DKT Car Driver Knowledge Test – General Knowledge 1 — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Check all that apply. You should use your right-hand indicator when:

You are about to stop.
You intend to slow down.
You intend to move to the right, at any time. (Correct answer)
You want to let people know they can overtake you

Correct answer: You intend to move to the right, at any time.

The right-hand indicator, or turn signal, is a crucial communication tool for drivers. It must be used whenever a driver intends to change their vehicle's lateral position to the right, whether turning right, changing lanes to the right, or pulling over to the right side of the road. This signals intentions to other road users, preventing confusion and potential collisions.

Question 2: You have a six year old child with you in your car. You have just parked so you can collect a prescription from the chemist. You should:

Ask an older person sitting nearby to watch the child.
Leave the child in the car.
Take the child with you. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Take the child with you.

It is unsafe and often illegal to leave a young child unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period. Children can be at risk from heatstroke, abduction, or accidentally putting the car in motion. Therefore, the responsible and safe action is to take the child with you when leaving the vehicle, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Question 3: Check all that apply. You want to leave your automatic car parked on a street sloping uphill. You should:

Put the handbrake on and put the transmission in "P" (park). (Correct answer)
Park only on flat areas.
Turn the wheels away from the kerb.

Correct answer: Put the handbrake on and put the transmission in "P" (park).

When parking an automatic car on an uphill slope, it's crucial to secure the vehicle properly to prevent it from rolling. Engaging the handbrake (parking brake) provides primary mechanical security, and placing the transmission in 'P' (Park) locks the drivetrain. These steps ensure the vehicle remains stationary and prevents accidental movement.

Question 4: Can a P1 or P2 provisional driver legally instruct a learner driver?

No (Correct answer)
Yes, provided the provisional driver has held a P2 licence for more than 6 months
Yes, provided L and P1 or P2 plates are displayed
Yes, provided it is not at night
Yes, provided the vehicle's engine size is less than one litre

Correct answer: No

In most jurisdictions, including Australia where DKT questions originate, a provisional driver (P1 or P2) is not considered experienced enough to supervise a learner driver. Learner drivers must be supervised by a fully licensed driver who holds a full, unrestricted license and meets specific experience criteria, ensuring the learner receives instruction from a highly experienced driver.

Question 5: As you leave a freeway, which of the following should you check?

Your speed (Correct answer)
Fuel gauge
Windscreen wipers

Correct answer: Your speed

When exiting a freeway, it's critical to check and adjust your speed because freeway speeds are typically much higher than those on exit ramps or connecting roads. Failing to reduce speed appropriately can lead to loss of control, especially on curved ramps, or make it difficult to stop safely for traffic ahead. Monitoring your speedometer and braking gradually are essential for a safe exit.

Question 6: Your car registration expires today. You have your car inspected for registration renewal but it fails the inspection. What should you do?

After today you must not drive the car until it has been repaired, passed another inspection and registered. (Correct answer)
You have seven days to have the car repaired, after which Roads and Maritime considers it to be unregistered.
Go to Roads and Maritime and ask them to renew your registration and tell them you will soon get the car fixed.

Correct answer: After today you must not drive the car until it has been repaired, passed another inspection and registered.

If your car fails inspection, it is deemed unroadworthy and cannot be legally driven. Driving an unregistered vehicle after its expiry date is illegal and can result in fines and penalties. You must have the necessary repairs done, pass a new inspection, and then register the vehicle before driving it again.

Question 7: Generally, if you hear the siren of an emergency vehicle you should:

Pull over to the left until the emergency vehicle passes. (Correct answer)
Immediately come to a stop.
Let the emergency vehicle pass and follow it closely behind.

Correct answer: Pull over to the left until the emergency vehicle passes.

When you hear the siren of an emergency vehicle, you must pull over to the left side of the road and stop, if it is safe to do so. This action clears the path, allowing emergency services to pass quickly and safely. It is a critical rule to ensure they can respond to emergencies without delay.

Question 8: Do you have any responsibilities when opening a vehicle door on a roadway?

No, any following traffic must stop if the door interferes with its progress
Yes, you must not open a door if you are likely to cause danger to road users or impede traffic (Correct answer)
No, there is no regulation to cover this situation

Correct answer: Yes, you must not open a door if you are likely to cause danger to road users or impede traffic

Yes, you have a responsibility to ensure your actions do not endanger others. Before opening a vehicle door, you must check for approaching traffic, including cyclists and pedestrians, to prevent collisions. Opening a door carelessly can cause serious accidents and obstruct traffic, making it a breach of road safety regulations.

Question 9: Which vehicle is parked correctly?

Vehicle A.
Vehicle B.
Vehicle C. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Vehicle C.

Vehicle C is parked correctly as it is positioned within the designated parking area, parallel to the kerb, and not obstructing traffic or pedestrian pathways. Proper parking ensures safety for all road users and compliance with local parking regulations. (Note: This explanation assumes an image was provided where Vehicle C adheres to standard parking rules).

Question 10: If an oncoming vehicle crosses the centre line and is coming straight at you and you cannot stop, you should:

Drive onto the wrong side of the road and hope the other vehicle does not do the same.
Slow down and hope that the driver will turn away.
Brake, look for room to the left, sound your horn and flash your lights. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Brake, look for room to the left, sound your horn and flash your lights.

In a head-on collision situation, your immediate actions are crucial for survival. Braking reduces your speed, minimizing impact force, while looking for room to the left provides a potential escape route. Sounding your horn and flashing your lights alerts the oncoming driver to your presence and the danger, giving them a chance to react.

Question 11: You are approaching an intersection that has a red light camera. The lights turn yellow when you are too close to stop safely. The lights go red as you get to the other side of the intersection. Will you receive a penalty notice?

No, because the camera only takes a photo if you cross the stop line after the lights turn red. (Correct answer)
Possibly, because you were in the intersection when the lights turned red.
Yes, but a driver is entitled to advise the Police Service and have the case heard by a court.

Correct answer: No, because the camera only takes a photo if you cross the stop line after the lights turn red.

Red light cameras are designed to detect vehicles that illegally enter an intersection *after* the traffic light has turned red. If you are already in the intersection or have crossed the stop line when the light changes from yellow to red, the camera typically will not activate. You are only penalized if you cross the stop line after the light is red.

Question 12: When there are three lanes on a freeway:

The right lane is for avoiding most traffic.
The right lane is reserved for overtaking. (Correct answer)
The right lane is for emergency vehicles only.

Correct answer: The right lane is reserved for overtaking.

On multi-lane freeways, the rightmost lane is generally designated for overtaking slower vehicles. Drivers should keep to the left lanes unless they are actively overtaking or if traffic conditions necessitate using the right lane. This rule helps maintain smooth traffic flow and reduces congestion.

Question 13: When displaying L or P plates, how much of the letter must be clearly visible?

Most of the letter.
Only enough of the letter so it is clear whether it is an L or P.
All of the letter L or P. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All of the letter L or P.

L and P plates must be fully visible to other road users at all times. This ensures that other drivers can clearly identify a learner or provisional driver, allowing them to adjust their driving behavior accordingly. Partial visibility of the plates is not compliant with road regulations.

Question 14: If your vehicle is involved in an accident (regardless of the damage), what details must you give, to the other driver(s), if asked?

Only your name and address details if a Policeman asks for them.
You must let them see your licence, take details, and give the name and address of the vehicle's owner. (Correct answer)
No details at all until you have contacted your insurance company.

Correct answer: You must let them see your licence, take details, and give the name and address of the vehicle's owner.

In the event of an accident, it is a legal requirement to exchange specific information with other involved parties. You must show your driver's licence, provide your name and address, and the name and address of the vehicle's owner. This information is essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Question 15: What must you do if you miss your exit on a freeway?

Stop, then reverse back along the freeway to the exit you missed
Stop immediately and turn around
Continue until you reach the next appropriate exit (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Continue until you reach the next appropriate exit

Freeways are designed for continuous, high-speed traffic, and stopping, reversing, or performing a U-turn is extremely dangerous and illegal. If you miss your exit, the safest and only legal course of action is to continue driving until you reach the next available exit. You can then find an alternative route to your destination.

Question 16: Where must L or P plates be displayed on a vehicle:

Anywhere inside the windows but only if they are not tinted.
On the front and back of the exterior of the vehicle. (Correct answer)
Anywhere including on the dashboard.

Correct answer: On the front and back of the exterior of the vehicle.

L and P plates must be displayed on the exterior of the vehicle, both on the front and back. This ensures maximum visibility for all other road users, allowing them to easily identify a learner or provisional driver. Correct placement is crucial for road safety and compliance.

Question 17: When reversing, you should:

Put your hazard warning lights on and perform the manoeuvre as quickly as possible to minimise danger
Unbuckle your seat belt so you can reverse as quickly as possible
Sound your horn to warn other drivers
Take care and never reverse for a greater distance and time than is necessary (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Take care and never reverse for a greater distance and time than is necessary

Reversing is a maneuver with limited visibility and increased risk, so it should always be done with extreme caution. You should only reverse for the shortest possible distance and time necessary to complete the maneuver. This minimizes the risk of collision with pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles.

Question 18: When merging onto the freeway from the entrance, you should:

Drive straight on as you have the right of way
Sound your horn, turn on your indicator lights and move onto the freeway.
Stop and check the traffic behind you on the entrance.
Look for a large enough break in the traffic and adjust your speed so as to fit into the traffic flow. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Look for a large enough break in the traffic and adjust your speed so as to fit into the traffic flow.

When merging onto a freeway, you must adjust your speed to match the flow of existing traffic and find a safe, large enough gap. You do not automatically have the right of way; your goal is to merge smoothly and safely without disrupting the flow or creating a hazard for other drivers.

Question 19: You borrow a friend's car and find that the position of the driver's seat puts you sitting a long way from the steering wheel and controls. What should you do?

Ask your friend for a cushion to place behind your back.
Put up with the discomfort; you should not adjust another person's seat.
Adjust the seat forward so it's right for you. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Adjust the seat forward so it's right for you.

Proper seating position is fundamental for safe driving, as it allows you to comfortably reach and operate all controls, and maintain optimal visibility. You should always adjust the driver's seat to suit your height and reach before driving any vehicle, regardless of who owns it.

Question 20: Which side mirror is adjusted best?

Mirror A. (Correct answer)
Mirror B.
Mirror C.

Correct answer: Mirror A.

Mirror A is adjusted best because it provides a wide view of the lanes beside and behind the vehicle, effectively minimizing blind spots. Proper mirror adjustment is essential for safe driving, allowing you to monitor surrounding traffic, especially when changing lanes or turning. (Note: This explanation assumes an image was provided where Mirror A shows optimal adjustment).

Question 21: Where there is parallel kerbside parking, are you allowed to double-park alongside a parked vehicle?

Yes, if it is a weekend or outside normal working hours (8am-6pm)
Yes, if delivering goods
Yes, if not obstructing traffic
No, not at any time (Correct answer)

Correct answer: No, not at any time

Double-parking is strictly prohibited at all times because it obstructs traffic flow, creates significant hazards for other road users, and can lead to collisions. It is illegal under all circumstances to ensure road safety and maintain clear, accessible roadways for everyone.

Question 22: You are driving on a freeway and realise you forgot something at home. You want to go back for it. Can you do a U-turn on this road?

Yes, providing you use the gravel joining roads.
No, not at any time. (Correct answer)
Yes, any time.

Correct answer: No, not at any time.

U-turns are strictly prohibited on freeways due to the high speeds and continuous flow of traffic. Attempting a U-turn would create an immediate and severe hazard, risking head-on collisions or other serious accidents. If you miss an exit, you must continue to the next one.

Question 23: If you are driving through a road work zone in the left hand lane and you see this sign you should:

Merge to the right and give way to other traffic. (Correct answer)
Speed up to get in front of any cars traveling in the right hand lane.
Stop and wait for directions.

Correct answer: Merge to the right and give way to other traffic.

This sign indicates that the left lane is ending or obstructed due to road works, requiring traffic to merge right. You must safely merge into the right lane, giving way to vehicles already in that lane. This ensures smooth traffic flow and safety within the road work zone.

Question 24: If you see a sign indicating road repairs are going on, you should:

Slow down and watch for traffic controllers and instructions. (Correct answer)
Stop immediately and wait for instructions.
Maintain the same speed.

Correct answer: Slow down and watch for traffic controllers and instructions.

Road work zones present increased hazards due to workers, machinery, and altered road conditions. You must slow down, pay close attention to all signs, and be prepared to follow instructions from traffic controllers. This ensures the safety of both road workers and drivers.

Question 25: You drive up to a corner where you see some loose gravel on the road. You should

Speed up and drive over the gravel as quickly as possible.
Check the mirrors and change lanes.
Slow down. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Slow down.

Loose gravel significantly reduces tire traction, making it very easy to lose control of your vehicle, especially when turning or braking. Slowing down allows you to maintain better control and reduces the risk of skidding or losing grip on the road surface. Always approach such conditions with caution.

Question 26: Before driving on a freeway, which of the following should you do?

Take your street directory in case you get lost
Make sure your vehicle has enough fuel, oil, water and the correct tyre pressure (Correct answer)
Take something to calm your nerves before driving

Correct answer: Make sure your vehicle has enough fuel, oil, water and the correct tyre pressure

Before driving on a freeway, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition, as freeways involve longer distances and higher speeds. Checking fuel, oil, water, and tire pressure prevents breakdowns and ensures your vehicle can safely handle the demands of freeway driving. This preparation enhances both safety and reliability.

Question 27: Before getting out of your vehicle you must

Check your headlights are turned off.
Check your mirrors and blind spots for pedestrians, bicycles or other vehicles. (Correct answer)
Check your seatbelt is back in place.

Correct answer: Check your mirrors and blind spots for pedestrians, bicycles or other vehicles.

Before opening your vehicle door, it is essential to check your mirrors and blind spots thoroughly for any approaching pedestrians, bicycles, or other vehicles. This critical safety check prevents you from opening your door into the path of another road user, which could cause serious injury or damage.

Question 28: A friend lends you his car. It is very noisy and blows a lot of smoke. He tells you the vehicle has been given a defect notice but it's still OK to drive it. What should you do?

Borrow the car but only drive on streets where the car will not be a danger to others.
Borrow the car, but always drive it 10 Km/h below the speed limit.
Before you borrow the car check the defect notice to make sure it is legal to drive the car. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Before you borrow the car check the defect notice to make sure it is legal to drive the car.

A defect notice indicates that a vehicle has safety or compliance issues that need to be addressed. Driving a car with an unaddressed defect notice can be illegal and highly unsafe, as it may pose a risk to yourself and other road users. You are responsible for ensuring any vehicle you drive is roadworthy and legally compliant.

Question 29: Where there are double dividing lines, you may park:

One metre from the dividing lines.
At least three metres from the dividing lines. (Correct answer)
At least two metres from the dividing lines.

Correct answer: At least three metres from the dividing lines.

Where there are double dividing lines, parking too close can obstruct visibility for other drivers and impede traffic flow or emergency services. Maintaining a minimum distance of at least three metres from the dividing lines ensures safety and compliance with parking regulations. This rule helps keep the roadway clear and safe.

Question 30: If you break down on a freeway, you should

Stop in your lane and flag down another driver to help
Move over to the emergency lane on the shoulder to the left. (Correct answer)
Move into the right-hand lane, so you can be seen.
Stay where you are and wait for a tow truck.

Correct answer: Move over to the emergency lane on the shoulder to the left.

If your vehicle breaks down on a freeway, the safest course of action is to move it immediately to the emergency lane or shoulder on the left. This removes your vehicle from the flow of high-speed traffic, significantly reducing the risk of further accidents and allowing emergency services to reach you safely.

DKT Car Driver Knowledge Test – General Knowledge 1

Check all that apply.
You should use your right-hand indicator when: