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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 should you leave space beside large vehicles when they turn?

101. Why should you leave space beside large vehicles when they turn?

They always have priority while turning.
They can turn only from the centre of the road.
They must stop before making every turn.
✓ They may need extra room to complete the turn.

Large vehicles often swing wide when turning and have larger blind spots. Keep clear and do not move into the space beside them.

Large vehicle needing extra space to turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

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

To unlock the steering.
To apply the service brakes.
To select reverse gear.
✓ 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 is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

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

One drink affects every person in the same way.
Food makes each drink count as less alcohol.
You can judge your alcohol level by how sober you feel.
✓ Drink strength, serving size, and individual effects can vary.

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 should you do if you realise you have put the wrong fuel in your vehicle?

104. What should you do if you realise you have put the wrong fuel in your vehicle?

Start the engine and drive slowly to use the fuel.
✓ Do not start the engine, and seek assistance.
Drive until the fuel warning light comes on.
Rev the engine briefly to mix the fuels.

If you have used the wrong fuel, do not start the engine. Starting it can circulate the incorrect fuel and cause further damage. If possible, avoid switching on the ignition and seek appropriate roadside or workshop assistance.

Fuel nozzle and the risk of misfuelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

105. Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

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

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

Vehicle using dipped headlights before entering a tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when meeting another vehicle on a narrow mountain road?

106. What should you do when meeting another vehicle on a narrow mountain road?

✓ Slow down and use a safe passing place if necessary.
Maintain speed and pass as closely as possible.
Drive onto the roadside without checking the surface.
Move toward the centre so the other driver gives way.

Narrow mountain roads may not provide enough space for two vehicles. Reduce speed and cooperate to pass safely.

Vehicles meeting on a narrow mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

107. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Rear window demister.
Front windscreen demister.
Air recirculation.
Windscreen washer.

This symbol indicates the rear window demister. It heats the rear window to help clear condensation, mist or frost and improve visibility.

Rear-window demister symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist brake in an emergency?

108. How should a motorcyclist brake in an emergency?

Use only the rear brake.
Steer sharply while braking hard.
✓ Apply both brakes firmly and progressively.
Grab the front brake as suddenly as possible.

During emergency braking, use both brakes firmly and progressively while keeping the motorcycle as upright and stable as practical. Avoid sudden steering. If ABS is fitted, maintain firm braking pressure and allow the system to work.

Motorcyclist making an emergency stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you adjust your speed in bad weather?

109. Why should you adjust your speed in bad weather?

✓ Because visibility and grip may be reduced.
To make the windscreen wipers work better.
To prevent the tyres from losing air pressure.
To reduce fuel consumption.

Rain, snow, fog, and ice can reduce visibility and tyre grip. Lower speed gives you more time and distance to react and stop safely.

Vehicle travelling in poor weather
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a tyre-pressure warning appears and handling changes?

110. What should you do if a tyre-pressure warning appears and handling changes?

Brake firmly to test whether the tyre still has grip.
Release air from the other tyres to balance the pressure.
Accelerate slightly to warm the tyre.
✓ Reduce speed and stop safely to check the tyres.

A pressure loss or damaged tyre can affect steering and braking. If the tyre-pressure warning appears together with a change in handling, it may indicate a serious tyre problem. Stop safely and inspect the tyres before continuing.

Tyre-pressure warning and a tyre inspection
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

111. How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

It increases engine power.
It selects a lower gear automatically.
✓ It can prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards.
It releases the clutch.

When moving off uphill, the parking brake can hold the vehicle stationary while you prepare to move. Release it smoothly once the clutch reaches the biting point and sufficient power is applied.

Parking-brake control during an uphill start
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which vehicle combination is covered by driving licence BE?

112. Which vehicle combination is covered by driving licence BE?

✓ A category B vehicle with a trailer up to 3,500 kg.
A category B vehicle with any trailer.
A category C vehicle with a heavy trailer.
A bus with a trailer over 750 kg.

Category BE covers combinations consisting of a category B towing vehicle and a trailer or semi-trailer with a maximum authorised mass of no more than 3,500 kg. Lighter combinations may already be covered by category B.

Car and trailer covered by category BE
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

113. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Bonnet release.
Central door locking.
Parking brake.
✓ Fuel-filler flap release.

This control releases the fuel-filler flap, allowing access to the vehicle's fuel filler.

Release control for the fuel-filler flap
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before driving with a load?

114. What should you do before driving with a load?

✓ Make sure it is properly secured and cannot move or fall.
Place heavy items on top of lighter items.
Secure only the heaviest items.
Leave light items loose for short journeys.

An unsecured load can shift, affect vehicle control, or fall into the road. Check that everything is safely restrained before moving.

Checking a vehicle's load before setting off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

115. 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
Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

116. Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

It makes the steering feel heavier.
✓ You can lose awareness of the road for several seconds.
It usually makes you drive more slowly.
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 you miss your motorway exit?

117. What should you do if you miss your motorway exit?

Move onto the shoulder and reverse carefully.
Turn around if traffic is light enough.
✓ Continue to the next exit.
Cross the painted separation area back to the exit.

Never reverse or make a sudden manoeuvre. Continue safely and change your route at the next suitable exit.

Vehicle continuing past a motorway exit
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the minimum licence for a 12,000 kg C1 combination with a trailer over 750 kg?

118. What is the minimum licence for a 12,000 kg C1 combination with a trailer over 750 kg?

Licence BE.
Licence C.
✓ Licence C1E.
Licence C1.

Category C1E covers a category C1 vehicle towing a trailer or semi-trailer over 750 kg, provided the maximum authorised mass of the combination does not exceed 12,000 kg.

Category C1 vehicle and trailer combination up to 12,000 kg
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

119. What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

Let them walk slightly ahead of you.
Cross separately so everyone has more space.
✓ Hold their hand and keep them close.
Let them run once the first lane is clear.

Children can be unpredictable near traffic. Keep them close and guide them safely across the road.

Adult holding a child's hand while crossing the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do with the accelerator when changing to a higher gear?

120. What should you normally do with the accelerator when changing to a higher gear?

Press the brake pedal instead.
✓ Ease off it while pressing the clutch.
Press it fully while pressing the clutch.
Keep it pressed at the same position.

When changing to a higher gear, ease off the accelerator as you press the clutch and select the next gear. Release the clutch smoothly and then apply the accelerator progressively.

Changing to a higher gear in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why does higher speed increase the risk of aquaplaning?

121. Why does higher speed increase the risk of aquaplaning?

The suspension becomes less effective at high speed.
The brakes cannot remove water from the tyres.
✓ The tyres have less time to clear water from the road surface.
Higher speed increases the tyre pressure.

At higher speeds, the tyres may not disperse water effectively, making it easier for the vehicle to lose contact with the road.

Vehicle speed and aquaplaning on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which vehicle type is mainly associated with driving licence B?

122. Which vehicle type is mainly associated with driving licence B?

Moped.
Truck.
Bus.
✓ Car.

Driving licence B is mainly associated with cars. Category B covers ordinary cars, while category B with Code 96 and category BE allow heavier trailer combinations.

Driving licence card for category B
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the windscreen wipers leave the glass smeared?

123. What should you do if the windscreen wipers leave the glass smeared?

Use the wipers at a higher speed.
Ignore it unless the wipers stop moving.
✓ Clean the windscreen and blades, and replace worn blades.
Replace the washer pump instead of the blades.

Worn or dirty wiper blades can seriously reduce visibility in rain. Clean them first and replace them if they remain ineffective or damaged.

Wiper streaks on a vehicle's windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

124. What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

Stop only if another warning light appears.
Ignore the noise if the warning light later goes out.
Wait until the next service to have it checked.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.

A red warning combined with an unusual noise may indicate a serious fault. Continuing could cause damage or loss of control.

Red dashboard warning requiring the driver's attention
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take extra care when crossing a tram or bus lane?

125. Why should you take extra care when crossing a tram or bus lane?

Cars always have priority over trams and buses.
✓ A tram or bus may approach quickly.
You only need to check for traffic from one direction.
These lanes are usually free from moving traffic.

Check carefully before crossing or entering a tram or bus lane. Trams cannot steer around obstacles, and both trams and buses may need significant distance to stop.

Traffic crossing a lane used by public transport
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it dangerous to drive through standing water at speed?

126. Why is it dangerous to drive through standing water at speed?

The steering becomes more responsive.
The brakes become more effective when wet.
The suspension becomes firmer at higher speed.
✓ The tyres may lose contact with the road.

Driving too fast through water can cause aquaplaning, where the tyres lose grip and the driver may lose control.

Vehicle travelling through standing water
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be prepared for changing conditions on mountain roads?

127. Why should you be prepared for changing conditions on mountain roads?

Mountain roads always have the same weather.
✓ Weather, visibility, and road conditions can change quickly.
Road conditions usually improve as altitude increases.
Vehicles automatically lose engine power in the mountains.

Fog, rain, snow, ice, falling rocks, and strong winds can develop rapidly in mountainous areas.

Changing visibility and weather on a mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

128. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Electronic parking brake.
Cruise control.
Parking assistance.
Automatic brake hold.

This control operates the electronic parking brake. Pulling or pressing the switch applies or releases the parking brake, depending on the vehicle.

Electronic parking-brake switch and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the engine-temperature warning shows overheating?

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

✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and allow it to cool.
Continue driving slowly until the warning disappears.
Ignore it if the engine still sounds normal.
Open the coolant cap immediately to release heat.

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
What should you do with the steering wheel after completing a turn?

130. What should you do with the steering wheel after completing a turn?

✓ Guide it smoothly back towards the straight-ahead position.
Release it completely and let it spin freely.
Hold it in the turned position.
Turn it quickly in the opposite direction.

After completing a turn, guide the steering wheel smoothly back towards the straight-ahead position while maintaining control. Do not allow the wheel to spin freely through your hands.

Guiding the steering wheel back after a turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which passenger vehicles are covered by driving licence D?

131. Which passenger vehicles are covered by driving licence D?

Buses only when towing a trailer.
Goods vehicles over 7,500 kg.
Cars and light vehicles up to 3,500 kg.
✓ Buses designed for more than eight passengers.

Category D covers motor vehicles designed and constructed to carry more than eight passengers in addition to the driver. A trailer up to 750 kg may be towed.

Bus covered by category D
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

132. What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

✓ Come to a complete stop before proceeding.
Slow down and stop only if traffic is approaching.
Give way without stopping if the road is clear.
Stop only after entering the junction.

A stop sign requires you to come to a complete stop at the required position. Check carefully for other road users and proceed only when it is safe.

Vehicle approaching a stop sign
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before crossing the road?

133. What should you do before crossing the road?

Listen for vehicles instead of looking.
Cross if the nearest vehicle is slowing down.
✓ Look for traffic in all directions.
Look only where traffic normally comes from.

Always check for approaching traffic from every direction before crossing.

Pedestrian checking for traffic before crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a child runs onto the road ahead?

134. What should you do if a child runs onto the road ahead?

Sound your horn and continue driving.
Swerve immediately into the opposite lane.
✓ Brake firmly and be prepared to stop.
Flash your lights instead of slowing down.

Children can act unpredictably. Brake firmly, stay alert, and be prepared for more children to follow.

Child entering the road ahead of a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

135. What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

For driving when the motorway is busy.
For overtaking slow-moving traffic.
✓ For emergencies and breakdowns.
For allowing faster vehicles to pass.

A motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder is primarily intended for emergencies and breakdowns, not normal driving. In some places it may be opened temporarily as a traffic lane when signs or signals specifically permit this.

Motorway hard shoulder beside the traffic lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when passing pedestrians on a shared path?

136. What should cyclists do when passing pedestrians on a shared path?

Use your bell and keep the same speed.
Pass quickly before they change direction.
✓ Slow down, give warning, and leave enough space.
Pass closely if there is not enough room.

Pedestrians may change direction unexpectedly. A warning and safe passing distance reduce the risk of a collision.

Cyclist passing pedestrians on a shared path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the windscreen wipers stop working during heavy rain?

137. What should you do if the windscreen wipers stop working during heavy rain?

Continue slowly using the hazard lights.
Follow another vehicle closely so you can see its lights.
✓ Reduce speed and stop in a safe place as soon as possible.
Open a side window and continue driving carefully.

Do not continue when you cannot see clearly. Slow down smoothly and stop somewhere protected from traffic.

Windscreen wipers failing during heavy rain
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you look well ahead while driving?

138. Why should you look well ahead while driving?

✓ To identify developing hazards early and gain more time to react.
To follow the vehicle ahead more closely.
To avoid checking your mirrors as often.
To maintain the same speed in every situation.

Looking well ahead helps you identify developing hazards early, such as slowing traffic, pedestrians, junctions, 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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

139. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Main beam.
Sidelights.
Dipped headlights.
✓ Direction indicators.

This symbol indicates that a direction indicator is operating. The flashing indicator shows the direction in which the driver intends to turn or change position on the road.

Direction-indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving in strong wind?

140. What should you do when driving in strong wind?

Drive close behind large vehicles for protection from the wind.
Open the windows to improve aerodynamics.
Use main beam to make your vehicle more visible.
✓ Hold the steering wheel firmly and reduce speed if needed.

Strong wind can affect vehicle control, especially near open areas, bridges, large vehicles, cyclists, and motorcyclists.

Driver controlling a vehicle in strong wind
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is high-visibility clothing useful during a roadside breakdown?

141. Why is high-visibility clothing useful during a roadside breakdown?

✓ It makes you easier for approaching drivers and recovery workers to see.
It protects you from injury if a vehicle hits you.
It gives you priority when walking beside the road.
It allows you to remain close to moving traffic.

High-visibility clothing improves your visibility, especially at night or in poor weather, but you must still remain away from traffic.

High-visibility clothing worn during a roadside breakdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should passengers travel in an ordinary goods trailer?

142. Should passengers travel in an ordinary goods trailer?

Yes, if the trailer is travelling at low speed.
✓ No, passengers should travel in approved seating positions.
Only on short journeys or quiet roads.
Only when the trailer has high sides.

An ordinary goods trailer is not designed to carry passengers and normally has no suitable seats or restraint systems. Passengers should travel in seating positions designed and approved for carrying people. Special passenger-carrying trailers may be subject to different local rules.

Ordinary goods trailer and passenger safety
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

143. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Window lock.
Boot release.
Mirror adjustment.
✓ Child safety lock.

This control activates the child safety lock. It helps prevent a rear door from being opened from inside the vehicle, depending on the vehicle and system design.

Child safety lock control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the windscreen becomes damaged while driving?

144. What should you do if the windscreen becomes damaged while driving?

Drive faster to reach a safe place sooner.
Rely on the mirrors instead of the windscreen.
Remove loose glass while the vehicle is moving.
✓ Reduce speed and stop safely if your view is affected.

Severe damage can obstruct your view and weaken the glass. Do not continue if you cannot see the road clearly.

Damaged windscreen affecting the driver's view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the bonnet suddenly opens while you are driving?

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

Continue driving by looking through the side window.
✓ Look through any available gap, slow down smoothly, and stop safely.
Brake hard immediately, even if traffic is behind you.
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
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

146. 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
Why should you avoid following another vehicle too closely in fog?

147. Why should you avoid following another vehicle too closely in fog?

To keep the windscreen clearer.
✓ You may have too little time to react if it brakes suddenly.
To increase stopping distance.
To reduce fuel consumption in poor visibility.

Following too closely reduces your reaction time and can lead to a collision if the vehicle ahead slows unexpectedly.

Following another vehicle in fog
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when livestock are on the road?

148. What should you do when livestock are on the road?

Sound the horn so the animals move aside.
Use the verge to pass the animals.
Follow closely so other traffic can overtake.
✓ Slow down and follow the instructions of the person controlling them.

Livestock may spread across the road, stop suddenly, or change direction without warning. Slow down, keep a safe distance, avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and follow any instructions from the person controlling the animals.

Livestock being moved along a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do after stopping because of a breakdown?

149. What should you do after stopping because of a breakdown?

Switch off the hazard lights once the vehicle has stopped.
Leave the parking brake off if the road is level.
✓ Apply the parking brake, switch off the engine, and use hazard lights.
Leave the engine running and keep the vehicle in neutral.

Secure the vehicle so that it cannot move and use the hazard warning lights to alert approaching traffic. Where required and safe, place a warning triangle to give additional warning.

Broken-down vehicle with hazard warning lights
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid changing lanes inside an intersection?

150. Why should you avoid changing lanes inside an intersection?

It can make your route through the junction longer.
It can make road markings harder to follow.
✓ It can confuse other road users and increase collision risk.
It can make it harder to maintain a steady speed.

Changing lanes inside an intersection can surprise drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. It is safer to choose the correct lane before entering.

Vehicle changing lanes within a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA