Theory Test #2 - Questions and Answers

You are approaching traffic lights that have been on green
for sometime. You should

A. Accelerate hard
B. Maintain your speed
C. Be ready to stop
D. Brake hard

Answer - Be ready to stop

The longer traffic lights have been on green, the greater the chance of them changing. Always allow for this on approach and be prepared to stop.

Which of the following should you do before stopping?

A. Sound the horn
B. Use the mirrors
C. Select a higher gear
D. Flash your headlights

Answer - Use the mirrors

Before pulling up check the mirrors to see what is happening behind you. Also assess what is ahead and make sure you give the correct signal if it helps other road users.

Objects hanging from your interior mirror may

A. Restrict your view
B. Improve your driving
C. Distract your attention
D. Help your concentration

Answer - Restrict your view, Distract your attention

Ensure that you can see clearly through the windscreen of your vehicle. Stickers or hanging objects could affect your field of vision or draw your eyes away from the road.

You should only use a mobile phone when

A. Receiving a call
B. Suitably parked
C. Driving at less than 30 mph
D. Driving an automatic vehicle

Answers - Suitably parked

It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving, except in a genuine emergency. Even using hands-free kit can distract your attention. Park in a safe and convenient place before receiving or making a call or using text messaging. Then you will also be free to take notes or refer to papers.

When you are moving off from behind a parked car you should

A. Look round before you move off
B. Use all the mirrors on the vehicle
C. Look round after moving off
D. Use the exterior mirror only
E. Give a signal if necessary
F. Give a signal after moving off

Answer - Look round before you move off, Use all the mirrors on the vehicle, Give a signal if necessary

Before moving off you should use all the mirrors to check if the road is clear. Look round to check the blind spots and give a signal if it is necessary to warn other road users of your intentions.

You should never wave people across at pedestrian
crossings because

A. There may be another vehicle coming
B. They may not be looking
C. It is safer for you to carry on
D. They may not be ready to cross

Answer - There may be another vehicle coming

If people are waiting to use a pedestrian crossing, slow down and be prepared to stop. Don’t wave them across the road since another driver may, not have seen them, not have seen your signal and may not be able to stop safely.

Which of the following vehicles will use blue flashing beacons?

A. Motorway maintenance
B. Bomb disposal
C. Blood transfusion
D. Police patrol
E. Breakdown recovery

Answer - Bomb disposal, Blood transfusion, Police patrol

When you see emergency vehicles with blue flashing beacons, move out of the way as soon as it is safe to do so.

You are driving in traffic at the speed limit for the road.
The driver behind is trying to overtake. You should

A. Move closer to the car ahead, so the driver behind has
no room to overtake
B. wave the driver behind to overtake when it is safe
C. keep a steady course & allow the driver behind to overtake
D. accelerate to get away from the driver behind

Answer - keep a steady course & allow the driver behind to overtake

Keep a steady course to give the driver behind an opportunity to overtake safely. If necessary, slow down. Reacting incorrectly to another driver’s impatience can lead to danger.

Supertrams or Light Rapid Transit (LRT) systems are
environmentally friendly because

A. They use diesel power
B. They use quieter roads
C. They use electric power
D. They do not operate during rush hour

Answer - They use electric power

This means that they do not emit toxic fumes, which add to city pollution problems. They are also a lot quieter and smoother to ride on.

You will use more fuel if your tyres are

A. Under-inflated
B. Of different makes
C. Over-inflated
D. New and hardly used

Answer - Under-inflated

Check your tyre pressures frequently – normally once a week. If pressures are lower than those recommended by the manufacturer, there will be more ‘rolling resistance’. The engine will have to work harder to overcome this, leading to increased fuel consumption.

You are parking on a two-way road at night. The speed limit
is 40 mph. You should park on the

A. Left with parking lights on
B. Left with no lights on
C. Right with parking lights on
D. Right with dipped headlights on

Answer - Left with parking lights on

At night all vehicles must display parking lights when parked on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 mph. They should be close to the kerb, facing in the direction of the traffic flow and not within a distance as specified in The Highway Code.

Planning your journey to avoid busy times has a number of
advantages. One of these is

A. Your journey will take longer
B. You will have a more pleasant journey
C. You will cause more pollution
D. Your stress levels will be greater

Answer - You will have a more pleasant journey

Having a pleasant journey can have safety benefits. You will be less tired and stressed and this will allow you to concentrate more on your driving or riding.

Rapid acceleration and heavy braking can lead to

A. Reduced pollution
B. Increased fuel consumption
C. Reduced exhaust emissions
D. Increased road safety

Answer - Increased fuel consumption

Using the controls smoothly can reduce fuel consumption by about 15% as well as reducing wear and tear on your vehicle. Plan ahead and anticipate changes of speed well in advance. This will reduce the need to accelerate rapidly or brake sharply.

In windy conditions you need to take extra car when

A. Using the brakes
B. Making a hill start
C. Turning into a narrow road
D. Passing pedal cyclists

Answer - Passing pedal cyclists

You should always give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking. When it’s windy, a sudden gust could blow them off course.

Where are you most likely to be affected by a side wind?

A. On a narrow country lane
B. On an open stretch of road
C. On a busy stretch of road
D. On a long, straight road

Answer - On an open stretch of road

In windy conditions, care must be taken on exposed roads. A strong gust of wind can blow you off course. Watch out for other road users who are particularly likely to be affected, such as cyclists, motorcyclists, high-sided lorries and vehicles towing trailers.

In good conditions, what is the typical stopping distance at
70 mph?

A. 53 metres (175 feet)
B. 60 metres (197 feet)
C. 73 metres (240 feet)
D. 96 metres (315 feet)

Answer - 96 metres (315 feet)

Note that this is the typical stopping distance. It will take at least this distance to think, brake and stop in good conditions. In poor conditions it will take much longer.

You are trying to move off on snow. You should use

A. The lowest gear you can
B. The highest gear you can
C. A high engine speed
D. The handbrake and footbrake together

Answer - The highest gear you can

If you attempt to move off in a low gear, such as first, the engine will rev at a higher speed. This could cause the wheels to spin and dig further into the snow.

You are driving in freezing conditions. What should you do
when approaching a sharp bend?

A. Slow down before you reach the bend
B. Gently apply your handbrake
C. Firmly use your footbrake
D. Coast into the bend
E. Avoid sudden steering movements

Answer - Slow down before you reach the bend, Avoid sudden steering movements

Harsh use of the accelerator, brakes or steering are likely to lead to skidding, especially on slippery surfaces. Avoid steering and braking at the same time. In icy conditions it’s very important that you constantly assess what’s ahead, so that you can take appropriate action in plenty of time.

An elderly person's driving ability could be affected because
they may be unable to

A. Obtain car insurance
B. Understand road signs
C. React very quickly
D. Give signals correctly

Answer - React very quickly

Be tolerant of older drivers. Poor eyesight and hearing could affect the speed with which they react to a hazard and may cause them to be hesitant.

You are approaching a crossroads. The traffic lights have
failed. What should you do?

A. Brake and stop only for large vehicles
B. Brake sharply to a stop before looking
C. Be prepared to brake sharply to a stop
D. Be prepared to stop for any traffic

Answer - Be prepared to stop for any traffic

When approaching a junction where the traffic lights have failed, you should proceed with caution. Treat the situation as an unmarked junction and be prepared to stop.

Why are mirrors often slightly curved (convex)?

A. They give a wider field of vision
B. They totally cover blind spots
C. They make it easier to judge the speed of following traffic
D. They make following traffic look bigger

Answer - They give a wider field of vision

Although a convex mirror gives a wide view of the scene behind, you should be aware that it will not show you everything behind or to the side of the vehicle. Before you move off you will need to check over your shoulder to look for anything not visible in the mirrors.

Why are place names printed on the road surface?

A. To restrict the flow of traffic
B. To warn you of oncoming traffic
C. To enable you to change lanes early
D. To prevent you changing lanes

Answer - To enable you to change lanes early

The names of towns and cities may be painted on the road at busy junctions and complex road systems. Their purpose is to let you move into the correct lane in good time, allowing traffic to flow more freely.

Some two-way roads are divided into three lanes. Why are
these particularly dangerous?

A. Traffic in both directions can use the middle lane to overtake
B. Traffic can travel faster in poor weather conditions
C. Traffic can overtake on the left
D. Traffic uses the middle lane for emergencies only

Answer - Traffic in both directions can use the middle lane to overtake

If you intend to overtake you must consider that approaching traffic could be planning the same manoeuvre. When you have considered the situation and have decided it is safe, indicate your intentions early. This will show the approaching traffic that you intend to pull out.

You are on a dual carriageway. Ahead you see a vehicle with
an amber flashing light. What could this be?

A. An ambulance
B. A fire engine
C. A doctor on call
D. A disabled person's vehicle

Answer - A disabled person's vehicle

An amber flashing light on a vehicle indicates that it is slow-moving. Battery powered vehicles used by disabled people are limited to 8 mph. It’s not advisable for them to be used on dual carriageways where the speed limit exceeds 50 mph. If they are then an amber flashing light must be used.

This road marking warns

A. Drivers to use the hard shoulder
B. Overtaking drivers there is a bend to the left
C. Overtaking drivers to move back to the left
D. Drivers that it is safe to overtake

Answer - Overtaking drivers to move back to the left

You should plan your overtaking to take into account any hazards ahead. In this picture the marking indicates that you are approaching a junction. You will not have time to overtake and move back into the
left safely.

In which THREE places would parking cause an obstruction
to others?

A. Near the brow of a hill
B. In a lay-by
C. Where the kerb is raised
D. Where the kerb has been lowered for wheelchairs
E. At or near a bus stop

Answer - Near the brow of a hill, Where the kerb has been lowered for wheelchairs, At or near a bus stop

Think about the effect your parking will have on other road users. Don’t forget that not all vehicles are the size of a car. Large vehicles will need more room to pass and might need more time too. Parking out of the view of traffic, such as before the brow of a hill, causes unnecessary risks. Think before you park.

You are away from home and have to park your vehicle
overnight. Where should you leave it?

A. Opposite another parked vehicle
B. In a quiet road
C. Opposite a traffic island
D. In a secure car park

Answer - In a secure car park

When leaving your vehicle unattended, use a secure car park whenever possible.

The most important reason for having a properly adjusted
head restraint is to

A. Make you more comfortable
B. Help you to avoid neck injury
C. Help you to relax
D. Help you to maintain your driving position

Answer - Help you to avoid neck injury

The restraint should be adjusted so that it gives maximum protection to the head and neck. This will help in the event of a rearend collision.

How can you help to prevent your car radio from being stolen?

A. Park in an unlit area
B. Hide the radio with a blanket
C. Park near a busy junction
D. Install a security-coded radio

Answer - Install a security-coded radio

A security-coded radio can deter thieves as it is likely to be of little use when removed from the vehicle.

You are parking your car. You have some valuables, which
you are unable to take with you. What should you do?

A. Park near a police station
B. Put them under the driver's seat
C. Lock then out of sight
D. Park in an unlit side road

Answer - Lock then out of sight

Your vehicle is like a shop window for thieves. Either remove all valuables or lock them out of sight.

Before starting a journey in freezing weather you should
clear ice and snow from your vehicle's

A. Aerial
B. Windows
C. Bumper
D. Lights
E. Mirrors
F. Number plates

Answer - Windows, Mirrors, Lights, Number plates

Don’t travel unless you have no choice. Making unnecessary journeys in bad weather can increase the risk of having a collision. It’s important that you can see and be seen. Make sure any snow or ice is cleared from lights, mirrors, number plates and windows.

You have driven through a flood. What is the first thing
you should do?

