Support us

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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

251. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low coolant level.
Windscreen demister active.
✓ Low windscreen washer fluid.
Engine-temperature warning.

This symbol indicates that the windscreen washer fluid level is low. Refill the washer-fluid reservoir with suitable fluid when possible.

Low washer-fluid warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions?

252. Why should you avoid using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions?

✓ It can cause the windows to mist.
It can overheat the engine.
It can reduce tyre pressure.
It can switch off the air conditioning.

Using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions can allow moisture to build up inside the vehicle and increase window misting, especially when the air conditioning is not dehumidifying the air. Switching to fresh outside air can help clear condensation.

Air-recirculation setting and misted vehicle windows
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a vehicle with a manual gearbox?

253. What should you check before starting a vehicle with a manual gearbox?

That first gear is selected and the accelerator is pressed.
That the parking brake is released.
That reverse gear is selected.
✓ That the gearbox is in neutral and the clutch is pressed.

Before starting a vehicle with a manual gearbox, make sure the gearbox is in neutral and press the clutch pedal. This helps prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly when the engine starts.

Clutch and gear checks before starting a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

254. What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

✓ Replace it before riding.
Cover the scratches with clear tape.
Use it only during daylight.
Keep using it if the weather is dry.

A badly scratched or damaged visor can reduce or distort your view, especially in bright sunlight or at night. Replace a visor that no longer provides a clear, safe view and follow the helmet manufacturer's instructions.

Scratched visor on a motorcycle helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is aquaplaning?

255. What is aquaplaning?

When steering becomes heavier on a dry road.
✓ When tyres ride on a layer of water and lose contact with the road.
When water enters the engine and causes it to stop.
When low tyre pressure causes a tyre to burst.

Aquaplaning occurs when water builds up between the tyres and the road, causing a loss of grip and control. The risk increases at higher speeds.

Water separating a tyre from the road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the best place to cross the road?

256. What is the best place to cross the road?

✓ At a designated crossing.
Near a curve if approaching traffic seems slow.
At an intersection without checking for turning traffic.
At the shortest point, even if visibility is limited.

Use a designated crossing whenever possible. It is usually the safest place to cross the road.

Designated crossing for pedestrians
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

257. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Power-steering warning.
✓ Service or maintenance required.
Charging-system warning.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol indicates that the vehicle requires servicing or maintenance. The exact meaning and required maintenance can vary between vehicles, so check the vehicle information display or owner's manual.

Service reminder symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if visibility is reduced by fog?

258. What should you do if visibility is reduced by fog?

Use hazard lights instead of normal headlights.
Use high beam to see further through the fog.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely as a guide.
✓ Slow down and use the correct lights.

Fog makes it harder to see and be seen. Reduce speed, increase following distance, and use the correct lights.

Fog reducing visibility on a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not overtake near the top of a hill?

259. Why should you not overtake near the top of a hill?

✓ You may not see oncoming traffic or hidden hazards.
Speed limits always decrease near hill crests.
Your engine loses power near the top of a hill.
Hilltops usually have a slippery road surface.

Near the top of a hill, your view ahead is limited. Oncoming vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, or obstacles may be hidden.

Hill crest hiding the road ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

260. What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

Releases the parking brake.
✓ Switches off the engine and ignition systems.
Selects accessory power.
Operates the starter motor.

Turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF switches off the engine and ignition systems. The key can then normally be moved to the LOCK position and removed.

OFF position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a gear does not engage easily in a manual vehicle?

261. What should you do if a gear does not engage easily in a manual vehicle?

Press the accelerator fully.
✓ Avoid forcing the gear lever.
Push the lever harder until the gear engages.
Release the clutch suddenly.

If a gear does not engage easily, do not force the gear lever. Make sure the clutch is fully pressed and the vehicle's speed is suitable for the gear before trying again.

Operating a manual gear lever without forcing it
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if strong winds push your vehicle sideways?

262. What should you do if strong winds push your vehicle sideways?

Accelerate to make the vehicle more stable.
Brake hard immediately to stop the vehicle moving sideways.
✓ Keep calm and steer smoothly to maintain your lane.
Release the steering wheel briefly and let the vehicle settle.

Strong winds can push your vehicle off course, especially at higher speeds. Reduce speed and use smooth steering to stay in control.

Crosswind affecting a vehicle's road position
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of heated door mirrors?

263. What is the purpose of heated door mirrors?

To adjust the mirror angle.
To improve the headlights.
To fold the mirrors automatically.
✓ To clear mist or ice from the mirror glass.

Heated door mirrors warm the mirror glass to help clear mist, condensation, or light ice and improve rearward visibility. On some vehicles, they operate together with the rear-window demister.

Heated door-mirror control and demisting function
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

264. What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

Stop and wait until the tunnel is clear.
Increase speed to spend less time inside.
Drive closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.
✓ Use the correct lights and keep a safe distance.

When entering a tunnel, use the correct lights, keep enough distance, and stay alert for slower traffic.

Vehicle approaching a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you use rear fog lights?

265. When should you use rear fog lights?

✓ When visibility is seriously reduced by fog or similar conditions.
When driving on an unlit road.
When visibility is slightly reduced.
When another vehicle is following closely.

Rear fog lights are very bright and should only be used when visibility is poor enough to require them.

Rear fog lights used in severely reduced visibility
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

266. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Electronic stability control.
✓ A general warning requiring attention.
An engine-management fault.
A brake-system fault.

This is a general or master warning symbol. It indicates that the vehicle has detected a condition requiring attention and is often accompanied by a message or another warning on the instrument display.

General warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

267. What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

Use high beam so the spray is easier to see through.
Move closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.
Change lanes immediately to find a clearer view.
✓ Slow down and increase following distance.

Spray can seriously reduce visibility. Slowing down and increasing your distance gives you more time and a clearer view.

Road spray from a vehicle ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a bicycle helmet fit?

268. How should a bicycle helmet fit?

Tilted back to keep your forehead clear.
Tight enough to feel uncomfortable.
High on the head with the straps loose.
✓ Level, secure, and comfortably fitted.

A helmet should sit level on the head and remain securely in place so it can provide effective protection.

Bicycle helmet positioned securely on the rider's head
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be extra careful at night?

269. Why should you be extra careful at night?

Road surfaces are usually more slippery.
Vehicles need more distance to accelerate.
✓ Visibility is reduced.
Road markings become less important.

At night, it is harder to see pedestrians, cyclists, road markings, and hazards. Reduce speed and use the correct lights.

Road traffic in reduced night-time visibility
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

270. How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

At a very shallow angle alongside the rails.
✓ At a safe angle, as close to perpendicular as practical.
By accelerating hard as the front wheel reaches the rail.
With the motorcycle leaning sharply.

Rails can be slippery and can catch a motorcycle tyre, especially when wet. Cross them at a sufficiently large angle, as close to perpendicular as practical, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering while crossing.

Motorcycle crossing rails in the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never leave a child or pet alone in a parked vehicle on a warm day?

271. Why should you never leave a child or pet alone in a parked vehicle on a warm day?

✓ The interior can heat up quickly and cause serious heat illness.
The alarm system may activate unexpectedly.
The windows may become difficult to open.
The vehicle battery may discharge more quickly.

The inside of a parked vehicle can heat up rapidly, even when the outside temperature does not feel extreme. Children and animals are particularly vulnerable to overheating and heatstroke. Leaving a window partly open does not make the vehicle safe.

Parked vehicle and the danger of interior heat
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the seat-belt retractor?

272. What is the purpose of the seat-belt retractor?

To release the seat belt from the buckle.
To tighten the parking brake.
✓ To take up slack and lock the belt when necessary.
To adjust the seat height.

The seat-belt retractor takes up slack and helps keep the belt properly positioned against the body. It allows normal movement but can lock during sudden braking, rapid belt movement or a collision.

Seat-belt webbing and retracting mechanism
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What word is commonly shown on STOP signs in Australia?

273. What word is commonly shown on STOP signs in Australia?

ALTO.
PARE.
✓ STOP.
DUR.

In Australia, STOP signs commonly display the word STOP.

Different wording used on stop signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

274. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Electric window control.
✓ Exterior mirror adjustment.
Seat adjustment.
Mirror folding.

This control adjusts the vehicle's exterior mirrors. The driver normally selects the left or right mirror and then moves the control to change its angle.

Control for adjusting the exterior mirrors
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which control is normally used to switch between low-beam and high-beam headlights?

275. Which control is normally used to switch between low-beam and high-beam headlights?

The dashboard brightness control.
The hazard warning switch.
✓ The lighting stalk.
The windscreen-wiper stalk.

The lighting stalk is normally used to switch between low-beam and high-beam headlights. The exact movement varies between vehicles, so check the vehicle controls before driving.

Lighting stalk for switching between low and high beam
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take regular breaks during a long journey?

276. Why should you take regular breaks during a long journey?

✓ To help prevent fatigue and maintain concentration.
To reduce tyre pressure.
To allow the engine to cool down.
To improve fuel quality.

Regular breaks during a long journey help reduce fatigue and maintain concentration. Do not wait until you are struggling to stay awake before stopping to rest.

Driver resting during a long journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

277. Why should you never reverse or make a U-turn inside a tunnel unless directed?

Reversing can interfere with the tunnel lighting.
✓ It can cause a serious collision with approaching traffic.
A U-turn can confuse the tunnel's traffic monitoring system.
Tunnel ventilation works only in the normal direction of travel.

Other drivers may not expect a vehicle to reverse or turn around. Only change direction when instructed by police or tunnel staff.

Vehicle manoeuvring inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you avoid if your vehicle loses grip on a wet road?

278. What should you avoid if your vehicle loses grip on a wet road?

Keeping your movements smooth and controlled.
Looking ahead and staying alert.
✓ Sudden braking or sharp steering.
Easing off the accelerator gradually.

Abrupt inputs can upset the vehicle further. Smooth control gives the tyres a better chance to regain grip.

Vehicle losing grip on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

279. Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

To support the lower back.
To improve rear visibility.
✓ To reduce the risk of neck injury in a collision.
To make the seat belt tighter.

A correctly adjusted head restraint helps support the head and can reduce the risk of neck injury, especially in a rear-end collision. The top of the restraint should normally be level with the top of the head.

Adjusting a vehicle seat's head restraint
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

280. What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

✓ Slow down and pass carefully with plenty of space.
Overtake quickly before the animal changes direction.
Sound your horn so the driver notices you.
Drive close behind until there is room to pass.

Animals can be startled by noise or sudden movement. Reduce speed, keep distance, and pass only when it is safe.

Vehicle approaching an animal-drawn vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a friend who has been drinking wants to drive?

281. What should you do if a friend who has been drinking wants to drive?

Give them coffee and wait a short while.
✓ Encourage them not to drive and arrange safe transport.
Let them drive if they say they feel sober.
Follow them home in another vehicle.

Preventing an impaired person from driving can protect them, their passengers, and other road users. Arrange a sober driver, taxi, public transport, or accommodation.

Friends discussing safe transport after drinking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check for motorcyclists before changing lanes?

282. Why should you check for motorcyclists before changing lanes?

✓ Motorcycles can be harder to see and may be in your blind spot.
Motorcycles need more road space than cars.
Motorcyclists must stop when a car changes lanes.
Motorcycles always travel faster than other traffic.

Motorcyclists are smaller and can be hidden in blind spots. Check mirrors, signal, and look carefully before changing lanes.

Motorcycle near a vehicle preparing to change lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

283. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Electronic stability control.
Engine-management warning.
Anti-theft system.
✓ Automatic start-stop system.

This symbol relates to the automatic start-stop system, which can switch the engine off temporarily while the vehicle is stationary and restart it when driving resumes. The exact colour and appearance may vary between vehicles.

Automatic start-stop system symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you approach slow-moving farm machinery?

284. What should you do if you approach slow-moving farm machinery?

✓ Keep a safe distance and overtake only when safe.
Use your horn so the driver moves aside.
Overtake as soon as the road becomes slightly wider.
Drive close behind until there is room to pass.

Farm machinery may be wide, slow, or turn unexpectedly. Keep distance and only overtake when you have a clear view and enough space.

Vehicle approaching slow-moving farm machinery
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What may happen to the steering when the ignition key is removed?

285. What may happen to the steering when the ignition key is removed?

The wheels automatically straighten.
✓ The steering lock may engage.
The power steering remains fully active.
The steering becomes lighter.

On vehicles fitted with a steering lock, removing the ignition key may allow the steering lock to engage. Never remove the key while the vehicle is moving.

Ignition key and vehicle steering lock
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you obey traffic signs?

286. Why should you obey traffic signs?

✓ To improve safety for everyone.
To let you drive at the maximum permitted speed.
To make other drivers responsible for your safety.
To make sure you always have priority.

Traffic signs help organise traffic and improve safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Traffic signs using Vienna-style designs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a large animal suddenly enters your path?

287. What should you do if a large animal suddenly enters your path?

Accelerate to pass before the animal moves.
Turn suddenly toward the roadside.
Release the steering wheel and brake hard.
✓ Brake firmly while keeping control of the vehicle.

If a large animal enters the road, brake firmly while keeping the vehicle under control. Avoid sudden swerving, as this can cause you to lose control or collide with other traffic.

Large animal entering a vehicle's path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you see smoke or fire inside a tunnel?

288. What should you do if you see smoke or fire inside a tunnel?

Keep driving normally unless the tunnel is completely blocked.
✓ Follow tunnel instructions and leave the tunnel if it is safe to do so.
Stop near the fire so you can assess the situation.
Reverse toward the entrance without checking behind.

If it is safe to drive out of the tunnel, do so. If you cannot continue safely, stop, switch off the engine, leave the vehicle, and use the marked emergency exits or refuge routes. Follow tunnel-control instructions.

Smoke inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an unusual vibration develops in the steering wheel?

289. What should you do if an unusual vibration develops in the steering wheel?

✓ Reduce speed and have the tyres, wheels, and steering checked.
Keep driving if the vehicle still steers normally.
Reduce the tyre pressure slightly to smooth the ride.
Increase speed until the vibration becomes less noticeable.

An unusual vibration may indicate tyre damage, wheel imbalance, loose components, or another mechanical fault. Reduce speed and arrange an inspection.

Driver experiencing vibration through the steering wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

290. What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

Nothing if the motorcycle was recently serviced.
Only the fuel level and mirrors.
✓ Tyres, brakes, lights, steering, and controls.
Only the brakes and lights.

Before riding, carry out a basic safety check. Check the tyres, brakes, lights, steering and controls, and inspect the drive chain, belt or other drive components where applicable. Finding a problem before setting off can prevent a breakdown or loss of control.

Checking a motorcycle before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

291. Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

To reduce the vehicle's stopping distance.
To make blind spots disappear completely.
To improve the grip of the tyres.
✓ To maintain good control and a clear view around the vehicle.

A correct driving position helps you operate the pedals and steering comfortably and maintain proper control. Correctly adjusted mirrors improve your view around the vehicle and help reduce blind spots. Adjust both before starting your journey.

Adjusting the driving position and mirrors before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

292. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ A door is open.
The airbag system has a fault.
The parking brake is applied.
The seat belt is not fastened.

This symbol indicates that one or more vehicle doors are not fully closed. Check that all doors are securely shut before driving.

Door-open warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

293. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Charging-system warning.
Engine-management warning.
Low washer fluid.
✓ Engine-temperature warning.

This symbol indicates that the engine coolant temperature is too high. If it illuminates while driving, stop safely and allow the engine to cool before investigating the cause.

Engine-temperature warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are bicycle lights required at night in Australia?

294. Are bicycle lights required at night in Australia?

No.
✓ Yes.

Cyclists in Australia are generally required to use bicycle lights at night.

Bicycle lights used at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you are dazzled by low sun?

295. What should you do if you are dazzled by low sun?

✓ Slow down and use the sun visor if needed.
Maintain your speed if you can still see the road markings.
Look only at the road immediately in front of you.
Increase speed to get through the glare more quickly.

Low sun can greatly reduce visibility. Slow down, increase your safety margin, and use the sun visor or sunglasses if needed.

Low sunlight dazzling a driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

296. What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

Stop only when the barriers are fully lowered.
Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
Cross quickly if you cannot see a train.
✓ Stop and wait until the barriers are completely open.

Never enter a railway crossing when barriers are closing or warning signals are active. Stop and wait until it is safe.

Barriers closing at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

297. What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

Merge without checking if traffic is moving slowly.
Reverse back the way you came.
Follow construction vehicles through the closed lane.
✓ Follow the temporary signs and merge safely when required.

Observe the temporary signs, adjust your speed, and merge safely according to the traffic situation and local rules.

Temporary traffic-lane closure ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which side do people drive on in Australia?

298. Which side do people drive on in Australia?

✓ Left-hand side.
Right-hand side.

Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road in Australia.

Road traffic and the designated driving side
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

299. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low engine oil.
Low washer fluid.
Low tyre pressure.
✓ Low engine coolant level.

This symbol indicates that the engine coolant level is low. Check the coolant level when the engine is cool and refill it with the correct coolant if necessary.

Low coolant-level warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you make sure drivers have seen you before crossing?

300. Why should you make sure drivers have seen you before crossing?

Once a driver sees you, no further checks are needed.
A driver who sees you can always stop in time.
✓ To reduce the risk of stepping into their path.
Eye contact means the driver must stop for you.

Before crossing, make sure approaching drivers have noticed you and that it is safe to proceed. Do not assume that a driver will stop simply because you have seen each other.

Pedestrian checking whether an approaching driver has seen them
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA