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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 vehicle-control symbol indicate?

251. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Air conditioning.
Air recirculation.
Seat heating.
✓ Cabin temperature adjustment.

This control adjusts the temperature of the air supplied to the cabin. Turning it towards the blue side lowers the selected temperature, while turning it towards the red side raises it.

Control for adjusting the cabin temperature
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the clutch pedal in a manual vehicle?

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

To increase the engine speed.
To slow the vehicle using the brakes.
To apply the parking brake.
✓ 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
What should you do before reversing your vehicle?

253. What should you do before reversing your vehicle?

✓ Check all around and make sure it is safe.
Check behind only after you start moving.
Check the mirrors and reverse if they appear clear.
Sound the horn before reversing and proceed.

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
Where should you change a wheel after a puncture?

254. Where should you change a wheel after a puncture?

On a slight slope if the parking brake is applied.
On soft ground if the jack appears stable.
As close to moving traffic as possible to keep off the verge.
✓ On firm, level ground well away from moving traffic.

The vehicle must be stable and protected from traffic. Apply the parking brake and follow the manufacturer's wheel-changing instructions.

Wheel change on firm ground away from traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if fog becomes so thick that you cannot see safely?

255. What should you do if fog becomes so thick that you cannot see safely?

Stop immediately in the traffic lane.
Continue slowly by following the road markings.
✓ Slow down and stop in a safe location away from traffic if necessary.
Use main beam and keep driving.

If visibility becomes dangerously poor, find a safe place to stop rather than continuing without being able to see clearly.

Dense fog obscuring the road ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving near a school area?

256. What should you do when driving near a school area?

Watch only for children already on the road.
✓ Slow down and watch carefully for children.
Maintain your usual speed if the road looks clear.
Use your horn so children stay away from traffic.

Children near schools may cross unexpectedly or be hidden between parked vehicles. Reduce speed and be ready to stop.

Vehicle travelling near a school
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a child use a suitable child restraint?

257. 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 cyclists do when passing pedestrians on a shared path?

258. What should cyclists do when passing pedestrians on a shared path?

Assume they will hear you approaching.
Pass closely if there is not enough room.
Use your bell and keep the same speed.
✓ Slow down, give warning, and leave enough space.

Pedestrians may change direction unexpectedly. A warning and safe passing distance reduce the risk of a collision.

Cyclist passing pedestrians on a shared path
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?

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

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 after hitting an animal with your vehicle?

260. What should you do after hitting an animal with your vehicle?

Continue driving if the vehicle still works.
✓ Stop safely, warn other traffic, and seek appropriate help.
Move the animal yourself before checking for traffic.
Approach the animal immediately.

After an animal collision, stop in a safe place if possible and protect yourself and other road users from further danger. Do not approach an injured or frightened animal unless it is safe to do so. Contact the appropriate police, road authority, animal service, or emergency service as required by the situation and local rules.

Vehicle stopped after a collision with an animal
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

261. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Electronic stability control.
✓ Automatic start-stop system.
Cruise control.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol relates to the automatic start-stop system, which can switch the engine off temporarily while the vehicle is stationary and restart it when driving resumes. The exact colour and appearance may vary between vehicles.

Automatic start-stop system symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

262. Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

✓ It can reduce stability and place excessive strain on the vehicle.
It makes the trailer easier to control.
It keeps the trailer more stable in strong winds.
It improves braking on steep roads.

Overloading can affect braking, steering, tyres, suspension, and trailer stability. Always remain within permitted limits. After loading, check that the load is secure and correctly distributed before starting your journey.

Loaded trailer and towing limits
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

263. What is the main purpose of a motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder?

For driving when the motorway is busy.
For stopping to check directions.
For allowing faster vehicles to pass.
✓ For emergencies and breakdowns.

A motorway emergency lane or hard shoulder is primarily intended for emergencies and breakdowns, not normal driving. In some places it may be opened temporarily as a traffic lane when signs or signals specifically permit this.

Motorway hard shoulder beside the traffic lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before turning across a cycle lane?

264. What should you do before turning across a cycle lane?

Ignore the cycle lane if you are signalling.
Enter the cycle lane without checking behind.
✓ Check mirrors and blind spots carefully for cyclists.
Turn quickly before cyclists reach the junction.

Cyclists may be beside or behind you when you turn. Check mirrors and blind spots, signal clearly, and turn only when it is safe.

