicles arrive at the same time at an intersection with no signs, markings or traffic lights. You are going straight ahead and the other vehicle is approaching from your right. Who should proceed first?

  1. Your vehicle, because the other driver must signal before entering.
  2. The vehicle approaching from your right. Correct answer.
  3. The vehicle with the larger engine capacity.
  4. Your vehicle, because it is travelling straight ahead.

Explanation

Where an intersection is uncontrolled, the general right-of-way rule in right-hand traffic is that the driver must yield to vehicles approaching from the right. Travelling straight ahead does not create priority over that rule.

Question 5Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You are entering a roundabout marked with a give-way sign at the entry. To whom must you give way?

  1. Vehicles approaching from your right on the entry road.
  2. Only vehicles signalling to leave the roundabout.
  3. No traffic, because entering vehicles have priority.
  4. Traffic already circulating on the roundabout. Correct answer.

Explanation

At a roundabout entry controlled by a give-way sign, entering drivers must yield to traffic already on the circulatory carriageway. A signal by another driver does not remove the need to observe and give way safely.

Question 6Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A steady amber traffic light appears as you approach a signal-controlled junction. What is the correct response?

  1. Stop unless stopping safely is no longer possible. Correct answer.
  2. Continue at the same speed because a steady amber signal has the same meaning as green.
  3. Accelerate so that you clear the junction before the red light appears.
  4. Stop only when a pedestrian is waiting at the crossing.

Explanation

A steady amber light warns that the signal is changing to red. The driver must stop at the stop line unless the vehicle is so close that a safe stop cannot be made.

Question 7Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A pedestrian has stepped onto a marked zebra crossing and is walking across your lane. What must you do?

  1. Continue slowly and pass behind the pedestrian if there is room.
  2. Stop and give way until the pedestrian has cleared your path. Correct answer.
  3. Sound the horn to warn the pedestrian and keep moving.
  4. Change lanes immediately to avoid the crossing.

Explanation

At a marked pedestrian crossing, drivers must yield to pedestrians who are already on the crossing. Passing behind or alongside a pedestrian who is still crossing does not satisfy the duty to give way safely.

Question 8Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You want to turn left across the path of an oncoming vehicle that is going straight ahead. Who has priority?

  1. The vehicle that reaches the junction first, regardless of direction.
  2. Your vehicle, because it is already in the junction.
  3. Your vehicle, because turning traffic is always protected.
  4. The oncoming vehicle going straight ahead. Correct answer.

Explanation

A driver turning across oncoming traffic must yield to vehicles continuing straight ahead. The turn does not create priority, and the turning driver must wait for a safe gap before completing the manoeuvre.

Question 9Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

An emergency vehicle with flashing blue lights and a siren approaches from behind while you are waiting at a red light. What is the safest lawful action?

  1. Reverse away from the stop line until the emergency vehicle has passed behind you.
  2. Stay at the line unless you can move aside without crossing the red light. Correct answer.
  3. Stop in the middle of the junction and wait there until the traffic light turns green again.
  4. Drive through the red light immediately so that the emergency vehicle can pass without delay.

Explanation

Emergency vehicles are not automatically entitled to force other drivers through a red signal. The driver should remain at the stop line and move aside only if that can be done lawfully and safely without entering the junction against the light.

Question 10Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A police officer signals you to stop while the traffic light facing you is green. What must you do?

  1. Obey the officer's signal and stop. Correct answer.
  2. Proceed only if no other vehicle is moving.
  3. Sound the horn and continue through the junction.
  4. Proceed because the green light gives you priority.

Explanation

Directions given by a police officer or authorised traffic controller override traffic lights and signs. When an officer signals you to stop, you must stop even if the light is green, because the officer is managing the conflict directly.

Question 11Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A single broken white line separates two lanes running in the same direction. What does this marking allow you to do?

  1. Never cross it while the road is straight.
  2. Cross it whenever traffic is light.
  3. Cross it only after stopping completely.
  4. Cross it when it is safe to do so. Correct answer.

Explanation

A broken white line separates lanes travelling in the same direction and may be crossed when it is safe. Before changing lanes, check mirrors and blind spots and signal so other drivers know your intention. The line itself does not require you to stop.

Question 12Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You see a circular sign with a red background and a wide white horizontal bar. What does this sign mean?

  1. Give way to traffic from the right.
  2. No overtaking for the next 100 metres.
  3. Road closed to pedestrians only.
  4. No entry for vehicular traffic. Correct answer.

Explanation

The red circle with a white horizontal bar is the no-entry sign. It prohibits vehicles from entering that road or lane from your direction. It does not create an overtaking, give-way or pedestrian-only rule.

Question 13Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A blue circular sign shows a white arrow pointing diagonally down to the left. What action does it require?

  1. Keep to the left of the obstruction or traffic island. Correct answer.
  2. Give way to traffic on the left.
  3. Stop before the left-hand kerb.
  4. Turn left at the next junction.

Explanation

Blue circular signs give mandatory instructions. A white arrow pointing down to the left means you must pass on the left side of the obstruction or traffic island. It does not order a turn at a junction or a stop.

Question 14Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You intend to drive straight through a yellow cross-hatched box junction, but the road beyond it is blocked by stationary traffic. What should you do?

  1. Enter the box and wait close behind the vehicle ahead.
  2. Enter the box and stop on the hatched area until traffic moves.
  3. Wait before the box until your exit is clear. Correct answer.
  4. Enter the box only if you sound your horn to warn others.

Explanation

A yellow box junction must not be entered unless your exit road is clear. The usual exception is when you are turning right and are blocked only by oncoming traffic. For a straight-through movement with a blocked exit, you must wait before the box.

Question 15Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

At a junction, a double broken white line is painted across your lane and a give-way sign faces you. What does the marking require?

  1. Continue without yielding if you are turning left.
  2. Stop completely for at least three seconds.
  3. Treat the junction as an uncontrolled crossroads.
  4. Give way to traffic on the road you are joining. Correct answer.

Explanation

A double broken white line across your lane marks a give-way line. You must slow down, assess traffic on the road you are joining, and give way to vehicles already on it. A full stop is required only when necessary for safety or when a stop line and STOP sign are present.

Question 16Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

At a signal-controlled junction, your green light is showing and you want to turn left into a side road. Pedestrians are crossing that side road on a pedestrian light showing green. What must you do?

  1. Sound your horn until the pedestrians clear the road.
  2. Flash your headlights and drive slowly through the group.
  3. Give way to the pedestrians before completing the turn. Correct answer.
  4. Proceed because your vehicle signal is green.

Explanation

A green vehicle light does not override a green pedestrian signal. When turning into a side road, you must give way to pedestrians who are lawfully crossing that road. Wait until they have cleared your path before completing the turn.

Question 17Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You are emerging from a side road onto a main road. There is no stop line or give-way sign, but the view is restricted. What is the safest legal approach?

  1. Move out quickly so main-road traffic can see you.
  2. Sound your horn and continue without stopping.
  3. Stop at the edge and give way to traffic already on the main road. Correct answer.
  4. Rely on main-road traffic to slow down for you.

Explanation

When emerging from a side road, you must give way to traffic already on the main road even if no sign or line is present. With a restricted view, stop at the edge where you can see and be seen, then proceed only when it is safe. Entering quickly or relying on others to slow is dangerous and contrary to the rule.

Question 18Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

In left-hand traffic, you plan to leave a roundabout by the first exit on the left. Which approach lane and signal should you normally use?

  1. Right-hand lane, signalling right throughout.
  2. Any lane, signalling left only after passing the first exit.
  3. Left-hand lane, signalling right until you reach the exit.
  4. Left-hand lane, signalling left as you approach and leave. Correct answer.

Explanation

For the first exit in left-hand traffic, approach in the left-hand lane and signal left before entering the roundabout. Keep the left signal on as you approach and leave by that first exit. This makes your intention clear and keeps you in the correct lane.

Question 19Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A vehicle ahead of you has stopped at a zebra crossing to let a pedestrian cross from the far side. May you overtake that vehicle?

  1. Yes, provided no oncoming vehicle is visible.
  2. No, because it would endanger the pedestrian and obscure the crossing. Correct answer.
  3. Yes, because the stopped vehicle is blocking your lane.
  4. Yes, if you slow down and sound your horn first.

Explanation

You must not overtake a vehicle that has stopped at a zebra crossing to allow a pedestrian to cross. The stopped vehicle may hide the pedestrian from your view, and passing it would put the pedestrian at risk. Wait behind until the crossing is clear and it is safe to proceed.

Question 20Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A green filter arrow is illuminated alongside a red circular light at a junction. What does the green arrow allow you to do?

  1. Proceed only in the direction shown by the arrow, if the way is clear. Correct answer.
  2. Turn in any direction after giving way to oncoming traffic.
  3. Wait behind the stop line until a full green circle appears.
  4. Proceed in all directions once the red light changes.

Explanation

A green filter arrow permits movement only in the direction indicated by the arrow. It does not authorise other directions while the circular light remains red. Before moving, ensure the path in that direction is clear and give way where required.

Question 21Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A circular sign with a red border and the number 30 in the centre is mounted beside the road. What does it mean?

  1. The minimum permitted speed is 30 mph.
  2. A speed of 30 mph is recommended but not compulsory.
  3. The maximum permitted speed is 30 mph. Correct answer.
  4. The 30 mph speed limit ends ahead.

Explanation

A red-bordered circular sign containing a number gives the maximum legal speed for that road. Drivers must not exceed the figure shown unless a lower limit or restriction applies. It is not a minimum, advisory or end-of-limit sign.

Question 22Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

What do double yellow lines painted along the edge of the carriageway indicate?

  1. Parking is allowed for up to 20 minutes.
  2. Loading is prohibited at all times.
  3. Waiting is prohibited at all times. Correct answer.
  4. The road is a clearway where stopping is banned.

Explanation

Double yellow lines mean no waiting at any time, although loading may still be permitted unless kerb marks or nearby signs say otherwise. A clearway is shown by a different sign, usually a blue circle with a red cross. The lines do not create a free 20-minute parking period.

Question 23Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A blue circular sign shows a white pedal cycle. What does this sign mean?

  1. A cycle parking area is provided ahead.
  2. Pedal cycles are prohibited beyond the sign.
  3. Cyclists must give way to motor traffic.
  4. The route is for pedal cycles only. Correct answer.

Explanation

Blue circular signs give mandatory instructions or show a route reserved for a particular user. A white bicycle on a blue circle means the route is for pedal cycles only. Prohibition signs use a red border rather than a blue background.

Question 24Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You are approaching a pelican crossing and the traffic light shows a flashing amber signal. What should you do?

  1. Sound your horn and continue without slowing.
  2. Stop and wait until a green light appears.
  3. Reverse away from the crossing.
  4. Proceed only if the crossing is clear, giving way to any pedestrian still on it. Correct answer.

Explanation

At a pelican crossing, a flashing amber light means you must give way to pedestrians who are still on the crossing, but you may proceed if the crossing is clear. You do not have to wait for a green light as you would at a red signal. The signal is not a warning to use the horn or to reverse.

Question 25Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You approach a level crossing with red lights flashing and no barrier. What must you do?

  1. Slow down and cross if no train is visible.
  2. Stop only if a train is within 100 metres.
  3. Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing. Correct answer.
  4. Cross only if the road ahead is clear.

Explanation

Red flashing lights at a level crossing mean stop. You must not cross until the lights stop flashing and any barriers are raised. You cannot rely on seeing a train, because one may be approaching out of view or may pass while the lights are still active.

Question 26Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A circular sign has a red border and shows a black car above a black motorcycle. What does it prohibit?

  1. Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.
  2. All motor vehicles. Correct answer.
  3. Motorcycles only.
  4. Cars only.

Explanation

A red circle is a prohibition sign. The combined car and motorcycle symbol means that no motor vehicles are allowed beyond the sign. It is not limited to cars, motorcycles or heavy goods vehicles.

Question 27Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A blue circular sign displays a red cross. What does it mean?

  1. Crossroads ahead.
  2. Priority to oncoming traffic.
  3. No entry for all vehicles.
  4. No stopping on the main carriageway. Correct answer.

Explanation

The blue circle with a red cross is a clearway sign, meaning you must not stop on the main carriageway. No entry is shown by a red circle with a wide white horizontal bar. A crossroads warning would use a triangular warning sign.

Question 28Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You are waiting at a zebra crossing. A pedestrian is standing on the pavement at the crossing but has not stepped onto the road. According to the Highway Code, what should you do?

  1. Give way to the pedestrian waiting to cross. Correct answer.
  2. Reverse to create a gap.
  3. Sound your horn to warn the pedestrian.
  4. Continue because the pedestrian has not entered the road.

Explanation

The Highway Code says drivers should give way to pedestrians waiting to cross at a zebra crossing, and must stop if a pedestrian has stepped onto the crossing. Waiting for a pedestrian who is clearly waiting to cross is the expected and safer action. The obligation is not avoided merely because the pedestrian is still on the pavement.

Question 29Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A circular sign with a red border shows '7.5T'. Your vehicle's maximum gross weight is exactly 7.5 tonnes. May you proceed past the sign?

  1. No, unless you have a permit.
  2. No, because any vehicle of 7.5 tonnes or more is prohibited.
  3. Yes, because the limit applies only to vehicles over 7.5 tonnes. Correct answer.
  4. Yes, but only if the vehicle is unladen.

Explanation

A weight-limit sign prohibits vehicles whose maximum gross weight exceeds the figure shown. A vehicle at exactly 7.5 tonnes is not over the limit, so it may proceed unless another restriction applies. The restriction is not based on whether the vehicle is laden or unladen.

Question 30Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A school crossing patrol steps into the road and displays a 'Stop for children' sign. What must you do?

  1. Stop and remain stopped until the patrol returns to the pavement. Correct answer.
  2. Continue if no child is on the road.
  3. Stop only if the patrol is in your lane.
  4. Slow down and pass the patrol with care.

Explanation

A school crossing patrol is authorised to stop traffic, and drivers must stop when the patrol displays the stop sign. You should remain stopped until the patrol has returned to the pavement and any children have cleared the road. The signal applies to approaching traffic and cannot be ignored because no child is currently visible.

Question 31Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

At a signal-controlled junction, the red light is showing and the amber light illuminates alongside it. What does this combination mean?

  1. Reverse away from the stop line to make room.
  2. Proceed through the junction if no traffic is coming.
  3. Prepare to move off but do not proceed until green. Correct answer.
  4. Treat the signal as a green light because amber follows red.

Explanation

Red and amber together are a preparatory phase: they warn that green is about to appear but do not authorise you to enter the junction. You must stay behind the stop line until the green light shows.

Question 32Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You approach an octagonal red sign with 'STOP' in white letters. What must you do?

  1. Stop fully at the line, then give way before moving off. Correct answer.
  2. Sound your horn and enter the major road without stopping.
  3. Stop only when another vehicle is approaching.
  4. Slow down and continue if the major road looks clear.

Explanation

A STOP sign requires a complete stop at the stop line, or at the edge of the junction if there is no line. After stopping, you must give way to traffic on the road you are joining before you proceed.

Question 33Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

An inverted triangular sign with a red border and no symbol faces you at a junction. What does it require?

  1. You must stop completely before entering the major road.
  2. You have priority over traffic on the major road.
  3. Give way to traffic on the road you join. Correct answer.
  4. No vehicles may enter the road ahead.

Explanation

The inverted triangle is the give-way sign. It means you must yield to traffic on the major road and enter only when there is a safe gap; a complete stop is required only if necessary.

Question 34Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A solid white line runs along the centre of the road on your side. In which situation may you cross it?

  1. When overtaking any vehicle that is travelling below the speed limit.
  2. Only when a police officer waves you across.
  3. To enter premises or pass a stationary vehicle safely. Correct answer.
  4. At any time, as long as you signal before crossing.

Explanation

A solid white line on your side generally prohibits crossing or straddling it. Limited exceptions include turning into premises or a side road and passing a stationary vehicle when it is safe; you must not use it for normal overtaking.

Question 35Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You are driving in a lane marked by white diagonal stripes bordered by a solid white line. What do these markings mean?

  1. They are a parking area for emergency vehicles.
  2. They separate traffic moving in opposite directions.
  3. They show where you may overtake on the left.
  4. No entry except in an emergency. Correct answer.

Explanation

White diagonal stripes bounded by a solid white line mark an area that traffic should not enter. The area is there to separate or protect traffic streams, and you may use it only in an emergency or when directed.

Question 36Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You want to turn right at a signal-controlled junction. Your green light is showing, but oncoming traffic is approaching. What should you do?

  1. Reverse out of the junction and wait for the next green.
  2. Turn immediately because your green light gives you priority.
  3. Sound your horn and force the oncoming vehicle to stop.
  4. Wait for oncoming traffic to pass, then turn when safe. Correct answer.

Explanation

A green light allows you to proceed, but when you turn across the path of oncoming traffic you must give way. Wait at the junction until there is a safe gap, then complete the turn.

Question 37Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A bus lane sign shows operating times of 07:00–10:00 and 16:00–19:00. You need the lane for a right turn and it is 12:30. May you drive in it?

  1. No, bus lanes are reserved for buses at all times.
  2. Only if you stop and wait for a bus to pass first.
  3. Only if you are carrying two or more passengers.
  4. Yes, outside the displayed hours other traffic may use it. Correct answer.

Explanation

Bus lane restrictions apply only during the hours shown on the sign. Outside those times, the lane is available to general traffic unless another sign says otherwise.

Question 38Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

A single yellow line is painted along the edge of the carriageway. What does it generally indicate?

  1. No stopping at any time.
  2. Waiting restrictions apply at the times shown. Correct answer.
  3. The road is a clearway.
  4. Parking is free for up to two hours.

Explanation

A single yellow line marks waiting restrictions that operate during times shown on nearby plates or signs. You must check those times before parking or waiting there.

Question 39Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You are approaching a junction where the traffic lights are completely blacked out. What should you do?

  1. Proceed without slowing because your road is the major road.
  2. Flash your headlights and drive through immediately.
  3. Treat it as an unmarked crossroads and proceed with caution. Correct answer.
  4. Stop and wait until a police officer arrives to direct traffic.

Explanation

When traffic signals are not working, they give no priority. You should approach as you would an unmarked crossroads: slow down, look carefully, and be ready to give way to traffic already in the junction or approaching from a priority direction.

Question 40Road traffic law, signs, markings and right-of-way rules

You want to turn right at a yellow box junction. Oncoming traffic is heavy and you have to wait inside the box. Is this allowed?

  1. Only if you signal and sound your horn.
  2. No, you must never enter a box junction unless your exit is clear.
  3. Yes, when turning right if oncoming traffic blocks you. Correct answer.
  4. Only if you are driving a bus or emergency vehicle.

Explanation

The general rule is not to enter a box junction unless your exit is clear. There is an exception when you are turning right and are prevented from completing the turn by oncoming traffic or other vehicles also waiting to turn right.

Question 41Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

During the daily walk-around check you find a rear light lens cracked and the lamp not working. What is the correct action?

  1. Report it at the end of the shift.
  2. Replace the bulb only if a spare is available.
  3. Cover the lamp with tape and complete the trip.
  4. Record it on the defect report and do not take the vehicle on the road. Correct answer.

Explanation

A lamp that is cracked and not working is a safety-critical lighting defect, so the vehicle is unroadworthy until it is repaired. The defect must be recorded on the defect report and the vehicle kept off the road; a temporary covering or a later report does not make it legal to drive.

Question 42Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

During a pre-trip inspection of a heavy vehicle, which tyre condition must be treated as a defect?

  1. A small amount of dust on the tread
  2. A tread pattern that is suitable for the season
  3. A valve cap that is fitted
  4. A bulge in the sidewall with exposed cords Correct answer.

Explanation

A sidewall bulge, cut, or exposed cord means the tyre structure has been damaged and it could fail at speed. Such a tyre must be reported and replaced before the vehicle is used; dust or a fitted valve cap is not a structural defect.

Question 43Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

What should you confirm about the air brake system before moving off?

  1. that the gauge remains at zero even while the engine is running and the vehicle is stationary
  2. that pressure is in the maker's stated range and the warning is off Correct answer.
  3. that the parking brake can be released when there is no air pressure in the system
  4. that the low-pressure warning buzzer sounds continuously while the engine runs

Explanation

With an air brake system, the compressor must build pressure to the manufacturer's stated operating range before the vehicle is driven. The low-pressure warning should stop once that range is reached; a gauge that stays at zero or a warning that keeps sounding shows a fault.

Question 44Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

Which load restraint method is acceptable for a heavy vehicle carrying a stack of timber?

  1. Rely on the weight of the timber to keep it in place.
  2. Use a single rope tied over the top of the stack.
  3. Use rated restraints fixed to marked anchor points. Correct answer.
  4. Rest the stack against the closed tailgate only.

Explanation

A load must be restrained by rated straps, chains, or other equipment attached to the vehicle's designated anchor points. The weight of the load, a single rope, or the tailgate alone cannot be relied on to prevent movement or loss of the load.

Question 45Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

What is the purpose of wheel nut indicator tags on a heavy vehicle?

  1. They show at a glance if a wheel nut has started to loosen. Correct answer.
  2. They lock the wheel nut so that it cannot turn.
  3. They balance the wheel assembly at speed.
  4. They show the tyre inflation pressure.

Explanation

Wheel nut indicators are aligned pointers fitted to the nuts so that a visual check shows any nut that has begun to rotate. They do not lock the nut or measure tyre pressure, and they do not balance the wheel.

Question 46Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

After coupling a tractor unit to a semi-trailer, which check confirms the fifth-wheel jaw has engaged correctly?

  1. The trailer parking brake releases smoothly when you move the lever.
  2. The landing legs are fully raised and stowed in the travel position.
  3. The air lines connect to the trailer without any audible leak.
  4. A gentle pull with the trailer brake applied shows no movement. Correct answer.

Explanation

After coupling, a pull test with the trailer brake applied checks that the fifth-wheel jaw has locked around the kingpin. The safety catch should also be engaged and the air lines and landing legs checked, but only the pull test confirms the coupling will not separate.

Question 47Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

The ABS warning lamp stays on after you start the engine and move off. What does this mean?

  1. The vehicle can be driven normally if the brakes feel firm.
  2. The ABS is working and the lamp will go out at speed.
  3. The ABS has a fault and the vehicle should be reported. Correct answer.
  4. The trailer has been disconnected from the air supply.

Explanation

If the ABS warning lamp stays on after the self-test, the anti-lock system has detected a fault and is not available. The service brakes may still work, but the vehicle should be reported and assessed before use because wheel-lock protection is reduced.

Question 48Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

A crack in the windscreen runs across the driver's side of the swept area. What should you do?

  1. Use the wipers on fast speed to keep the area clear.
  2. Continue if the crack is shorter than 10 cm.
  3. Clean the screen and monitor the crack during the trip.
  4. Report it as a defect before taking the vehicle out. Correct answer.

Explanation

Damage in the swept area of the windscreen can obscure the driver's view and weaken the screen, so it is a defect. The vehicle should not be used until the damage has been assessed; cleaning the screen or using the wipers does not restore roadworthiness.

Question 49Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

During the walk-around check you see fresh oil dripping under the engine. What is the correct response?

  1. Wipe the oil away and continue if the level is full.
  2. Ignore it because a small leak is normal on heavy vehicles.
  3. Record the leak and have the cause checked before departure. Correct answer.
  4. Add oil and depart; the drip will stop when warm.

Explanation

Fresh oil under the engine may indicate a leak that could worsen, contaminate the road, or lead to low oil pressure. The leak should be recorded and investigated before departure; wiping it away or simply topping up does not fix the cause.

Question 50Pre-trip inspection, vehicle roadworthiness and defect reporting

Which entry makes a defect report useful for the workshop and for the operator's records?

  1. A note that the vehicle feels wrong with no other detail.
  2. A verbal warning to the next driver at the end of the shift.
  3. The defect, its location, the date and the reporter's name. Correct answer.
  4. A photograph only, with no written description or date.

Explanation

A useful defect report identifies what is wrong, where it is, when it was found, and who reported it, so the workshop can act and the operator has an audit trail. A vague note, a verbal message, or a photo without a written record is not sufficient.