A. Stop and check the tyres
B. Stop and dry the brakes
C. Check your exhaust
D. Test your brakes

Answer - Test your brakes

Before you test your brakes you must check for following traffic. If it is safe, gently apply the brakes to clear any water that may be covering the braking surfaces.

You are approaching this cyclist. You should

A. Overtake before the cyclist gets to the junction
B. Flash your headlights at the cyclist
C. Slow down and allow the cyclist to turn
D. Overtake the cyclist on the left-hand side

Answer - slow down and allow the cyclist to turn

Keep well back and allow the cyclist room to take up the correct position for the turn. Don’t get too close behind or try to squeeze past.

In areas where there are 'traffic calming' measures you
should

A. Travel at a reduced speed
B. Always travel at the speed limit
C. Position in the centre of the road
D. Only slow down if pedestrians are near

Answer - Travel at a reduced speed

Traffic calming measures such as road humps, chicanes and narrowings are intended to slow you down. Maintain a reduced speed until you reach the end of these features. They are there to protect pedestrians. Kill your speed!

You are waiting to emerge at a junction. Parked vehicles
restrict your view. What can help you to see traffic on the
road you are joining?

A. Looking for traffic behind you
B. Reflections of traffic in shop windows
C. Making eye contact with other road users
D. Checking for traffic in your interior mirror

Answer - Reflections of traffic in shop windows

When your view is restricted into the new road you must still be completely sure it is safe to emerge. Try to look for traffic through the windows of the parked cars or the reflections in shop windows. Keep looking in all directions as you slowly edge forwards until you can see it is safe.

After passing your driving test, you suffer from ill health. This
affects your driving. You MUST

A. Inform your local police station
B. Avoid using motorways
C. Always drive accompanied
D. Inform the licensing authority

Answer - Inform the licensing authority

The licensing authority won’t automatically take away your licence without investigation. For advice, contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (or DVA in Northern Ireland).

You are turning left into a side road. What hazards should
you be especially aware of?

A. One-way street
B. Pedestrians
C. Traffic congestion
D. Parked vehicles

Answer - Pedestrians

Make sure that you have reduced your speed and are in the correct gear for the turn. Look into the road before you turn and always give way to any pedestrians who are crossing.

You intend to turn right into a side road. Just before turning
you should check for motorcyclists who might be

A. Overtaking you on the left
B. Following you closely
C. Emerging from the side road
D. Overtaking on your right

Answer - Overtaking on your right

Never attempt to change direction to the right without first checking your right-hand mirror. A motorcyclist might not have seen your signal and could be hidden by the car behind you. This action should become a matter of routine.

You see a pedestrian with a white stick and red band.
This means that the person is

A. Physically disabled
B. Deaf only
C. Blind only
D. Deaf and blind

Answer - Deaf and blind

If someone is deaf as well as blind, they may be carrying a white stick with a red reflective band. You can’t see if a pedestrian is deaf. Don’t assume everyone can hear you approaching.

Before overtaking a large vehicle you should keep well back.
Why is this?

A. To give acceleration space to overtake quickly on blind
spots
B. To get the best view of the road ahead
C. To leave a gap in case the vehicle stops and rolls back
D. To offer other drivers a safe gap if they want to overtake
you

Answer - To get the best view of the road ahead

When following a large vehicle keep well back. If you’re too close you won’t be able to see the road ahead and the driver of the long vehicle might not be able to see you in their mirrors.

You are driving along this road. The red van cuts in close
in front of you. What should you do?

A. Accelerate to get closer to the red van
B. Give a long blast on the horn
C. Drop back to leave the correct separation distance
D. Flash your headlights several times

Answer - Drop back to leave the correct separation distance

There are times when other drivers make incorrect or ill-judged decisions. Be tolerant and try not to retaliate or react aggressively. Always consider the safety of other road users, your passengers and yourself.

In front of you is a class 3 powered vehicle (powered wheeled)
driven by a disabled person. These vehicles have a maximum
speed of

A. 8 mph (12 km/h)
B. 18 mph (29 km/h)
C. 28 mph (45 km/h)
D. 38 mph (61 km/h)

Answer - 8 mph (12 km/h)

These vehicles are battery powered and very vulnerable due to their slow speed, small size and low height. Some are designed for pavement and road use and have a maximum speed of 8 mph (12 km/h). Others are for pavement use only and are restricted to 4 mph (6 km/h). Take extra care and be patient if you are following one. Allow plenty of room when overtaking and do not go past unless you can do so safely.

It is very windy. You are behind a motorcyclist who is
overtaking a high-sided vehicle. What should you do?

A. Overtake the motorcyclist immediately
B. Keep well back
C. Stay level with the motorcyclist
D. Keep close to the motorcyclist

Answer - Keep well back

Motorcyclists are affected more by windy weather than other vehicles. In windy conditions, high-sided vehicles cause air turbulence. You should keep well back as the motorcyclist could be blown off course.

You are on a well-lit motorway at night. You must

A. Use only your sidelights
B. Always use your headlights
C. Always use your rear fog lights
D. Use your headlights only in bad weather

Answer - Always use your headlights

If you’re driving on a motorway at night or in poor visibility, you must always use your headlights, even if the road is well-lit. The other road users in front must be able to see you in their mirrors.

How can you use the engine of your vehicle to control your
speed?

A. By changing to a lower gear
B. By selecting reverse gear
C. By changing to a higher gear
D. By selecting neutral

Answer - By changing to a lower gear

You should brake and slow down before selecting a lower gear. The gear can then be used to keep the speed low and help you control the vehicle. This is particularly helpful on long downhill stretches, where brake fade can occur if the brakes overheat.

At this blind junction you must stop

A. Behind the line, then edge forward to see clearly
B. Beyond the line at a point where you can see clearly
C. Only if there is traffic on the main road
D. Only if you are turning to the right

Answer - Behind the line, then edge forward to see clearly

The ‘stop’ sign has been put here because there is a poor view into the main road. You must stop because it will not be possible to assess the situation on the move, however slowly you are travelling.

The aim of an Active Traffic Management scheme on a
motorway is to

A. Prevent overtaking
B. Reduce rest stops
C. Prevent tailgating
D. Reduce congestion

Answer - Reduce congestion

Active Traffic Management schemes are intended to reduce congestion and make journey times more reliable. In these areas the hard shoulder may be used as a running lane to ease congestion at peak times or in the event of an incident. It may appear that you could travel faster for a short distance, but keeping traffic flow at a constant speed may improve your journey time.

On a motorway what is used to reduce traffic bunching?

A. Variable speed limits
B. Contraflow systems
C. National speed limits
D. Lane closures

Answer - Variable speed limits

Congestion can be reduced by keeping traffic at a constant speed. At busy times maximum speed limits are displayed on overhead gantries. These can be varied quickly depending on the amount of traffic. By keeping to a constant speed on busy sections of motorway overall journey times are normally improved.

At toucan crossings, apart from pedestrians you should be
aware of

A. Emergency vehicles emerging
B. Buses pulling out
C. Trams crossing in front
D. Cyclists riding across

Answer - Cyclists riding across

The use of cycles is being encouraged and more toucan crossings are being installed. These crossings enable pedestrians and cyclists to cross the path of other traffic. Watch out as cyclists will approach the crossing faster than pedestrians.

As you approach this bridge you should

A. Move into the middle of the road to get a better view
B. Slow down
C. Get over the bridge as quickly as possible
D. Consider using your horn
E. Find another route
F. Beware of pedestrians

Answer - Slow down, Consider using your horn, Beware of pedestrians

This sign gives you a warning. The brow of the hill prevents you seeing oncoming traffic so you must be cautious. The bridge is narrow and there may not be enough room for you to pass an oncoming vehicle at this point. There is no footpath, so pedestrians may be walking in the road. Consider the hidden hazards and be ready to react if necessary.