Vehicle preparing to turn across a cycle lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when a bus signals to pull away from a bus stop?

265. What should you do when a bus signals to pull away from a bus stop?

✓ Slow down and be prepared to let it move out when safe.
Accelerate and pass before the bus moves out.
Drive closely beside the bus to prevent it moving out.
Sound your horn so the bus waits for you.

Buses may pull away after picking up passengers. Slow down, check the traffic situation, and allow space when it is safe.

Bus signalling to pull away from a stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a gear does not engage easily in a manual vehicle?

266. What should you do if a gear does not engage easily in a manual vehicle?

Release the clutch suddenly.
Press the accelerator fully.
✓ Avoid forcing the gear lever.
Push the lever harder until the gear engages.

If a gear does not engage easily, do not force the gear lever. Make sure the clutch is fully pressed and the vehicle's speed is suitable for the gear before trying again.

Operating a manual gear lever without forcing it
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

267. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Central door locking.
Boot release.
Mirror adjustment.
Window lock.

This control operates the vehicle's central door locking system. Pressing it locks or unlocks the vehicle's doors, depending on the current lock state.

Central door-locking control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

268. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

The seat belt is not fastened.
The airbag system has a fault.
The anti-theft system is active.
✓ A door is open.

This symbol indicates that one or more vehicle doors are not fully closed. Check that all doors are securely shut before driving.

Door-open warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the resume function of cruise control normally do?

269. What does the resume function of cruise control normally do?

Sets the vehicle's current speed as a new limit.
Switches cruise control off completely.
Applies the brakes automatically.
✓ Returns the vehicle to the previously set cruising speed.

The resume function normally returns the vehicle to the previously set cruise-control speed after the system has been temporarily disengaged. The driver should use it only when traffic and road conditions are suitable.

RES button for resuming the stored cruising speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can main-beam headlights make driving in fog more difficult?

270. Why can main-beam headlights make driving in fog more difficult?

✓ The light can reflect off fog droplets and reduce visibility.
The stronger beam uses too much electrical power.
Main beam makes interior lights less effective.
The brighter light makes the windscreen mist more quickly.

Main beam can reflect back from fog and create glare, making it harder to see the road ahead.

Headlight glare reflected by fog
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which control activates all direction indicators at the same time?

271. Which control activates all direction indicators at the same time?

The rear-window demister.
The parking-brake control.
✓ The hazard warning light switch.
The headlight switch.

The hazard warning light switch activates all direction indicators at the same time to warn other road users of a hazard or emergency.

Hazard warning light switch and triangle symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do about a chip in the windscreen?

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

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

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
What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

273. What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

Leave it partly applied.
✓ Apply it securely.
Release it completely.
Apply it only on a slope.

Before leaving a parked vehicle, apply the parking brake securely to help prevent unintended movement. Also select the appropriate gear or transmission position for parking.

Securing a parked vehicle with the parking brake
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a designated driver do?

274. What should a designated driver do?

Stop drinking shortly before driving.
Drink only a small amount with food.
✓ Remain alcohol-free for the entire journey.
Do not carry passengers who have been drinking.

A designated driver should remain sober so they can drive safely and respond properly to traffic conditions.

Alcohol-free designated driver for a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

275. Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

The battery can become overcharged.
The tyres can lose pressure more quickly.
✓ Dangerous carbon monoxide can build up.
The engine can lose oil pressure.

Exhaust gases from petrol and diesel engines can contain carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can build up quickly in an enclosed or poorly ventilated space. Never leave the engine running inside a closed garage or similar area.

Running vehicle engine in an enclosed space
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

276. What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

Give way without stopping if the road is clear.
Slow down and stop only if traffic is approaching.
✓ Come to a complete stop before proceeding.
Proceed if the vehicle ahead has already stopped.

A stop sign requires you to come to a complete stop at the required position. Check carefully for other road users and proceed only when it is safe.

Vehicle approaching a stop sign
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when leaving a tunnel in bright sunlight?

277. What should you expect when leaving a tunnel in bright sunlight?

The steering becoming heavier.
The speed limit automatically increasing.
✓ Temporary glare and reduced visibility.
The road surface becoming more slippery.

Your eyes may need time to adjust from the darker tunnel to bright daylight. Reduce speed if necessary and remain alert.

Bright sunlight at the exit of a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls normally adjust when the speed limiter is active?

278. What do the + and − controls normally adjust when the speed limiter is active?

The following distance.
The engine idle speed.
✓ The selected maximum speed.
The transmission gear.

When the speed limiter is active, the + and − controls normally increase or decrease the selected maximum speed. The exact adjustment steps can vary between vehicles.

Plus and minus controls for the speed limiter
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you consider before selecting a lower gear in a manual vehicle?

279. What should you consider before selecting a lower gear in a manual vehicle?

✓ Whether the vehicle's speed is suitable for the lower gear.
Whether the steering wheel is centred.
Whether the headlights are switched on.
Whether the parking brake is applied.

Before selecting a lower gear, make sure the vehicle's speed is suitable for that gear. Selecting too low a gear at excessive speed can cause harsh engine braking and place unnecessary stress on the drivetrain.

Selecting a lower gear in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can you check which fuel is suitable for your vehicle?

280. How can you check which fuel is suitable for your vehicle?

Use petrol unless the engine sounds like a diesel.
✓ Check the fuel-filler label, fuel cap, or vehicle information.
Ask another driver with a similar-looking vehicle.
Choose the fuel that has the same colour nozzle as last time.

Before refuelling, check which fuel type the vehicle requires. The correct fuel is often shown inside the fuel-filler flap, on or near the fuel cap, or in the vehicle information or owner's manual. Do not rely only on nozzle colours, as these can vary between filling stations and countries.

Checking the fuel label before refuelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control button operate?

281. What does this vehicle-control button operate?

The automatic start-stop system.
✓ The engine or drive system.
The hazard warning lights.
The parking brake.

The engine start/stop button is used to start or switch off the vehicle's engine or electric drive system. Starting the vehicle normally also requires the brake or clutch pedal to be pressed.

Engine start/stop button in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

282. Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

✓ Loose gravel, mud, or uneven material may reduce tyre grip.
Construction dust increases tyre pressure.
Temporary surfaces make the brakes colder.
Roadworks switch off anti-lock braking.

Temporary surfaces may provide less grip than normal asphalt. Reduce speed and allow more distance for braking.

Loose or uneven road surface through roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be prepared for changing conditions on mountain roads?

283. Why should you be prepared for changing conditions on mountain roads?

✓ Weather, visibility, and road conditions can change quickly.
Mountain roads always have the same weather.
Road conditions usually improve as altitude increases.
Road signs become less important at higher elevations.

Fog, rain, snow, ice, falling rocks, and strong winds can develop rapidly in mountainous areas.

Changing visibility and weather on a mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

284. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Air conditioning.
✓ Air recirculation.
Fresh-air ventilation.
Rear window demister.

This symbol activates air recirculation, which reduces the amount of outside air entering the vehicle and recirculates air already inside the cabin. It can be useful when driving through polluted air or when cooling the interior quickly.

Cabin air-recirculation control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be extra careful at night?

285. Why should you be extra careful at night?

Street lighting makes drivers less alert.
Vehicles need more distance to accelerate.
Road markings become less important.
✓ Visibility is reduced.

At night, it is harder to see pedestrians, cyclists, road markings, and hazards. Reduce speed and use the correct lights.

Road traffic in reduced night-time visibility
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic stops inside a tunnel?

286. What should you do if traffic stops inside a tunnel?

Make a U-turn and leave the tunnel.
Drive onto the pedestrian walkway.
Sound the horn continuously until traffic moves.
✓ Stop at a safe distance and follow signals or instructions.

Remain calm, keep space from the vehicle ahead, and obey traffic signals, signs, or instructions from tunnel staff.

Traffic stopped inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you use the brake pedal during emergency braking in a vehicle with ABS?

287. How should you use the brake pedal during emergency braking in a vehicle with ABS?

Release it if the pedal vibrates.
✓ Press it firmly and keep it pressed.
Use the parking brake instead.
Pump it rapidly.

During emergency braking with ABS, press the brake pedal firmly and keep it pressed. Pulsation or vibration through the pedal can be normal while ABS is operating, so do not pump or release the brake.

Firm brake-pedal pressure during emergency braking with ABS
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you miss your motorway exit?

288. What should you do if you miss your motorway exit?

✓ Continue to the next exit.
Move onto the shoulder and reverse carefully.
Turn around if traffic is light enough.
Cross the painted separation area back to the exit.

Never reverse or make a sudden manoeuvre. Continue safely and change your route at the next suitable exit.

Vehicle continuing past a motorway exit
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

289. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Front windscreen demister.
Rear window demister.
Fan speed.
✓ Air conditioning.

The A/C symbol controls the vehicle's air-conditioning system. Air conditioning can cool and dehumidify the air inside the vehicle, which can also help clear mist from the windows.

Air-conditioning control with the A/C symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do when the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off?

290. What should you normally do when the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off?

Keep filling until fuel reaches the filler opening.
Shake the vehicle to make room for more fuel.
✓ Stop refuelling rather than continuing to top up the tank.
Pull the nozzle partly out and continue filling.

When the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off, stop refuelling rather than repeatedly topping up the tank. Continuing can cause fuel to spill or overflow and may interfere with the vehicle's fuel-vapour control system.

Fuel nozzle in a vehicle's filler opening
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not use water on a fire involving live electrical equipment?

291. Why should you not use water on a fire involving live electrical equipment?

Water prevents the power supply from switching off.
Water makes electrical cables harder to disconnect.
✓ Water can conduct electricity and create an electric-shock hazard.
Water can make the electrical equipment restart.

Do not use water on a fire involving energised electrical equipment, because water can conduct electricity and create a serious electric-shock hazard. Keep clear, disconnect the power only if it is safe to do so, and call the emergency services. Use only a suitable fire extinguisher if it is safe and you know how to use it.

Fire involving live electrical equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if illness affects your ability to drive safely?

292. What should you do if illness affects your ability to drive safely?

✓ Do not drive until you are fit to do so.
Drive slowly and avoid busy roads.
Drive only if the journey is short.
Open a window to help you stay alert.

Illness can reduce concentration, alertness, coordination, or reaction time. If you do not feel fit to drive safely, postpone the journey or use another form of transport.

Driver feeling unwell before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

293. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Front fog lights.
Main beam.
✓ Dipped headlights.
Sidelights.

This symbol indicates that the dipped headlights are switched on. Dipped headlights illuminate the road ahead while limiting glare for other road users.

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

294. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Windscreen washer.
Windscreen wiper speed.
Front windscreen demister.
Rear window demister.

This symbol indicates the windscreen washer. Operating the control sprays washer fluid onto the windscreen and normally activates the wipers to help clean the glass.

Windscreen-washer control and spray symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why are roads especially slippery during rain after a dry period?

295. Why are roads especially slippery during rain after a dry period?

Rain temporarily reduces the weight of the vehicle.
The first rain makes the road surface softer.
Tyres need time to adjust to a wet road.
✓ Oil, dust, and dirt mix with water on the road surface.

After a dry period, oil and dirt can build up on the road. The first rain mixes with them and can make the surface very slippery.

Rain falling on a road after dry weather
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

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

✓ Adjust it correctly or have it checked before riding.
Lubricate it and ignore the loose tension.
Tighten it as much as possible.
Increase speed to keep the chain under tension.

A loose drive chain can affect power transmission, damage components, or come off the sprockets. The chain should have the correct tension and lubrication specified by the motorcycle manufacturer. A chain that is too tight can also cause damage.

Loose drive chain on a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave a much larger following distance on an icy road?

297. Why should you leave a much larger following distance on an icy road?

✓ Because stopping distances can be much longer.
To prevent ice from forming on the windscreen.
To give the engine more time to warm up.
To make the headlights work more effectively.

Tyres have much less grip on ice, so braking takes longer. Extra distance gives you more time to slow down safely.

Following distance between vehicles on an icy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

298. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine overheating.
✓ Low engine coolant level.
Low washer fluid.
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
What should you do when traffic lights are not working?

299. What should you do when traffic lights are not working?

Proceed if the junction appears clear.
✓ Proceed carefully and follow signs or priority rules.
Follow the vehicle ahead through the junction.
Treat the junction as if you have priority.

If traffic lights are not working, slow down, observe carefully, and follow signs, road markings, or local priority rules.

Junction with traffic lights out of operation
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

300. Which foot should normally operate the brake and accelerator in an automatic vehicle?

Either foot at the same time.
✓ The right foot.
The left foot.
Both feet together.

In an automatic vehicle, the right foot should normally operate both the brake and accelerator pedals. The left foot should rest on the footrest to reduce the risk of pressing both pedals at the same time.

Right-foot control of an automatic vehicle's pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA