UK PCV Theory Vehicle Weights and Dimensions Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: You are driving a two-axle double-decker bus. What is the maximum authorised mass (MAM) permitted for this type of vehicle on UK roads?
- 18.0 tonnes
- 26.0 tonnes
- 19.5 tonnes (Correct answer)
- 21.5 tonnes
Correct answer: 19.5 tonnes
In 2017, the Department for Transport increased the maximum authorised mass for two-axle buses and coaches in the UK from 18 tonnes to 19.5 tonnes. This change brought the UK in line with European regulations and accounted for the increased weight of modern vehicles with features like wheelchair lifts and Euro 6 emission systems.
Question 2: A sign in your cab displays your vehicle's height as 4.5 metres. You are approaching an unmarked arched bridge. What is the minimum legal headroom you should expect under this bridge?
- 4.5 metres (14 feet 9 inches)
- 4.7 metres (15 feet 5 inches)
- 5.3 metres (17 feet 4 inches)
- 5.03 metres (16 feet 6 inches) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 5.03 metres (16 feet 6 inches)
In the United Kingdom, unless a sign indicates otherwise, the minimum headroom under a bridge is 5.03 metres (16 feet 6 inches). It's crucial for drivers of high vehicles to know this, but also to be aware that the measurement for an arched bridge may only apply to the highest point of the arch.
Question 3: Which of the following statements regarding PCV dimensions is correct according to UK regulations?
- The maximum length for any rigid bus is 12 metres.
- The maximum width for a PCV, excluding mirrors, is 2.75 metres.
- A bus with more than two axles has a maximum permitted length of 15 metres. (Correct answer)
- A Category D1 minibus can have a maximum length of 9 metres.
Correct answer: A bus with more than two axles has a maximum permitted length of 15 metres.
UK regulations specify different maximum lengths based on the number of axles. A rigid bus or coach with more than two axles is permitted a maximum length of 15 metres. A two-axle bus is limited to 13.5 metres, and a Category D1 minibus is limited to 8 metres. The standard maximum width is 2.55 metres.
Question 4: You are preparing for your journey in a coach that is over 3.0 metres tall. Where must the vehicle's height be displayed?
- On a plate on the vehicle's chassis
- In a position where it can be clearly seen by the driver from their seat (Correct answer)
- On the exterior nearside of the vehicle, next to the passenger door
- Within the vehicle's registration document (V5C) only
Correct answer: In a position where it can be clearly seen by the driver from their seat
It is a legal requirement for any vehicle over 3.0 metres in height to have a notice in the cab, clearly visible to the driver from their normal driving position, stating its full height. This ensures the driver is always aware of the vehicle's height to avoid collisions with low bridges or other overhead obstructions.
Question 5: What is the maximum legal weight for a single driving axle on a PCV in the United Kingdom?
- 10.0 tonnes
- 11.5 tonnes (Correct answer)
- 9.5 tonnes
- 10.5 tonnes
Correct answer: 11.5 tonnes
The maximum permitted weight that can be transmitted to the road surface by a single driving axle on a PCV is 11.5 tonnes (11,500 kg). Exceeding individual axle weights is an offence, even if the vehicle's overall gross weight is within its legal limit.
Question 6: A driver holds a Category D1 licence. This entitles them to drive a minibus with a maximum length of 8 metres and with no more than how many passenger seats?
- 8 passenger seats
- 24 passenger seats
- 16 passenger seats (Correct answer)
- 32 passenger seats
Correct answer: 16 passenger seats
A Category D1 licence is for driving minibuses. These vehicles are defined as having more than 8 but no more than 16 passenger seats, in addition to the driver's seat. They also have a maximum permitted length of 8 metres.
UK PCV Theory Vehicle Weights and Dimensions Questions and Answers
You are driving a two-axle double-decker bus.
What is the maximum authorised mass (MAM) permitted for this type of vehicle on UK roads?