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QuizTraffic rulesJapan

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
Japan
True/false 17 Japan 22 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 589
What is the safest choice if you have consumed alcohol?

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

Drink coffee before driving.
Eat something and wait a short while.
✓ Do not drive and arrange a sober form of transport.
Drive slowly and avoid busy roads.

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 is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

152. Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

It makes the steering feel heavier.
It normally happens only when the vehicle is stopped.
It only affects your ability to hear.
✓ You can lose awareness of the road for several seconds.

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 the brake pedal feels unusually soft?

153. What should you do if the brake pedal feels unusually soft?

Use only the parking brake while driving.
Reduce the tyre pressure to improve braking.
Continue until the brakes begin making noise.
✓ Stop safely and have the braking system inspected.

A soft brake pedal or increased stopping distance may indicate a serious brake fault. Do not continue driving normally until the system has been checked.

Brake-pedal check for a possible braking fault
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does the priority-to-the-right rule apply in Japan?

154. Does the priority-to-the-right rule apply in Japan?

Yes.
✓ No.

In Japan, the priority-to-the-right rule does not generally apply at uncontrolled intersections.

Crossing traffic at a road junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

155. What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

Turns the starter motor.
Switches off all electrical accessories.
✓ Switches on the vehicle's electrical systems without operating the starter.
Locks the steering.

The ON position normally switches on the vehicle's electrical and ignition systems without operating the starter motor. The engine is started by turning the key further to the START position.

ON position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle begins to aquaplane?

156. What should you do if your vehicle begins to aquaplane?

Brake firmly to force the tyres back onto the road.
Change lanes immediately to find a drier surface.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and keep steering gently.
Turn the steering wheel sharply to regain grip.

Aquaplaning happens when the tyres lose contact with the road surface. Ease off the accelerator, avoid sudden movements, and wait for grip to return.

Vehicle losing tyre contact on a water-covered road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the driver's floor mat be properly secured?

157. Why should the driver's floor mat be properly secured?

It could prevent the seat belt from locking.
It could reduce the effectiveness of the airbags.
It could cause the tyres to lose pressure.
✓ It could slide forwards and interfere with the pedals.

A loose or incorrectly fitted floor mat can move into the pedal area and interfere with the accelerator, brake, or clutch. Make sure the driver's floor mat is correctly fitted, secured, and does not obstruct any pedal.

Driver's floor mat near the pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

158. What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

The speed of the rear wiper.
The brightness of the dashboard.
The amount of washer fluid sprayed.
✓ The time between wiper sweeps.

The intermittent wiper interval control adjusts the time between windscreen-wiper sweeps, allowing the driver to match the wiping frequency to light rain or spray.

Interval adjustment for intermittent windscreen wiping
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when passing a horse rider?

159. 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.
Flash your headlights before moving alongside.
Pass closely to reduce the time beside the horse.

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
What should you check before beginning a journey in severe winter weather?

160. What should you check before beginning a journey in severe winter weather?

Nothing extra if the vehicle has winter tyres.
Only whether the main roads have been cleared.
Only whether you have enough fuel or charge.
✓ The weather, road conditions, tyres, fuel or charge, and emergency supplies.

Check whether the journey is necessary and prepare for delays or changing conditions. Suitable tyres, sufficient fuel or charge, warm clothing, and basic emergency supplies may be important.

Preparing a vehicle for a winter journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

161. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Seat ventilation.
✓ Seat heating.
Air conditioning.
Rear window demister.

This control activates the seat heating, which warms the seat cushion and, on many vehicles, the backrest. Several heat levels may be available.

Heated-seat control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

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

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

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
Why is it dangerous to cross between parked cars?

163. Why is it dangerous to cross between parked cars?

✓ Drivers may not see you or expect you to cross.
Pedestrians lose priority when crossing between cars.
Traffic always moves faster beside parked cars.
Parked cars make the crossing distance longer.

Parked vehicles can block the view between pedestrians and drivers. This makes it harder to see approaching traffic and harder for drivers to see you.

Pedestrian crossing between parked cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

164. What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

Place the jack on soft ground to prevent floor damage.
Raise the vehicle before applying the parking brake.
Work underneath if the jack appears stable.
✓ Use the correct jacking point and never go underneath a vehicle on a jack.

A jack can slip or fail if it is incorrectly positioned. Secure the vehicle and use additional approved supports before working underneath it.

Vehicle raised at a jacking point for a wheel change
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

165. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

They can increase the motorcycle's braking power.
They can cause the tyre pressure to rise suddenly.
✓ They can provide much less grip than the surrounding road.
They can make the tyres overheat.

Wet metal surfaces, such as drain or inspection covers, can provide much less grip than the surrounding road. Cross them smoothly, keep the motorcycle as upright as practical and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering.

Wet metal cover in a motorcycle's path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

166. What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

Open the windows and continue to your destination.
Turn up the heater to clear the fumes.
✓ Open the windows, stop safely, leave the vehicle, and seek assistance.
Switch the ventilation to recirculation and keep driving.

Exhaust gases may contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and may not be visible. The exhaust system should be inspected before the vehicle is used again.

Vehicle exhaust fumes and cabin ventilation
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

167. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low tyre pressure.
✓ Power-steering warning.
Charging-system warning.
Brake-system warning.

This symbol indicates a possible fault with the power-steering system. Steering assistance may be reduced or unavailable, making the steering wheel harder to turn.

Power-steering warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

168. 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
You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

169. You should follow the vehicle in front as closely as possible in traffic.

✓ False.
True.

You should keep a safe following distance so you have enough time to react if traffic slows or stops suddenly.

Vehicle following closely behind another vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an EV charging cable or connector is damaged?

170. What should you do if an EV charging cable or connector is damaged?

Use it if the vehicle still begins charging.
✓ Do not use it, and report or arrange repair of the damage.
Reduce the charging power and continue using it.
Hold the damaged section away from the vehicle.

Do not use a damaged charging cable or connector. Damage can create a risk of electric shock, overheating, or fire. Use suitable undamaged charging equipment and report the fault or arrange professional repair or replacement.

Damaged electric-vehicle charging cable or connector
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

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

To unlock the steering.
✓ To release the handbrake mechanism.
To select reverse gear.
To apply the service brakes.

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
What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

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

Brake sharply to check whether the wheels are damaged.
Increase speed to see whether the steering remains stable.
Reduce the tyre pressure to absorb further bumps.
✓ 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
Why should pedestrians avoid sudden movements near traffic?

173. Why should pedestrians avoid sudden movements near traffic?

Pedestrians are only allowed to walk slowly.
You lose priority if you change direction suddenly.
✓ Drivers may not have enough time to react.
Sudden movements are prohibited near traffic.

Sudden movements can surprise drivers and reduce the time they have to slow down or stop safely.

Pedestrian movements close to road traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

174. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Low fuel level.
Charging-system warning.
Engine-temperature warning.
Low engine oil.

This symbol indicates that the fuel level is low. Refuel soon to reduce the risk of running out of fuel.

Low-fuel warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

175. Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

✓ R (Reverse).
2nd gear.
1st gear.
Neutral.

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive a manual vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before Reverse is selected.

Manual gear lever and gear-selection pattern
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a designated driver do?

176. What should a designated driver do?

Stop drinking shortly before driving.
✓ Remain alcohol-free for the entire journey.
Drink only a small amount with food.
Drink only low-alcohol drinks.

A designated driver should remain sober so they can drive safely and respond properly to traffic conditions.

Alcohol-free designated driver for a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control button operate?

177. What does this vehicle-control button operate?

The parking brake.
The hazard warning lights.
✓ The engine or drive system.
The automatic start-stop system.

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
What word is commonly shown on STOP signs in Japan?

178. What word is commonly shown on STOP signs in Japan?

PARE.
DUR.
✓ STOP.
ALTO.

In Japan, STOP signs commonly display the word STOP.

Different wording used on stop signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

179. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Rear fog lights.
✓ Front fog lights.
Main beam.
Dipped headlights.

This symbol indicates that the front fog lights are switched on. Front fog lights are designed to improve illumination close to the road in conditions of severely reduced visibility. Rules governing their use vary by country.

Front fog-light symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

180. What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

✓ Reduce speed and increase your following distance.
Use cruise control to maintain a constant speed.
Drive closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.
Use main beam to improve visibility.

Heavy rain reduces grip and visibility. Lower speed and extra distance give you more time to react safely.

Vehicle travelling through heavy rain
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

181. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Dipped headlights.
Rear fog lights.
Main beam.
Front fog lights.

This symbol indicates that the dipped headlights are switched on. Dipped headlights illuminate the road ahead while limiting glare for other road users.

Dipped-headlight symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check blind spots before moving off?

182. Why should you check blind spots before moving off?

To check whether the road ahead is clear.
To judge the speed of traffic approaching from behind.
To confirm other drivers have seen your indicator.
✓ A cyclist, pedestrian, or vehicle may be beside you.

Mirrors do not show every area around your vehicle. A blind-spot check can reveal cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, or vehicles before you move off.

Driver checking a blind spot before moving off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

183. How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

✓ When the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer's recommended pressure.
Using the maximum pressure shown on the tyre.
Only by a certified maintenance service.
Immediately after a long or high-speed journey.

Tyre pressure rises as tyres become warm. Check them when cold and use the pressure specified on the vehicle label or in the owner's manual.

Checking a vehicle's tyre pressure
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic suddenly slows on a motorway?

184. What should you do if traffic suddenly slows on a motorway?

Change lanes immediately to avoid slowing down.
Move onto the shoulder and continue driving.
Maintain speed until the vehicle ahead brakes.
✓ Slow down smoothly and warn traffic behind if needed.

When traffic slows suddenly, reduce speed smoothly, keep a safe distance, and use hazard lights if needed to warn following traffic.

Motorway traffic slowing ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when temporary traffic lights show red?

185. What should you do when temporary traffic lights show red?

Continue if the road ahead appears clear.
✓ Stop before the signal or temporary stop line.
Only permanent traffic lights are valid.
Proceed if no road workers are visible.

Temporary traffic signals must be obeyed like permanent signals. Stop and wait until you are permitted to continue.

Red signal on temporary roadworks traffic lights
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

186. Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

✓ Your vehicle combination may take longer to stop.
To prevent the trailer from blocking your view.
To make the trailer easier to steer.
To reduce tyre wear on the towing vehicle.

Towing adds weight and can increase stopping distance. Extra space gives you more time to react and brake smoothly.

Vehicle towing a trailer behind other traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid removing the coolant cap while the engine is hot?

187. Why should you avoid removing the coolant cap while the engine is hot?

The thermostat may become damaged.
The cooling fan could stop working.
The coolant level may become harder to read.
✓ Pressurised hot coolant may escape and cause serious burns.

A hot cooling system may remain under pressure. Allow the engine to cool and follow the manufacturer's instructions before checking or adding coolant.

Coolant cap and the risk of hot pressurised coolant
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if it is unsafe to leave a stranded vehicle?

188. What should you do if it is unsafe to leave a stranded vehicle?

Leave the vehicle and wait beside it for help.
Walk along the road to find assistance.
✓ Stay inside, use hazard lights, and call the emergency services.
Switch off all lights to preserve the battery.

If leaving the vehicle would put you in greater danger, remain restrained, make the vehicle visible, contact the emergency services, and follow their instructions.

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

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

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

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 another driver does not give way when they should?

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

Accelerate so you pass through first.
✓ Slow down and avoid a collision.
Move closer so the other driver is forced to give way.
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
How should you normally brake on a motorcycle?

191. How should you normally brake on a motorcycle?

✓ Use both brakes smoothly and progressively.
Alternate between the front and rear brakes.
Apply both brakes as suddenly as possible.
Use only the rear brake.

During normal braking, use both the front and rear brakes smoothly and progressively. The front brake normally provides much of the braking force, while the rear brake also helps slow and stabilise the motorcycle. Sudden or poorly balanced braking can reduce stability or cause a wheel to lose grip.

Motorcyclist using the front and rear brakes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

192. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Power-steering warning.
Electronic stability control.
Engine-management warning.
✓ Low tyre pressure.

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
Does opening a window make an alcohol-impaired driver safe?

193. Does opening a window make an alcohol-impaired driver safe?

Yes, if you also drink some water.
✓ No, fresh air does not remove alcohol from the body.
Yes, if you feel more awake afterwards.
Yes, because fresh air helps you sober up.

Fresh air may make someone feel more awake, but it does not reduce their alcohol concentration or restore safe driving ability.

Open car window and an alcohol-impaired driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

194. What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

Continue if you cannot see or hear a train.
Drive around the barrier if the road ahead is clear.
Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
✓ Stop before the crossing and wait until it is safe to proceed.

Flashing warning lights mean a train may be approaching. Stop before the crossing and wait until the warning has ended and the crossing is clear.

Flashing warning lights at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

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

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

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
What should you do before turning across a cycle lane?

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

✓ Check mirrors and blind spots carefully for cyclists.
Enter the cycle lane without checking behind.
Turn quickly before cyclists reach the junction.
Ignore the cycle lane if you are signalling.

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
Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

197. Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

Their barriers trap cold air on the road surface.
Road salt is less effective on bridges.
Bridges are always at a higher altitude.
✓ Cold air circulates above and below them.

Bridges lose heat from both their upper and lower surfaces, so they can freeze before roads built directly on the ground.

Icy surface on an exposed bridge
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is counting drinks an unreliable way to decide whether you can drive?

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

One drink affects every person in the same way.
The number of drinks matters more than their strength.
✓ Drink strength, serving size, and individual effects can vary.
You can judge your alcohol level by how sober you feel.

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
Why should you use a lower gear when driving downhill?

199. Why should you use a lower gear when driving downhill?

It allows the vehicle to coast more freely.
It makes the steering lighter on descents.
✓ It helps control speed using engine braking.
It increases tyre grip on steep roads.

Engine braking helps prevent the vehicle from gaining too much speed and reduces strain on the brakes.

Lower-gear selection for a downhill road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which speed unit is used in Japan?

200. Which speed unit is used in Japan?

Miles per hour (mph).
✓ Kilometres per hour (km/h).

Road speeds in Japan are shown in kilometres per hour (km/h).

Road speed expressed in kilometres per hour
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA