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QuizTraffic rulesGermany

This interesting quiz helps you test your knowledge in a clear and visual way. With easy multiple-choice questions, you can quickly build confidence and learn new facts while keeping it simple, interactive, and fun.

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
How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

401. How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

✓ Securely, within load limits, without blocking visibility or lights.
Loosely in the passenger area for short journeys.
Anywhere, as long as the vehicle is not overloaded.
Where it is easiest to reach while driving.

Unsecured or overloaded cargo can affect steering and braking, injure occupants during sudden stops, or fall into the road. It must not obstruct the driver's view or vehicle lights.

Luggage and cargo carried in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you pass a large vehicle in strong winds?

402. How should you pass a large vehicle in strong winds?

Accelerate sharply as soon as you start passing.
Keep the steering fixed while you move past it.
Use the horn before moving alongside the vehicle.
✓ Be prepared for sudden wind changes when passing.

Large vehicles can block wind and then expose you to strong gusts when you pass them.

Vehicle passing a large vehicle in windy conditions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position prevents drive being transmitted to the wheels?

403. Which selector position prevents drive being transmitted to the wheels?

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

Select N (Neutral) when drive should not be transmitted to the wheels. Unlike Park, Neutral does not lock the transmission to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if steam begins coming from underneath the bonnet?

404. What should you do if steam begins coming from underneath the bonnet?

✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and keep clear until it has cooled.
Pour cold water over the engine immediately.
Keep the engine running so the cooling system keeps working.
Open the coolant cap to release the pressure.

Steam can indicate an overheated and pressurised cooling system. Do not remove the coolant cap while the system is hot.

Steam rising from underneath a vehicle's bonnet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do after completing an overtake?

405. What should you normally do after completing an overtake?

Remain in the overtaking lane until another vehicle approaches.
✓ Return to the normal driving lane when it is safe.
Slow down before returning to the normal lane.
Move back immediately in front of the vehicle you passed.

After overtaking, return to the normal driving lane when you have passed the other vehicle by a safe distance. Check your mirrors, signal when appropriate, and avoid moving back too soon.

Vehicle returning to its lane after overtaking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you make sure drivers have seen you before crossing?

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

A driver who sees you can always stop in time.
Making eye contact gives you priority.
Once a driver sees you, no further checks are needed.
✓ To reduce the risk of stepping into their path.

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

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

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

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 does the ACC position of a traditional ignition switch normally allow?

408. What does the ACC position of a traditional ignition switch normally allow?

✓ Electrical accessories to be used without starting the engine.
The parking brake to release.
The starter motor to turn the engine.
The transmission to select Drive.

The ACC (accessory) position normally supplies power to certain electrical accessories, such as the audio system, without starting the engine. The exact functions available can vary between vehicles.

ACC accessory position on an ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should cyclists ride when travelling in a group?

409. How should cyclists ride when travelling in a group?

Ride as close together as possible to stay as one group.
Follow the cyclist ahead without checking traffic yourself.
✓ Predictably, with safe gaps and clear communication.
Ride side by side even when traffic cannot pass safely.

Safe spacing and communication help group members respond to braking, turns, obstacles, and changing traffic conditions.

Group of cyclists riding along a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which vehicles are especially vulnerable to strong crosswinds?

410. Which vehicles are especially vulnerable to strong crosswinds?

Vehicles without winter tyres.
✓ High-sided vehicles such as trucks, buses, and vans.
Low, heavily loaded vehicles.
Electric vehicles.

High-sided vehicles can be pushed sideways because of their large side area. Cyclists and motorcyclists can also be strongly affected by sudden gusts.

High-sided vehicle exposed to crosswinds
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid resting your hand on the gear lever while driving?

411. Why should you avoid resting your hand on the gear lever while driving?

It can increase engine speed.
It can apply the parking brake.
It can disengage the clutch.
✓ It can cause unnecessary wear in the gear-selection mechanism.

Resting your hand on the gear lever can place unnecessary pressure on parts of the gear-selection mechanism and contribute to wear. Keep both hands on the steering wheel when you are not changing gear.

Driver's hand resting on a manual gear lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be extra careful at night?

412. Why should you be extra careful at night?

Street lighting makes drivers less alert.
Road surfaces are usually more slippery.
✓ 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
What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

413. What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

The road surface may suddenly become more slippery.
✓ A sudden gust may affect your vehicle.
Higher speed limits.
The vehicle may automatically slow down.

Buildings, trees, and other obstacles can block wind. When you leave shelter, a sudden gust may push your vehicle.

Vehicle leaving a sheltered stretch of road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

414. Which selector position is used to drive the vehicle backwards?

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

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive the vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before selecting Reverse.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the minimum licence for a car with a maximum authorised mass of 3,500 kg?

415. What is the minimum licence for a car with a maximum authorised mass of 3,500 kg?

Licence BE.
Licence D1.
✓ Licence B.
Licence C1.

Category B normally covers motor vehicles with a maximum authorised mass not exceeding 3,500 kg and designed to carry no more than eight passengers in addition to the driver.

Car with a maximum authorised mass of 3,500 kg
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What information is needed when requesting emergency assistance?

416. What information is needed when requesting emergency assistance?

✓ Your exact location, direction of travel, vehicle details, and the problem.
Your name, destination, and planned route.
Your insurance details and last service date.
Your vehicle colour and approximate location.

Road numbers, junctions, location markers, direction of travel, and a clear description of the incident help assistance reach you quickly.

Requesting help after a vehicle breakdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which vehicle combination is covered by driving licence C1E?

417. Which vehicle combination is covered by driving licence C1E?

A category D1 minibus with a heavy trailer.
Any combination weighing more than 12,000 kg.
Any category C vehicle with a heavy trailer.
✓ A C1 vehicle with a heavy trailer, up to 12,000 kg combined.

Category C1E covers a category C1 vehicle with a trailer over 750 kg, provided the combination does not exceed 12,000 kg. It can also cover certain category B vehicles towing trailers over 3,500 kg, again with a combined maximum authorised mass not exceeding 12,000 kg.

Goods vehicle and trailer covered by category C1E
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the minimum licence for a motorcycle with more than 35 kW?

418. What is the minimum licence for a motorcycle with more than 35 kW?

✓ Licence A.
Licence A2.
Licence A1.
Licence AM.

Category A2 is limited to motorcycles with power not exceeding 35 kW. A motorcycle with more than 35 kW therefore requires category A.

Motorcycle with more than 35 kW
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should you go after safely leaving a disabled vehicle in a tunnel?

419. Where should you go after safely leaving a disabled vehicle in a tunnel?

Wait directly behind the vehicle where drivers can see you.
Walk along the traffic lane toward the tunnel entrance.
✓ To a protected emergency area or exit away from traffic.
Remain beside the vehicle and wait for assistance.

Move away from live traffic and use a marked emergency exit, refuge area, or protected walkway where available.

Leaving a disabled vehicle for a tunnel emergency area
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check shortly after securing a load?

420. What should you check shortly after securing a load?

Increase speed briefly to test the restraints.
Check the load only when you reach your destination.
Loosen the restraints slightly after the load has settled.
✓ Stop safely and check that the restraints are still tight.

Loads and straps may settle or loosen after the journey begins. Recheck them at a safe stopping place.

Rechecking straps securing a vehicle's load
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you consider delaying a journey because of severe weather?

421. When should you consider delaying a journey because of severe weather?

Only when your vehicle has no winter tyres.
Whenever the weather forecast mentions rain.
Never, if the vehicle is in good condition.
✓ When conditions make driving unsafe.

Severe weather can create dangerous conditions. Delaying a journey may be the safest choice when risks are too high.

Severe weather making a road journey hazardous
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a trailer begins to sway?

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

Accelerate to pull the trailer straight.
Brake hard as soon as the sway begins.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and reduce speed smoothly.
Move into another lane to create more space.

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
What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

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

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

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

AUTO setting on the vehicle's lighting control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you see smoke or fire inside a tunnel?

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

Stay inside the vehicle and wait for the smoke to clear.
Reverse toward the entrance without checking behind.
Stop near the fire so you can assess the situation.
✓ Follow tunnel instructions and leave the tunnel if it is safe to do so.

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 before driving if snow or ice covers your vehicle?

425. What should you do before driving if snow or ice covers your vehicle?

✓ Clear the windows, mirrors, lights, roof, and number plates.
Clear only the windows and mirrors.
Leave snow on the roof if it is firmly packed.
Let the heater clear the ice while you drive.

You need a clear view in every direction. Snow or ice left on the roof can also fall or blow onto other road users.

Clearing snow and ice from a vehicle before driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

426. Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

Vehicles in a junction lose priority.
Your stopping distance becomes longer.
Junctions may only be entered at low speed.
✓ Other traffic needs space to move safely.

Blocking a junction can prevent vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians from moving safely. Enter only when there is enough space to drive through and clear the junction.

Traffic blocking a road junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

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

Lubricate it and ignore the loose tension.
✓ Adjust it correctly or have it checked before riding.
Tighten it as much as possible.
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
Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

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

Using dipped headlights and keeping the windows closed.
Driving in a lower gear and using the indicators.
Having a full fuel tank and adjusted mirrors.
✓ Higher speed, slower reactions, poor grip, and vehicle condition.

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
Are motorcycle riders generally required to wear a helmet in Germany?

429. Are motorcycle riders generally required to wear a helmet in Germany?

✓ Yes.
No.

Motorcycle riders in Germany are generally required to wear an approved helmet.

Motorcyclist wearing a protective helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

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

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

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
Which signs may indicate that you are becoming too tired to drive safely?

431. Which signs may indicate that you are becoming too tired to drive safely?

Listening to quieter music.
Wanting to adjust the cabin temperature.
Feeling comfortable and relaxed.
✓ Yawning, heavy eyelids, and difficulty concentrating.

Warning signs of driver fatigue can include repeated yawning, heavy eyelids, difficulty concentrating, wandering thoughts, and trouble maintaining a steady road position. These signs mean you should stop and rest before continuing.

Driver showing signs of fatigue
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When may drivers normally use the horn in built-up areas in Germany?

432. When may drivers normally use the horn in built-up areas in Germany?

✓ To avoid immediate danger.
To greet other road users.
Whenever traffic is slow.
Whenever overtaking.

In built-up areas in Germany, the horn should normally be used only when necessary to avoid danger.

Vehicle horn used to warn of danger in town
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

433. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Electronic stability control.
✓ Driving mode selection.
Cruise control.
Four-wheel drive.

This control selects a driving mode. Depending on the vehicle, different modes can alter characteristics such as accelerator response, steering assistance, transmission behaviour or energy use.

Selector for the vehicle's driving modes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before turning across a cycle lane?

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

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

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

Vehicle preparing to turn across a cycle lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do about a chip in the windscreen?

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

Cover the chip so it cannot spread.
Ignore it if it is outside your direct view.
Clean the glass and continue driving normally.
✓ Have it assessed and repaired promptly.

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 should you check before towing a trailer?

436. What should you check before towing a trailer?

Check the tyres only if the trailer has been unused.
Check the lights after you have started driving.
Secure the load only if it is heavy.
✓ The coupling, safety connections, lights, tyres, and load.

The trailer must be correctly connected and roadworthy. Its lights, tyres, safety connections, and load should all be checked.

Checking a trailer before towing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the single-wipe position of the windscreen-wiper control do?

437. What does the single-wipe position of the windscreen-wiper control do?

✓ Operates the windscreen wipers once.
Activates the rear wiper.
Sprays washer fluid onto the windscreen.
Runs the wipers continuously.

The single-wipe position operates the windscreen wipers for one sweep and then stops. It is useful when only a small amount of water or spray needs to be cleared from the windscreen.

Single-wipe setting on the windscreen-wiper control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

438. Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

Because phone signals can interfere with traffic lights.
Because a phone may be used only at low speeds.
Because phones must be switched off while cycling.
✓ It reduces your control and attention.

Using a phone can distract you and may prevent you from steering, braking, or reacting properly.

Cyclist using a handheld phone
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

439. Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

✓ It can reduce control and increase the risk of skidding.
It can increase tyre pressure during the turn.
It can make the tyres grip the road more strongly.
It can make the steering feel heavier.

Hard braking on a curve can upset the vehicle's balance and reduce grip. Slow down before the curve and steer smoothly.

Vehicle braking while negotiating a bend
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a long journey?

440. What should you check before starting a long journey?

Only the dashboard warning lights.
✓ Tyres, lights, fluids, windows, mirrors, and essential equipment.
Only the lights if you plan to drive at night.
Only the tyres and fuel level.

A brief vehicle check can reveal tyre damage, low fluid levels, faulty lights, or visibility problems before they cause danger. Also confirm that any spare wheel or tyre-repair equipment is available and usable.

Vehicle safety checks before a long journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What may happen when you press the accelerator fully in an automatic vehicle?

441. What may happen when you press the accelerator fully in an automatic vehicle?

The parking brake applies automatically.
The engine switches off.
✓ The transmission may shift to a lower gear for stronger acceleration.
The transmission selects Park.

In many automatic vehicles, pressing the accelerator fully can activate kickdown, causing the transmission to select a lower gear and provide stronger acceleration.

Accelerator-pedal operation for automatic kickdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control button operate?

442. What does this vehicle-control button operate?

The automatic start-stop system.
The central locking system.
✓ The engine or drive system.
The parking brake.

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

Engine start/stop button in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which vehicle combination is covered by driving licence D1E?

443. Which vehicle combination is covered by driving licence D1E?

A category D bus with a heavy trailer.
A category C1 goods vehicle with a heavy trailer.
Any minibus with any trailer.
✓ A category D1 vehicle with a trailer over 750 kg.

Category D1E covers combinations consisting of a category D1 vehicle and a trailer with a maximum authorised mass above 750 kg.

Minibus and trailer covered by category D1E
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not drive too close behind another vehicle?

444. Why should you not drive too close behind another vehicle?

✓ You may not have enough time to stop.
It makes your steering less responsive.
It causes the vehicle ahead to use more fuel.
It increases tyre pressure.

Driving too close, or tailgating, reduces the time and space available to react and increases the risk of a rear-end collision. Use defensive driving and keep a safe following distance.

Vehicle tailgating the traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What word is commonly shown on STOP signs in Germany?

445. What word is commonly shown on STOP signs in Germany?

ALTO.
PARE.
✓ STOP.
DUR.

In Germany, STOP signs commonly display the word STOP.

Different wording used on stop signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

446. Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

Either foot at the same time.
✓ The right foot.
The left foot.
Both feet together.

In an automatic vehicle, the right foot should normally operate both the brake and accelerator pedals. The left foot should rest on the footrest to reduce the risk of pressing both pedals at the same time.

Right-foot control of an automatic vehicle's pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can alcohol affect your driving ability?

447. How can alcohol affect your driving ability?

It makes your reactions faster.
It improves your vision in poor light.
It has no effect if you drive slowly.
✓ It can reduce judgement, coordination, and reaction speed.

Alcohol affects several abilities needed for safe driving, including concentration, decision-making, coordination, and hazard perception.

Alcohol impairment and driving ability
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

448. 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
Which side do people drive on in Germany?

449. Which side do people drive on in Germany?

✓ Right-hand side.
Left-hand side.

Traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road in Germany.

Road traffic and the designated driving side
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you increase your following distance on wet roads?

450. Why should you increase your following distance on wet roads?

Because vehicles ahead have priority in rain.
To reduce road surface damage.
Because tyres need more space to warm up.
✓ Because braking distances are longer.

Water reduces grip between the tyres and the road, so it takes longer to slow down or stop safely.

Following distance between vehicles on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA