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UK PCV Case Studies study materials
UK PCV Case Studies study resources

UK PCV Case Studies practice questions

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Question 1Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

In England and Wales, what is the maximum speed for a passenger-carrying vehicle with more than eight seats on a single carriageway road where cars are limited to 60 mph?

  1. 40 mph
  2. 50 mph Correct answer.
  3. 60 mph
  4. 70 mph

Explanation

Buses and coaches with more than eight passenger seats are subject to lower national speed limits than cars. On a single carriageway in England and Wales the PCV limit is 50 mph even where the car limit is 60 mph. The vehicle's own speed limiter or markings may impose a lower limit.

Question 2Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What should a PCV driver do before taking the vehicle on the road for the first time in a working day?

  1. Check only the fuel level and mirrors
  2. Complete a walkaround check and report any defects Correct answer.
  3. Run the engine for five minutes and set off
  4. Rely on the previous driver's report

Explanation

A daily walkaround check is required before first use to identify defects affecting safety, such as tyres, lights, brakes, bodywork and emergency exits. Defects that make the vehicle unsafe must be reported and the vehicle must not be used. The check also confirms that required equipment is present and secure.

Question 3Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV is at a bus stop with passengers boarding. When may the driver move off?

  1. After sounding the horn once
  2. As soon as the last passenger has paid
  3. Once the doors are closed and it is safe to move Correct answer.
  4. When a passenger signals to the driver

Explanation

The driver must ensure that passengers are not put at risk before moving away. The doors should be closed and the road conditions checked so that the vehicle can move off safely. A signal from a passenger does not replace the driver's own safety checks.

Question 4Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

On a coach fitted with seat belts, what is the driver required to do about their own seat belt?

  1. Wear it only on motorways
  2. Ask a passenger to check it
  3. Use it only if the coach has no standing passengers
  4. Wear it whenever the vehicle is moving Correct answer.

Explanation

If a seat belt is fitted to the driver's seat, the driver must wear it while driving, except in limited circumstances such as reversing. The requirement applies on all roads, not only motorways. The driver should also tell passengers to use belts where fitted.

Question 5Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

In daylight, when must a PCV driver use headlights?

  1. When visibility is seriously reduced, generally below 100 metres Correct answer.
  2. Only between sunset and sunrise
  3. Only when it is raining heavily
  4. Only on roads without street lighting

Explanation

Headlights must be used when visibility is seriously reduced, and the Highway Code gives 100 metres as a guide. They are also required at night on unrestricted roads and in other conditions where the driver cannot see clearly. Daytime running lights alone may not be enough.

Question 6Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A pedestrian is already on a zebra crossing as a PCV approaches. What must the driver do?

  1. Stop and give way to the pedestrian Correct answer.
  2. Continue if there is enough room to pass
  3. Sound the horn to warn the pedestrian
  4. Flash the headlights and proceed

Explanation

Drivers must give way to pedestrians on a zebra crossing. A PCV should approach at a speed that allows a safe stop and should not wave pedestrians to cross. Passing a pedestrian on the crossing would be dangerous and unlawful.

Question 7Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What does a circular road sign with a red border generally indicate?

  1. A route for tourist traffic
  2. A recommended speed
  3. A prohibition or restriction Correct answer.
  4. 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 no entry. Triangular signs with red borders generally warn of hazards. Blue circular signs often give positive instructions.

Question 8Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

Where must luggage not be placed on a PCV?

  1. In an approved luggage rack
  2. Under a seat if secured
  3. In an aisle or emergency exit Correct answer.
  4. In the luggage hold

Explanation

Luggage must be stowed so it cannot move and must not obstruct aisles, steps or emergency exits. Blocking an escape route can delay evacuation in an emergency. The driver should check that gangways and exits remain clear before moving.

Question 9Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV driver has driven for 2 hours, taken a 15-minute break, then driven for another 2 hours 30 minutes. What break is needed before driving again?

  1. 30 minutes Correct answer.
  2. 15 minutes
  3. 45 minutes
  4. 60 minutes

Explanation

The driver has accumulated 4 hours 30 minutes of driving, so a 45-minute break is required. A break may be split into at least 15 minutes followed by at least 30 minutes. The first 15 minutes has been taken, so a further 30 minutes is needed.

Question 10Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV driver has already used one of the permitted 10-hour driving extensions that week. What is the normal maximum daily driving limit?

  1. 8 hours
  2. 10 hours
  3. 11 hours
  4. 9 hours Correct answer.

Explanation

The normal daily driving limit is 9 hours. It may be extended to 10 hours on no more than two days in a week. Since one extension has been used, the normal 9-hour limit still applies to other days.

Question 11Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the maximum driving time in a single week for a PCV driver under the drivers' hours rules?

  1. 90 hours
  2. 48 hours
  3. 60 hours
  4. 56 hours Correct answer.

Explanation

Weekly driving time must not exceed 56 hours. The fortnightly limit is 90 hours, which is a separate check. Both limits must be satisfied, along with daily driving limits.

Question 12Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the normal minimum daily rest period for a PCV driver?

  1. 12 hours
  2. 9 hours
  3. 11 hours Correct answer.
  4. 10 hours

Explanation

Drivers normally need at least 11 hours of daily rest in each 24-hour period. This may be reduced to 9 hours on limited occasions, but the normal minimum remains 11 hours. Daily rest is different from a break during the working day.

Question 13Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A coach is 4.4 metres high and approaches a bridge marked 4.3 metres. What should the driver do?

  1. Lower the suspension and continue
  2. Ask passengers to move to the front
  3. Take another route that avoids the bridge Correct answer.
  4. Drive through slowly with hazard lights on

Explanation

The marked bridge height is lower than the vehicle, so the coach must not attempt to pass underneath. The driver should stop safely and find an alternative route. Bridge strikes can cause serious injury and structural damage.

Question 14Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV driver needs to make an urgent business call while on the road. What is the safest legal action?

  1. Use a handheld phone briefly while driving
  2. Use a hands-free set while negotiating traffic
  3. Stop in a safe and legal place before making the call Correct answer.
  4. Ask a passenger to hold the phone

Explanation

Handheld mobile phone use while driving is prohibited, and hands-free calls can still distract the driver. The safe approach is to stop in a safe and legal place before making or taking the call. A PCV driver must give full attention to the road and passengers.

Question 15Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the minimum legal tread depth for tyres on a PCV?

  1. 1.0 mm Correct answer.
  2. 3.0 mm
  3. 2.0 mm
  4. 1.6 mm

Explanation

PCV tyres must have at least 1.0 mm tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference. This is lower than the 1.6 mm car minimum but still critical for grip and safety. The driver should check tyres as part of the daily walkaround.

Question 16Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A wheelchair user is waiting at a stop and the PCV has a working wheelchair space. What should the driver do?

  1. Allow boarding only if another passenger helps
  2. Ask the wheelchair user to transfer to a seat
  3. Refuse boarding if the bus is busy
  4. Provide reasonable assistance and keep the space clear Correct answer.

Explanation

PSV accessibility rules require drivers to provide reasonable assistance to disabled passengers, including wheelchair users. The wheelchair space must be kept clear and the ramp or kneeling facility used where available. Refusing without a valid safety reason can amount to discrimination.

Question 17Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV approaches a level crossing as the red lights begin to flash and the barrier starts to lower. What should the driver do?

  1. Sound the horn and continue
  2. Stop before the crossing and wait Correct answer.
  3. Accelerate to clear the crossing
  4. Drive around the barrier if it is only partly down

Explanation

Flashing red lights and lowering barriers mean the driver must stop and wait. It is dangerous and illegal to enter the crossing once the signals operate. The driver should stop well before the barrier and keep the crossing clear.

Question 18Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV breaks down on the hard shoulder of a motorway. What is the first priority for the driver?

  1. Stay in the vehicle with all passengers
  2. Set out a warning triangle behind the vehicle
  3. Move passengers to a safer place away from traffic Correct answer.
  4. Repair the vehicle before moving passengers

Explanation

On a motorway, the hard shoulder is dangerous, especially for a large vehicle with passengers. The priority is to move occupants to a safer place behind the barrier or up the embankment if possible and call for assistance. Warning triangles should not be used on motorways.

Question 19Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

When may a PCV driver use rear fog lights?

  1. When visibility is seriously reduced, generally below 100 metres Correct answer.
  2. Whenever it is raining
  3. Only at night on an unlit road
  4. When following another vehicle closely

Explanation

Fog lights should be used only when visibility is seriously reduced, generally below 100 metres. They must be switched off when visibility improves because they can dazzle other drivers. They are not a substitute for appropriate speed and following distance.

Question 20Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

How should a PCV driver reduce the risk of overloading the vehicle?

  1. Rely on the passenger count only
  2. Inflate tyres above the recommended pressure
  3. Distribute the load and check axle weights are within limits Correct answer.
  4. Put all heavy items at the rear

Explanation

Overloading can exceed both the gross vehicle weight and individual axle limits. The load should be distributed sensibly and the axle weights checked where necessary. Tyre pressures should be set to the manufacturer's recommendation for the actual load.

Question 21Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

When a PCV driver makes manual entries on a digital tachograph, what should be recorded?

  1. Only the periods of driving
  2. Only breaks taken away from the vehicle
  3. Only the times when the vehicle was moving
  4. All periods of driving, other work, availability, break and rest since the card was last withdrawn Correct answer.

Explanation

Manual entries are used to complete the record for time away from the vehicle, including other work, availability, breaks and rest. They must be accurate and made at the correct time. Missing or false entries can lead to prosecution and a loss of licence.

Question 22Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

Smoke is seen coming from the rear of a moving coach. What should the driver do?

  1. Continue to the next scheduled stop
  2. Open all windows and speed up
  3. Stop safely, evacuate passengers away from the vehicle and call the emergency services Correct answer.
  4. Stop and inspect the engine while passengers remain seated

Explanation

A fire risk requires an immediate safe stop and evacuation. Passengers should be moved well away from the vehicle and the emergency services called. The driver should switch off the engine and use exits away from the smoke where possible.

Question 23Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV driver reduces their daily rest to 9 hours. How many times may this reduction normally be taken between weekly rest periods?

  1. Three times Correct answer.
  2. As many times as needed
  3. Two times
  4. Four times

Explanation

Daily rest may be reduced to 9 hours no more than three times between weekly rest periods. A reduced rest still has to be taken within the relevant 24-hour period. The driver must keep records and ensure the weekly rest is not affected.

Question 24Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A passenger reports an unattended bag on a coach and no one claims it. What should the driver do?

  1. Continue the journey and ignore it
  2. Open the bag to identify the owner
  3. Keep passengers away, avoid touching the bag and alert the emergency services Correct answer.
  4. Put the bag in the luggage hold

Explanation

An unattended item should be treated as suspicious until proven otherwise. The driver should not touch or move it, should keep people away and should contact the emergency services. The vehicle may need to be evacuated if there is an immediate risk.

Question 25Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the maximum driving time permitted in any two consecutive weeks for a PCV driver?

  1. 144 hours
  2. 90 hours Correct answer.
  3. 56 hours
  4. 120 hours

Explanation

The fortnightly driving limit is 90 hours across any two consecutive weeks. This sits alongside the 56-hour weekly limit and the daily limits. All limits must be checked separately because a driver can comply with one and breach another.

Question 26Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

On a single carriageway road with national speed limit signs, what is the maximum speed for a coach?

  1. 60 mph
  2. 50 mph Correct answer.
  3. 70 mph
  4. 40 mph

Explanation

Buses and coaches are subject to lower national speed limits than cars: 50 mph on single carriageways, 60 mph on dual carriageways and 70 mph on motorways. The single-carriageway limit applies unless a lower limit is signed.

Question 27Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

Which type of road sign is a triangle with a red border?

  1. An information sign
  2. A warning sign Correct answer.
  3. A stop sign
  4. A prohibition sign

Explanation

Triangular signs with a red border give warning of a hazard ahead, such as a bend or junction. Prohibitions are usually circular, and information signs are often rectangular or blue.

Question 28Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

At a pelican crossing, what does a flashing amber light mean to a PCV driver?

  1. Stop and wait until the light turns green
  2. Give way to pedestrians on the crossing Correct answer.
  3. Sound the horn before moving off
  4. Drive on because pedestrians must wait

Explanation

Flashing amber at a pelican crossing means you must give way to pedestrians who are still on the crossing. If the crossing is clear, you may proceed.

Question 29Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A red X signal above a lane on a smart motorway means:

  1. The lane is for overtaking only
  2. The lane is closed to traffic Correct answer.
  3. The lane is for emergency vehicles only
  4. The lane has a lower speed limit

Explanation

A red X shows that the lane is closed because of an incident, roadworks or a stopped vehicle. Drivers must move out of that lane as soon as it is safe to do so.

Question 30Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What do double yellow lines along the edge of the road mean?

  1. Parking is free for up to 30 minutes
  2. Only buses may stop there
  3. No waiting at any time Correct answer.
  4. No loading at any time

Explanation

Double yellow lines mean no waiting at any time, although separate signs may allow loading for a limited period. A PCV should not stop there to wait, even briefly, unless a signed exemption applies.

Question 31Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

When must a PCV driver use headlights during the day?

  1. Only on motorways
  2. Never, if sidelights are on
  3. When visibility is seriously reduced Correct answer.
  4. Only when the vehicle is carrying passengers

Explanation

Headlights must be used at night and when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see more than 100 metres. Sidelights alone are not enough in these conditions.

Question 32Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What should a PCV driver ensure about emergency exits before departure?

  1. They are covered by luggage to save space
  2. They are kept clear and operable Correct answer.
  3. They are locked to prevent unauthorised use
  4. They are opened only by the driver

Explanation

Emergency exits must remain unobstructed and ready for use throughout the journey. Locking or blocking them could prevent a safe evacuation.

Question 33Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV is about to leave a bus stop. What must be true before it moves off?

  1. The next stop has been announced
  2. Doors are closed and it is safe Correct answer.
  3. All passengers are seated
  4. The driver has sounded the horn

Explanation

Doors must be closed before the vehicle moves off, and the driver must check mirrors and blind spots to ensure it is safe. Passengers may stand on a bus but not on a coach where seat belts are fitted.

Question 34Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

At a yellow box junction, when may a PCV driver enter the box?

  1. Whenever the traffic lights are green
  2. When traffic is moving slowly but the exit is blocked
  3. When the exit is clear or you are turning right Correct answer.
  4. When following a bus

Explanation

You may enter a box junction only if your exit road is clear. The exception is when turning right and you are stopped only by oncoming traffic or other vehicles waiting to turn right.

Question 35Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the normal minimum weekly rest period for a PCV driver under GB drivers' hours rules?

  1. 45 hours Correct answer.
  2. 24 hours
  3. 60 hours
  4. 36 hours

Explanation

A regular weekly rest is at least 45 consecutive hours. It may be reduced in limited circumstances, but the normal minimum is 45 hours.

Question 36Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the purpose of the mode switch on a digital tachograph?

  1. To record the driver's activity Correct answer.
  2. To reset the vehicle's odometer
  3. To print the day's fuel receipt
  4. To change the vehicle's speed limiter setting

Explanation

The mode switch lets the driver record periods of other work, availability and rest so the tachograph shows an accurate record. Driving is recorded automatically when the vehicle moves.

Question 37Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

Before reversing a PCV into a loading area, what should the driver do first?

  1. Sound the horn continuously
  2. Ask passengers to guide from inside
  3. Switch on hazard lights and reverse quickly
  4. Check the area is clear and use a guide Correct answer.

Explanation

Reversing has limited visibility, so the driver should check the area and use a guide if one is available. If visibility is still poor, the driver should get out and check before reversing.

Question 38Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

During a walk-around check, a driver finds a defective rear light. What should the driver do?

  1. Continue the journey if it is daylight
  2. Report it and do not use the vehicle Correct answer.
  3. Repair it at the next scheduled service
  4. Cover the light and carry on

Explanation

Defects must be reported to the operator, and the vehicle should not be used if the defect makes it unroadworthy. A defective rear light can affect visibility and legality.

Question 39Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

Who is legally responsible for ensuring a 15-year-old passenger wears a seat belt where one is fitted?

  1. The driver
  2. The operator
  3. The accompanying adult
  4. The passenger Correct answer.

Explanation

Passengers aged 14 and over are responsible for wearing their own seat belt. The driver is responsible for children under 14, but should still remind all passengers where seat belts are fitted.

Question 40Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV approaches a bus stop where passengers are waiting. What should the driver do?

  1. Pass the stop and stop at the next one
  2. Stop safely close to the kerb Correct answer.
  3. Stop in the middle of the road to save time
  4. Open the doors before stopping

Explanation

The driver should stop as close to the kerb as is safe and secure the vehicle before opening the doors. This helps passengers board safely and avoids blocking traffic.

Question 41Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

A PCV driver is first to arrive at a road collision. What is the first priority?

  1. Move injured people immediately
  2. Make the scene safe and warn other traffic Correct answer.
  3. Take photographs for insurance
  4. Move all vehicles before checking for casualties

Explanation

The first priority is to protect yourself and others by making the scene safe and warning approaching traffic. Moving casualties should be avoided unless there is immediate danger.

Question 42Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

After an injury collision involving a PCV, which action is legally required of the driver?

  1. Wait for the operator before doing anything
  2. Report it only if someone is seriously hurt
  3. Leave a note on the damaged vehicle and drive on
  4. Stop, report it and exchange details Correct answer.

Explanation

The driver must stop, give their details and report the collision to the police as soon as practicable, and in any case within 24 hours if details were not exchanged. Failing to stop is an offence.

Question 43Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

In dry conditions, what is the recommended minimum following gap for a PCV?

  1. Five seconds
  2. Two seconds Correct answer.
  3. Half a second
  4. One second

Explanation

The two-second rule gives a minimum gap in good, dry conditions. In wet weather the gap should be at least doubled.

Question 44Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

How should a PCV driver adjust following distance in wet weather?

  1. Reduce the gap to prevent others cutting in
  2. Use the dry gap but switch on fog lights
  3. At least double the dry-weather gap Correct answer.
  4. Keep the same gap as in dry weather

Explanation

Stopping distances are at least doubled in wet weather, so the following gap should also be doubled. Fog lights should not be used unless visibility is seriously reduced.

Question 45Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

Which action is most appropriate when driving a high-sided PCV in strong crosswinds?

  1. Keep close to the vehicle in front
  2. Increase speed to get through quickly
  3. Reduce speed and keep control Correct answer.
  4. Use the centre of the road for shelter

Explanation

High-sided vehicles are vulnerable to crosswinds, especially on exposed stretches such as bridges. Reducing speed and holding the steering firmly helps maintain control.

Question 46Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

How long must a PCV driver be able to produce tachograph records when requested by an enforcement officer?

  1. The current day only
  2. The previous 28 days Correct answer.
  3. The previous 7 days
  4. The previous 12 months

Explanation

Drivers must be able to produce their tachograph records for the current day and the previous 28 days when requested. This applies to digital and analogue records.

Question 47Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

When does a new PCV normally first require an annual test (PSV test)?

  1. Only when it reaches five years old
  2. One year after registration Correct answer.
  3. After six months
  4. Two years after registration

Explanation

A new PCV normally needs its first annual test one year after registration, then annually thereafter. The operator is responsible for keeping the test certificate valid.

Question 48Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the legal limit on the number of passengers a PCV may carry?

  1. The number shown on the operator's licence only
  2. The seating capacity on the PSV plate Correct answer.
  3. The number of available handholds
  4. As many as can physically fit

Explanation

A PCV must not carry more passengers than the seating capacity recorded on its PSV plate or certificate. Overloading affects stability, braking and emergency evacuation.

Question 49Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What does a PSV operator's licence authorise?

  1. A vehicle to be used without an MOT
  2. A company to manufacture PCVs
  3. A driver to drive any PCV
  4. To run PSVs for hire or reward Correct answer.

Explanation

A PSV operator's licence is required to operate public service vehicles for hire or reward. It is held by the operator, not by the driver, and is separate from the driver's licence.

Question 50Driving to regulations and the Highway Code (PCV)

What is the minimum level of motor insurance legally required for a PCV?

  1. Third-party insurance Correct answer.
  2. Third-party, fire and theft
  3. Comprehensive cover
  4. Breakdown cover

Explanation

The legal minimum is third-party cover, which pays for injury or damage caused to others. Comprehensive and breakdown cover are optional extras.