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QuizTraffic rulesSouth Africa

This interesting quiz helps you test your knowledge in a clear and visual way. With easy multiple-choice questions, you can quickly build confidence and learn new facts while keeping it simple, interactive, and fun.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
South Africa
True/false 17 South Africa 23 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 590
Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

451. Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

To improve rear visibility.
To make the seat belt tighter.
To support the lower back.
✓ To reduce the risk of neck injury in a collision.

A correctly adjusted head restraint helps support the head and can reduce the risk of neck injury, especially in a rear-end collision. The top of the restraint should normally be level with the top of the head.

Adjusting a vehicle seat's head restraint
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What makes up the total stopping distance of a vehicle?

452. What makes up the total stopping distance of a vehicle?

Reaction distance and following distance.
Tyre distance and braking distance.
Visibility distance and reaction distance.
✓ Reaction distance and braking distance.

The total stopping distance consists of the distance travelled while the driver reacts to a hazard plus the distance travelled while the vehicle is braking to a stop.

Reaction and braking distances before a vehicle stops
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if visibility is reduced by fog?

453. What should you do if visibility is reduced by fog?

Use main beam to see further through the fog.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely as a guide.
✓ Slow down and use the correct lights.
Maintain normal speed if the road markings are visible.

Fog makes it harder to see and be seen. Reduce speed, increase following distance, and use the correct lights.

Fog reducing visibility on a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if EV charging equipment becomes unusually hot or smells burnt?

454. What should you do if EV charging equipment becomes unusually hot or smells burnt?

Pour water over the equipment to cool it.
Keep charging until the vehicle reaches full charge.
Cover the equipment to contain the heat.
✓ Stop the charging session, keep clear, and report the fault.

Unusual heat, a burning smell, smoke, sparks, or repeated charging faults can indicate an electrical problem. Stop using the charging equipment if it is safe to do so, keep clear of anything damaged or overheating, and report the fault or seek appropriate assistance.

Faulty electric-vehicle charging equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the windscreen washer reservoir contain suitable washer fluid?

455. Why should the windscreen washer reservoir contain suitable washer fluid?

The reservoir needs fluid only when the windscreen is visibly dirty.
Plain water always cleans the windscreen just as well.
✓ It helps remove dirt, salt, insects, and spray from the windscreen.
Any household cleaning product can be used instead.

A clear windscreen is essential for safe observation. Suitable washer fluid helps clean the glass and may provide protection against freezing in cold conditions.

Windscreen washer-fluid reservoir in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space when following a large vehicle?

456. Why should you leave extra space when following a large vehicle?

To make it easier for the large vehicle to accelerate.
✓ To improve your view ahead and give yourself more time to react.
To make overtaking possible without checking ahead.
To reduce the amount of fuel your vehicle uses.

A large vehicle can block your view of traffic, signs, junctions, or hazards ahead. Leaving extra space improves your view and gives you more time to react if traffic slows or a hazard develops.

Large vehicle limiting a following driver's view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when crossing a road with no marked crossing nearby?

457. What should you do when crossing a road with no marked crossing nearby?

✓ Choose a place with a clear view in both directions.
Cross between parked vehicles if traffic seems quiet.
Cross where the road is narrowest, even if visibility is poor.
Cross diagonally to spend less time in each lane.

If there is no marked crossing nearby, choose a safe place where you can clearly see approaching traffic.

Pedestrian preparing to cross a road without a marked crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is aquaplaning?

458. What is aquaplaning?

When wet brakes become too hot to work properly.
When water enters the engine and causes it to stop.
✓ When tyres ride on a layer of water and lose contact with the road.
When low tyre pressure causes a tyre to burst.

Aquaplaning occurs when water builds up between the tyres and the road, causing a loss of grip and control. The risk increases at higher speeds.

Water separating a tyre from the road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

459. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine-temperature warning.
Charging-system warning.
✓ Low engine oil level.
Low oil pressure.

This symbol indicates that the engine oil level is low. Check the oil level according to the manufacturer's instructions and add the correct oil if necessary.

Low oil-level warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

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

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

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 is the minimum age for a standard car driving licence in South Africa?

461. What is the minimum age for a standard car driving licence in South Africa?

✓ 18 years.
19 years.
21 years.
16 years.

The minimum age for a standard car driving licence in South Africa is 18 years.

Minimum age for obtaining a car driving licence
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when lanes become narrower in roadworks?

462. What should you expect when lanes become narrower in roadworks?

✓ Less space between your vehicle, barriers, and other traffic.
All vehicles must drive in the centre of the lane.
The speed limit automatically increases.
Temporary lane markings no longer need to be followed.

Narrow lanes leave less room for error. Keep a steady position, avoid drifting toward barriers or nearby vehicles, and reduce speed if necessary.

Narrow traffic lanes through roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the manual parking brake?

463. What is the purpose of the manual parking brake?

✓ To help keep the vehicle stationary when parked.
To disengage the clutch.
To slow the vehicle during normal driving.
To select reverse gear.

The manual parking brake helps keep the vehicle stationary when parked. It is normally applied by pulling up the handbrake lever and released before driving away.

Manual handbrake lever in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can uneven tyre wear indicate?

464. What can uneven tyre wear indicate?

The wheels are correctly aligned.
The tyres have reached normal operating temperature.
✓ Incorrect pressure, poor alignment, or a suspension or braking problem.
The tyres are correctly inflated.

Uneven wear may result from incorrect tyre pressure, wheel misalignment, worn suspension parts, or a brake that is not releasing properly.

Uneven wear across a vehicle tyre
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an animal is standing on the road at night?

465. What should you do if an animal is standing on the road at night?

Flash your headlights repeatedly to make it move.
✓ Slow down and be prepared to stop.
Drive around it immediately without slowing down.
Sound your horn and continue at the same speed.

Animals may freeze, turn back, or move unpredictably when caught in vehicle headlights.

Animal standing on a road at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is adequate tyre tread important?

466. Why is adequate tyre tread important?

It prevents tyres from losing air pressure.
It makes wheel alignment unnecessary.
It keeps the tyres from becoming warm while driving.
✓ It helps maintain grip and move water away from the tyre.

Tyre tread helps the vehicle grip the road and disperse water. Worn tread increases the risk of skidding and aquaplaning, especially in wet conditions.

Tread grooves on a vehicle tyre
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should pets be carried safely in a vehicle?

467. How should pets be carried safely in a vehicle?

Loose on the front passenger seat.
Free to move around during short journeys.
✓ Securely restrained so they cannot distract the driver or move dangerously.
Beside an open window so they can see outside.

A pet moving freely inside a vehicle can distract the driver and may be thrown around during sudden braking or a collision. Use a suitable carrier, harness, barrier, or other secure restraint appropriate for the animal and vehicle.

Pet travelling inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you smell fuel or see fuel leaking from your vehicle?

468. What should you do if you smell fuel or see fuel leaking from your vehicle?

Ignore a small leak if the fuel level remains stable.
Drive slowly to the nearest fuel station.
Wash the leaking fuel away with water.
✓ Stop, switch off the engine, avoid flames or sparks, and call for assistance.

Leaking fuel creates a serious fire risk. Keep people away, do not restart the engine, and arrange professional assistance.

Fuel leaking from a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a manual vehicle?

469. What should you check before starting a manual vehicle?

That the parking brake is released.
That first gear is selected and the accelerator is pressed.
✓ That the gearbox is in neutral and the clutch is pressed.
That reverse gear is selected.

Before starting a manual vehicle, make sure the gearbox is in neutral and press the clutch pedal. This helps prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly when the engine starts.

Clutch and gear checks before starting a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before crossing behind a bus or large vehicle?

470. What should you do before crossing behind a bus or large vehicle?

✓ Wait until you have a clear view of the road.
Stay close behind the vehicle while crossing.
Cross if the nearest traffic lane appears clear.
Cross as soon as the vehicle has stopped.

Large vehicles can block your view and hide you from drivers. Wait until you can clearly see the road before crossing.

Pedestrian preparing to cross behind a bus
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before driving through a puddle?

471. What should you do before driving through a puddle?

✓ Slow down and check that it is safe.
Follow another vehicle closely to judge the depth.
Accelerate so you spend less time in the water.
Maintain your normal speed if the road looks clear.

Large puddles can hide holes, reduce grip, or cause water to splash onto pedestrians or other vehicles. Slow down and proceed carefully.

Vehicle approaching a puddle on the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should pedestrians avoid sudden movements near traffic?

472. Why should pedestrians avoid sudden movements near traffic?

Drivers always expect pedestrians to walk straight.
✓ Drivers may not have enough time to react.
You lose priority if you change direction suddenly.
Sudden movements are prohibited near traffic.

Sudden movements can surprise drivers and reduce the time they have to slow down or stop safely.

Pedestrian movements close to road traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position prevents drive being transmitted to the wheels?

473. Which selector position prevents drive being transmitted to the wheels?

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

Select N (Neutral) when drive should not be transmitted to the wheels. Unlike Park, Neutral does not lock the transmission to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic ahead is blocking a junction?

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

Follow the vehicle ahead into the junction.
✓ Wait until there is enough space to clear the junction.
Enter if the traffic light is green.
Enter the junction and wait for traffic to move.

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

Queue of traffic blocking a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if animals are gathered beside a narrow rural road?

475. What should you do if animals are gathered beside a narrow rural road?

Maintain speed because the animals are beside the road.
Use the opposite lane without checking.
✓ Reduce speed and pass only when there is enough space.
Sound your horn so the animals move away.

Animals beside a narrow road may step into your path. Slow down and leave as much safe space as possible.

Animals gathered beside a narrow rural road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

476. What should you do if exhaust fumes begin entering the car?

Switch the ventilation to recirculation and keep driving.
Ignore the fumes if no warning lights appear.
✓ Open the windows, stop safely, leave the vehicle, and seek assistance.
Open the windows and continue to your destination.

Exhaust gases may contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and may not be visible. The exhaust system should be inspected before the vehicle is used again.

Vehicle exhaust fumes and cabin ventilation
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should loose clothing be avoided when riding a motorcycle?

477. Why should loose clothing be avoided when riding a motorcycle?

✓ It can become caught in moving parts or distract the rider.
It can reduce the pressure in the tyres.
It can make the motorcycle use more fuel.
It can prevent the engine from cooling properly.

Loose clothing, straps or scarves can flap in the wind or become caught in moving parts such as the chain or wheel. Motorcycle clothing should fit securely and should not have loose items that could interfere with safe riding.

Motorcyclist wearing loose clothing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

478. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Adaptive cruise control.
✓ Speed limiter.
Electronic stability control.
Cruise control.

The speed limiter allows the driver to set a maximum speed that the vehicle should not normally exceed while the accelerator is being used.

Vehicle speed-limiter control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can loud music be dangerous while cycling?

479. Why can loud music be dangerous while cycling?

It reduces the grip of the tyres.
✓ You may not hear traffic or warning sounds.
It makes bicycle lights less effective.
It makes the bicycle harder to balance.

Hearing approaching vehicles, bells, horns, and other warning sounds is an important part of staying aware.

Cyclist listening to music near traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should luggage be carried on a motorcycle?

480. How should luggage be carried on a motorcycle?

Loosely strapped so it can move with the motorcycle.
Mostly on one side to leave the other side free.
✓ Securely and evenly, without affecting balance or control.
As high as possible so it stays away from the wheels.

Motorcycle luggage should be securely fastened and sensibly distributed. A loose, uneven or badly positioned load can affect balance, steering and braking, or become caught in moving parts.

Luggage carried on a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be careful when taking more than one medicine before driving?

481. Why should you be careful when taking more than one medicine before driving?

✓ Their combined effects may impair your ability to drive.
They can change the tyre pressure.
They may make the vehicle use more fuel.
They usually make road signs harder to see.

Different medicines can interact or have combined side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or slower reactions. Check the instructions and seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether it is safe to drive.

Multiple medicines and their potential effects on driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when walking near a driveway?

482. What should you do when walking near a driveway?

Watch only for vehicles leaving the driveway.
Cross the driveway quickly without checking.
✓ Watch for vehicles entering or leaving.
Assume vehicles will stop before crossing your path.

Vehicles may enter or leave driveways suddenly. Stay alert and check for moving vehicles.

Pedestrian passing a driveway entrance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may drive through an amber light without slowing down.

483. You may drive through an amber light without slowing down.

True.
✓ False.

An amber light means you should stop if you can do so safely. If you are too close to stop safely, continue through the junction with caution.

Vehicle approaching an amber traffic light
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

484. How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

Brake later and more firmly than usual.
✓ Brake earlier and more gradually than usual.
Brake normally because wet roads do not affect grip.
Use only one brake to avoid skidding.

Wet surfaces reduce grip and increase stopping distance. Smooth, early braking helps prevent skidding.

Cyclist braking on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

485. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

This symbol relates to the vehicle's parking assistance system. Depending on the vehicle, the system may use sensors or cameras to detect obstacles and assist the driver while parking.

Parking-assistance symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you see fallen rocks on a mountain road?

486. What should you do if you see fallen rocks on a mountain road?

Swerve around them immediately without checking traffic.
Stop beside the rocks to inspect the road.
Move toward the centre of the road without slowing down.
✓ Slow down and avoid them smoothly when safe.

Loose rocks can damage tyres, affect steering, or block part of the road. Reduce speed and avoid sudden movements. If rocks are actively falling, do not enter or stop in the danger area. Keep a safe distance and, if necessary, wait in a safe place until it is safe to continue.

Fallen rocks on a mountain road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a load extends beyond the vehicle?

487. 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 is the purpose of heated door mirrors?

488. What is the purpose of heated door mirrors?

To fold the mirrors automatically.
To improve the headlights.
✓ To clear mist or ice from the mirror glass.
To adjust the mirror angle.

Heated door mirrors warm the mirror glass to help clear mist, condensation, or light ice and improve rearward visibility. On some vehicles, they operate together with the rear-window demister.

Heated door-mirror control and demisting function
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle breaks down on a busy road?

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

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

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 should you do if you realise you have put the wrong fuel in your vehicle?

490. What should you do if you realise you have put the wrong fuel in your vehicle?

Add the correct fuel and continue driving.
Start the engine and drive slowly to use the fuel.
✓ Do not start the engine, and seek assistance.
Drive until the fuel warning light comes on.

If you have used the wrong fuel, do not start the engine. Starting it can circulate the incorrect fuel and cause further damage. If possible, avoid switching on the ignition and seek appropriate roadside or workshop assistance.

Fuel nozzle and the risk of misfuelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the accelerator becomes stuck while you are driving?

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

✓ Select neutral, brake firmly, and steer to a safe stopping place.
Keep driving and wait for the accelerator to release.
Press the accelerator harder to try to free it.
Apply the parking brake sharply while moving.

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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

492. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

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

Electronic stability control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a hill crest?

493. What should you do when approaching a hill crest?

✓ Slow down and be prepared for hidden hazards.
Overtake before reaching the crest.
Move toward the centre of the road for a better view.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely for guidance.

A hill crest can hide vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, or obstacles. Reduce speed and stay in your lane.

Vehicle approaching the crest of a hill
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when an automatic vehicle is stationary in D?

494. What should you do when an automatic vehicle is stationary in D?

✓ Keep the brake pedal pressed.
Press the accelerator lightly.
Select reverse gear.
Release the parking brake.

An automatic vehicle may creep forward when D (Drive) is selected, even without pressing the accelerator. Keep the brake pedal pressed while stationary to prevent unintended movement.

Automatic gear selector in Drive and brake-pedal control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally brake on a motorcycle?

495. How should you normally brake on a motorcycle?

Use only the rear brake.
✓ Use both brakes smoothly and progressively.
Alternate between the front and rear brakes.
Use only the front brake.

During normal braking, use both the front and rear brakes smoothly and progressively. The front brake normally provides much of the braking force, while the rear brake also helps slow and stabilise the motorcycle. Sudden or poorly balanced braking can reduce stability or cause a wheel to lose grip.

Motorcyclist using the front and rear brakes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What colour is a stop sign usually?

496. What colour is a stop sign usually?

Blue.
✓ Red.
Yellow.
Green.

Stop signs are almost always red because red is universally associated with danger and the need to stop immediately.

Red octagonal stop sign
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if traffic suddenly slows on a motorway?

497. What should you do if traffic suddenly slows on a motorway?

Change lanes immediately to avoid slowing down.
✓ Slow down smoothly and warn traffic behind if needed.
Maintain speed until the vehicle ahead brakes.
Brake suddenly as soon as you notice slower traffic.

When traffic slows suddenly, reduce speed smoothly, keep a safe distance, and use hazard lights if needed to warn following traffic.

Motorway traffic slowing ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which roads are most likely to cause aquaplaning?

498. Which roads are most likely to cause aquaplaning?

Roads exposed to strong sunlight.
Roads with loose chippings.
Straight roads in dry weather.
✓ Roads with standing water or deep puddles.

Standing water can collect in dips, ruts, or puddles, increasing the chance that tyres will lose grip.

Standing water on a road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check after fitting a child restraint?

499. What should you check after fitting a child restraint?

✓ That it is securely installed and correctly fitted.
That the seat belt is routed in any convenient way.
That the restraint is tilted as far back as possible.
That the child can easily loosen the harness.

A child restraint should be installed securely and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Check that the seat is firmly attached, the belt or ISOFIX connection is correct, and the child is restrained properly before driving.

Checking the installation of a child car seat
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should keep both hands ready to control the steering.

500. 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