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QuizTraffic rulesAustralia

Test your knowledge with our multiple-choice quiz. Learn from each answer and improve your understanding of the traffic rules and road signs of Australia.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Australia
True/false 17 Australia 22 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 589
What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

151. What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

Brake sharply to check whether the wheels are damaged.
Increase speed to see whether the steering remains stable.
✓ Check for tyre or wheel damage when it is safe to stop.
Continue driving normally if the tyre still looks inflated.

A hard impact with a pothole can damage tyres, wheel rims, steering, suspension, or wheel alignment. When it is safe to stop, inspect the tyres and wheels and pay attention to unusual vibration, pulling, or steering changes. Have the vehicle checked if you suspect damage.

Checking a tyre and wheel after hitting a pothole
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

152. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Front fog lights.
Dipped headlights.
Rear fog lights.
Sidelights.

This symbol indicates that the front fog lights are switched on. Front fog lights are designed to improve illumination close to the road in conditions of severely reduced visibility. Rules governing their use vary by country.

Front fog-light symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

153. Why is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

✓ Drink strength, serving size, and individual effects can vary.
Food makes each drink count as less alcohol.
The number of drinks matters more than their strength.
One drink affects every person in the same way.

Alcohol concentration and serving sizes vary, and factors such as body size, food, medication, and time can affect impairment.

Alcoholic drinks with different strengths and serving sizes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

154. What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

✓ The time between wiper sweeps.
The amount of washer fluid sprayed.
The brightness of the dashboard.
The speed of the rear wiper.

The intermittent wiper interval control adjusts the time between windscreen-wiper sweeps, allowing the driver to match the wiping frequency to light rain or spray.

Interval adjustment for intermittent windscreen wiping
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

155. How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

Use the parking brake instead.
✓ Apply pressure progressively.
Press it as hard as possible immediately.
Pump the pedal repeatedly.

For normal braking, apply the brake pedal progressively and smoothly. As the vehicle comes to a stop, easing the pressure slightly can help avoid a sudden jerk.

Progressive brake-pedal pressure for a smooth stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally brake on a motorcycle?

156. How should you normally brake on a motorcycle?

✓ Use both brakes smoothly and progressively.
Use only the rear brake.
Apply both brakes as suddenly as possible.
Use only the front brake.

During normal braking, use both the front and rear brakes smoothly and progressively. The front brake normally provides much of the braking force, while the rear brake also helps slow and stabilise the motorcycle. Sudden or poorly balanced braking can reduce stability or cause a wheel to lose grip.

Motorcyclist using the front and rear brakes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle begins to aquaplane?

157. What should you do if your vehicle begins to aquaplane?

Turn the steering wheel sharply to regain grip.
Accelerate to push through the water.
Change lanes immediately to find a drier surface.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and keep steering gently.

Aquaplaning happens when the tyres lose contact with the road surface. Ease off the accelerator, avoid sudden movements, and wait for grip to return.

Vehicle losing tyre contact on a water-covered road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

158. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low tyre pressure.
Electronic stability control.
Charging-system warning.
✓ Power-steering warning.

This symbol indicates a possible fault with the power-steering system. Steering assistance may be reduced or unavailable, making the steering wheel harder to turn.

Power-steering warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

159. What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

Continue if you cannot see or hear a train.
Drive around the barrier if the road ahead is clear.
✓ Stop before the crossing and wait until it is safe to proceed.
Cross quickly before the train reaches the crossing.

Flashing warning lights mean a train may be approaching. Stop before the crossing and wait until the warning has ended and the crossing is clear.

Flashing warning lights at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid removing the coolant cap while the engine is hot?

160. Why should you avoid removing the coolant cap while the engine is hot?

✓ Pressurised hot coolant may escape and cause serious burns.
Opening it can reduce the engine oil pressure.
The coolant level may become harder to read.
The thermostat may become damaged.

A hot cooling system may remain under pressure. Allow the engine to cool and follow the manufacturer's instructions before checking or adding coolant.

Coolant cap and the risk of hot pressurised coolant
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the safest choice if you have consumed alcohol?

161. What is the safest choice if you have consumed alcohol?

✓ Do not drive and arrange a sober form of transport.
Drink coffee before driving.
Drive slowly and avoid busy roads.
Drive only if you do not feel drunk.

Alcohol can impair judgement, coordination, vision, and reaction time. A sober driver, taxi, public transport, or an overnight stay is the safer choice.

Alcohol consumption and the decision not to drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an EV charging cable or connector is damaged?

162. What should you do if an EV charging cable or connector is damaged?

Cover the damaged area and continue charging.
✓ Do not use it, and report or arrange repair of the damage.
Reduce the charging power and continue using it.
Use it if the vehicle still begins charging.

Do not use a damaged charging cable or connector. Damage can create a risk of electric shock, overheating, or fire. Use suitable undamaged charging equipment and report the fault or arrange professional repair or replacement.

Damaged electric-vehicle charging cable or connector
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

163. What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

To select reverse gear.
To unlock the steering.
To apply the service brakes.
✓ To release the handbrake mechanism.

To release a manual handbrake, pull the lever up slightly, press and hold the release button, then lower the lever under control.

Release button on a manual handbrake lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

164. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

They can increase the motorcycle's braking power.
They can cause the tyre pressure to rise suddenly.
✓ They can provide much less grip than the surrounding road.
They can make the tyres overheat.

Wet metal surfaces, such as drain or inspection covers, can provide much less grip than the surrounding road. Cross them smoothly, keep the motorcycle as upright as practical and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering.

Wet metal cover in a motorcycle's path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another driver does not give way when they should?

165. What should you do if another driver does not give way when they should?

Maintain your speed because you have priority.
✓ Slow down and avoid a collision.
Move closer so the other driver is forced to give way.
Use the horn and continue at the same speed.

Even if you have priority, safety comes first. Slow down, stay calm, and avoid creating a dangerous situation.

Conflicting vehicle movements at a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

166. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Rear window demister.
Seat ventilation.
✓ Seat heating.
Heated steering wheel.

This control activates the seat heating, which warms the seat cushion and, on many vehicles, the backrest. Several heat levels may be available.

Heated-seat control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

167. What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

✓ Use the correct jacking point and never go underneath a vehicle on a jack.
Work underneath if the jack appears stable.
Place the jack on soft ground to prevent floor damage.
Use any solid-looking part underneath the vehicle.

A jack can slip or fail if it is incorrectly positioned. Secure the vehicle and use additional approved supports before working underneath it.

Vehicle raised at a jacking point for a wheel change
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Who generally has priority at an uncontrolled intersection in Australia?

168. Who generally has priority at an uncontrolled intersection in Australia?

Traffic approaching from the left.
The vehicle travelling fastest.
✓ Traffic approaching from the right.
The largest vehicle.

At an uncontrolled intersection in Australia, you generally give way to traffic approaching from the right.

Vehicles approaching an uncontrolled junction from different directions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the driver's floor mat be properly secured?

169. Why should the driver's floor mat be properly secured?

✓ It could slide forwards and interfere with the pedals.
It could make the steering wheel harder to turn.
It could cause the tyres to lose pressure.
It could prevent the seat belt from locking.

A loose or incorrectly fitted floor mat can move into the pedal area and interfere with the accelerator, brake, or clutch. Make sure the driver's floor mat is correctly fitted, secured, and does not obstruct any pedal.

Driver's floor mat near the pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

170. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Electronic stability control.
Power-steering warning.
Engine-management warning.
✓ Cruise control.

This symbol indicates the cruise-control system. Cruise control can maintain a selected vehicle speed without the driver continuously pressing the accelerator. The exact indicator behaviour can vary between vehicles.

Cruise-control indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should pedestrians avoid sudden movements near traffic?

171. Why should pedestrians avoid sudden movements near traffic?

You lose priority if you change direction suddenly.
✓ Drivers may not have enough time to react.
Pedestrians are only allowed to walk slowly.
Sudden movements are prohibited near traffic.

Sudden movements can surprise drivers and reduce the time they have to slow down or stop safely.

Pedestrian movements close to road traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which colour combination is commonly used for warning signs in Australia?

172. Which colour combination is commonly used for warning signs in Australia?

✓ Black border with yellow background.
Red border with white background.
Blue border with white background.
Red border with yellow background.

Most warning signs in Australia have a black border with a yellow background.

Colour combinations used for road warning signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

173. Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

✓ Cold air circulates above and below them.
Bridges are always at a higher altitude.
Their barriers trap cold air on the road surface.
Traffic usually moves faster across bridges.

Bridges lose heat from both their upper and lower surfaces, so they can freeze before roads built directly on the ground.

Icy surface on an exposed bridge
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when passing a horse rider?

174. What should you do when passing a horse rider?

Sound your horn so the rider knows you are passing.
Flash your headlights before moving alongside.
✓ Slow down and give plenty of space.
Pass closely to reduce the time beside the horse.

Horses can be startled by noise or sudden movement. Slow down, pass carefully, and leave enough space.

Vehicle passing a horse and rider
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

175. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low engine oil.
Engine-temperature warning.
✓ Low fuel level.
Low washer fluid.

This symbol indicates that the fuel level is low. Refuel soon to reduce the risk of running out of fuel.

Low-fuel warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

176. What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

✓ Open the windows, stop safely, leave the vehicle, and seek assistance.
Turn up the heater to clear the fumes.
Switch the ventilation to recirculation and keep driving.
Open the windows and continue to your destination.

Exhaust gases may contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and may not be visible. The exhaust system should be inspected before the vehicle is used again.

Vehicle exhaust fumes and cabin ventilation
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before beginning a journey in severe winter weather?

177. What should you check before beginning a journey in severe winter weather?

Only whether the main roads have been cleared.
Only whether you have enough fuel or charge.
Nothing extra if the vehicle has winter tyres.
✓ The weather, road conditions, tyres, fuel or charge, and emergency supplies.

Check whether the journey is necessary and prepare for delays or changing conditions. Suitable tyres, sufficient fuel or charge, warm clothing, and basic emergency supplies may be important.

Preparing a vehicle for a winter journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you use a lower gear when driving downhill?

178. Why should you use a lower gear when driving downhill?

It increases tyre grip on steep roads.
It allows the vehicle to coast more freely.
✓ It helps control speed using engine braking.
It makes the steering lighter on descents.

Engine braking helps prevent the vehicle from gaining too much speed and reduces strain on the brakes.

Lower-gear selection for a downhill road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before turning across a cycle lane?

179. What should you do before turning across a cycle lane?

Sound your horn and turn immediately.
Ignore the cycle lane if you are signalling.
Enter the cycle lane without checking behind.
✓ Check mirrors and blind spots carefully for cyclists.

Cyclists may be beside or behind you when you turn. Check mirrors and blind spots, signal clearly, and turn only when it is safe.

Vehicle preparing to turn across a cycle lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control button operate?

180. What does this vehicle-control button operate?

The central locking system.
The automatic start-stop system.
✓ The engine or drive system.
The hazard warning lights.

The engine start/stop button is used to start or switch off the vehicle's engine or electric drive system. Starting the vehicle normally also requires the brake or clutch pedal to be pressed.

Engine start/stop button in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

181. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Front fog lights.
✓ Dipped headlights.
Sidelights.
Main beam.

This symbol indicates that the dipped headlights are switched on. Dipped headlights illuminate the road ahead while limiting glare for other road users.

Dipped-headlight symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

182. Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

It usually makes you drive more slowly.
It makes the steering feel heavier.
✓ You can lose awareness of the road for several seconds.
It normally happens only when the vehicle is stopped.

A microsleep is a brief, involuntary episode of sleep that can last for a few seconds. During that time, you may lose awareness of the road and travel a considerable distance without reacting to hazards.

Driver losing alertness at the wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the brake pedal feels unusually soft?

183. What should you do if the brake pedal feels unusually soft?

✓ Stop safely and have the braking system inspected.
Use only the parking brake while driving.
Reduce the tyre pressure to improve braking.
Press the accelerator harder before braking.

A soft brake pedal or increased stopping distance may indicate a serious brake fault. Do not continue driving normally until the system has been checked.

Brake-pedal check for a possible braking fault
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if it is unsafe to leave a stranded vehicle?

184. What should you do if it is unsafe to leave a stranded vehicle?

Leave the vehicle and wait beside it for help.
Walk along the road to find assistance.
✓ Stay inside, use hazard lights, and call the emergency services.
Switch off all lights to preserve the battery.

If leaving the vehicle would put you in greater danger, remain restrained, make the vehicle visible, contact the emergency services, and follow their instructions.

Vehicle stranded among moving traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

185. How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

By looking at whether the tyres appear firm.
Using the maximum pressure shown on the tyre.
Only by a certified maintenance service.
✓ When the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer's recommended pressure.

Tyre pressure rises as tyres become warm. Check them when cold and use the pressure specified on the vehicle label or in the owner's manual.

Checking a vehicle's tyre pressure
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

186. Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

2nd gear.
1st gear.
Neutral.
✓ R (Reverse).

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive a manual vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before Reverse is selected.

Manual gear lever and gear-selection pattern
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

187. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Brake-system warning.
✓ Low tyre pressure.
Engine-management warning.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol indicates that one or more tyres may have low pressure. Check the tyre pressures and inspect the tyres for damage or a puncture.

Tyre-pressure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a designated driver do?

188. What should a designated driver do?

Stop drinking shortly before driving.
Drink only a small amount with food.
✓ Remain alcohol-free for the entire journey.
Do not carry passengers who have been drinking.

A designated driver should remain sober so they can drive safely and respond properly to traffic conditions.

Alcohol-free designated driver for a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does opening a window make an alcohol-impaired driver safe?

189. Does opening a window make an alcohol-impaired driver safe?

Yes, if you feel more awake afterwards.
Yes, because fresh air helps you sober up.
✓ No, fresh air does not remove alcohol from the body.
Yes, but only when driving slowly.

Fresh air may make someone feel more awake, but it does not reduce their alcohol concentration or restore safe driving ability.

Open car window and an alcohol-impaired driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

190. What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

It switches on the hazard warning lights.
It keeps the main beam switched on.
✓ It switches the headlights on or off automatically when needed.
It flashes the headlights automatically.

The AUTO lighting setting allows the vehicle to switch its exterior lights on or off automatically according to ambient light conditions. The driver remains responsible for ensuring that the correct lights are being used.

AUTO setting on the vehicle's lighting control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check blind spots before moving off?

191. Why should you check blind spots before moving off?

To check whether the road ahead is clear.
✓ A cyclist, pedestrian, or vehicle may be beside you.
To confirm other drivers have seen your indicator.
To make sure your mirrors are adjusted correctly.

Mirrors do not show every area around your vehicle. A blind-spot check can reveal cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, or vehicles before you move off.

Driver checking a blind spot before moving off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

192. Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

✓ Your vehicle combination may take longer to stop.
To reduce tyre wear on the towing vehicle.
To prevent the trailer from blocking your view.
To make the trailer easier to steer.

Towing adds weight and can increase stopping distance. Extra space gives you more time to react and brake smoothly.

Vehicle towing a trailer behind other traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it dangerous to cross between parked cars?

193. Why is it dangerous to cross between parked cars?

You cannot hear approaching traffic between cars.
Pedestrians lose priority when crossing between cars.
Traffic always moves faster beside parked cars.
✓ Drivers may not see you or expect you to cross.

Parked vehicles can block the view between pedestrians and drivers. This makes it harder to see approaching traffic and harder for drivers to see you.

Pedestrian crossing between parked cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

194. What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

Turns the starter motor.
Locks the steering.
✓ Switches on the vehicle's electrical systems without operating the starter.
Switches off all electrical accessories.

The ON position normally switches on the vehicle's electrical and ignition systems without operating the starter motor. The engine is started by turning the key further to the START position.

ON position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

195. You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

True.
✓ False.

You should keep a safe following distance so you have enough time to react if traffic slows or stops suddenly.

Vehicle following closely behind another vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

196. What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.
Increase engine speed until the warning light goes out.
Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.

The alternator or charging system may have failed. The vehicle may stop once the remaining battery charge is exhausted.

Charging-system warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic suddenly slows on a motorway?

197. What should you do if traffic suddenly slows on a motorway?

Change lanes immediately to avoid slowing down.
Move onto the shoulder and continue driving.
✓ Slow down smoothly and warn traffic behind if needed.
Brake suddenly as soon as you notice slower traffic.

When traffic slows suddenly, reduce speed smoothly, keep a safe distance, and use hazard lights if needed to warn following traffic.

Motorway traffic slowing ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which speed unit is used in Australia?

198. Which speed unit is used in Australia?

Miles per hour (mph).
✓ Kilometres per hour (km/h).

Road speeds in Australia are shown in kilometres per hour (km/h).

Road speed expressed in kilometres per hour
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when temporary traffic lights show red?

199. What should you do when temporary traffic lights show red?

✓ Stop before the signal or temporary stop line.
Only permanent traffic lights are valid.
Follow the vehicle ahead through the signal.
Continue if the road ahead appears clear.

Temporary traffic signals must be obeyed like permanent signals. Stop and wait until you are permitted to continue.

Red signal on temporary roadworks traffic lights
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

200. What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

Use cruise control to maintain a constant speed.
Accelerate through the rain to clear it more quickly.
Use main beam to improve visibility.
✓ Reduce speed and increase your following distance.

Heavy rain reduces grip and visibility. Lower speed and extra distance give you more time to react safely.

Vehicle travelling through heavy rain
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA