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QuizTraffic rulesUnited States

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
United States
True/false 17 United States 14 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 581
Speed limits only apply when there is heavy traffic.

251. Speed limits only apply when there is heavy traffic.

✓ False.
True.

Speed limits apply at all times unless a different limit is clearly indicated.

Speed-limit sign beside a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

252. Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

It immediately damages the brakes.
It prevents the battery from charging.
✓ It uses fuel without moving the vehicle.
It always causes the engine to overheat.

An idling combustion engine uses fuel while the vehicle is stationary. Avoid unnecessary idling where it is safe and appropriate to switch the engine off, taking account of the vehicle manufacturer's instructions and local rules.

Stationary vehicle with its engine idling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before overtaking another vehicle?

253. What should you do before overtaking another vehicle?

Overtake whenever the vehicle ahead is moving slowly.
✓ Make sure it is safe and allowed.
Move out first and check whether the road is clear.
Signal and expect other traffic to make room.

Before overtaking, check the road, mirrors, blind spots, signs, and markings, use your indicator, and only overtake when it is safe and permitted.

Vehicle preparing to overtake another vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a bicycle helmet fit?

254. How should a bicycle helmet fit?

High on the head with the straps loose.
Tilted back to keep your forehead clear.
Tight enough to feel uncomfortable.
✓ Level, secure, and comfortably fitted.

A helmet should sit level on the head and remain securely in place so it can provide effective protection.

Bicycle helmet positioned securely on the rider's head
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

255. When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

Whenever you want to reduce speed.
✓ After the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
Before pressing the clutch pedal.
While the vehicle is still moving forward slowly.

Select reverse gear only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Press the clutch fully before selecting reverse to avoid unnecessary wear or damage to the transmission.

Selecting reverse gear in a stationary manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

256. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low engine oil.
Low washer fluid.
Low tyre pressure.
✓ Low engine coolant level.

This symbol indicates that the engine coolant level is low. Check the coolant level when the engine is cool and refill it with the correct coolant if necessary.

Low coolant-level warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do about a chip in the windscreen?

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

✓ Have it assessed and repaired promptly.
Cover the chip so it cannot spread.
Wait until the chip becomes a larger crack.
Clean the glass and continue driving normally.

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
Why should you take care when parking a motorcycle on soft ground?

258. Why should you take care when parking a motorcycle on soft ground?

The brakes may lock while the motorcycle is parked.
The engine may become difficult to start.
The chain may become too tight.
✓ The stand may sink into the ground and the motorcycle could fall.

On soft or unstable ground, the side or centre stand can sink or move, causing the motorcycle to fall. Park on a firm, stable surface or use a suitable support under the stand when necessary.

Motorcycle stand resting on soft ground
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should the top of the head restraint normally be positioned?

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

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

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?

260. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

This symbol relates to the electronic stability control (ESC) system. It may flash when the system is actively helping to maintain stability. If it remains illuminated, the system may be switched off or have a fault.

Electronic stability control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

261. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Central door locking.
✓ Bonnet release.
Boot release.
Parking brake.

This control releases the bonnet so that it can be opened. A secondary safety catch under the bonnet normally has to be released before it can be fully raised.

Bonnet-release control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking a junction?

262. What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking a junction?

Enter if the traffic light is green.
Enter the junction and wait for traffic to move.
✓ Wait until there is enough space to clear the junction.
Use the horn so traffic ahead moves forward.

Do not enter a junction if traffic ahead prevents you from clearing it safely. Waiting before the junction helps avoid blocking crossing traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, or other road users.

Queue of traffic blocking a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should headlights, indicators, and other exterior lights be kept clean and working?

263. Why should headlights, indicators, and other exterior lights be kept clean and working?

They prevent the windscreen from misting.
✓ They help you see, be seen, and communicate your intentions.
They improve braking performance in poor weather.
They only need to work when you drive at night.

Dirty or faulty lights reduce visibility and make it harder for other road users to understand when you are braking, turning, reversing, or changing position.

Checking and cleaning a vehicle's exterior lights
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

264. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Electronic stability control.
Speed limiter.
✓ Cruise control.
Engine-management warning.

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
What should you do before releasing the parking brake on a slope?

265. What should you do before releasing the parking brake on a slope?

✓ Make sure the vehicle is securely controlled before releasing it.
Turn the steering wheel fully.
Press the accelerator fully.
Select neutral and release all pedals.

Before releasing the parking brake on a slope, make sure the vehicle cannot roll unexpectedly. Use the service brake or, when moving off in a manual vehicle, establish the clutch biting point and sufficient power before releasing the parking brake.

Preparing to release the parking brake on a slope
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the clutch pedal in a manual vehicle?

266. What is the purpose of the clutch pedal in a manual vehicle?

To increase the engine speed.
To apply the parking brake.
To slow the vehicle using the brakes.
✓ To disconnect the engine from the transmission.

Pressing the clutch pedal temporarily disconnects the engine from the transmission, allowing the driver to change gear or stop without stalling the engine.

Clutch pedal in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should you go after safely leaving a disabled vehicle in a tunnel?

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

✓ To a protected emergency area or exit away from traffic.
Remain beside the vehicle and wait for assistance.
Stay close to the vehicle until traffic starts moving.
Wait directly behind the vehicle where drivers can see you.

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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

268. 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
Why should a child use a suitable child restraint?

269. Why should a child use a suitable child restraint?

✓ To reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision.
To prevent the vehicle from braking suddenly.
To make it easier for the child to sleep.
To make the seat belt more comfortable.

A suitable child restraint is designed to protect a child according to their size and development. It helps position and restrain the child correctly, reducing the risk of serious injury in a collision or sudden stop.

Child secured in a suitable car seat
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when passing a horse rider?

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

Accelerate while passing to get past quickly.
Flash your headlights before moving alongside.
Pass closely to reduce the time beside the horse.
✓ Slow down and give plenty of space.

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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

271. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Immobiliser or anti-theft system.
Door-open warning.
Engine-management warning.
Power-steering warning.

This symbol relates to the vehicle's immobiliser or anti-theft system. If it remains illuminated or flashes unexpectedly, the vehicle may not recognise the key or there may be a fault in the security system.

Immobiliser indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid selecting N while driving downhill in an automatic vehicle?

272. Why should you avoid selecting N while driving downhill in an automatic vehicle?

It applies the parking brake.
It automatically selects a lower gear.
✓ It reduces engine braking and vehicle control.
It increases engine braking.

Selecting N (Neutral) while driving downhill disconnects the engine from the driven wheels, reducing engine braking. Keep an appropriate drive or gear selected so you can maintain better control of the vehicle.

Neutral selection and downhill coasting in an automatic vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

273. What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

Continue if the barriers are not fully closed.
✓ Stop and wait until the barriers are completely open.
Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
Stop only when the barriers are fully lowered.

Never enter a railway crossing when barriers are closing or warning signals are active. Stop and wait until it is safe.

Barriers closing at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you notice the location of emergency exits in a tunnel?

274. Why should you notice the location of emergency exits in a tunnel?

✓ You may need to reach one quickly during an emergency.
They provide shortcuts to nearby roads.
They mark areas where vehicles may stop temporarily.
They show where overtaking is prohibited.

Knowing where emergency exits and refuge areas are located can save valuable time during a fire, collision, or evacuation.

Emergency exit inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it dangerous to drive through standing water at speed?

275. 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 if your vehicle breaks down on a busy road?

276. What should you do if your vehicle breaks down on a busy road?

✓ Move to a safe place, use hazard lights, and stay clear of traffic.
Remain in the traffic lane even if you can move to safety.
Stand beside the vehicle while waiting for help.
Stay close to the vehicle so other drivers can see you.

If your vehicle breaks down, make it visible and get yourself away from moving traffic. Safety comes before repairing the vehicle.

Broken-down vehicle beside a busy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

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

Switch between cruise control and the speed limiter.
Change the transmission gear.
✓ Increase or decrease the selected cruising speed.
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
What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

278. 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
You should keep both hands ready to control the steering.

279. You should keep both hands ready to control the steering.

✓ True.
False.

Keeping proper control of the steering wheel helps you react safely to changes in traffic and road conditions.

Driver keeping both hands on the steering wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

280. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Rear window demister.
✓ Seat heating.
Heated steering wheel.
Seat ventilation.

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 AUTO on a windscreen-wiper control normally do?

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

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

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

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

Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.
Restart the engine repeatedly to reset the warning.
✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.

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 if the accelerator becomes stuck while you are driving?

283. What should you do if the accelerator becomes stuck while you are driving?

Keep driving and wait for the accelerator to release.
Switch off the engine immediately before selecting neutral.
✓ Select neutral, brake firmly, and steer to a safe stopping place.
Press the accelerator harder to try to free it.

Selecting neutral disconnects engine power from the wheels. Brake firmly, maintain steering control, and switch off the engine after stopping safely.

Stuck accelerator pedal in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

284. Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

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

Select P (Park) when parking an automatic vehicle. Park locks the transmission, but the parking brake should also be applied to secure the vehicle.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

285. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking brake applied.
Airbag-system warning.
✓ Seat belt not fastened.
Brake-system warning.

This symbol is a seat-belt reminder. It indicates that the driver or another detected occupant has not fastened their seat belt.

Seat-belt reminder symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when following a cyclist on a narrow road?

286. What should you do when following a cyclist on a narrow road?

Drive close behind until there is room to pass.
✓ Keep a safe distance and overtake only when there is enough space.
Pass even if you cannot leave much space.
Sound your horn so the cyclist moves aside.

Cyclists may need to avoid potholes, drains, or wind gusts. Keep distance and only pass when you can leave plenty of space.

Vehicle following a cyclist on a narrow road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

287. Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

✓ They are used to protect people and manage hazards.
They apply only when traffic is congested.
They can be ignored when the road looks clear.
They apply only to road workers.

Temporary speed limits may be used near roadworks, accidents, events, or dangerous conditions. They help keep traffic safe.

Temporary speed-limit sign at roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid wearing dark clothing at night?

288. Why should you avoid wearing dark clothing at night?

✓ Drivers may have difficulty seeing you.
Dark clothing reflects more light from vehicles.
Street lighting makes dark clothing easy to see.
Headlights make clothing colour unimportant.

Dark clothing makes pedestrians harder to see in low-light conditions. Bright or reflective clothing improves visibility.

Pedestrian wearing dark clothing at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

289. What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

Accelerate to see if the fault disappears.
Switch off the engine before slowing down.
Continue driving until the vehicle stops by itself.
✓ Keep control, reduce speed, and move to a safe place if possible.

Your first priority is to keep control of the vehicle. Reduce speed smoothly and move out of the path of traffic where possible, signalling when appropriate. Avoid harsh steering or braking unless necessary.

Vehicle stopped after developing a mechanical fault
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when livestock are on the road?

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

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

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

Livestock being moved along a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

291. How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

At a very shallow angle alongside the rails.
By accelerating hard as the front wheel reaches the rail.
✓ At a safe angle, as close to perpendicular as practical.
While braking firmly on the rails.

Rails can be slippery and can catch a motorcycle tyre, especially when wet. Cross them at a sufficiently large angle, as close to perpendicular as practical, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering while crossing.

Motorcycle crossing rails in the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

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

You only need to intervene when a warning appears.
✓ You remain responsible and must stay alert.
The systems can take full responsibility for driving.
The systems can always detect every hazard.

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
What should you do if a load extends beyond the vehicle?

293. What should you do if a load extends beyond the vehicle?

Secure only the part that remains inside the vehicle.
Leave it unmarked if it is easy to see.
✓ Make sure it is legal, secure, and properly marked when required.
Cover it with a cloth instead of marking it.

An extending load may create additional danger and may require specific markings or equipment under local rules.

Load projecting beyond a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an EV charging cable or connector is damaged?

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

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

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 should you do before reversing your vehicle?

295. What should you do before reversing your vehicle?

Check behind only after you start moving.
Rely on the reversing camera if one is fitted.
Sound the horn before reversing and proceed.
✓ Check all around and make sure it is safe.

Before reversing, check all around the vehicle, including blind spots, for pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, and other hazards. Reverse slowly and keep checking as you move.

Vehicle preparing to reverse from a driveway
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do before turning or changing position on the road?

296. What should cyclists do before turning or changing position on the road?

Move first, then signal to traffic behind.
Signal only when a vehicle is close behind.
Look behind only after starting the turn.
✓ Look behind, signal clearly, and move only when safe.

Checking behind and signalling gives other road users time to understand what you intend to do.

Cyclist preparing to turn or change road position
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

297. Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

The motorcycle's brakes may become less effective.
The vehicle ahead must always change lanes.
✓ The driver may not be able to see the motorcycle.
The motorcycle will use more fuel.

Motorcycles can be difficult to see, particularly when they remain in another vehicle's blind spot. Avoid staying alongside a vehicle where the driver may not see you, and choose a position where you are more likely to be visible.

Motorcycle in another vehicle's blind spot
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

298. What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

✓ Follow the temporary signs and merge safely when required.
Reverse back the way you came.
Follow construction vehicles through the closed lane.
Ignore the temporary signs if your lane is still open.

Observe the temporary signs, adjust your speed, and merge safely according to the traffic situation and local rules.

Temporary traffic-lane closure ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select P (Park) in an automatic vehicle?

299. When should you select P (Park) in an automatic vehicle?

✓ After the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
Whenever you want to reduce speed.
While the vehicle is still moving slowly.
Before braking to a stop.

Select P (Park) only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Selecting Park while the vehicle is moving can damage the transmission.

Selecting Park after an automatic vehicle stops
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should an EV charging cable be positioned where pedestrians may pass?

300. How should an EV charging cable be positioned where pedestrians may pass?

Loose on the ground so pedestrians can step over it.
✓ So it does not create a trip hazard or obstruct the route.
Across the pavement where it is easiest to see.
Across the shortest possible route, even if people walk there.

An EV charging cable should be positioned so it does not create a trip hazard or unnecessarily obstruct pedestrians. Where a cable must cross a walking route, use an appropriate approved cable-management or protection system and follow local requirements.

Charging cable near a pedestrian route
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA