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WA Driving Instructor practice questions

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Question 1Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the basic speed limit on a Washington state highway outside city and town limits, unless posted otherwise?

  1. 55 mph
  2. 60 mph Correct answer.
  3. 65 mph
  4. 50 mph

Explanation

Washington sets the default maximum speed at 60 mph on state highways outside incorporated areas when no other limit is posted. Posted signs always override the default. Drivers must also slow below the limit when conditions require.

Question 2Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

In Washington, what is the default maximum speed on a city or town street unless posted otherwise?

  1. 35 mph
  2. 25 mph Correct answer.
  3. 30 mph
  4. 20 mph

Explanation

The default speed limit on city and town streets in Washington is 25 mph unless signs show a different limit. Drivers must still reduce speed for traffic, weather, and road conditions.

Question 3Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A school bus has stopped on a two-lane road with its red lights flashing and stop paddle extended. Which drivers must stop?

  1. Only drivers within 100 feet of the bus
  2. Drivers in both directions until the red lights stop flashing Correct answer.
  3. Only drivers who can see children crossing
  4. Only drivers traveling in the same direction as the bus

Explanation

When a school bus displays flashing red lights and the stop paddle, traffic in both directions must stop until the lights stop flashing. This protects children entering or leaving the bus. On divided highways with a median, only traffic on the bus's side must stop.

Question 4Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

When must a driver use headlights in Washington?

  1. Only on roads without streetlights
  2. Only when it is actually raining
  3. From a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise, and whenever visibility is poor Correct answer.
  4. Only between midnight and sunrise

Explanation

Washington requires headlights from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise. They are also required whenever conditions like fog, rain, or snow make it hard to see people or vehicles clearly at 1,000 feet.

Question 5Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver approaches a steady circular red light and wants to turn right. What does Washington law allow?

  1. Turn after stopping, if the way is clear and no sign prohibits the turn Correct answer.
  2. Wait for a green arrow in every case
  3. Turn only after the light cycles to green
  4. Turn without stopping if no traffic is coming

Explanation

A right turn on a steady red light is permitted after a complete stop when the way is clear and no sign forbids it. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and cross traffic. A green arrow is not required for a right turn on red.

Question 6Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What does a flashing yellow traffic signal mean?

  1. Yield only to vehicles on the right
  2. The signal is broken and the road is closed
  3. Stop and wait for green
  4. Slow down and proceed with caution Correct answer.

Explanation

A flashing yellow light warns drivers to slow down and proceed carefully, yielding as needed. It does not require a stop. A flashing red, by contrast, requires a full stop before proceeding.

Question 7Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

Two vehicles reach an uncontrolled intersection at about the same time. Which driver has the right of way?

  1. The driver traveling faster
  2. The driver on the right Correct answer.
  3. The driver on the left
  4. The driver turning left

Explanation

At an uncontrolled intersection, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right. If one driver is turning left across the other's path, the left-turning driver yields. Speed does not create a right of way.

Question 8Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is entering a roundabout. Who must yield?

  1. Traffic already circulating in the roundabout Correct answer.
  2. The driver entering, only if a pedestrian is present
  3. Vehicles waiting to enter from the left
  4. Vehicles waiting to enter from the right

Explanation

Drivers entering a roundabout must yield to traffic already in the circle. Once inside, drivers proceed counterclockwise and signal when exiting. Yielding to circulating traffic keeps the roundabout moving safely.

Question 9Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

How far before a turn must a driver signal in Washington?

  1. At least 25 feet
  2. At least 200 feet
  3. At least 50 feet
  4. At least 100 feet Correct answer.

Explanation

Washington requires a turn signal at least 100 feet before turning. Signaling earlier gives other drivers and pedestrians time to react. A driver should also cancel the signal after completing the turn.

Question 10Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

On a two-lane road, when may a driver legally pass a vehicle on the left?

  1. Whenever the vehicle ahead is traveling below the speed limit
  2. When a broken yellow line is on the driver's side and the way is clear Correct answer.
  3. Whenever the driver can complete the pass within one mile
  4. When a solid yellow line is on the driver's side

Explanation

A broken yellow line on the driver's side permits passing when it can be done safely and the way ahead is clear. A solid yellow line on the driver's side forbids passing. Passing is never allowed merely because the lead vehicle is slow.

Question 11Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the maximum speed limit in a Washington school zone when children are present and the zone is posted?

  1. 15 mph
  2. 30 mph
  3. 25 mph
  4. 20 mph Correct answer.

Explanation

Posted school zones in Washington commonly set a 20 mph limit when children are present. Drivers must obey the posted zone speed during the times it applies. The limit protects children who may enter the roadway unpredictably.

Question 12Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A pedestrian is crossing at a marked crosswalk without a traffic signal. What must a driver do?

  1. Sound the horn and continue
  2. Drive around the pedestrian if space allows
  3. Proceed if the driver arrives first
  4. Stop and yield to the pedestrian Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, whether marked or unmarked at an intersection. Arriving first does not give a driver priority over a pedestrian already crossing. Honking or driving around a pedestrian is unsafe and unlawful.

Question 13Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the legal blood alcohol concentration limit for a driver age 21 or older in Washington?

  1. 0.10
  2. 0.08 Correct answer.
  3. 0.02
  4. 0.05

Explanation

Washington sets the per se limit at 0.08 BAC for drivers 21 and older. A driver can still be convicted of impaired driving below that level if affected by alcohol or drugs. Commercial drivers face a lower limit.

Question 14Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver under age 21 is stopped and tests at 0.03 BAC. What is the legal consequence under Washington's underage drinking and driving law?

  1. No violation because the level is below 0.08
  2. The driver is subject to the underage impaired driving law Correct answer.
  3. A violation only if the driver caused a collision
  4. A warning only, with no record

Explanation

Washington's underage drinking and driving law sets a 0.02 BAC threshold for drivers under 21. Testing at or above that level is a violation even though it is below the adult 0.08 limit. A collision is not required for the violation.

Question 15Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

Under Washington's implied consent law, what happens if a lawfully arrested driver refuses a breath or blood test?

  1. The driver may choose a different test with no consequence
  2. The officer must release the driver immediately
  3. The refusal may lead to license suspension and can be used against the driver Correct answer.
  4. Nothing, because testing is always voluntary

Explanation

Driving in Washington implies consent to evidentiary testing after a lawful arrest for impaired driving. Refusing can result in license suspension and the refusal may be used in court. Refusal does not end the encounter or guarantee release.

Question 16Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

When a driver is pulled over by police, where should the vehicle be stopped?

  1. On the nearest sidewalk
  2. In the closest intersection
  3. In the middle of the lane with hazards on
  4. As far to the right of the roadway as practical, clear of traffic Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers should pull over as far to the right as practical and stop clear of travel lanes. This protects the officer and other traffic. Stopping in an intersection or on a sidewalk is unsafe and generally unlawful.

Question 17Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What does Washington's Move Over law require when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights on a multi-lane road?

  1. Sound the horn and pass closely
  2. Maintain speed and lane
  3. Stop completely until the vehicle leaves
  4. Move over a lane if safe, or slow down if moving over is not possible Correct answer.

Explanation

Washington's Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes away from stopped emergency or work vehicles with flashing lights when it is safe. If a lane change is not possible, the driver must slow down and pass cautiously.

Question 18Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver's vehicle has a malfunctioning brake light. What does Washington law generally require?

  1. The vehicle may be driven only at night
  2. The defect must be corrected before the vehicle is operated on public roads Correct answer.
  3. The vehicle may be driven indefinitely without repair
  4. Only a warning is issued and no repair is needed

Explanation

Washington requires vehicles on public roads to be in safe operating condition, including working required lights and brakes. A driver should repair a defective brake light promptly rather than continue operating the vehicle. Driving with known safety defects can lead to citations.

Question 19Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

How close may a driver legally park to a fire hydrant in Washington?

  1. 5 feet
  2. 10 feet
  3. 15 feet Correct answer.
  4. 20 feet

Explanation

Washington prohibits parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant. The clearance lets firefighters connect equipment quickly in an emergency. Local rules may impose additional restrictions.

Question 20Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is approaching a railroad crossing with flashing red lights and the gate lowering. What should the driver do?

  1. Proceed slowly across the tracks
  2. Drive around the gate if no train is visible
  3. Stop on the tracks to check for trains
  4. Stop and wait until the lights and gate clear Correct answer.

Explanation

Flashing red lights and a lowering gate mean a train is approaching, so drivers must stop and wait. Driving around a lowered gate is dangerous and unlawful. A driver should never stop on the tracks.

Question 21Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the proper way to use a center left-turn lane on a Washington roadway?

  1. For U-turns only
  2. For making left turns from either direction, not for travel Correct answer.
  3. For passing slower traffic in either direction
  4. For parking briefly while loading

Explanation

A center left-turn lane is shared by traffic in both directions for making left turns. It is not a travel or passing lane. Drivers enter it only shortly before turning and should not use it to bypass traffic.

Question 22Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

When may a driver legally make a U-turn in Washington?

  1. Only at intersections controlled by a green arrow
  2. Only in a business district
  3. Where it can be done safely and no sign or law prohibits it Correct answer.
  4. Anywhere the road is wide enough

Explanation

U-turns are permitted only where they can be made safely and are not prohibited by signs or law. They are generally barred where visibility is limited or near curves and hill crests. Safety and posted restrictions control.

Question 23Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is following another vehicle at night and the high beams are on. What should the driver do when approaching within 500 feet from behind?

  1. Keep high beams on to see better
  2. Switch to low beams Correct answer.
  3. Flash high beams repeatedly
  4. Turn headlights off briefly

Explanation

Washington requires drivers to dim high beams when following within 500 feet of another vehicle. High beams in a rearview mirror can blind the driver ahead. Dimming also applies when meeting oncoming traffic within 500 feet.

Question 24Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What must a driver do before changing lanes on a multi-lane highway?

  1. Change lanes quickly to avoid traffic
  2. Rely on the rearview mirror alone
  3. Signal, check mirrors and blind spot, and move only when clear Correct answer.
  4. Signal only if another vehicle is nearby

Explanation

A safe lane change requires signaling, checking mirrors and the blind spot, and moving only when the lane is clear. Signaling is required regardless of whether other vehicles seem nearby. Mirrors alone leave blind spots unchecked.

Question 25Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver's license is suspended. What is the effect under Washington law if the person continues to drive?

  1. Driving while suspended is a violation with possible criminal penalties Correct answer.
  2. A warning is issued the first time
  3. The suspension converts to a permit automatically
  4. No consequence if the driving is brief

Explanation

Driving while a license is suspended or revoked is a violation in Washington and can carry criminal penalties. The length or purpose of the trip does not excuse it. A driver must resolve the suspension before operating a vehicle.

Question 26Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the default speed limit on a state highway outside incorporated city or town limits in Washington, unless a different limit is posted?

  1. 55 miles per hour
  2. 50 miles per hour
  3. 60 miles per hour Correct answer.
  4. 65 miles per hour

Explanation

Washington sets a statutory maximum of 60 mph on state highways outside city and town limits unless signs post a different limit. Posted limits always control over the general statutory default.

Question 27Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A school bus with red lights flashing and its stop arm extended is stopped on the opposite side of a two-lane road with no median. What must a driver approaching from the other direction do?

  1. Stop and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing Correct answer.
  2. Continue at the posted speed because the bus serves the other direction
  3. Slow to 20 mph and continue past the bus
  4. Stop only if children are visible in the roadway

Explanation

On a two-lane road without a physical median or barrier, traffic in both directions must stop for a school bus displaying red lights and a stop arm. Drivers may proceed only after the red lights are turned off.

Question 28Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver approaches an intersection where a steady red arrow is displayed in the lane for a left turn. What does Washington law allow?

  1. Remain stopped until the arrow turns green, then turn when safe Correct answer.
  2. Proceed straight through the intersection from that lane
  3. Turn left only if no traffic is present in any direction
  4. Turn left after yielding, since a red arrow is treated like a stop sign

Explanation

A red arrow controls the movement it indicates, and a turn against it is not permitted. The driver must wait for a green arrow or other permissive signal before making the turn.

Question 29Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the general rule for passing a stopped school bus that is loading or unloading students on a roadway divided by a median barrier?

  1. Traffic on the opposite side must slow to 20 mph
  2. Only traffic behind the bus must stop
  3. All traffic in both directions must stop
  4. Traffic on the opposite side of the barrier need not stop Correct answer.

Explanation

When a physical median or barrier separates the directions of travel, vehicles on the opposite side of the barrier are not required to stop for the bus. Vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must still stop.

Question 30Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

When a driver intends to turn, Washington law requires the turn to be made from which position?

  1. From the right lane for both left and right turns
  2. From the center lane regardless of direction
  3. From any lane, provided the turn signal is used
  4. From the lane nearest the center line for a left turn, and near the right curb for a right turn Correct answer.

Explanation

Turns must generally be made from the proper lane: as close as practicable to the right curb for a right turn and as close as practicable to the center line or left curb for a left turn. Turning from the wrong lane can cause a collision with adjacent traffic.

Question 31Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is approaching a hill crest on a two-lane road and cannot see oncoming traffic. What does Washington law require regarding passing?

  1. Passing is allowed if the driver stays under the speed limit
  2. Passing is allowed if the driver sounds the horn first
  3. Passing is prohibited where the view is obstructed within a distance that creates a hazard Correct answer.
  4. Passing is allowed if the vehicle ahead is moving slowly

Explanation

A driver may not pass when approaching a curve, hill crest, or other place where the view is obstructed within a distance that makes passing unsafe. Solid yellow markings and no-passing zones reinforce this rule.

Question 32Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the maximum speed limit on a state highway inside an incorporated city or town in Washington unless otherwise posted?

  1. 30 miles per hour Correct answer.
  2. 35 miles per hour
  3. 25 miles per hour
  4. 40 miles per hour

Explanation

The statutory maximum inside incorporated cities and towns is 30 mph unless a different limit is posted. Local authorities may set lower limits on particular streets.

Question 33Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is involved in a collision in which a person is injured. What must the driver do under Washington law?

  1. Stop, render aid, and report the collision to law enforcement Correct answer.
  2. Exchange information later through insurance companies
  3. Continue to the nearest hospital to check on the injured person
  4. Report the collision only if damage exceeds a set dollar amount

Explanation

Washington's hit-and-run and duty-to-report rules require a driver involved in a collision resulting in injury to stop, give reasonable assistance, and notify law enforcement. Leaving the scene can lead to criminal liability.

Question 34Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the minimum liability insurance requirement for a private passenger vehicle in Washington?

  1. No liability insurance is required if the driver is licensed
  2. Liability coverage of 50/100/25 in thousands of dollars
  3. Liability coverage of 25/50/10 in thousands of dollars Correct answer.
  4. Liability coverage of 100/300/50 in thousands of dollars

Explanation

Washington requires drivers to carry liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per collision for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage. Drivers may also satisfy the requirement through a certificate of deposit or self-insurance filed with the state.

Question 35Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

In Washington, when must a child use an approved child restraint system in a vehicle?

  1. Until the child reaches age 8 or 4 feet 9 inches tall Correct answer.
  2. Only when riding in the front seat
  3. Only on trips longer than 10 miles
  4. Until the child turns 16

Explanation

Washington law requires children under age 8, unless they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall, to ride in an appropriate child restraint system. Older children must use a seat belt properly.

Question 36Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A pedestrian with a white cane is crossing a street at a location without a marked crosswalk. What must a driver do?

  1. Pass behind the pedestrian without slowing
  2. Sound the horn to alert the pedestrian and proceed
  3. Yield the right of way to the pedestrian Correct answer.
  4. Continue because the crossing is unmarked

Explanation

Drivers must yield to a pedestrian who is blind or using a white cane or guide dog, including at unmarked crossings. The duty applies whenever the pedestrian is crossing.

Question 37Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is approaching a steady green circular light at an intersection and wants to turn left. What must the driver do?

  1. Stop and then turn when the light changes
  2. Turn immediately because green means the turn is protected
  3. Wait for a green arrow before entering the intersection
  4. Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before turning Correct answer.

Explanation

A green circular light permits the turn but does not protect it. The driver must yield to oncoming vehicles and to pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk.

Question 38Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is traveling on a road with a solid white line separating lanes. What does the line generally mean?

  1. The lane to the right is for turning only
  2. Passing is permitted if the road is clear
  3. Lane changes are discouraged and are permitted only when safe and lawful Correct answer.
  4. Traffic may travel in either direction in the left lane

Explanation

A solid white line marks the edge of a lane and indicates that lane changes are discouraged, though they remain permissible when safe and lawful. Broken white lines mark lanes where changing is routinely permitted.

Question 39Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is on a limited-access highway and misses an exit. What is the safest and lawful action?

  1. Continue to the next exit and turn around there Correct answer.
  2. Stop and back up along the shoulder to the exit
  3. Stop in the travel lane and wait for a gap
  4. Make a U-turn through the median opening

Explanation

Backing up or making U-turns on a limited-access highway is prohibited and dangerous. The driver should continue to the next exit and re-route.

Question 40Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver's vehicle is disabled on a busy highway. Which action best satisfies Washington's requirements for protecting the scene?

  1. Stand behind the vehicle to wave traffic around
  2. Turn on hazard lights, move as far off the roadway as possible, and set out warning devices if safe Correct answer.
  3. Leave the vehicle in the travel lane and wait inside with doors locked
  4. Turn off all lights to avoid distracting other drivers

Explanation

A disabled vehicle should be moved off the travel lanes when possible, hazard lights should be activated, and warning devices such as flares or triangles should be placed when it is safe. Occupants should generally wait in a safe location away from traffic.

Question 41Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

In Washington, what is the general rule about using a handheld cell phone while driving?

  1. It is prohibited, with limited exceptions such as emergency calls Correct answer.
  2. It is permitted at any speed if the call is brief
  3. It is permitted only when the vehicle is in motion on a freeway
  4. It is permitted only in the right lane

Explanation

Washington's distracted driving law prohibits holding a phone to the ear or using a handheld device while driving, with narrow exceptions such as contacting emergency services. Hands-free use is permitted.

Question 42Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is driving at night and a vehicle approaches from the opposite direction with bright headlights. What should the driver do?

  1. Look toward the right edge of the roadway to avoid glare Correct answer.
  2. Turn on high beams to match the other driver
  3. Close one eye until the vehicle passes
  4. Look directly at the oncoming headlights

Explanation

Looking toward the right edge of the lane helps the driver stay centered while avoiding glare from oncoming headlights. High beams should be dimmed for oncoming traffic.

Question 43Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

On a roadway with three or more lanes in one direction, what is the general purpose of the leftmost lane?

  1. It is intended for vehicles preparing to exit
  2. It is reserved for vehicles traveling at the posted speed limit only
  3. It is intended for passing and for faster-moving traffic Correct answer.
  4. It is reserved for trucks and buses

Explanation

On multi-lane roadways, the left lane is intended for passing and faster traffic, while slower vehicles should keep right. This keeps traffic flowing and reduces conflicts.

Question 44Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is passing a bicyclist traveling in the same direction on a two-lane road. What is the safest practice under Washington law?

  1. Leave a safe distance of at least three feet when passing Correct answer.
  2. Pass closely to minimize time in the opposing lane
  3. Sound the horn and pass immediately
  4. Pass only if the bicyclist moves onto the shoulder

Explanation

Washington requires drivers to leave a safe distance, at least three feet where practicable, when passing a bicyclist. If the lane is too narrow to share safely, the driver should wait until it is safe to pass with adequate clearance.

Question 45Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is about to enter a roadway from a private driveway. What is the driver's duty?

  1. Yield to all traffic and pedestrians on the roadway Correct answer.
  2. Enter at the same speed as roadway traffic
  3. Proceed if the driveway has a stop sign painted on it
  4. Enter with the right of way if the driver signals

Explanation

A driver entering a roadway from a driveway, alley, or private road must yield the right of way to vehicles and pedestrians already on the roadway. The driver must stop if necessary to do so.

Question 46Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver's vehicle has tinted windows that are darker than Washington's permitted level. What is the consequence under state law?

  1. The vehicle may fail inspection or the driver may be cited Correct answer.
  2. It is permitted only on vehicles older than ten years
  3. It is permitted on all windows except the windshield
  4. It is permitted if the driver has a doctor's note for any level

Explanation

Washington limits the darkness of window tint, particularly on the front windows and windshield, and violations can result in a citation or inspection failure. Medical exemptions exist but are limited and must meet statutory requirements.

Question 47Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is following a large truck and cannot see the truck's mirrors. What does this indicate?

  1. The truck driver can see the following vehicle clearly
  2. The following vehicle is at a safe following distance
  3. The truck is about to change lanes
  4. The following vehicle is in the truck's blind spot Correct answer.

Explanation

If a driver cannot see the truck's mirrors, the truck driver likely cannot see the following vehicle, meaning it is in a blind spot. The driver should adjust position to be visible.

Question 48Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver is approaching a yield sign at a freeway on-ramp. What must the driver do?

  1. Stop completely before merging in all cases
  2. Accelerate to the posted freeway speed and merge without checking
  3. Assume freeway traffic will change lanes to make room
  4. Slow down and merge only when it is safe to do so Correct answer.

Explanation

A yield sign requires the driver to slow or stop as needed and merge only when there is a safe gap. Freeway traffic has the right of way over entering vehicles.

Question 49Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

What is the general rule regarding open containers of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle in Washington?

  1. They are permitted only in the glove compartment
  2. They are prohibited in the passenger area of a vehicle on a public roadway Correct answer.
  3. They are permitted if the container is in a cup holder
  4. They are permitted if no one in the vehicle is under 21

Explanation

Washington's open container law prohibits an open container of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle on a public roadway. Containers should be in a locked trunk or outside the passenger compartment.

Question 50Washington traffic laws and rules of the road

A driver stops for a flashing red traffic signal at an intersection. What must the driver do before proceeding?

  1. Stop, yield to cross traffic and pedestrians, then proceed when safe Correct answer.
  2. Sound the horn and proceed
  3. Proceed immediately because the signal is not a stop sign
  4. Wait for the light to turn green

Explanation

A flashing red signal functions like a stop sign: the driver must come to a complete stop, yield to cross traffic and pedestrians, and proceed only when it is safe.