QuizTraffic rulesNew Zealand

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.


Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

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

Lower speed, dry roads, and good tyres.
✓ Higher speed, slower reactions, poor grip, and vehicle condition.
Having a full fuel tank and adjusted mirrors.
Driving in a lower gear and using the indicators.

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

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

✓ Reduce speed and stop safely if your view is affected.
Continue driving if you can still see part of the road.
Remove loose glass while the vehicle is moving.
Drive faster to reach a safe place sooner.

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 is the main purpose of a booster seat?

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

To replace the vehicle's seat belt completely.
To make the child high enough to see through the windscreen.
To move the child closer to the front seats.
✓ To position the vehicle seat belt correctly on the child.

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

Child seated in a booster with a vehicle seat belt
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

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

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

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
Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

5. Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

Temporary surfaces make the brakes colder.
Temporary roads always slope downhill.
✓ Loose gravel, mud, or uneven material may reduce tyre grip.
Roadworks switch off anti-lock braking.

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
What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

6. What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

✓ You remain responsible and must stay alert.
The systems can take full responsibility for driving.
The systems can always detect every hazard.
You may stop watching the road when they are active.

Driver-assistance systems can help with tasks such as maintaining speed, monitoring lanes, or warning about hazards, but they do not replace the driver. Stay attentive, monitor the road and traffic, and be ready to take control whenever necessary.

Driver monitoring the road while using driver assistance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

7. How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

It affects reaction distance but not braking distance.
It affects braking distance only on wet roads.
It has no effect if the brakes are in good condition.
✓ It increases the distance needed to stop.

As speed increases, the vehicle travels farther while the driver reacts and requires more distance to brake. This means the total stopping distance increases significantly as speed rises.

Vehicle speed and the distance needed to stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Using indicators helps other road users understand your intentions.

8. Using indicators helps other road users understand your intentions.

False.
✓ True.

Indicators help communicate your intended direction and improve safety for everyone on the road.

Vehicle signalling its intended direction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle catches fire?

9. What should you do if your vehicle catches fire?

Keep driving slowly until you find a safer place to stop.
Stay inside the vehicle while waiting for assistance.
✓ Stop, switch off the engine, evacuate everyone, and call the emergency services.
Try to move personal belongings out before leaving.

Move everyone well away from the vehicle and call emergency services. If the fire is small and it is safe to do so, use a suitable fire extinguisher. Opening the bonnet fully can supply additional oxygen and cause the fire to intensify.

Vehicle with a fire breaking out
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
It is safe to look at your phone briefly while driving.

10. It is safe to look at your phone briefly while driving.

True.
✓ False.

Using your phone while driving is distracting and dangerous, even for a very short moment.

Driver glancing at a phone while driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is a danger of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle with the boot or tailgate open?

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

The boot warning light may remain on.
✓ Exhaust fumes can be drawn into the passenger compartment.
The fuel gauge may become inaccurate.
The rear window demister may stop working.

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

Open vehicle tailgate and exhaust-fume risk
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

12. What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

Releases the parking brake.
✓ Switches off the engine and ignition systems.
Operates the starter motor.
Selects accessory power.

Turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF switches off the engine and ignition systems. The key can then normally be moved to the LOCK position and removed.

OFF position on a traditional ignition switch
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which language is commonly used on text-based road signs in New Zealand?

13. Which language is commonly used on text-based road signs in New Zealand?

✓ English.
Spanish.
French.
German.

Text-based road signs in New Zealand commonly use English.

Road signs with English wording
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the steering wheel after completing a turn?

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

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

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
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet metal covers?

15. 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 make the suspension become stiffer.
✓ They can provide much less grip than the surrounding road.

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 after hitting a deep pothole hard?

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

Increase speed to see whether the steering remains stable.
✓ Check for tyre or wheel damage when it is safe to stop.
Continue driving normally if the tyre still looks inflated.
Reduce the tyre pressure to absorb further bumps.

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 should you do at a railway crossing without barriers?

17. What should you do at a railway crossing without barriers?

Follow the vehicle ahead without checking yourself.
✓ Stop if required, check carefully, and cross only when safe.
Maintain your speed if the tracks look clear.
Cross quickly if you cannot see a train.

Approach railway crossings carefully, obey any requirement to stop and any warning signals or barriers, and cross only when it is safe.

Railway crossing without barriers
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

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

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

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 about a flat tyre on a high-speed road?

19. What should you do about a flat tyre on a high-speed road?

Drive slowly on the damaged tyre to the next exit.
Repair the tyre beside the traffic lane using hazard lights.
Ask passengers to help change the wheel quickly.
✓ Move to a protected location if possible and call for professional recovery.

Changing a wheel close to high-speed traffic is extremely dangerous. Move away from traffic and use professional assistance.

Vehicle stopped with a flat tyre on a high-speed road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What information is needed when requesting emergency assistance?

20. What information is needed when requesting emergency assistance?

Your vehicle colour and approximate location.
Only the road name and nearest town.
✓ Your exact location, direction of travel, vehicle details, and the problem.
Your name, destination, and planned route.

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
Can drivers use a handheld phone while driving in New Zealand?

21. Can drivers use a handheld phone while driving in New Zealand?

Yes.
✓ No.

Drivers in New Zealand are generally not allowed to use a handheld phone while driving.

Driver using a handheld phone
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

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

To reduce tyre wear on the towing vehicle.
To keep the trailer from moving side to side.
To make the trailer easier to steer.
✓ Your vehicle combination may take longer to stop.

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

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

One drink affects every person in the same way.
✓ Drink strength, serving size, and individual effects can vary.
The number of drinks matters more than their strength.
Food makes each drink count as less alcohol.

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 with the clutch during emergency braking in a manual vehicle?

24. What should you do with the clutch during emergency braking in a manual vehicle?

Keep it partly pressed.
Pump it repeatedly.
✓ Press it fully while maintaining firm brake pressure.
Release it suddenly.

During emergency braking in a manual vehicle, maintain firm pressure on the brake and press the clutch pedal fully so the engine does not stall as the vehicle slows. Do not reduce braking pressure while operating the clutch.

Brake and clutch operation during an emergency stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you keep the driver's footwell free of loose objects?

25. Why should you keep the driver's footwell free of loose objects?

✓ They could roll into the pedals and interfere with control.
They could make it harder to adjust the driver's seat.
They could make the pedals noisier to operate.
They could damage the carpet around the pedals.

Loose objects in the driver's footwell, such as bottles, cans, or rubbish, can roll into the pedal area and interfere with the accelerator, brake, or clutch. Keep the footwell clear so you can operate the pedals safely and without obstruction.

Loose objects in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid resting your hand on the gear lever while driving?

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

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

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 avoid overtaking when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

27. Why should you avoid overtaking when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

✓ A pedestrian may be hidden by the vehicle ahead.
Vehicles use more braking distance near crossings.
The crossing may make it harder to judge your speed.
The road surface is usually more slippery near crossings.

A vehicle slowing or stopping near a pedestrian crossing may be hiding someone who is crossing. Overtaking could put you directly into the pedestrian's path.

Vehicles approaching a pedestrian crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

28. What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

Keep using it if the weather is dry.
Cover the scratches with clear tape.
✓ Replace it before riding.
Use it only during daylight.

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
What should cyclists do when approaching a junction?

29. What should cyclists do when approaching a junction?

Watch only the traffic directly ahead of you.
✓ Reduce speed, observe carefully, and be ready to stop.
Maintain your speed if no traffic is visible.
Rely on other road users to give way to you.

Junctions create conflict points between road users. Slowing down gives you more time to see hazards and react safely.

Cyclist approaching a road junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

30. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Adaptive cruise control.
Parking assistance.
Lane-departure warning.
Automatic start-stop system.

This symbol relates to adaptive cruise control (ACC). The system can maintain a selected speed and automatically adjust the vehicle's speed to help maintain a set distance from traffic ahead.

Adaptive cruise-control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you switch on dipped headlights before entering a tunnel?

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

To prevent the tunnel lights from becoming too bright.
To reduce fuel consumption.
✓ To improve visibility and help other road users see you.
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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

32. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

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

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

✓ Call for help and avoid moving them unless there is immediate danger.
Help them stand up and check whether they can walk.
Give them food or drink while waiting for help.
Move them to a more comfortable position immediately.

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

Assistance for an injured person after a road collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Is a warning triangle required in cars in New Zealand?

34. Is a warning triangle required in cars in New Zealand?

Yes.
✓ No.

Cars in New Zealand are not generally required to carry a warning triangle.

Warning triangle carried as vehicle safety equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Is a first-aid kit required in cars in New Zealand?

35. Is a first-aid kit required in cars in New Zealand?

Yes.
✓ No.

Cars in New Zealand are not generally required to carry a first-aid kit.

First-aid kit carried in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

36. What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

Connect the leads without checking their polarity.
Ignore battery damage if the terminals look clean.
✓ Check the owner's manual and make sure the connections are compatible.
Use any battery that physically fits the vehicle.

Incorrect jump-starting can damage electrical systems, cause sparks, or make a battery explode. Connect the leads in the correct order before starting the vehicles, and follow the manufacturer's procedure exactly.

Preparing to jump-start a vehicle battery
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

37. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine-management warning.
✓ Diesel glow-plug preheating.
Charging-system warning.
Diesel particulate filter warning.

This symbol indicates the diesel glow-plug preheating system. In a diesel vehicle, wait for the light to go out before starting the engine when required. If it remains illuminated or flashes while driving, it may indicate a fault.

Diesel glow-plug preheating symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why are tyre condition and pressure especially important on a motorcycle?

38. Why are tyre condition and pressure especially important on a motorcycle?

They determine how brightly the lights work.
They affect only comfort at high speed.
✓ They directly affect grip, stability, and braking.
They mainly affect the engine temperature.

A motorcycle relies on a relatively small area of tyre contact with the road. Correct tyre pressure, tread and condition are important for grip, steering, stability and braking. Check the tyres regularly and follow the manufacturer's recommended pressures.

Checking the condition of a motorcycle tyre
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

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

Tighten it as much as possible.
✓ Adjust it correctly or have it checked before riding.
Increase speed to keep the chain under tension.
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
You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

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

True.
✓ False.

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

Cyclist near the door of a parked car
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an animal is standing on the road at night?

41. What should you do if an animal is standing on the road at night?

✓ Slow down and be prepared to stop.
Drive around it immediately without slowing down.
Flash your headlights repeatedly to make it move.
Sound your horn and continue at the same speed.

Animals may freeze, turn back, or move unpredictably when caught in vehicle headlights.

Animal standing on a road at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a narrow road with oncoming traffic?

42. What should you do when approaching a narrow road with oncoming traffic?

Maintain your speed if there appears to be enough room.
Continue first if you entered the narrow section earlier.
✓ Slow down and give space when needed.
Expect the oncoming driver to make room for you.

On narrow roads, reduce speed and be prepared to stop or use a suitable passing place. Leave enough space for the oncoming vehicle and avoid forcing either vehicle into an unsafe position.

Oncoming vehicles approaching a narrow stretch of road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the engine-temperature warning shows overheating?

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

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

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 if medicine makes you feel drowsy?

44. What should you do if medicine makes you feel drowsy?

Drive slowly and avoid motorways.
✓ Do not drive until the effect has passed.
Drive only for short distances.
Drink coffee before driving.

If a medicine causes drowsiness, your concentration, judgement, and reaction time may be reduced. Do not drive until you are fit to do so and the effect has passed.

Drowsiness after taking medicine
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do first after a collision?

45. What should you do first after a collision?

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

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

Vehicles stopped after a road collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

46. 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 before overtaking while towing a trailer?

47. What should you do before overtaking while towing a trailer?

Follow closely before moving out to overtake.
✓ Allow extra time and distance for the manoeuvre.
Assume the trailer will follow the same path as the vehicle.
Begin overtaking as soon as the road looks clear.

A towing vehicle accelerates more slowly, and the trailer makes the whole vehicle combination longer. Remember to allow a much larger safe gap before overtaking and enough space to return safely to your lane.

Vehicle preparing to overtake while towing a trailer
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your lane is blocked by an obstacle?

48. What should you do if your lane is blocked by an obstacle?

✓ Slow down, check carefully, and give way if needed.
Move around it because the obstacle gives you priority.
Follow another vehicle around it without checking yourself.
Signal and expect oncoming traffic to make room.

If your lane is blocked, reduce speed, check mirrors and oncoming traffic, and only move around the obstacle when it is safe.

Obstacle blocking a vehicle's lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you are dazzled by low sun?

49. What should you do if you are dazzled by low sun?

Follow the vehicle ahead closely as a guide.
Maintain your speed if you can still see the road markings.
Look only at the road immediately in front of you.
✓ Slow down and use the sun visor if needed.

Low sun can greatly reduce visibility. Slow down, increase your safety margin, and use the sun visor or sunglasses if needed.

Low sunlight dazzling a driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be careful when taking more than one medicine before driving?

50. Why should you be careful when taking more than one medicine before driving?

They can change the tyre pressure.
✓ Their combined effects may impair your ability to drive.
They may make the vehicle use more fuel.
They may interfere with the vehicle's electronics.

Different medicines can interact or have combined side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or slower reactions. Check the instructions and seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether it is safe to drive.

Multiple medicines and their potential effects on driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA