USVI Driver License Test key terms

A red, eight-sided sign that requires you to come to a complete halt at the stop line or crosswalk, check for traffic and pedestrians, and go only when the way is clear.

A red-and-white triangular sign telling you to slow down and let traffic on the intersecting road go first. Come to a stop only if that is what it takes to avoid a crash.

A sign that states a legal requirement or prohibition, such as a speed limit, a no-turn arrow, or a one-way marker. Disobeying one is a traffic violation.

A yellow diamond-shaped sign that alerts you to a hazard ahead, such as a curve, steep grade, or merging traffic, so you can slow down and get ready.

A sign that gives directions, distances, or information about routes, exits, and services. Green signs usually name destinations, and blue signs point out services.

A flashing red light works like a stop sign: halt completely, yield to cross traffic and pedestrians, then go ahead when it is safe.

A flashing yellow light means slow down and use caution. It does not give you the right of way, so watch closely for crossing traffic and other hazards.

Two solid yellow lines mark a road where passing is prohibited in both directions. You may cross them only for a turn into or out of a driveway or side road, where allowed.

A dashed white line separates lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. You may cross it to change lanes when it is safe and you have signaled first.

White lines or stripes painted on the pavement to show where pedestrians cross. Drivers must yield to people in a crosswalk, whether or not it is marked.

An X-shaped white sign lettered Railroad Crossing that marks a grade crossing. Treat it like a yield sign: look and listen for trains before you drive across.

A sign marking an area near a school where speed limits are lower and children may be crossing. Slow down and obey any posted times or flashing beacons.

The legal priority to move first in a traffic situation. Having the right of way is something others give you or you take only when clearly safe; never assume it.

An intersection where every approach has a stop sign. The first vehicle to stop goes first; if two arrive at the same moment, the one on the right goes first.

An intersection with no signs or signals. Slow down, yield to vehicles already in the intersection, and give way to traffic approaching from your right.

The space between your car and the vehicle ahead. At least three seconds in good conditions gives you time to stop when traffic suddenly slows.

A stretch of road where the markings allow you to overtake a slower vehicle by moving into the opposing lane, provided the way ahead is clear.

A circular intersection where traffic flows one way around a central island. Yield to vehicles already in the circle and enter only when there is a safe gap.

Lights that tell other drivers you plan to turn or change lanes. Signal several seconds ahead of the move and switch it off once you are done.

The rule that drivers must yield to people walking in a crosswalk or stepping into one, and must use care to avoid hitting pedestrians anywhere on the roadway.

A police car, fire truck, or ambulance using lights or a siren. Pull over to the edge of the road, stop, and stay put until it passes; never follow close behind.

A style of driving in which you watch for other people's mistakes, keep escape space around your car, and expect the unexpected so a hazard never becomes a crash.

When water on the road lifts your tires off the surface so they lose grip and steering. Ease off the accelerator, avoid hard braking, and hold the wheel steady.

The area beside and behind your vehicle that the mirrors do not show. Turn your head to check it before changing lanes or merging into traffic.

When tires lose traction and the car slides sideways. Stop accelerating or braking hard, look where you want to go, and steer gently in that direction.

Driving while your attention is on something else, such as a phone, food, or passengers. Even a few seconds of inattention can lead to a crash.

Operating a vehicle when alcohol, drugs, or medication has dulled your judgment, reaction time, and coordination. It is illegal and a leading cause of fatal crashes.

Following another vehicle too closely, which leaves you no room to stop if it brakes suddenly. Drop back and rebuild your following distance.

An area where road crews are working, usually marked by cones, signs, and lower speed limits. Slow down, follow directions, and expect fines to be higher.

Bright headlights used on unlit roads. Dim them to low beams when traffic approaches or when you follow another car closely, so you do not blind the other driver.

The rule in the U.S. Virgin Islands that vehicles travel on the left side of the road. Keep it in mind at intersections, when turning, and when pulling out.

A restricted permit that lets a new driver practice with a licensed adult in the car. Age, supervision, and driving-hour rules are set by the local licensing office.

The official record and sticker showing that a vehicle is registered with the government. Driving with an expired registration is a violation and can bring fines.

A required safety check of brakes, lights, tires, and similar equipment. A passing inspection sticker shows the vehicle meets the territory's safety standards.

Coverage that pays for damage or injury you cause to other people in a crash. Drivers are required to carry at least the minimum amount set by law.

A strap that holds you in your seat during a crash. Drivers and passengers are required to buckle up, and young children need an approved safety seat.

A specially designed seat that protects a young child in a crash. Children must ride in a seat or booster that fits their size and age.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is illegal whenever your driving is impaired, and a conviction brings fines, license loss, and possible jail time.

An opened bottle or can of alcohol kept in the passenger area of a vehicle. It is generally illegal for drivers and passengers, even if the driver is sober.

A record of traffic convictions that adds points to your driving record. Enough points within a set period can lead to suspension of your license.