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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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

151. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

ABS fault.
Low tyre pressure.
Power-steering fault.
✓ Parking brake applied.

This symbol indicates that the parking brake is applied. It should normally go out when the parking brake is fully released.

Parking-brake indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can higher speed affect fuel or energy consumption?

152. How can higher speed affect fuel or energy consumption?

It has no effect once the vehicle is moving.
It reduces aerodynamic resistance.
✓ It can increase consumption because air resistance rises.
It always reduces consumption.

As speed increases, aerodynamic resistance generally rises, so the vehicle needs more energy to maintain that speed. Driving smoothly at an appropriate speed can therefore reduce fuel or energy consumption.

Vehicle speed and aerodynamic resistance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

153. What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

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

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

Interval adjustment for intermittent windscreen wiping
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

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

Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
Continue if you cannot see or hear a train.
Drive around the barrier if the road ahead is clear.
✓ 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
Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

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

Lower speed, dry roads, and good tyres.
Having a full fuel tank and adjusted mirrors.
✓ Higher speed, slower reactions, poor grip, and vehicle condition.
Using dipped headlights and keeping the windows closed.

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 may happen if you release the clutch too quickly when moving off?

156. What may happen if you release the clutch too quickly when moving off?

✓ The engine may stall.
The parking brake may engage.
The headlights may switch off.
The steering may lock.

Releasing the clutch pedal too quickly when moving off can cause the engine to stall. Release the clutch smoothly through the biting point while applying the accelerator progressively.

Clutch release and engine stalling when moving off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a large animal suddenly enters your path?

157. What should you do if a large animal suddenly enters your path?

Release the steering wheel and brake hard.
Accelerate to pass before the animal moves.
Turn suddenly toward the roadside.
✓ Brake firmly while keeping control of the vehicle.

If a large animal enters the road, brake firmly while keeping the vehicle under control. Avoid sudden swerving, as this can cause you to lose control or collide with other traffic.

Large animal entering a vehicle's path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

158. What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

✓ Reduce speed and stop safely using any remaining lights or hazard lights.
Continue slowly if the road is well lit.
Follow another vehicle closely for visibility.
Use hazard lights and continue to your destination.

Without effective headlights, you may not see hazards and other road users may not see you. Stop in a safe location as soon as possible.

Vehicle with failed headlights at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

159. What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

Check only the bicycle and ignore minor injuries.
Test the bicycle by riding it before checking for damage.
✓ Check yourself and inspect the bicycle before riding again.
Continue if you feel fine and the bicycle looks normal.

A fall can damage the brakes, wheels, frame, handlebars, or helmet. Injuries may also not be immediately obvious.

Checking a bicycle after a fall or collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

160. What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

Switch on the hazard lights before entering.
Increase speed to spend less time inside.
✓ Use the correct lights and keep a safe distance.
Drive closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.

When entering a tunnel, use the correct lights, keep enough distance, and stay alert for slower traffic.

Vehicle approaching a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

161. Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

Because a phone may be used only at low speeds.
Because phones can interfere with bicycle electronics.
✓ It reduces your control and attention.
Because phone signals can interfere with traffic lights.

Using a phone can distract you and may prevent you from steering, braking, or reacting properly.

Cyclist using a handheld phone
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

162. How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

✓ It can prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards.
It selects a lower gear automatically.
It increases engine power.
It releases the clutch.

When moving off uphill, the parking brake can hold the vehicle stationary while you prepare to move. Release it smoothly once the clutch reaches the biting point and sufficient power is applied.

Parking-brake control during an uphill start
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

163. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Air conditioning is active.
✓ Risk of icy road conditions.
The windscreen is frozen.
Engine coolant is too cold.

This symbol warns that the outside temperature is low enough for ice to form. Road surfaces, especially bridges and shaded areas, may be slippery even when they appear clear.

Icy-road warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

164. What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

✓ Slow down and increase following distance.
Move closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.
Speed up to move out of the spray more quickly.
Use main beam so the spray is easier to see through.

Spray can seriously reduce visibility. Slowing down and increasing your distance gives you more time and a clearer view.

Road spray from a vehicle ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you brake on a slippery road?

165. How should you brake on a slippery road?

Apply the brakes suddenly before the tyres lose grip.
✓ Brake gently and progressively.
Steer sharply while braking to avoid slippery areas.
Brake harder than usual to shorten the stopping distance.

Sudden braking can cause the wheels to lose grip. Smooth, progressive braking reduces the risk of skidding.

Braking on a slippery road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

166. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Seat adjustment.
Seat heating.
Mirror adjustment.
Steering-wheel adjustment.

This control adjusts the position of the seat. Depending on the vehicle, it may move the seat forwards or backwards, raise or lower it, or change the backrest angle.

Control for adjusting the driver's seat
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing without barriers?

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

Maintain your speed if the tracks look clear.
Follow the vehicle ahead without checking yourself.
Stop only if you hear a train approaching.
✓ Stop if required, check carefully, and cross only when safe.

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
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

168. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Airflow direction.
Air recirculation.
Air conditioning.
Cabin fan speed.

This control selects the direction of the ventilation airflow, such as towards the face, feet or windscreen.

Control for directing cabin ventilation airflow
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a passenger normally sit on a motorcycle?

169. How should a passenger normally sit on a motorcycle?

Standing on the footrests when the road is uneven.
With one foot hanging down when travelling slowly.
✓ Securely on the passenger seat with both feet on the footrests.
As far back as possible without using the footrests.

A motorcycle passenger should sit securely on the designated passenger seat, keep both feet on the footrests and avoid sudden movements that could affect the motorcycle's balance and stability.

Passenger seated on a motorcycle with feet on the footrests
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

170. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Hazard warning lights.
Dipped headlights.
✓ Interior lighting.
Parking lights.

This control operates the vehicle's interior lighting. Depending on the vehicle, the lights can be switched on manually or set to illuminate automatically when a door is opened.

Control for the vehicle's interior lighting
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

171. You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

True.
✓ False.

Hazard lights are used to warn other road users of a hazard or an unexpectedly stopped vehicle. They do not make illegal or unsafe parking acceptable.

Parked vehicle with hazard warning lights flashing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main risk when following a vehicle with limited rear visibility?

172. What is the main risk when following a vehicle with limited rear visibility?

The driver cannot use the side mirrors.
✓ The driver may not see you clearly.
The vehicle must always travel more slowly.
The vehicle has priority when changing lanes.

Vans, trucks, and vehicles with blocked rear windows may have limited visibility. Keep extra distance and avoid sitting in blind spots.

Vehicle with limited rearward visibility
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

173. What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

Switch off the engine.
✓ Press the clutch pedal fully.
Apply the parking brake.
Press the accelerator pedal fully.

Pressing the clutch pedal disconnects the engine from the transmission so that another gear can be selected. After changing gear, the clutch should be released smoothly.

Clutch operation when changing gear in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another vehicle is tailgating you?

174. What should you do if another vehicle is tailgating you?

Speed up to create more space behind you.
Tap the brakes to make them increase their distance.
✓ Stay calm and increase your safety margin ahead.
Reduce the gap ahead so they cannot move into it.

If someone follows too closely, avoid sudden actions. Keeping more space in front gives you more time to brake gently if needed. If it is safe, allow the tailgating vehicle to pass.

Following vehicle visible close behind
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What normally happens to cruise control when you press the brake pedal?

175. What normally happens to cruise control when you press the brake pedal?

The accelerator pedal locks in position.
✓ Cruise control is cancelled or temporarily disengaged.
The parking brake is applied.
The selected speed increases.

Pressing the brake pedal normally cancels or temporarily disengages cruise control, returning speed control to the driver.

Brake-pedal operation to disengage cruise control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select R (Reverse) in an automatic vehicle?

176. When should you select R (Reverse) in an automatic vehicle?

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

Select R (Reverse) only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Selecting Reverse while the vehicle is still moving forward can damage the transmission.

Selecting Reverse in a stationary automatic vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

177. Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

Its headlights may point higher uphill.
✓ It may slow down suddenly or roll backward.
Its engine may become louder on the hill.
Its tyres may warm up more quickly.

Vehicles may lose speed or briefly roll backward when starting on a steep incline. Extra space gives you more time to react.

Vehicle following another up a steep hill
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a bicycle helmet fit?

178. How should a bicycle helmet fit?

Tilted back to keep your forehead clear.
Tight enough to feel uncomfortable.
High on the head with the straps loose.
✓ 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
How may drivers normally use a phone while driving in South Africa?

179. How may drivers normally use a phone while driving in South Africa?

Either handheld or hands-free.
✓ Hands-free.
Only for texting.
Handheld.

When phone use while driving is permitted in South Africa, drivers must generally use a hands-free system rather than holding the phone.

Hands-free phone use inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave a safe following distance inside a tunnel?

180. Why should you leave a safe following distance inside a tunnel?

✓ You need enough space to react if traffic slows or stops.
To make it easier for other vehicles to overtake.
Because vehicles ahead cannot see you in their mirrors.
Because tunnels usually have a poor road surface.

Limited space and visibility can make incidents inside tunnels especially dangerous. A safe gap gives you more time to react.

Gap between vehicles travelling through a tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

181. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

✓ They can provide less grip than the surrounding road.
They can cause the tyre pressure to rise suddenly.
They can prevent the indicators from working.
They can make the brakes overheat.

Wet painted road markings can provide less grip than the surrounding road surface. Ride smoothly over them and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering that could cause the tyres to lose grip.

Motorcycle approaching wet painted road markings
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

182. What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

Sound your horn so the driver notices you.
Flash your headlights to encourage it to move aside.
✓ Slow down and pass carefully with plenty of space.
Drive close behind until there is room to pass.

Animals can be startled by noise or sudden movement. Reduce speed, keep distance, and pass only when it is safe.

Vehicle approaching an animal-drawn vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

183. 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
How should you pass a large vehicle in strong winds?

184. How should you pass a large vehicle in strong winds?

Accelerate sharply as soon as you start passing.
Keep the steering fixed while you move past it.
Use the horn before moving alongside the vehicle.
✓ Be prepared for sudden wind changes when passing.

Large vehicles can block wind and then expose you to strong gusts when you pass them.

Vehicle passing a large vehicle in windy conditions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

185. What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

Your steering may become lighter.
The vehicle may automatically slow down.
Higher speed limits.
✓ A sudden gust may affect your vehicle.

Buildings, trees, and other obstacles can block wind. When you leave shelter, a sudden gust may push your vehicle.

Vehicle leaving a sheltered stretch of road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

186. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Power-steering warning.
Engine-management warning.
✓ Cruise control.
Speed limiter.

This symbol indicates the cruise-control system. Cruise control can maintain a selected vehicle speed without the driver continuously pressing the accelerator. The exact indicator behaviour can vary between vehicles.

Cruise-control indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

187. What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

✓ Do not rely on the signal alone, proceed only when it is safe.
Enter the road before the vehicle reaches you.
Use your horn and proceed immediately.
Pull out because the vehicle will turn.

An indicator shows an intention, but it does not guarantee that the driver will turn. The signal may have been left on accidentally or the driver's intentions may change. Observe the vehicle's speed and position and proceed only when you are sure it is safe.

Another vehicle signalling to turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

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

While braking firmly on the rails.
With the motorcycle leaning sharply.
✓ At a safe angle, as close to perpendicular as practical.
At a very shallow angle alongside 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 do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

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

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

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?

190. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Anti-lock braking system warning.
Brake-pad wear warning.
Low tyre pressure.
Parking brake applied.

This symbol indicates a possible fault with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Normal braking may still be available, but ABS may not operate during heavy braking, so the system should be checked.

Anti-lock braking system warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should stay focused on the road and avoid unnecessary distractions.

191. You should stay focused on the road and avoid unnecessary distractions.

False.
✓ True.

Distractions reduce awareness and reaction time, making driving more dangerous.

Driver keeping attention on the road ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a friend who has been drinking wants to drive?

192. What should you do if a friend who has been drinking wants to drive?

Let them drive if they say they feel sober.
Let them drive slowly on quiet roads.
Follow them home in another vehicle.
✓ Encourage them not to drive and arrange safe transport.

Preventing an impaired person from driving can protect them, their passengers, and other road users. Arrange a sober driver, taxi, public transport, or accommodation.

Friends discussing safe transport after drinking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a motorcyclist do before entering a bend?

193. What should a motorcyclist do before entering a bend?

Accelerate before checking how sharp the bend is.
Move close to the centre of the road.
Look only at the road directly in front of the wheel.
✓ Reduce speed before the bend and look through it.

Adjust your speed before entering the bend so you can steer smoothly and remain within a safe position. Look through the bend towards where you want to travel and be prepared for hazards that may be hidden from view.

Motorcyclist approaching a bend
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

194. 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 does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

195. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Seat-belt reminder.
Child safety lock.
✓ Passenger airbag deactivation.
Airbag-system fault.

This control allows the front passenger airbag to be deactivated on vehicles equipped with this function. The airbag must be deactivated when a rear-facing child restraint is used on the front passenger seat.

Front passenger airbag deactivation control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

196. What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

✓ Slow down, stay calm, and leave the area without provoking them.
Stop near the nest to see why they are swooping.
Throw objects towards the birds.
Accelerate as fast as possible to escape.

Some birds become territorial during the breeding season and may swoop people near their nests. Stay calm, avoid provoking or approaching the birds, and leave the area safely. If necessary and safe, dismount and walk your bicycle through or away from the area while keeping your helmet on.

Bird swooping near a cyclist
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect if the engine suddenly stalls while the vehicle is moving?

197. What should you expect if the engine suddenly stalls while the vehicle is moving?

✓ Steering and braking may require more effort, so move to a safe place.
The steering and brakes will stop working completely.
The steering will become lighter as the vehicle slows.
The vehicle will stop immediately when the engine stops.

Power assistance may be reduced when the engine stops. Keep control, use the hazard lights if needed, and steer toward a safe stopping area.

Driver responding to an engine stall while moving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you obey traffic signs?

198. Why should you obey traffic signs?

To avoid checking for other road users.
To let you drive at the maximum permitted speed.
✓ To improve safety for everyone.
To make sure you always have priority.

Traffic signs help organise traffic and improve safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Traffic signs using Vienna-style designs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

199. What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

Continue slowly until you reach a service station.
Add engine oil while the engine is still running.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.
Ignore it if the engine sounds normal.

Low oil pressure can quickly cause severe engine damage. Stop as soon as it is safe, switch off the engine, and investigate the cause before continuing.

Oil-pressure warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

200. Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

They are recommendations rather than limits.
✓ They are used to protect people and manage hazards.
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