Support us

QuizTraffic rulesSouth Africa

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

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

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
South Africa
True/false 17 South Africa 23 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 590
What is the general speed limit for cars in built-up areas in South Africa?

1. What is the general speed limit for cars in built-up areas in South Africa?

✓ 60 km/h.
30 km/h.
Other speed limit.
40 km/h.

The general speed limit for cars in built-up areas in South Africa is 60 km/h, unless signs indicate otherwise.

Speed limits for cars in built-up areas
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the ignition key once the engine starts?

2. What should you do with the ignition key once the engine starts?

Remove it from the ignition.
Turn it immediately to ACC.
Keep holding it in the START position.
✓ Release it so it returns from START to ON.

Once the engine starts, release the ignition key so it returns from START to the ON position. Holding the key in START unnecessarily can keep the starter motor engaged.

Releasing the ignition key after the engine starts
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

3. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Adaptive cruise control.
Parking assistance.
Automatic emergency braking.
✓ Lane-departure warning.

This symbol relates to the lane-departure warning or lane-keeping system. The system monitors the vehicle's position within its lane and may warn the driver if the vehicle begins to leave the lane unintentionally.

Lane-departure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your windscreen becomes covered with mud or spray?

4. What should you do if your windscreen becomes covered with mud or spray?

✓ Slow down and use the washers and wipers to restore clear vision.
Use the demister instead of the washers.
Continue driving and wait for the spray to clear.
Switch off the wipers until the windscreen dries.

Clear visibility is essential. Slow down safely and use your washers and wipers until you can see the road clearly again.

Mud and spray obscuring a vehicle's windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should adjust your mirrors before you start driving.

5. You should adjust your mirrors before you start driving.

✓ True.
False.

Properly adjusted mirrors improve visibility and help you monitor traffic around your vehicle.

Driver adjusting a mirror before setting off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you see smoke or fire inside a tunnel?

6. What should you do if you see smoke or fire inside a tunnel?

Stay inside the vehicle and wait for the smoke to clear.
Reverse toward the entrance without checking behind.
✓ Follow tunnel instructions and leave the tunnel if it is safe to do so.
Keep driving normally unless the tunnel is completely blocked.

If it is safe to drive out of the tunnel, do so. If you cannot continue safely, stop, switch off the engine, leave the vehicle, and use the marked emergency exits or refuge routes. Follow tunnel-control instructions.

Smoke inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another driver behaves aggressively towards you?

7. What should you do if another driver behaves aggressively towards you?

✓ Stay calm, avoid confrontation, and create more distance.
Respond with your horn and gestures.
Speed up to prevent them from passing you.
Follow them closely to show your disapproval.

If another driver behaves aggressively, do not retaliate or become involved in a confrontation. Stay calm, increase the distance between you, and let the other vehicle move away when possible. If you feel threatened, go to a safe public place and seek appropriate assistance.

Driver facing aggressive behaviour from another road user
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should passengers wait after safely leaving a broken-down vehicle?

8. Where should passengers wait after safely leaving a broken-down vehicle?

Wait in the traffic lane until help arrives.
Wait just behind the vehicle away from the traffic lane.
✓ In a protected place well away from moving traffic.
Wait close beside the vehicle where drivers can see you.

Move passengers, children, and pets away from the carriageway. On high-speed roads, wait behind a safety barrier where possible.

Passengers moving away from a broken-down vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

9. Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

It only affects your ability to hear.
It makes the steering feel heavier.
It normally happens only when the vehicle is stopped.
✓ 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 your brakes feel less effective after driving through water?

10. What should you do if your brakes feel less effective after driving through water?

Brake hard several times to dry them quickly.
✓ Drive carefully and test them gently when safe.
Use only the parking brake until they dry.
Ignore it if the vehicle still stops.

Water can reduce braking performance. After driving through water, check the brakes gently when it is safe to do so.

Checking braking response after driving through water
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

11. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Brake-system warning.
✓ Charging-system warning.
Oil-pressure warning.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol indicates a problem with the vehicle's charging system. If it remains illuminated while the engine is running, the battery may not be charging correctly because of a fault with the alternator, battery, wiring, or related components.

Charging-system warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an overtaking vehicle is coming toward you?

12. What should you do if an overtaking vehicle is coming toward you?

Brake sharply as soon as the vehicle enters your lane.
Move closer to the centre so the other driver notices you.
Accelerate to pass the danger point more quickly.
✓ Slow down and move slightly aside if safe.

If an oncoming vehicle creates danger while overtaking, reduce speed and make space if it is safe to do so. Avoid sudden movements that could create an additional hazard.

Oncoming vehicle overtaking into the driver's lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the driver's floor mat be properly secured?

13. 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 should you do if strong winds push your vehicle sideways?

14. What should you do if strong winds push your vehicle sideways?

Brake hard immediately to stop the vehicle moving sideways.
✓ Keep calm and steer smoothly to maintain your lane.
Release the steering wheel briefly and let the vehicle settle.
Turn sharply against the direction of the wind.

Strong winds can push your vehicle off course, especially at higher speeds. Reduce speed and use smooth steering to stay in control.

Crosswind affecting a vehicle's road position
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a vehicle is reversing near you?

15. What should you do if a vehicle is reversing near you?

Walk behind it if it is reversing slowly.
Rely on the reversing sensors to make it stop.
✓ Stay clear and make sure the driver can see you.
Stand close behind it so the driver can see you.

Reversing vehicles have blind spots. Stay away from the vehicle and make sure the driver can see you.

Pedestrian near a reversing vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

16. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Mirror adjustment.
Central door locking.
Child safety lock.
✓ Window lock.

This control activates the window lock, which normally prevents passengers from operating their electric windows while leaving control with the driver.

Lock switch for passenger window controls
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should passengers travel in an ordinary goods trailer?

17. Should passengers travel in an ordinary goods trailer?

Yes, if the trailer is travelling at low speed.
Only when the trailer has high sides.
✓ No, passengers should travel in approved seating positions.
Only on short journeys or quiet roads.

An ordinary goods trailer is not designed to carry passengers and normally has no suitable seats or restraint systems. Passengers should travel in seating positions designed and approved for carrying people. Special passenger-carrying trailers may be subject to different local rules.

Ordinary goods trailer and passenger safety
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you are dazzled by low sun?

18. 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.
✓ Slow down and use the sun visor if needed.
Increase speed to get through the glare more quickly.

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
What should you do when the road is covered with snow or ice?

19. What should you do when the road is covered with snow or ice?

Brake firmly in bends to keep control.
✓ Reduce speed, increase following distance, and drive gently.
Drive at the normal speed limit if the road looks clear.
Follow other vehicles closely in their tyre tracks.

Snow and ice greatly reduce tyre grip. Lower speed, extra distance, and gentle steering, braking, and acceleration help maintain control.

Vehicle travelling on a snow-covered road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before towing a trailer?

20. What should you check before towing a trailer?

Check the tyres only if the trailer has been unused.
Check only that the trailer is securely coupled.
✓ The coupling, safety connections, lights, tyres, and load.
Secure the load only if it is heavy.

The trailer must be correctly connected and roadworthy. Its lights, tyres, safety connections, and load should all be checked.

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

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

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

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
Who is responsible for staying safe when crossing the road?

22. Who is responsible for staying safe when crossing the road?

Only pedestrians once they enter the road.
Only the road user without priority.
✓ Everyone using the road.
Only drivers when pedestrians have priority.

Road safety is a shared responsibility. Pedestrians, drivers, and cyclists all need to stay alert and follow the rules.

Pedestrians and traffic sharing a road crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if one of your tyres suddenly bursts while driving?

23. What should you do if one of your tyres suddenly bursts while driving?

Pump the brake pedal repeatedly.
Steer quickly toward the side of the road.
✓ Hold the steering wheel firmly and slow down gradually.
Release the steering wheel and let the vehicle slow itself.

A tyre burst can make the vehicle unstable. Hold the wheel firmly, avoid sudden braking or steering, and slow down gradually.

Vehicle tyre damaged by a sudden blowout
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you keep a safe following distance?

24. Why should you keep a safe following distance?

To make overtaking easier.
To reduce wear on the brakes.
✓ To have enough time to stop.
To keep traffic moving at a steady speed.

A safe following distance gives you enough time to react if the vehicle in front slows down or stops suddenly.

Gap between a vehicle and the traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be careful when driving beside a bus at a stop?

25. Why should you be careful when driving beside a bus at a stop?

The road surface is usually more slippery near bus stops.
A stopped bus always has priority over passing traffic.
✓ Passengers may step out or cross near the bus.
Bus stops usually have a lower speed limit.

Stopped buses can hide pedestrians, and passengers may cross unexpectedly. Slow down and be ready to react.

Vehicle passing a bus at a stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you fasten your seat belt?

26. When should you fasten your seat belt?

✓ Before the vehicle starts moving.
Only when driving at high speed.
After joining traffic.
Only when traffic is heavy.

Fasten your seat belt before the vehicle starts moving and keep it fastened throughout the journey. Make sure your passengers are also safely seated and properly restrained.

Fastening a seat belt before setting off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

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

Turns the starter motor.
✓ Switches on the vehicle's electrical systems without operating the starter.
Switches off all electrical accessories.
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 after hitting a deep pothole hard?

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

Continue driving normally if the tyre still looks inflated.
✓ Check for tyre or wheel damage when it is safe to stop.
Increase speed to see whether the steering remains stable.
Brake sharply to check whether the wheels are damaged.

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 must luggage or other objects not obstruct the driver's view?

29. Why must luggage or other objects not obstruct the driver's view?

✓ They can hide hazards and reduce the driver's ability to see safely.
They can reduce the brightness of the headlights.
They can increase the vehicle's braking distance.
They can make the steering heavier.

The driver must have a clear view of the road and surroundings. Luggage, decorations, or other objects that obstruct the windscreen, windows, or mirrors can hide pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, signs, or other hazards.

Luggage obstructing the driver's view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which control is normally used to switch on the dipped headlights?

30. Which control is normally used to switch on the dipped headlights?

✓ The lighting control.
The rear-window demister.
The hazard warning switch.
The windscreen-wiper control.

The lighting control is normally used to switch on the dipped headlights. Depending on the vehicle, it may be a rotary switch or part of a lighting stalk.

Lighting control for switching on dipped headlights
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before overtaking while towing a trailer?

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

Begin overtaking as soon as the road looks clear.
✓ Allow extra time and distance for the manoeuvre.
Assume the trailer will follow the same path as the vehicle.
Accelerate sharply once you move into the other lane.

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
Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

32. Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

It makes the tyres lose pressure.
It prevents the battery from charging.
It always causes the engine to overheat.
✓ It uses fuel without moving the vehicle.

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 if your vehicle begins rolling backward on a steep incline?

33. What should you do if your vehicle begins rolling backward on a steep incline?

Let it roll backwards and try again.
Switch off the engine and restart immediately.
Open the door and step out.
✓ Apply the brake, secure the vehicle, and restart carefully.

Stop the vehicle under control, apply the parking brake if necessary, and prepare to move away again safely.

Vehicle rolling backwards on a steep incline
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

34. Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

Because phone signals can interfere with vehicle electronics.
✓ Because it distracts you from the road.
Because it can make your reactions faster.
Because it can cause road rage.

Using a phone while driving reduces attention, reaction time, and control of the vehicle. A hands-free system may reduce the need to handle the phone, but the conversation itself can still be distracting.

Phone distracting a driver from the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Should the legal alcohol limit be treated as a safe target?

35. Should the legal alcohol limit be treated as a safe target?

✓ No, impairment can begin before the legal limit is reached.
Yes, because impairment begins only above the limit.
Yes, if you feel completely sober.
Yes, if you know exactly how much you have drunk.

A legal limit is an enforcement threshold, not a recommended drinking level. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving performance.

Alcohol consumption and the limits of safe driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

36. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Rear window demister.
Air conditioning.
Heated steering wheel.
✓ Seat heating.

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 cyclists do near a large vehicle that may be turning?

37. What should cyclists do near a large vehicle that may be turning?

Ride beside it so the driver can see you.
Assume the driver will wait for you before turning.
✓ Stay back and do not pass on the turning side.
Move alongside it if there appears to be enough space.

Large vehicles need extra space to turn and may move across a cyclist's path. Remaining behind is usually safer.

Cyclist near a turning large vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the brake pedal feels unusually soft?

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

Continue until the brakes begin making noise.
Use only the parking brake while driving.
✓ Stop safely and have the braking system inspected.
Press the accelerator harder before braking.

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
How can parking too close to a junction affect visibility?

39. How can parking too close to a junction affect visibility?

✓ It can block the view between road users.
It improves visibility by slowing down traffic.
It affects only the driver of the parked vehicle.
It blocks the view only for pedestrians.

Parking too close to a junction can block visibility. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians may have difficulty seeing each other in time.

Parked vehicle obstructing visibility near a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the windscreen wipers leave the glass smeared?

40. What should you do if the windscreen wipers leave the glass smeared?

Apply lubricant to the wiper blades.
Use the wipers at a higher speed.
✓ Clean the windscreen and blades, and replace worn blades.
Replace the washer pump instead of the blades.

Worn or dirty wiper blades can seriously reduce visibility in rain. Clean them first and replace them if they remain ineffective or damaged.

Wiper streaks on a vehicle's windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should signal before turning or changing lanes.

41. You should signal before turning or changing lanes.

✓ True.
False.

A clear signal helps other road users understand your intentions, but you must still check that the manoeuvre can be made safely.

Vehicle signalling before a turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the anti-dazzle control on the rear-view mirror?

42. What is the purpose of the anti-dazzle control on the rear-view mirror?

To heat the rear window.
To adjust the exterior mirrors.
To activate the reversing camera.
✓ To reduce glare from headlights behind.

The anti-dazzle setting reduces glare from the headlights of vehicles behind, helping the driver maintain a clear view without being dazzled.

Anti-dazzle control on an interior rear-view mirror
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is it important to make yourself visible at night?

43. Why is it important to make yourself visible at night?

To ensure drivers can always stop in time.
To make drivers give way wherever you cross.
✓ To make drivers see you more easily.
To avoid checking for approaching vehicles.

Bright or reflective clothing helps drivers notice pedestrians in low-light conditions.

Pedestrian visibility beside a road at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check blind spots before moving off?

44. 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.
✓ A cyclist, pedestrian, or vehicle may be beside you.
To make sure your mirrors are adjusted correctly.

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 an EV charging cable be positioned where pedestrians may pass?

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

Across the shortest possible route, even if people walk there.
✓ So it does not create a trip hazard or obstruct the route.
Across the pavement where it is easiest to see.
Around nearby street furniture to keep it under tension.

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
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

46. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking assistance.
✓ Adaptive cruise control.
Lane-departure warning.
Electronic stability control.

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
What should you do if the service brakes fail while driving?

47. What should you do if the service brakes fail while driving?

Shift into neutral and let the vehicle coast to a stop.
✓ Reduce speed using other available braking methods and stop safely.
Continue slowly until the brakes begin working again.
Switch off the engine immediately while moving.

Remain calm, warn other road users, and use other available braking methods to reduce speed. This may include engine braking or a lower gear, and careful use of the parking or emergency brake according to the vehicle's design. Steer toward the safest available stopping area.

Vehicle braking-system failure while driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

48. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Front fog lights.
Main beam.
Automatic headlights.
✓ Headlight level adjustment.

This control adjusts the vertical aim of the headlights. It can be used to lower the beam when the vehicle is heavily loaded, helping to avoid dazzling other road users.

Control for adjusting the headlight beam height
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you see loose gravel on the road?

49. What should you do if you see loose gravel on the road?

Brake firmly before the tyres begin to slide.
✓ Slow down and avoid sudden steering or braking.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely in its tyre tracks.
Maintain your speed and avoid using the brakes.

Loose gravel reduces grip and can make the vehicle skid. Slow down and use smooth steering and braking.

Vehicle on a loose gravel road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

50. Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

Vehicles in a junction lose priority.
✓ Other traffic needs space to move safely.
Junctions may only be entered at low speed.
Traffic lights may stop working.

Blocking a junction can prevent vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians from moving safely. Enter only when there is enough space to drive through and clear the junction.

Traffic blocking a road junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA