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QuizTraffic rulesGermany

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

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

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Germany
True/false 17 Germany 37 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Driving licence 40 Show all 644
Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

51. Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

Swerving increases the vehicle's stopping distance.
Small animals have fast reaction times.
✓ You may lose control or collide with another road user.
Small animals usually move away before you reach them.

A sudden swerve can take you into another lane, off the road, or into nearby traffic.

Small animal in the road ahead of a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can selecting a lower gear provide in a manual vehicle?

52. What can selecting a lower gear provide in a manual vehicle?

Automatic parking-brake operation.
✓ Greater engine braking.
Higher tyre pressure.
A shorter steering ratio.

Selecting a suitable lower gear can increase engine braking, helping the vehicle slow or control its speed without relying entirely on the brakes.

Manual gear selection for engine braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What wording is commonly shown on give-way signs in Germany?

53. What wording is commonly shown on give-way signs in Germany?

STOP.
YIELD.
GIVE WAY.
✓ No wording.

Give-way signs in Germany normally use the inverted triangular symbol without wording.

Wording used on give-way and yield signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main purpose of a booster seat?

54. What is the main purpose of a booster seat?

To move the child closer to the front seats.
✓ To position the vehicle seat belt correctly on the child.
To make the child high enough to see through the windscreen.
To allow the child to sit without wearing a seat belt.

A booster seat raises and positions a child so the vehicle seat belt fits correctly. The lap belt should sit low across the hips and the shoulder belt should pass across the chest and shoulder, rather than the neck or abdomen.

Child seated in a booster with a vehicle seat belt
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When are snow chains required in Germany?

55. When are snow chains required in Germany?

Throughout the entire winter.
They are never allowed.
✓ When required by road signs.
Throughout the entire year.

Snow chains must be used in Germany when required by road signs.

Snow chains for vehicle tyres
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before making a turn?

56. What should you do before making a turn?

Signal only after you begin turning.
Check only the traffic directly ahead.
✓ Check mirrors, signal, and make sure it is safe.
Turn as soon as the road ahead appears clear.

Before turning, check your mirrors, use your indicator, and make sure the turn can be made safely.

Driver preparing to turn at a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you see loose gravel on the road?

57. What should you do if you see loose gravel on the road?

Brake firmly before the tyres begin to slide.
Steer around loose patches whenever possible.
✓ Slow down and avoid sudden steering or braking.
Maintain your speed and avoid using the brakes.

Loose gravel reduces grip and can make the vehicle skid. Slow down and use smooth steering and braking.

Loose gravel road with a Vienna-style warning sign
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

58. You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

True.
✓ False.

Hazard lights are used to warn other road users of a hazard or an unexpectedly stopped vehicle. They do not make illegal or unsafe parking acceptable.

Parked vehicle with hazard warning lights flashing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

59. You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

✓ False.
True.

You should always check for cyclists, motorcyclists, and other road users before opening a door.

Cyclist near the door of a parked car
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

60. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Power-steering warning.
✓ Cruise control.
Electronic stability control.
Speed limiter.

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
What is the purpose of the manual parking brake?

61. What is the purpose of the manual parking brake?

✓ To help keep the vehicle stationary when parked.
To select reverse gear.
To slow the vehicle during normal driving.
To disengage the clutch.

The manual parking brake helps keep the vehicle stationary when parked. It is normally applied by pulling up the handbrake lever and released before driving away.

Manual handbrake lever in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid driving too close to the edge of the road?

62. Why should you avoid driving too close to the edge of the road?

✓ The edge may be uneven or weak.
It can make oncoming traffic harder to see.
It can make the steering require more effort.
It can make your speed harder to judge.

Road edges can be soft, uneven, or damaged. Driving too close to the edge can reduce control or cause the vehicle to leave the road.

Vehicle travelling close to the road edge
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before reversing your vehicle?

63. What should you do before reversing your vehicle?

✓ Check all around and make sure it is safe.
Check behind only after you start moving.
Check the mirrors and reverse if they appear clear.
Sound the horn before reversing and proceed.

Before reversing, check all around the vehicle, including blind spots, for pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, and other hazards. Reverse slowly and keep checking as you move.

Vehicle preparing to reverse from a driveway
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not use water on a fire involving live electrical equipment?

64. Why should you not use water on a fire involving live electrical equipment?

Water prevents the power supply from switching off.
✓ Water can conduct electricity and create an electric-shock hazard.
Water can make the electrical equipment restart.
Water makes electrical cables harder to disconnect.

Do not use water on a fire involving energised electrical equipment, because water can conduct electricity and create a serious electric-shock hazard. Keep clear, disconnect the power only if it is safe to do so, and call the emergency services. Use only a suitable fire extinguisher if it is safe and you know how to use it.

Fire involving live electrical equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

65. Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

The motorcycle will use more fuel.
✓ The driver may not be able to see the motorcycle.
The motorcycle's indicators may be harder to see.
The vehicle ahead must always change lanes.

Motorcycles can be difficult to see, particularly when they remain in another vehicle's blind spot. Avoid staying alongside a vehicle where the driver may not see you, and choose a position where you are more likely to be visible.

Motorcycle in another vehicle's blind spot
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you remove dark sunglasses before entering a tunnel?

66. Why should you remove dark sunglasses before entering a tunnel?

To make the vehicle headlights work more effectively.
✓ Your eyes need to adjust to the lower light level.
Because tunnel lighting can damage dark lenses.
To prevent the lenses from reflecting tunnel lights.

Dark sunglasses reduce the amount of light reaching your eyes and can make hazards inside a tunnel harder to see.

Driver removing sunglasses before entering a tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

67. Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

N (Neutral).
R (Reverse).
✓ P (Park).
D (Drive).

Select P (Park) when parking an automatic vehicle. Park locks the transmission, but the parking brake should also be applied to secure the vehicle.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

68. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Electric window control.
Mirror adjustment.
✓ Window lock.
Central door locking.

This control activates the window lock, which normally prevents passengers from operating their electric windows while leaving control with the driver.

Lock switch for passenger window controls
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which side is normally used for overtaking in Germany?

69. Which side is normally used for overtaking in Germany?

Right-hand side.
✓ Left-hand side.

Drivers normally overtake on the left-hand side in Germany.

Vehicle overtaking on the left
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you leave a broken-down vehicle when traffic is passing nearby?

70. How should you leave a broken-down vehicle when traffic is passing nearby?

✓ Use the door furthest from moving traffic when it is safe to do so.
Stand beside the vehicle before moving away.
Leave through the door nearest moving traffic.
Get out immediately without checking for traffic.

Leaving through the side away from traffic reduces the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle.

Leaving a broken-down vehicle away from passing traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

71. Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

✓ Motorcycles can slow down quickly and are more vulnerable.
Motorcyclists cannot see vehicles directly behind them.
Following closely makes it easier to overtake safely.
Motorcycles always travel more slowly than cars.

Motorcyclists are more exposed than car drivers. Extra following distance gives you more time to react safely.

Following distance behind a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

72. What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

Ignore it if the engine sounds normal.
Increase the engine speed until the light goes out.
Add engine oil while the engine is still running.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.

Low oil pressure can quickly cause severe engine damage. Stop as soon as it is safe, switch off the engine, and investigate the cause before continuing.

Oil-pressure warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if passengers are distracting you while driving?

73. What should you do if passengers are distracting you while driving?

✓ Ask them to stop and keep your attention on the road.
Continue the conversation while watching the road.
Ignore the traffic until the distraction has passed.
Turn around briefly so you can speak to them.

Passengers can reduce a driver's attention and concentration. If their behaviour becomes distracting, ask them to stop and keep your focus on driving. If necessary, stop somewhere safe before dealing with the situation.

Passengers distracting a driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if someone is injured in a road collision?

74. What should you do if someone is injured in a road collision?

Give them food or drink while waiting for help.
✓ Call for help and avoid moving them unless there is immediate danger.
Remove a motorcyclist's helmet to check for injuries.
Help them stand up and check whether they can walk.

Moving an injured person can worsen spinal or other injuries. Keep them calm, protect them from further danger, and provide first aid only within your level of training.

Assistance for an injured person after a road collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

75. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low engine oil.
Low washer fluid.
✓ Low engine coolant level.
Engine overheating.

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
What is the minimum licence for a D bus towing a trailer over 750 kg?

76. What is the minimum licence for a D bus towing a trailer over 750 kg?

✓ Licence DE.
Licence D.
Licence BE.
Licence D1E.

Category D permits a trailer with a maximum authorised mass of up to 750 kg. A category D vehicle towing a trailer above 750 kg requires category DE.

Category D bus towing a trailer over 750 kg
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

77. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine-temperature warning.
✓ Charging-system warning.
Oil-pressure warning.
Brake-system warning.

This symbol indicates a problem with the vehicle's charging system. If it remains illuminated while the engine is running, the battery may not be charging correctly because of a fault with the alternator, battery, wiring, or related components.

Charging-system warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should adjust your mirrors before you start driving.

78. You should adjust your mirrors before you start driving.

False.
✓ True.

Properly adjusted mirrors improve visibility and help you monitor traffic around your vehicle.

Driver adjusting a mirror before setting off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when walking near a driveway?

79. What should you do when walking near a driveway?

Assume vehicles will stop before crossing your path.
Rely on engine noise to warn you of vehicles.
✓ Watch for vehicles entering or leaving.
Watch only for vehicles leaving the driveway.

Vehicles may enter or leave driveways suddenly. Stay alert and check for moving vehicles.

Pedestrian passing a driveway entrance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should an unused roof rack or roof box be removed?

80. Why should an unused roof rack or roof box be removed?

It reduces the vehicle's braking power.
It prevents the battery from charging.
✓ It can increase aerodynamic drag and energy use.
It increases tyre pressure.

An unused roof rack or roof box increases aerodynamic drag, particularly at higher speeds. Removing it when it is not needed can reduce fuel or energy consumption.

Roof rack or roof box fitted to a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check for motorcyclists before changing lanes?

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

Motorcyclists are required to stay beside the kerb.
✓ Motorcycles can be harder to see and may be in your blind spot.
Motorcycles always travel faster than other traffic.
Motorcycles need more road space than cars.

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
Which licence category is mainly associated with motorcycles?

82. Which licence category is mainly associated with motorcycles?

Licence B.
✓ Licence A.
Licence AM.
Licence C.

Driving licence A is mainly associated with motorcycles. Category A1 covers lighter motorcycles, A2 covers medium-powered motorcycles, and A covers more powerful motorcycles.

Motorcycle and category A driving licence
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can main-beam headlights make driving in fog more difficult?

83. Why can main-beam headlights make driving in fog more difficult?

The brighter light makes the windscreen mist more quickly.
The stronger beam uses too much electrical power.
✓ The light can reflect off fog droplets and reduce visibility.
Main beam makes interior lights less effective.

Main beam can reflect back from fog and create glare, making it harder to see the road ahead.

Headlight glare reflected by fog
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

84. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Lane-departure warning.
Parking assistance.
Electronic stability control.
✓ Forward-collision warning.

This symbol relates to the forward-collision warning or automatic emergency braking system. It may warn the driver when the vehicle detects a risk of collision with traffic ahead.

Forward-collision warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is a danger of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle with the boot or tailgate open?

85. What is a danger of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle with the boot or tailgate open?

The vehicle can become too heavy at the rear.
The rear window demister may stop working.
The fuel gauge may become inaccurate.
✓ Exhaust fumes can be drawn into the passenger compartment.

Driving with the boot or tailgate open can allow exhaust gases to be drawn into the vehicle. Exhaust fumes may contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and may be difficult to detect. Keep the luggage compartment properly closed while driving whenever possible.

Open vehicle tailgate and exhaust-fume risk
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when traffic lights change to amber as you approach?

86. What should you do when traffic lights change to amber as you approach?

Continue at the same speed if the junction looks clear.
✓ Stop if you can do so safely.
Stop even if this requires sudden harsh braking.
Accelerate to pass before the light turns red.

An amber light warns that the signal is changing. Stop if it is safe, but avoid sudden braking that could cause danger behind you.

Vehicle approaching an amber traffic light
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

87. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Rear window demister.
Air recirculation.
Automatic headlights.
✓ Windscreen wiper speed.

This symbol relates to the windscreen wipers. The control allows the driver to select an appropriate wiping mode or speed for the amount of rain and visibility conditions.

Windscreen-wiper control for adjusting wiping speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do first after a collision?

88. What should you do first after a collision?

Discuss who caused the collision before calling for help.
Call your insurance company before checking for danger.
Continue driving if the vehicles can still move.
✓ Stop, check for danger and injuries, and call for help if needed.

Stop the vehicle, warn other traffic where appropriate, assess immediate danger and injuries, and contact the emergency services when needed. Exchange any details required by local law.

Vehicles stopped after a road collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you smell fuel or see fuel leaking from your vehicle?

89. What should you do if you smell fuel or see fuel leaking from your vehicle?

Restart the engine to check whether the leak continues.
Ignore a small leak if the fuel level remains stable.
✓ Stop, switch off the engine, avoid flames or sparks, and call for assistance.
Drive slowly to the nearest fuel station.

Leaking fuel creates a serious fire risk. Keep people away, do not restart the engine, and arrange professional assistance.

Fuel leaking from a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with a manual parking brake before driving away?

90. What should you do with a manual parking brake before driving away?

Pull it up further.
✓ Release it fully.
Apply it only after moving off.
Leave it partly applied.

The manual parking brake should be released fully before driving away. Driving with it partly applied can cause unnecessary brake wear and overheating.

Releasing a manual handbrake before driving away
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does driving at the speed limit always mean your speed is safe?

91. Does driving at the speed limit always mean your speed is safe?

Yes, if the road ahead appears clear.
Yes, the speed limit is always the safest speed.
✓ No, you may need to drive more slowly for the conditions.
Only when driving outside built-up areas.

A speed limit is a maximum permitted speed, not a target. You may need to drive more slowly because of traffic, poor visibility, weather, road conditions, pedestrians, cyclists, or other hazards.

Speed-limit sign and changing road conditions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when entering a roundabout?

92. What should you do when entering a roundabout?

Stop and wait until the roundabout is completely empty.
Give way only to traffic in the lane nearest to you.
✓ Slow down, give way when required, and enter only when safe.
Enter if there is space, even if other traffic must slow down.

When approaching a roundabout, reduce your speed, observe traffic, follow the signs and local priority rules, and enter only when it is safe.

Vehicle at a roundabout entrance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Who normally has priority when you enter a motorway from an entry lane?

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

Whichever vehicle reaches the merge point first.
The vehicle travelling at the higher speed.
The vehicle closest to the end of the entry lane.
✓ Traffic already travelling on the motorway.

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 the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

94. Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

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

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 another driver does not give way when they should?

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

Accelerate so you pass through first.
Use the horn and continue at the same speed.
✓ Slow down and avoid a collision.
Maintain your speed because you have priority.

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
Why should you avoid sounding the horn near horses?

96. Why should you avoid sounding the horn near horses?

✓ The noise may frighten them.
Using the horn gives the horse rider priority.
The horn may make the horse move faster.
The rider may think you are signalling them to stop.

Horses can be startled by sudden or loud noises and may move unpredictably. Slow down, give them plenty of space, and avoid using the horn unless necessary.

Vehicle approaching a horse and rider
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should an EV charging cable be positioned where pedestrians may pass?

97. How should an EV charging cable be positioned where pedestrians may pass?

✓ So it does not create a trip hazard or obstruct the route.
Loose on the ground so pedestrians can step over it.
Across the shortest possible route, even if people walk there.
Across the pavement where it is easiest to see.

An EV charging cable should be positioned so it does not create a trip hazard or unnecessarily obstruct pedestrians. Where a cable must cross a walking route, use an appropriate approved cable-management or protection system and follow local requirements.

Charging cable near a pedestrian route
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can parking too close to a junction affect visibility?

98. How can parking too close to a junction affect visibility?

It affects only the driver of the parked vehicle.
✓ It can block the view between road users.
It has no effect if the hazard lights are on.
It improves visibility by slowing down traffic.

Parking too close to a junction can block visibility. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians may have difficulty seeing each other in time.

Parked vehicle obstructing visibility near a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should the side stand be fully raised before riding a motorcycle?

99. Should the side stand be fully raised before riding a motorcycle?

Yes, but only when carrying a passenger.
No, the stand helps stabilise the motorcycle while moving.
No, it only needs to be raised on motorways.
✓ Yes, a lowered stand could catch the road and affect control.

The side stand should be fully raised before riding. If it remains down, it may strike the road surface, particularly when turning, and could cause the rider to lose control.

Motorcycle side stand and pre-ride checks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it important to make yourself visible at night?

100. Why is it important to make yourself visible at night?

To make it safe to walk closer to moving traffic.
To avoid checking for approaching vehicles.
✓ To make drivers see you more easily.
To make drivers give way wherever you cross.

Bright or reflective clothing helps drivers notice pedestrians in low-light conditions.

Pedestrian visibility beside a road at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA