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QuizTraffic rulesUnited States

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 States.

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

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
United States
True/false 17 United States 14 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Right-of-way rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Bicyclists 20 Show all 581
Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

251. Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

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

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

Temporary speed-limit sign at road work
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid selecting N while driving downhill in an automatic vehicle?

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

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

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 if traffic ahead is blocking an intersection?

253. What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking an intersection?

Follow the vehicle ahead into the intersection.
Use the horn so traffic ahead moves forward.
Enter if the traffic light is green.
✓ Wait until there is enough space to clear the intersection.

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

Traffic backup blocking an intersection
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

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

✓ After the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
Before pressing the clutch pedal.
Whenever you want to reduce speed.
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
When should you select P (Park) in an automatic vehicle?

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

Whenever you want to reduce speed.
While the vehicle is still moving slowly.
✓ After the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
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
What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

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

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

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 at a railroad crossing when the gates are closing?

257. What should you do at a railroad crossing when the gates are closing?

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

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

Gates closing at a railroad crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do after hitting a deep pothole hard?

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

Brake sharply to check whether the wheels are damaged.
Continue driving normally if the tire still looks inflated.
✓ Check for tire or wheel damage when it is safe to stop.
Reduce the tire pressure to absorb further bumps.

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

Checking a tire and wheel after hitting a pothole
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you notice the location of emergency exits in a tunnel?

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

Pedestrians may be crossing near them.
They show where passing is prohibited.
✓ You may need to reach one quickly during an emergency.
They mark areas where vehicles may stop temporarily.

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

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

✓ Keep control, reduce speed, and move to a safe place if possible.
Switch off the engine before slowing down.
Stop immediately in the traffic lane.
Accelerate to see if the fault disappears.

Your first priority is to keep control of the vehicle. Reduce speed smoothly and move out of the path of traffic where possible, signaling 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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

261. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Cruise control.
Check engine light.
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 behavior can vary between vehicles.

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

262. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Door-open warning.
✓ Immobilizer or anti-theft system.
Power-steering warning.
Check engine light.

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

Immobilizer indicator 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?

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

✓ The tires may lose contact with the road.
The brakes become more effective when wet.
The suspension becomes firmer at higher speed.
The water can increase tire pressure.

Driving too fast through water can cause hydroplaning, where the tires lose grip and the driver may lose control.

Vehicle traveling through standing water
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist cross streetcar or railroad rails?

264. How should a motorcyclist cross streetcar or railroad rails?

While braking firmly on the rails.
With the motorcycle leaning sharply.
By accelerating hard as the front wheel reaches the rail.
✓ At a safe angle, as close to perpendicular as practical.

Rails can be slippery and can catch a motorcycle tire, 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
Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

265. Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

It makes the tires lose pressure.
✓ It uses fuel without moving the vehicle.
It always causes the engine to overheat.
It immediately damages the brakes.

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

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

Clutch pedal in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the accelerator becomes stuck while you are driving?

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

✓ Select neutral, brake firmly, and steer to a safe stopping place.
Apply the parking brake sharply while moving.
Switch off the engine immediately before selecting neutral.
Keep driving and wait for the accelerator to release.

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

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

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

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 when livestock are on the road?

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

Drive through the group before it spreads across the road.
✓ Slow down and follow the instructions of the person controlling them.
Follow closely so other traffic can pass.
Use the roadside area to pass the animals.

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

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

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

Before releasing the parking brake on a slope, make sure the vehicle cannot roll unexpectedly. Use the service brake or, when starting from a stop in a vehicle with a manual transmission, establish the clutch friction 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 should you do if a load extends beyond the vehicle?

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

Leave it unmarked if it is easy to see.
Let the load extend as far as necessary.
✓ 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 when following a bicyclist on a narrow road?

272. What should you do when following a bicyclist on a narrow road?

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

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

Vehicle following a bicyclist on a narrow road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a child use a suitable child restraint?

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

To allow the child to sit closer to the window.
To prevent the vehicle from braking suddenly.
To make it easier for the child to sleep.
✓ To reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision.

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
You should keep both hands ready to control the steering.

274. 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 should you do before passing another vehicle?

275. What should you do before passing another vehicle?

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

Before passing, check the road, mirrors, blind spots, signs, and markings, use your turn signal, and only pass when it is safe and permitted.

Vehicle preparing to pass another vehicle
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?

Sound the horn continuously to warn other drivers.
Stay close to the vehicle so other drivers can see you.
Remain in the traffic lane even if you can move to safety.
✓ Move to a safe place, use hazard lights, and stay clear of traffic.

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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

277. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Seat belt not fastened.
Door open.
Brake-system warning.
Airbag-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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

278. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Anti-lock braking system.
Power-steering warning.
✓ Electronic stability control.
Check engine light.

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
Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

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

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

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 do the + and − controls of cruise control normally do?

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

Change the transmission gear.
✓ Increase or decrease the selected cruising speed.
Switch between cruise control and the speed limiter.
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 if the charging-system warning light comes on?

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

Increase engine speed until the warning light goes out.
Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.
Restart the engine repeatedly to reset the warning.
✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.

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

282. 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 stand may sink into the ground and the motorcycle could fall.
The tires may immediately lose air pressure.

On soft or unstable ground, the side or center 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
What does AUTO on a windshield-wiper control normally do?

283. What does AUTO on a windshield-wiper control normally do?

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

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

AUTO setting on the windshield-wiper control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before backing up your vehicle?

284. What should you do before backing up your vehicle?

Check the mirrors and back up if they appear clear.
Rely on the backup camera if one is installed.
✓ Check all around and make sure it is safe.
Sound the horn before backing up and proceed.

Before backing up, check all around the vehicle, including blind spots, for pedestrians, bicyclists, vehicles, and other hazards. Back up 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 does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

285. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Seat ventilation.
Air conditioning.
✓ Seat heating.
Heated steering wheel.

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 should you do about a chip in the windshield?

286. What should you do about a chip in the windshield?

Cover the chip so it cannot spread.
Ignore it if it is outside your direct view.
✓ Have it assessed and repaired promptly.
Wait until the chip becomes a larger crack.

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 windshield
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

287. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking lights.
Low-beam headlights.
High-beam headlights.
✓ Front fog lights.

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 bicyclists do before turning or changing position on the road?

288. What should bicyclists do before turning or changing position on the road?

Look behind only after starting the turn.
Move first, then signal to traffic behind.
✓ Look behind, signal clearly, and move only when safe.
Signal and turn without checking behind.

Checking behind and signaling give other road users time to understand what you intend to do.

Bicyclist preparing to turn or change road position
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should headlights, turn signals, and other exterior lights be kept clean and working?

289. Why should headlights, turn signals, and other exterior lights be kept clean and working?

✓ They help you see, be seen, and communicate your intentions.
They make the vehicle use less fuel.
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, backing up, 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?

290. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Low engine coolant level.
Low washer fluid.
Engine overheating.
Low engine oil.

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
How should a bicycle helmet fit?

291. How should a bicycle helmet fit?

✓ Level, secure, and comfortably fitted.
Tight enough to feel uncomfortable.
High on the head with the straps loose.
Loose enough to move slightly on your head.

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

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

The vehicle ahead must always change lanes.
✓ The driver may not be able to see the motorcycle.
The motorcycle will use more fuel.
The motorcycle's turn signals may be harder to see.

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 does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

293. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Hood release.
Trunk release.
Parking brake.
Fuel-filler flap release.

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

Hood-release control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a temporary lane closure?

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

Merge without checking if traffic is moving slowly.
Back up the way you came.
Follow construction vehicles through the closed lane.
✓ Follow the temporary signs and merge safely when required.

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
Why should you avoid wearing dark clothing at night?

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

Headlights make clothing color unimportant.
Dark clothing reflects more light from vehicles.
Clothing color matters only on unlit roads.
✓ Drivers may have difficulty seeing you.

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

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

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

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 should you do when passing a horse rider?

297. 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
Where should you go after safely leaving a disabled vehicle in a tunnel?

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

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

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

299. 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 sidewalk 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
Speed limits only apply when there is heavy traffic.

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

True.
✓ False.

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