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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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

301. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Rear window demister.
Air conditioning.
✓ Front windscreen demister.
Air recirculation.

This symbol indicates the front windscreen demister. It directs airflow towards the windscreen to help clear condensation, mist or frost and restore a clear view.

Front windscreen demister symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you slow down near schools or playgrounds?

302. Why should you slow down near schools or playgrounds?

School zones are closed to normal traffic.
✓ Children may behave unpredictably.
Children are easier to see when you drive slowly.
Children always have priority near schools.

Children may suddenly cross the road or move unexpectedly, so drivers should slow down and stay alert near schools and playgrounds.

Vehicle approaching a school or playground area
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid on ice?

303. What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid on ice?

Steer rapidly from side to side.
Accelerate sharply to regain traction.
Apply the parking brake to straighten the vehicle.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly in the direction you want to travel.

Avoid sudden braking or steering. Look where you want to go and use gentle controls while the tyres regain grip.

Vehicle skidding on an icy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you approach a sharp curve on a mountain road?

304. How should you approach a sharp curve on a mountain road?

✓ Reduce speed before the curve and remain in your lane.
Accelerate through the curve to maintain momentum.
Move toward the centre of the road for a better view.
Overtake just before entering the curve.

Mountain curves may hide oncoming vehicles, cyclists, animals, or debris. Slow down before entering and keep a safe road position.

Sharp curve on a mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the engine-temperature warning shows overheating?

305. What should you do if the engine-temperature warning shows overheating?

Continue driving slowly until the warning disappears.
Increase engine speed to improve coolant circulation.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and allow it to cool.
Ignore it if the engine still sounds normal.

Continuing to drive an overheating vehicle can cause severe damage. Allow the engine to cool and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Engine-overheating warning on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

306. Which foot normally operates the brake and accelerator in a manual vehicle?

Either foot.
✓ The right foot.
The left foot.
The left foot for the brake and right foot for the accelerator.

In a manual vehicle, the right foot normally operates both the brake and accelerator pedals, while the left foot operates the clutch.

Pedal arrangement and foot controls in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

307. Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

✓ Because it distracts you from the road.
Because phone signals can interfere with vehicle electronics.
Because it can disable the cruise control system.
Because it can cause road rage.

Using a phone while driving reduces attention, reaction time, and control of the vehicle. A hands-free system may reduce the need to handle the phone, but the conversation itself can still be distracting.

Phone distracting a driver from the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

308. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low tyre pressure.
Power-steering warning.
✓ Electronic stability control.
Anti-lock braking system.

This symbol relates to the electronic stability control (ESC) system. It may flash when the system is actively helping to maintain stability. If it remains illuminated, the system may be switched off or have a fault.

Electronic stability control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect after one wild animal crosses the road?

309. What should you expect after one wild animal crosses the road?

The road is likely to remain clear.
✓ More animals may follow.
You can continue normally once the animal has passed.
Wild animals normally cross roads one at a time.

Many animals travel in groups. Slow down and continue watching both sides of the road.

Wild animals crossing a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Who normally has priority when you enter a motorway from an entry lane?

310. Who normally has priority when you enter a motorway from an entry lane?

Whichever vehicle reaches the merge point first.
✓ Traffic already travelling on the motorway.
Traffic entering from the entry lane.
The vehicle travelling at the higher speed.

You must adjust your speed and find a safe gap without forcing motorway traffic to brake or change direction.

Vehicle entering beside traffic already on a motorway
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

311. Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

Driving through deep water is always prohibited.
Deep water makes the engine use too much oil.
✓ It can damage your vehicle or make you lose control.
Increase speed to maintain full control through the water.

Deep water can damage the engine, reduce braking ability, hide hazards, or cause the vehicle to lose grip. Reduce speed, assess the depth and conditions carefully, and avoid entering the water if you are unsure it is safe. If necessary, stop and use another route.

Deep water covering part of a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when lanes become narrower in roadworks?

312. What should you expect when lanes become narrower in roadworks?

Large vehicles must stop before entering the narrow section.
✓ Less space between your vehicle, barriers, and other traffic.
The speed limit automatically increases.
Temporary lane markings no longer need to be followed.

Narrow lanes leave less room for error. Keep a steady position, avoid drifting toward barriers or nearby vehicles, and reduce speed if necessary.

Narrow traffic lanes through roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid placing objects on or over an airbag cover?

313. Why should you avoid placing objects on or over an airbag cover?

They could prevent the seat belt from locking.
✓ They could interfere with deployment and become dangerous projectiles.
They could make the airbag deploy too slowly.
They could cause the airbag warning light to stay on.

Do not place or attach objects over an airbag cover or in an airbag's deployment area. They may interfere with the airbag as it inflates and could be thrown towards occupants when the airbag deploys.

Objects placed over a vehicle's airbag cover
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do after hitting an animal with your vehicle?

314. What should you do after hitting an animal with your vehicle?

Approach the animal immediately.
Move the animal yourself before checking for traffic.
Leave the scene and report it later.
✓ Stop safely, warn other traffic, and seek appropriate help.

After an animal collision, stop in a safe place if possible and protect yourself and other road users from further danger. Do not approach an injured or frightened animal unless it is safe to do so. Contact the appropriate police, road authority, animal service, or emergency service as required by the situation and local rules.

Vehicle stopped after a collision with an animal
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check your mirrors before braking?

315. Why should you check your mirrors before braking?

To check whether your brake lights are working.
To shorten the distance needed to stop.
✓ To know what is happening behind you.
To decide which gear to use while slowing down.

Checking your mirrors helps you understand what is happening behind you and anticipate how following traffic may react. In an emergency, do not delay necessary braking.

Driver checking following traffic before braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before leaving a motorway?

316. What should you do before leaving a motorway?

Brake sharply before entering the exit lane.
✓ Check your mirrors, signal in good time, and enter the exit lane safely.
Signal only after entering the exit lane.
Cross several lanes at the last moment.

Plan your exit early, move into the correct lane safely, and reduce speed after entering the exit road where appropriate.

Vehicle preparing to take a motorway exit
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can worn tyres affect driving in heavy rain?

317. How can worn tyres affect driving in heavy rain?

They clear water from the road more effectively.
✓ They increase the risk of aquaplaning.
They make steering more responsive in heavy rain.
They shorten the stopping distance on wet roads.

Tyre tread helps channel water away and maintain grip. Worn tyres cannot clear water as effectively, increasing stopping distance and the risk of aquaplaning.

Worn tyre tread and wet-road grip
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does the priority-to-the-right rule apply in Australia?

318. Does the priority-to-the-right rule apply in Australia?

✓ Yes.
No.

In Australia, the priority-to-the-right rule generally applies at uncontrolled intersections.

Vehicle approaching an intersection from the right
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you switch on low-beam headlights before entering a tunnel?

319. Why should you switch on low-beam headlights before entering a tunnel?

To reduce tyre wear inside the tunnel.
To prevent the tunnel lights from becoming too bright.
To keep the windscreen from misting.
✓ To improve visibility and help other road users see you.

Tunnel lighting may be much darker than daylight. Low-beam headlights help you see and make your vehicle more visible.

Vehicle using low-beam headlights before entering a tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do about a chip in the windscreen?

320. What should you do about a chip in the windscreen?

✓ Have it assessed and repaired promptly.
Ignore it if it is outside your direct view.
Clean the glass and continue driving normally.
Wait until the chip becomes a larger crack.

A chip can obstruct your view, weaken the glass, and develop into a larger crack. Have it checked and repaired promptly.

Stone chip in a vehicle's windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the clutch pedal in a manual vehicle?

321. What is the purpose of the clutch pedal in a manual vehicle?

To apply the parking brake.
To slow the vehicle using the brakes.
To increase the engine speed.
✓ To disconnect the engine from the transmission.

Pressing the clutch pedal temporarily disconnects the engine from the transmission, allowing the driver to change gear or stop without stalling the engine.

Clutch pedal in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you notice an unfamiliar fluid underneath your vehicle?

322. What should you do if you notice an unfamiliar fluid underneath your vehicle?

Assume a small leak is harmless condensation.
Top up the fluid levels and continue driving.
Wait until the vehicle develops another problem.
✓ Do not ignore it. Identify the fluid and arrange an inspection if necessary.

Clear water from air conditioning can be normal, but oil, coolant, fuel, transmission fluid, or brake fluid may indicate a fault requiring urgent attention.

Fluid leaking underneath a parked vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a front passenger keep their feet off the dashboard?

323. Why should a front passenger keep their feet off the dashboard?

✓ It can greatly increase the risk of injury if the airbag deploys.
It can make the front seat slide forwards during braking.
It can interfere with the rear-view mirror.
It can prevent the engine from cooling properly.

A front airbag deploys very quickly and with considerable force. If a passenger has their feet or legs on the dashboard, airbag deployment can force their legs backwards and greatly increase the risk of serious injury. Passengers should sit normally with their feet in the footwell and wear their seat belts correctly. The driver should make sure everyone is seated and restrained safely before setting off.

Passenger resting their feet on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

324. What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

Move slightly toward the centre for a better view.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely through the curve.
✓ Slow down and stay in your lane.
Brake only after entering the curve if necessary.

A curve can hide oncoming traffic, obstacles, cyclists, or pedestrians. Reduce speed and keep a safe position.

Road curve with a restricted view ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

325. What do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

Apply or release the parking brake.
Switch between cruise control and the speed limiter.
Change the transmission gear.
✓ Increase or decrease the selected cruising speed.

When cruise control is active, the + and − controls normally increase or decrease the selected cruising speed. The amount of each adjustment can vary between vehicles.

Plus and minus controls for the cruising speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

326. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking brake applied.
Low tyre pressure.
✓ Brake-pad wear warning.
Brake-system fault.

This symbol indicates that the brake pads may be worn and should be inspected. Continuing to drive with excessively worn brake pads can reduce braking performance and damage other brake components.

Brake-pad wear warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

327. Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

Using low-beam headlights and keeping the windows closed.
✓ Higher speed, slower reactions, poor grip, and vehicle condition.
Having a full fuel tank and adjusted mirrors.
Lower speed, dry roads, and good tyres.

Stopping distance can increase because of higher speed, slower driver reactions, reduced tyre grip, poor weather or road conditions, worn tyres, weak brakes, or a heavier vehicle. Both the driver's reaction distance and the vehicle's braking distance can be affected.

Road and vehicle conditions affecting stopping distance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can happen if you use the brakes continuously on a long descent?

328. What can happen if you use the brakes continuously on a long descent?

The engine may automatically slow the vehicle.
The brakes will automatically cool while being used.
Nothing, if the brake fluid level is correct.
✓ The brakes may overheat and become less effective.

Continuous braking can cause the brakes to overheat and fade, reducing braking performance. Use a lower gear to help control speed with engine braking.

Vehicle braking during a long descent
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does a green traffic light mean?

329. What does a green traffic light mean?

You have priority over all other road users.
You may enter even if traffic is blocking the intersection.
You may turn in any direction without checking the signs.
✓ You may proceed if it is safe.

A green light allows you to continue, but you must still watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.

Green traffic light at an intersection
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you feel tired while driving?

330. What should you do if you feel tired while driving?

✓ Stop in a safe place and take a break.
Drink coffee and continue without stopping.
Drive faster to reach your destination sooner.
Open a window and continue driving.

Driving while tired reduces concentration and reaction time. Stop somewhere safe and rest before continuing.

Tired driver taking a break from a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Can coffee, energy drinks, fresh air, or loud music replace proper rest when you are tired?

331. Can coffee, energy drinks, fresh air, or loud music replace proper rest when you are tired?

Yes, but only during daylight.
✓ No, they may only increase alertness temporarily.
Yes, if you use several of them together.
Yes, if the journey is less than one hour.

Coffee, energy drinks, fresh air, or loud music may make you feel more alert for a short time, but they do not remove fatigue. If you are too tired to drive safely, stop somewhere safe and get proper rest.

Stimulant drinks and driver tiredness
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the ignition key once the engine starts?

332. What should you do with the ignition key once the engine starts?

Keep holding it in the START position.
Remove it from the ignition.
✓ Release it so it returns from START to ON.
Turn it immediately to ACC.

Once the engine starts, release the ignition key so it returns from START to the ON position. Holding the key in START unnecessarily can keep the starter motor engaged.

Releasing the ignition key after the engine starts
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a trailer begins to sway?

333. What should you do if a trailer begins to sway?

Brake hard as soon as the sway begins.
Move into another lane to create more space.
Steer quickly from side to side.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and reduce speed smoothly.

Sudden steering or braking can worsen trailer sway. Stay calm, hold a steady course, and reduce speed smoothly.

Trailer swaying behind a towing vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

334. When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

✓ After the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
Before pressing the clutch pedal.
While the vehicle is still moving forward slowly.
Whenever you want to reduce speed.

Select reverse gear only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Press the clutch fully before selecting reverse to avoid unnecessary wear or damage to the transmission.

Selecting reverse gear in a stationary manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

335. What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

Apply the parking brake.
Press the accelerator pedal fully.
Switch off the engine.
✓ Press the clutch pedal fully.

Pressing the clutch pedal disconnects the engine from the transmission so that another gear can be selected. After changing gear, the clutch should be released smoothly.

Clutch operation when changing gear in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you look well ahead while driving?

336. Why should you look well ahead while driving?

To maintain the same speed in every situation.
To avoid checking your mirrors as often.
✓ To identify developing hazards early and gain more time to react.
To concentrate only on traffic in your lane.

Looking well ahead helps you identify developing hazards early, such as slowing traffic, pedestrians, intersections, or changing road conditions. Earlier detection gives you more time to assess the situation and respond smoothly and safely.

Driver observing the road and traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if there is no footpath?

337. What should you do if there is no footpath?

✓ Walk where you can be seen and stay alert.
Choose the side with the smoothest road surface.
Pay attention only to traffic approaching from behind.
Walk close to traffic so drivers can see you.

If there is no footpath, stay as far from traffic as possible and remain alert. The exact side of the road depends on local traffic rules.

Pedestrian walking beside a road without a footpath
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you keep a safe distance from cyclists?

338. Why should you keep a safe distance from cyclists?

✓ They may need space to avoid obstacles.
Cyclists always have priority over other traffic.
Cyclists must move aside whenever a vehicle approaches.
Bicycles need more stopping distance than cars.

Cyclists may need to move around potholes, parked cars, or drains. Giving them enough space helps prevent dangerous situations.

Lateral clearance between a vehicle and a cyclist
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before overtaking while towing a trailer?

339. What should you do before overtaking while towing a trailer?

Follow closely before moving out to overtake.
Accelerate sharply once you move into the other lane.
✓ Allow extra time and distance for the manoeuvre.
Begin overtaking as soon as the road looks clear.

A towing vehicle accelerates more slowly, and the trailer makes the whole vehicle combination longer. Remember to allow a much larger safe gap before overtaking and enough space to return safely to your lane.

Vehicle preparing to overtake while towing a trailer
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the bonnet suddenly opens while you are driving?

340. What should you do if the bonnet suddenly opens while you are driving?

Brake hard immediately, even if traffic is behind you.
Continue driving by looking through the side window.
✓ Look through any available gap, slow down smoothly, and stop safely.
Turn sharply toward the side of the road.

The bonnet may completely obstruct your view. Avoid sudden movements, use the road markings or available gap to maintain direction, and stop safely.

Raised bonnet obstructing the driver's forward view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can bridges be dangerous in strong winds?

341. Why can bridges be dangerous in strong winds?

✓ They are often exposed to stronger gusts.
Vehicles require more engine power on bridges.
Vehicles automatically accelerate on bridges.
Steering works less effectively above water.

Bridges are often open and exposed, allowing strong winds to affect vehicles more suddenly.

Exposed bridge in strong wind
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

342. Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

✓ The temporary markings that show the current traffic route.
Ignore markings and follow only the vehicle ahead.
Follow the old permanent markings if they are still visible.
Use whichever markings give you the shortest route.

Temporary road markings may replace the normal lane layout during roadworks. Follow the markings and signs that currently guide traffic.

Temporary road markings through a roadworks area
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

343. What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

✓ Do not rely on the signal alone, proceed only when it is safe.
Pull out because the vehicle will turn.
Use your horn and proceed immediately.
Assume the driver has seen you.

An indicator shows an intention, but it does not guarantee that the driver will turn. The signal may have been left on accidentally or the driver's intentions may change. Observe the vehicle's speed and position and proceed only when you are sure it is safe.

Another vehicle signalling to turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

344. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking assistance.
Electronic stability control.
✓ Adaptive cruise control.
Lane-departure warning.

This symbol relates to adaptive cruise control (ACC). The system can maintain a selected speed and automatically adjust the vehicle's speed to help maintain a set distance from traffic ahead.

Adaptive cruise-control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when the road is covered with snow or ice?

345. What should you do when the road is covered with snow or ice?

Use quick steering movements if the vehicle starts to slide.
Brake firmly in curves to keep control.
Follow other vehicles closely in their tyre tracks.
✓ Reduce speed, increase following distance, and drive gently.

Snow and ice greatly reduce tyre grip. Lower speed, extra distance, and gentle steering, braking, and acceleration help maintain control.

Vehicle travelling on a snow-covered road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may drive through an amber light without slowing down.

346. You may drive through an amber light without slowing down.

✓ False.
True.

An amber light means you should stop if you can do so safely. If you are too close to stop safely, continue through the intersection with caution.

Vehicle approaching an amber traffic light
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

347. What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

✓ Adjust it correctly or have it checked before riding.
Tighten it as much as possible.
Lubricate it and ignore the loose tension.
Keep riding if the motorcycle still moves normally.

A loose drive chain can affect power transmission, damage components, or come off the sprockets. The chain should have the correct tension and lubrication specified by the motorcycle manufacturer. A chain that is too tight can also cause damage.

Loose drive chain on a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before driving through a puddle?

348. What should you do before driving through a puddle?

✓ Slow down and check that it is safe.
Brake firmly while driving through the water.
Maintain your normal speed if the road looks clear.
Accelerate so you spend less time in the water.

Large puddles can hide holes, reduce grip, or cause water to splash onto pedestrians or other vehicles. Slow down and proceed carefully.

Vehicle approaching a puddle on the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the button on a seat-belt buckle used for?

349. What is the button on a seat-belt buckle used for?

To tighten the shoulder belt.
✓ To release the seat belt.
To adjust the belt height.
To lock the seat in position.

Pressing the button on the seat-belt buckle releases the latch so the belt can be unfastened. Keep the seat belt fastened whenever required while the vehicle is moving.

Release button on a seat-belt buckle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your brakes feel less effective after driving through water?

350. What should you do if your brakes feel less effective after driving through water?

Increase speed to warm the brakes.
Ignore it if the vehicle still stops.
Use only the parking brake until they dry.
✓ Drive carefully and test them gently when safe.

Water can reduce braking performance. After driving through water, check the brakes gently when it is safe to do so.

Checking braking response after driving through water
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA