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QuizTraffic rulesUnited Kingdom

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

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

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
United Kingdom
True/false 17 United Kingdom 31 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 598
What should you do after stopping because of a breakdown?

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

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

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
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

202. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Service or maintenance required.
Brake-system warning.
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 leave space when cycling beside parked cars?

203. Why should you leave space when cycling beside parked cars?

To stay outside the marked parking area.
Because parked vehicles have priority over cyclists.
Because the road could be slippery beside parked cars.
✓ A door may open suddenly.

A driver or passenger may open a door without seeing you. Leaving space reduces the risk of a dooring collision.

Cyclist riding beside parked cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

204. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Parking assistance.
Electronic stability control.
Automatic emergency braking.
Adaptive cruise control.

This symbol relates to the vehicle's parking assistance system. Depending on the vehicle, the system may use sensors or cameras to detect obstacles and assist the driver while parking.

Parking-assistance symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it dangerous to drive through standing water at speed?

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

The steering becomes more responsive.
✓ The tyres may lose contact with the road.
The suspension becomes firmer at higher speed.
The water can increase tyre pressure.

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
What should you do before opening your car door near traffic?

206. What should you do before opening your car door near traffic?

Open the door slowly and expect traffic to avoid you.
Signal before opening the door without checking behind.
✓ Check for cyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles.
Check only the mirror before opening the door.

Before opening a car door, check carefully for cyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles to avoid causing a collision.

Checking for passing road users before opening a car door
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

207. What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.
Increase engine speed until the warning light goes out.
Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.

The alternator or charging system may have failed. The vehicle may stop once the remaining battery charge is exhausted.

Charging-system warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are bicycle lights required at night in United Kingdom?

208. Are bicycle lights required at night in United Kingdom?

✓ Yes.
No.

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

Bicycle lights used at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should an unused roof rack or roof box be removed?

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

It increases tyre pressure.
✓ It can increase aerodynamic drag and energy use.
It makes the steering wheel harder to turn.
It prevents the battery from charging.

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 never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

210. Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

The engine can lose oil pressure.
✓ Dangerous carbon monoxide can build up.
The cooling system can stop working.
The tyres can lose pressure more quickly.

Exhaust gases from petrol and diesel engines can contain carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can build up quickly in an enclosed or poorly ventilated space. Never leave the engine running inside a closed garage or similar area.

Running vehicle engine in an enclosed space
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

211. Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

✓ Loose gravel, mud, or uneven material may reduce tyre grip.
Construction dust increases tyre pressure.
Temporary roads always slope downhill.
Temporary surfaces make the brakes colder.

Temporary surfaces may provide less grip than normal asphalt. Reduce speed and allow more distance for braking.

Loose or uneven road surface through roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may drive through an amber light without slowing down.

212. 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 junction with caution.

Vehicle approaching an amber traffic light
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

213. How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

✓ Apply pressure progressively.
Pump the pedal repeatedly.
Use the parking brake instead.
Press it as hard as possible immediately.

For normal braking, apply the brake pedal progressively and smoothly. As the vehicle comes to a stop, easing the pressure slightly can help avoid a sudden jerk.

Progressive brake-pedal pressure for a smooth stop
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?

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

✓ Stop, switch off the engine, avoid flames or sparks, and call for assistance.
Wash the leaking fuel away with water.
Ignore a small leak if the fuel level remains stable.
Restart the engine to check whether the leak continues.

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 if you see fallen rocks on a mountain road?

215. What should you do if you see fallen rocks on a mountain road?

Move toward the centre of the road without slowing down.
Maintain speed and drive over smaller stones.
✓ Slow down and avoid them smoothly when safe.
Stop beside the rocks to inspect the road.

Loose rocks can damage tyres, affect steering, or block part of the road. Reduce speed and avoid sudden movements. If rocks are actively falling, do not enter or stop in the danger area. Keep a safe distance and, if necessary, wait in a safe place until it is safe to continue.

Fallen rocks on a mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does AUTO on a windscreen-wiper control normally do?

216. What does AUTO on a windscreen-wiper control normally do?

Sprays washer fluid automatically.
Operates only the rear wiper.
Runs the wipers continuously at maximum speed.
✓ Operates the wipers automatically when rain is detected.

When AUTO is selected, a rain sensor can operate the windscreen wipers automatically and adjust their operation according to the amount of moisture detected on the windscreen.

AUTO setting on the windscreen-wiper control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

217. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Brake-system warning.
✓ Low tyre pressure.
Electronic stability control.
Power-steering warning.

This symbol indicates that one or more tyres may have low pressure. Check the tyre pressures and inspect the tyres for damage or a puncture.

Tyre-pressure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before crossing behind a bus or large vehicle?

218. What should you do before crossing behind a bus or large vehicle?

Listen for traffic and cross if you hear none.
Stay close behind the vehicle while crossing.
Cross if the nearest traffic lane appears clear.
✓ Wait until you have a clear view of the road.

Large vehicles can block your view and hide you from drivers. Wait until you can clearly see the road before crossing.

Pedestrian preparing to cross behind a bus
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if passengers are distracting you while driving?

219. 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 after hitting a deep pothole hard?

220. What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

Reduce the tyre pressure to absorb further bumps.
Brake sharply to check whether the wheels are damaged.
Increase speed to see whether the steering remains stable.
✓ Check for tyre or wheel damage when it is safe to stop.

A hard impact with a pothole can damage tyres, wheel rims, steering, suspension, or wheel alignment. When it is safe to stop, inspect the tyres and wheels and pay attention to unusual vibration, pulling, or steering changes. Have the vehicle checked if you suspect damage.

Checking a tyre and wheel after hitting a pothole
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

221. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Headlight level adjustment.
Interior lighting.
✓ Instrument-panel brightness.
Front fog lights.

This control adjusts the brightness of the instrument panel and dashboard illumination, allowing the driver to reduce or increase the lighting level.

Control for adjusting instrument-panel brightness
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should the top of the head restraint normally be positioned?

222. Where should the top of the head restraint normally be positioned?

Behind the neck only.
Level with the shoulders.
✓ Approximately level with the top of the head.
As low as possible.

The head restraint should normally be adjusted so that its top is approximately level with the top of the head. This helps reduce the risk of neck injury in a collision.

Adjusting the head restraint to head height
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

223. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

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

Automatic start-stop system symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before driving if snow or ice covers your vehicle?

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

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

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
You should check your mirrors before changing lanes.

225. You should check your mirrors before changing lanes.

✓ True.
False.

Checking your mirrors helps you see surrounding traffic before moving into another lane.

Driver checking a mirror before changing lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should luggage be carried on a bicycle?

226. How should luggage be carried on a bicycle?

As high as possible to keep it away from the wheels.
On one side of the bicycle to leave the other side clear.
On the rear carrier without securing it for a short trip.
✓ Securely, without affecting steering, braking, or balance.

Loose or badly positioned luggage can interfere with control, become caught in the wheels, or hide bicycle lights.

Luggage carried on a bicycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

227. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Risk of icy road conditions.
Engine coolant is too cold.
Air conditioning is active.
Winter tyres are fitted.

This symbol warns that the outside temperature is low enough for ice to form. Road surfaces, especially bridges and shaded areas, may be slippery even when they appear clear.

Icy-road warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does a green traffic light mean?

228. What does a green traffic light mean?

You have priority over all other road users.
You must proceed as soon as the light turns green.
✓ You may proceed if it is safe.
You may turn in any direction without checking the signs.

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

Green traffic light at a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when passing a horse rider?

229. What should you do when passing a horse rider?

✓ Slow down and give plenty of space.
Sound your horn so the rider knows you are passing.
Pass closely to reduce the time beside the horse.
Accelerate while passing to get past quickly.

Horses can be startled by noise or sudden movement. Slow down, pass carefully, and leave enough space.

Vehicle passing a horse and rider
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you reduce speed in fog?

230. Why should you reduce speed in fog?

To prevent the windscreen from misting.
To reduce vehicle emissions.
To prevent moisture from entering the engine.
✓ Because you have less time to react to hazards you cannot see.

Fog can hide obstacles, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Lower speed gives you more time to react.

Fog limiting a driver's view ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving on icy roads?

231. What should you do when driving on icy roads?

Follow the vehicle ahead more closely for guidance.
✓ Drive slowly and avoid sudden braking, steering, or acceleration.
Maintain normal speed if the road appears clear.
Use quick steering corrections if the vehicle starts to slide.

Ice greatly reduces tyre grip. Drive gently, keep extra distance, and avoid sudden movements that could cause a skid.

Vehicle travelling on an icy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an unusual vibration develops in the steering wheel?

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

Increase speed until the vibration becomes less noticeable.
✓ Reduce speed and have the tyres, wheels, and steering checked.
Keep driving if the vehicle still steers normally.
Hold the steering wheel more tightly and continue.

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

Driver experiencing vibration through the steering wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

233. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Window lock.
Electric window control.
Mirror adjustment.
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
What should you normally do after completing an overtake?

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

Stay beside the vehicle until there is another reason to change lanes.
Move back immediately in front of the vehicle you passed.
Slow down before returning to the normal lane.
✓ Return to the normal driving lane when it is safe.

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 a seat belt not be twisted when worn?

235. Why should a seat belt not be twisted when worn?

A twisted belt can cause the buckle to open.
A twisted belt prevents the airbags from working.
✓ A flat belt spreads collision forces more effectively.
A flat belt makes the seat easier to adjust.

A seat belt should lie flat against the body without twists. A twisted belt concentrates force over a smaller area and may provide less effective protection in a collision.

Twisted seat belt across an occupant's body
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you slow down near schools or playgrounds?

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

✓ Children may behave unpredictably.
Vehicles must stop whenever children are nearby.
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
How can unnecessary weight affect a vehicle's energy use?

237. How can unnecessary weight affect a vehicle's energy use?

✓ It can increase the energy needed to move the vehicle.
It always reduces fuel consumption.
It reduces aerodynamic drag.
It makes the vehicle easier to accelerate.

Extra weight generally requires more energy when accelerating and climbing. Removing unnecessary heavy items can help reduce fuel or energy consumption while keeping all essential equipment in the vehicle.

Extra luggage adding weight to a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle?

238. What should you do before refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle?

Keep the engine idling if the vehicle is outside.
Switch on the hazard lights while refuelling.
✓ Switch off the engine before starting to refuel.
Leave the engine running to protect the battery.

Switch off the engine before refuelling. Fuel vapours are flammable, so avoid ignition sources and follow the safety instructions at the filling station. If fuel is spilled, do not start the vehicle until the situation has been made safe.

Vehicle at a pump before refuelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not overtake near the top of a hill?

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

Your engine loses power near the top of a hill.
Vehicles ahead always have priority on hills.
✓ You may not see oncoming traffic or hidden hazards.
Hilltops usually have a slippery road surface.

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

Hill crest hiding the road ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can a heavy load affect stopping distance?

240. How can a heavy load affect stopping distance?

✓ It can increase the distance needed to stop.
It always shortens the stopping distance.
It makes the brakes respond more quickly.
It reduces the driver's reaction time.

A heavily loaded vehicle has more mass and may require additional distance to slow down or stop safely.

Loaded vehicle and the space needed for braking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

241. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Four-wheel-drive system.
Parking assistance.
Electronic stability control.
Differential lock.

This symbol relates to the vehicle's four-wheel-drive system, which can transmit power to all four wheels. The exact symbol and operating modes vary between vehicles.

Four-wheel-drive system symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you slow down before a sharp bend?

242. Why should you slow down before a sharp bend?

✓ To keep control of the vehicle.
To make the steering feel lighter.
To make the bend easier to see from a distance.
To reduce fuel consumption.

Sharp bends reduce your view and can make the vehicle harder to control, so you should slow down before entering the bend.

Vehicle approaching a sharp bend
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

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

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

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
Why must you take wider turns when towing a trailer?

244. Why must you take wider turns when towing a trailer?

Wide turns prevent the trailer from swaying.
Wider turns reduce the trailer's stopping distance.
Wider turns decrease tyre wear.
✓ The trailer follows a tighter path than the towing vehicle.

Trailer wheels cut closer to the inside of a turn. Allow enough clearance from kerbs, signs, pedestrians, and other vehicles.

Towing vehicle and trailer negotiating a turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

245. What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

Wait until you feel more confident.
✓ Do not drive.
Drive only on familiar roads.
Drive slowly and avoid motorways.

Drugs can impair judgement, coordination, concentration, and reaction time. Their effects can be unpredictable and may continue after you feel that the main effects have passed. Do not drive while impaired.

Drug impairment and the decision not to drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a gear does not engage easily in a manual vehicle?

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

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

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

Operating a manual gear lever without forcing it
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if EV charging equipment becomes unusually hot or smells burnt?

247. What should you do if EV charging equipment becomes unusually hot or smells burnt?

Pour water over the equipment to cool it.
Keep charging until the vehicle reaches full charge.
Cover the equipment to contain the heat.
✓ Stop the charging session, keep clear, and report the fault.

Unusual heat, a burning smell, smoke, sparks, or repeated charging faults can indicate an electrical problem. Stop using the charging equipment if it is safe to do so, keep clear of anything damaged or overheating, and report the fault or seek appropriate assistance.

Faulty electric-vehicle charging equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the safest choice if you have consumed alcohol?

248. What is the safest choice if you have consumed alcohol?

Eat something and wait a short while.
✓ Do not drive and arrange a sober form of transport.
Drive slowly and avoid busy roads.
Drive only if you do not feel drunk.

Alcohol can impair judgement, coordination, vision, and reaction time. A sober driver, taxi, public transport, or an overnight stay is the safer choice.

Alcohol consumption and the decision not to drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

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

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

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
How should luggage be carried on a motorcycle?

250. How should luggage be carried on a motorcycle?

Hanging from the handlebars if the luggage is light.
As high as possible so it stays away from the wheels.
✓ Securely and evenly, without affecting balance or control.
Mostly on one side to leave the other side free.

Motorcycle luggage should be securely fastened and sensibly distributed. A loose, uneven or badly positioned load can affect balance, steering and braking, or become caught in moving parts.

Luggage carried on a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA