DVSA Driving Theory Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: A pelican crossing differs from a puffin crossing because:

It has a flashing amber phase for drivers (Correct answer)
It is only used near schools
It has no lights for pedestrians
It detects pedestrians and adjusts the green light timing

Correct answer: It has a flashing amber phase for drivers

A pelican crossing has a flashing amber light phase, during which drivers may proceed if the crossing is clear of pedestrians. Puffin crossings use sensors to detect pedestrians and do not have a flashing amber phase — they go straight from red to green.

Question 2: Which of these documents is primarily used to prove who is the registered keeper of a vehicle, but not necessarily the legal owner?

Certificate of Motor Insurance
MOT Certificate (VT20)
V5C Registration Certificate (Log Book) (Correct answer)
Driving Licence

Correct answer: V5C Registration Certificate (Log Book)

The V5C Registration Certificate, often called the log book, is issued by the DVLA and records the details of the vehicle and its registered keeper. It is important to note that the registered keeper is not always the legal owner.

Question 3: You are approaching a horse and rider on a country lane. What is the maximum speed at which you should pass?

10 mph (Correct answer)
20 mph
The speed is not specified, but you must pass 'wide and slow'
30 mph

Correct answer: 10 mph

The Highway Code (Rule 215) is very specific about passing horses. You must slow down to a maximum of 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of space. Horses are flight animals and can be easily scared by vehicles that are moving too fast or are too close.

Question 4: You are joining a motorway from a slip road. What is the correct procedure?

Stop at the end of the slip road and wait for a large gap in the traffic.
Force your way into the traffic as vehicles on the motorway must give way to you.
Drive along the hard shoulder until you find a safe gap.
Match your speed to the traffic in the left-hand lane and filter in when safe. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Match your speed to the traffic in the left-hand lane and filter in when safe.

When joining a motorway, you should use the slip road to adjust your speed to match the traffic already on the motorway. You must give priority to traffic on the main carriageway and join when there is a safe gap in the left-hand lane.

Question 5: What colour are direction signs on primary routes (most A-roads) in the UK?

Brown
White
Green (Correct answer)
Blue

Correct answer: Green

Primary route signs use a green background with white text, indicating A-roads and major through routes.

Question 6: When must you use your dipped headlights during the day?

In dull weather or when visibility is seriously reduced. (Correct answer)
Only between sunset and sunrise.
When driving through a tunnel with good lighting.
Whenever it is raining, regardless of intensity.

Correct answer: In dull weather or when visibility is seriously reduced.

The Highway Code mandates using headlights when visibility is 'seriously reduced,' which is generally defined as being unable to see for more than 100 metres (328 feet). This includes conditions like heavy rain, fog, or dull weather during the daytime.

Question 7: You are driving along a residential road with cars parked on the left-hand side. A ball bounces out into the road ahead. What is the most significant potential hazard you should be prepared for?

The ball damaging your car's paintwork.
A child running out to retrieve the ball. (Correct answer)
An oncoming vehicle swerving to avoid the ball.
A vehicle door opening suddenly from a parked car.

Correct answer: A child running out to retrieve the ball.

A ball bouncing into the road is a classic sign that a child may follow it without checking for traffic. You must anticipate this and be ready to stop immediately. While other hazards exist, a child running into the road is the most immediate and serious danger.

Question 8: What does an upward-pointing blue arrow on a motorway sign indicate?

The road continues straight ahead with no junction
Overtaking is permitted in the lane ahead
You must keep to the lanes indicated for your direction (Correct answer)
A variable speed limit is in operation ahead

Correct answer: You must keep to the lanes indicated for your direction

A blue upward arrow on a motorway sign confirms the direction of travel and lane allocation for vehicles proceeding straight on.

Question 9: When must you use dipped headlights?

Only on motorways at night
Whenever you switch on any lights
Only when it is completely dark
When visibility is seriously reduced, and at night on unlit roads (Correct answer)

Correct answer: When visibility is seriously reduced, and at night on unlit roads

You must use dipped headlights when visibility is seriously reduced (generally when you cannot see for more than 100 metres) and at night on unlit roads. You should also use them at dusk and dawn.

Question 10: What is the maximum overhang allowed at the rear of a load on a UK vehicle before a marker board is required?

2 metres (Correct answer)
4 metres
1 metre
3 metres

Correct answer: 2 metres

In the UK, a rear overhang exceeding 2 metres must be indicated by a marker board to warn following drivers of the projection.

Question 11: You are on a one-way street and see a blue sign for a contraflow bus lane. What does this indicate?

The one-way street is about to become a two-way street for all traffic.
Buses may be travelling in the opposite direction to you. (Correct answer)
You must move into the bus lane immediately.
You are approaching a bus-only roundabout.

Correct answer: Buses may be travelling in the opposite direction to you.

A contraflow bus lane on a one-way street is a lane reserved for buses (and sometimes other authorised vehicles) travelling in the opposite direction to the main flow of traffic. Drivers should be alert for buses approaching from the 'wrong' way in this lane.

Question 12: Which action should you take to get the best fuel economy from a long motorway journey?

Keep the windows open instead of using air conditioning
Travel at the highest legal speed to complete the journey faster
Accelerate and decelerate frequently to keep the engine at peak efficiency
Use cruise control to maintain a steady, legal speed (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Use cruise control to maintain a steady, legal speed

Cruise control maintains a constant speed without the small speed fluctuations of manual throttle use, resulting in lower average fuel consumption on motorways.

Question 13: Which of these is a legal requirement for a 'Class 3' powered mobility scooter to be used on the road?

It must be fitted with a flashing amber beacon at all times.
The user must have a full car driving licence.
It must be registered with the DVLA. (Correct answer)
The user must be over 18 years of age.

Correct answer: It must be registered with the DVLA.

Class 3 mobility scooters, which can travel up to 8 mph on the road, must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). While they don't require road tax or a driving licence, the user must be at least 14 years old. They must also be equipped with lights, indicators, a horn, and a rear-view mirror for road use.

Question 14: You have just bought a brand-new car. When will it need its first MOT test?

On the first anniversary of its registration.
When the manufacturer's warranty expires.
After it has been driven 12,000 miles.
On the third anniversary of its registration. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: On the third anniversary of its registration.

A new car in the UK does not require an MOT test until the third anniversary of its first registration date. After this, it must be tested annually.

Question 15: What does a red triangle warning sign containing an image of a bicycle indicate?

A cycle route crossing or shared-use path ahead (Correct answer)
A dedicated cycle lane begins at this point
Cyclists are prohibited from using this road
A cycle hire station is located nearby

Correct answer: A cycle route crossing or shared-use path ahead

A bicycle in a red warning triangle alerts drivers that a cycle route crosses the road or that cyclists may be entering the carriageway.

Question 16: You are driving and an emergency vehicle approaches with blue flashing lights. What should you do?

Stop immediately wherever you are
Take appropriate action to let it pass without endangering others (Correct answer)
Speed up to get out of its way
Flash your headlights to acknowledge it

Correct answer: Take appropriate action to let it pass without endangering others

When an emergency vehicle approaches, you should take appropriate action to let it pass. Do not panic, do not mount the kerb, do not brake harshly, and do not go through a red light. Only move aside when it is safe to do so.

Question 17: At a crash scene, a vehicle is on fire with a casualty inside. What should you do first?

Call the emergency services (Correct answer)
Attempt to put the fire out yourself
Try to remove the casualty immediately
Wait for other motorists to help

Correct answer: Call the emergency services

You should call the emergency services immediately so trained professionals can deal with both the fire and the casualty safely.

Question 18: You are driving in queuing traffic and notice a motorcyclist filtering between the lanes. What is the most appropriate action to take?

Sound your horn to show you are aware of them.
Move closer to the vehicle in front to block their path.
Flash your headlights to let them pass.
Maintain your position and check your mirrors and blind spots before manoeuvring. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Maintain your position and check your mirrors and blind spots before manoeuvring.

Filtering (or lane splitting) by motorcyclists in slow-moving traffic is not illegal in the UK. Drivers should remain aware of their presence. The correct action is to hold your position and be vigilant, checking mirrors and blind spots frequently, especially before any change in position, as a motorcycle could be alongside you.

Question 19: What does a 'Clearway' sign (red cross on a blue background) mean?

Parking is restricted during certain hours shown on a plate
No stopping is permitted at any time on the main carriageway (Correct answer)
Only buses and taxis may stop at this point
The road ahead is closed and a diversion is in place

Correct answer: No stopping is permitted at any time on the main carriageway

A clearway sign means no stopping at any time on the main carriageway, keeping the road clear for moving traffic.

Question 20: You are driving behind a bus that pulls up at a stop. What hazard should you anticipate?

The bus may turn right without indicating
Pedestrians may cross the road from in front of the bus (Correct answer)
Other buses may overtake you
The bus may reverse towards you

Correct answer: Pedestrians may cross the road from in front of the bus

When a bus stops, passengers may alight and cross the road, sometimes emerging from in front of the bus where you cannot see them. Be prepared to stop and watch for pedestrians stepping into the road.

Question 21: What is the minimum legal tyre tread depth for a car in the UK?

1.0 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
2.0 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. (Correct answer)
1.6 mm across the entire width of the tyre.

Correct answer: 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.

UK law requires that car tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.

Question 22: You are approaching a traffic-calming measure and see a solid blue circular sign with a white arrow pointing left. What must you do?

Keep to the left of the sign (Correct answer)
Turn left at the next junction
Keep to the right of the sign
Give way to traffic from the left

Correct answer: Keep to the left of the sign

A blue circular sign gives a mandatory instruction. An arrow pointing down and to the left, often used on traffic islands or at the start of a dual carriageway, means you must keep to the left of the sign.

Question 23: You are driving in heavy rain and your vehicle begins to aquaplane. What should you do?

Accelerate to drive through the water
Steer sharply to the left
Brake hard to regain grip
Ease off the accelerator and avoid braking until you regain grip (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ease off the accelerator and avoid braking until you regain grip

Aquaplaning occurs when water builds up under the tyres faster than the tread can disperse it, causing a loss of contact with the road. You should ease off the accelerator smoothly and avoid braking or steering until the tyres regain grip.

Question 24: What does the term 'developing hazard' mean in the context of the DVSA theory test?

A situation that would cause you to take action, like changing speed or direction. (Correct answer)
A traffic sign that you are approaching.
Any stationary object on or near the road.
A situation that is likely to remain constant and requires no action.

Correct answer: A situation that would cause you to take action, like changing speed or direction.

A developing hazard is defined by the DVSA as something that moves from being a potential hazard to an actual one, requiring the driver to take action such as braking or steering. For example, a parked car becomes a developing hazard when its indicator starts flashing and it begins to move off.

Question 25: What does a broken white line along the centre of the road indicate?

You must stop and give way to oncoming vehicles
The road ahead is closed to through traffic
You must not overtake under any circumstances
You may cross it to overtake if it is safe to do so (Correct answer)

Correct answer: You may cross it to overtake if it is safe to do so

A broken centre line means you may cross it to overtake or turn, provided it is safe and legal to do so.

Question 26: At a roundabout, you should give way to traffic from which direction?

The left
All directions equally
Straight ahead
The right (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The right

At a roundabout, you must give way to traffic approaching from your right. You should watch for vehicles already on the roundabout and wait for a safe gap before joining.

Question 27: What is the main environmental benefit of driving an electric vehicle (EV) in the UK?

EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, reducing local air pollution (Correct answer)
EVs require no servicing whatsoever
EVs always charge faster than petrol vehicles refuel
EVs are exempt from all road traffic laws

Correct answer: EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, reducing local air pollution

Electric vehicles produce no direct exhaust emissions at the point of use, which significantly reduces local air pollution in towns and cities.

Question 28: A roof rack with no load fitted to your vehicle will:

Reduce tyre wear
Increase fuel consumption due to extra aerodynamic drag (Correct answer)
Improve fuel economy by reducing drag underneath
Have no effect on performance or fuel use

Correct answer: Increase fuel consumption due to extra aerodynamic drag

Even an empty roof rack creates additional aerodynamic drag, which forces the engine to work harder and increases fuel consumption.

Question 29: What is the legal minimum tread depth for car tyres in the UK?

1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread (Correct answer)
1.0 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread
2.0 mm across the full width of the tread
1.6 mm across the full width of the tread

Correct answer: 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread

The legal minimum tread depth for car tyres in the UK is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread width, around the entire circumference. Driving with tyres below this is an offence carrying a fine and penalty points per tyre.

Question 30: You are driving at night on an unlit road. What should you do if you are dazzled by the headlights of an oncoming vehicle?

Speed up to get past the oncoming vehicle quickly
Stare directly at the headlights to judge their distance
Flash your headlights to signal the other driver
Look towards the left-hand edge of the road (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Look towards the left-hand edge of the road

If dazzled by oncoming headlights, you should slow down or stop if necessary, and avoid looking directly at the lights. Looking towards the left-hand edge of the road helps you maintain your lane position without being blinded.

Question 31: A casualty at a crash scene is in shock. Which of these symptoms would you expect?

High body temperature and fast breathing only
A slow, strong pulse and flushed skin
Rapid, weak pulse and pale, cold, clammy skin (Correct answer)
Dilated pupils and very slow breathing

Correct answer: Rapid, weak pulse and pale, cold, clammy skin

Shock is characterised by a rapid, weak pulse, pale and clammy skin, rapid breathing, and a feeling of faintness.

Question 32: When may you use your vehicle's hazard warning lights while moving?

To thank a driver who has let you out of a junction.
When driving on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway to warn traffic behind of a hazard ahead. (Correct answer)
If you are driving slowly because you are lost.
When you are double-parked for a short period.

Correct answer: When driving on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway to warn traffic behind of a hazard ahead.

The Highway Code states that you must not use hazard warning lights while driving unless you are on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway and you need to warn drivers behind you of a hazard or obstruction ahead. Using them for other reasons, such as thanking drivers or for illegal parking, is incorrect.

Question 33: When should you use the left-hand lane on a three-lane motorway?

Only when joining or leaving the motorway
When carrying heavy loads
When travelling at any speed, unless overtaking (Correct answer)
Only when driving below 50 mph

Correct answer: When travelling at any speed, unless overtaking

On a motorway, you should normally drive in the left-hand lane regardless of your speed. The middle and right-hand lanes are for overtaking only. Once you have finished overtaking, you should return to the left-hand lane. Staying in the middle or right lane unnecessarily is called 'lane hogging' and is an offence.

Question 34: You are driving past a parked ice cream van on a residential street. What is the main hazard you should be anticipating?

The driver suddenly pulling out without indicating.
Children running out into the road from behind the van. (Correct answer)
The van's refrigeration unit may be leaking.
Litter being dropped from the van's serving window.

Correct answer: Children running out into the road from behind the van.

Ice cream vans attract children, who may be excited and less aware of road safety. They can run into the road unexpectedly, often from behind the van where they are hidden from your view. You must reduce your speed significantly and be prepared to stop.

Question 35: You arrive at a petrol station fire. What should you do with your mobile phone?

Switch it off before approaching the area (Correct answer)
Keep it on to call for help from the pump
Use it freely as phones cannot ignite fuel
Use it to film the fire for evidence

Correct answer: Switch it off before approaching the area

Mobile phones should be switched off at petrol stations because there is a small risk that the signal could ignite fuel vapour.

Question 36: You see a circular blue sign with the number '30' in white. What does this sign mean?

Minimum speed limit of 30 mph. (Correct answer)
End of the 30 mph speed restriction.
Maximum speed limit of 30 mph.
Recommended speed of 30 mph.

Correct answer: Minimum speed limit of 30 mph.

A circular sign with a blue background indicates a mandatory instruction. In this case, it signifies a minimum speed limit. You must not drive slower than the speed indicated, unless it is unsafe to do so. Maximum speed limits are shown in a red circle.

Question 37: What do blue circular signs on UK roads indicate?

A prohibition that drivers must not do
A general warning of danger ahead
Mandatory instructions that must be obeyed (Correct answer)
Information only, with no legal requirement

Correct answer: Mandatory instructions that must be obeyed

Blue circular signs give mandatory instructions that all drivers must follow, such as 'turn left ahead'.

Question 38: You see amber flashing lights on a motorway gantry with no speed limit displayed. What do they mean?

There is no restriction
There is a hazard ahead — adjust your speed accordingly (Correct answer)
A contraflow system is operating
The motorway is about to close

Correct answer: There is a hazard ahead — adjust your speed accordingly

Amber flashing lights on a motorway gantry warn of a hazard ahead, such as fog, an accident, or debris. You should reduce your speed and be prepared to slow down further or stop. Look for further information on subsequent signs.

Question 39: Under the Highway Code hierarchy of road users, who bears the greatest responsibility for the safety of others?

Drivers of large vehicles (Correct answer)
Cyclists
All road users equally
Pedestrians

Correct answer: Drivers of large vehicles

The 2022 Highway Code update introduced a hierarchy of road users. Those who can cause the greatest harm (drivers of large vehicles, then car drivers) bear the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they pose to more vulnerable road users.

Question 40: You are approaching a bend and see a warning sign for ice. What should you do?

Reduce speed well before the bend and avoid harsh braking, steering, or acceleration (Correct answer)
Brake firmly before entering the bend and accelerate through it
Use your handbrake to slow down on the bend
Maintain your current speed as modern tyres handle ice well

Correct answer: Reduce speed well before the bend and avoid harsh braking, steering, or acceleration

When there is ice, you should reduce speed well in advance using engine braking and gentle braking. Any sudden inputs — braking, accelerating, or steering — on ice can cause a loss of control. Slow down before the bend, not during it.

Question 41: When overtaking a cyclist on a road with a 30 mph speed limit, what is the minimum distance you should leave?

1.5 metres (approx 5 feet) (Correct answer)
As much room as you would give a motorcycle
The width of your car door
1.0 metre (approx 3 feet)

Correct answer: 1.5 metres (approx 5 feet)

The Highway Code (Rule 163) was updated to state that drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres of space when overtaking cyclists at speeds up to 30 mph, and more space at higher speeds. This is to ensure the safety of the cyclist, who may need to swerve to avoid potholes or other hazards.

Question 42: After a collision where another person is injured, what document must you provide to anyone with reasonable grounds to ask for it?

Your driving licence
Your insurance certificate (Correct answer)
Your MOT certificate
Your vehicle logbook (V5C)

Correct answer: Your insurance certificate

You are legally required to produce a valid certificate of insurance to anyone who has reasonable grounds to request it following a collision.

Question 43: You will not be using your car for several months and plan to keep it in your garage. To avoid paying for vehicle tax and insurance, what must you officially do?

Cancel your direct debits for tax and insurance.
Inform your local council.
Return the number plates to the DVLA.
Make a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) to the DVLA. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Make a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) to the DVLA.

To legally keep an untaxed and uninsured vehicle off a public road, you must make a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) to the DVLA. This declares that the vehicle is not in use.

Question 44: How should you perform CPR chest compressions on an adult casualty?

5 compressions then 2 breaths
30 compressions then 2 breaths (Correct answer)
10 compressions then 1 breath
15 compressions then 1 breath

Correct answer: 30 compressions then 2 breaths

Current first aid guidelines recommend 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths when performing CPR on an adult.

Question 45: What is the general rule for lane discipline on a three-lane motorway in the UK?

You should always stay in the left-hand lane unless you are overtaking. (Correct answer)
You can use any lane as long as you are travelling at the speed limit.
The left-hand lane is for slow-moving vehicles only.
The middle lane is for cruising, and the right-hand lane is for fast traffic.

Correct answer: You should always stay in the left-hand lane unless you are overtaking.

The Highway Code (Rule 264) states that you should always drive in the left-hand lane when the road ahead is clear. The centre and right-hand lanes should only be used for overtaking. After overtaking, you should return to the left-hand lane as soon as it is safe to do so.

Question 46: Which of the following best describes 'coasting' in a vehicle?

Slowing the vehicle using engine braking
Driving with the clutch depressed or the gearbox in neutral while moving (Correct answer)
Driving with the handbrake partially applied
Maintaining a steady speed on a flat road

Correct answer: Driving with the clutch depressed or the gearbox in neutral while moving

Coasting means travelling with the clutch pressed down or the gearbox in neutral, which removes engine braking control and is generally unsafe.

Question 47: You are driving on a single carriageway road and see a circular white sign with a single black diagonal stripe through it. What does this sign mean?

End of motorway
National speed limit applies (Correct answer)
No entry for vehicular traffic
Waiting restrictions apply

Correct answer: National speed limit applies

A white circular sign with a single black diagonal stripe indicates that the national speed limit applies. For a car on a single carriageway, this is 60 mph. On a dual carriageway or motorway, it's 70 mph.

Question 48: You approach an unmarked crossroads where another vehicle is approaching from the right. Who has priority?

The vehicle approaching from the right.
No one has automatic priority. (Correct answer)
The vehicle that arrived at the junction first.
You have priority as you are on their left.

Correct answer: No one has automatic priority.

The Highway Code (Rule 146) states that at an unmarked crossroads, no driver has priority. You should slow down, be prepared to stop, and only proceed when it is safe, taking into account the speed and position of other road users.

Question 49: What is the overall stopping distance at 60 mph on a dry road?

120 metres (394 feet)
96 metres (315 feet)
73 metres (240 feet) (Correct answer)
53 metres (175 feet)

Correct answer: 73 metres (240 feet)

At 60 mph, the typical overall stopping distance on a dry road is 73 metres (240 feet). This includes 18 metres thinking distance and 55 metres braking distance. In wet conditions, these distances at least double.

Question 50: Your car breaks down on a motorway with a hard shoulder. After pulling over to the hard shoulder, what is the first thing you should do?

Get out of your vehicle and stand in front of it to warn oncoming traffic.
Switch on your hazard warning lights. (Correct answer)
Place a warning triangle 45 metres behind your vehicle.
Attempt to carry out simple repairs on your vehicle.

Correct answer: Switch on your hazard warning lights.

If you break down on a motorway, the first priority is to warn other drivers. You should switch on your hazard warning lights immediately. You should not use a warning triangle on a motorway. Exit the vehicle from the left-hand side and wait behind the safety barrier.

Question 51: During a 'show me' question on a practical driving test, the examiner asks you to demonstrate how you would check that the brake lights are working. What is the correct procedure?

Operate the brake pedal and check for a warning light on the dashboard.
Switch on the ignition, turn on the hazard lights, and walk around the car.
Pump the brake pedal several times to see if the pressure feels correct.
Operate the brake pedal and use reflections in windows or ask someone to help check. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Operate the brake pedal and use reflections in windows or ask someone to help check.

The correct way to check the brake lights is to operate the brake pedal while making use of reflections in windows, garage doors, or other vehicles, or by asking another person to stand at the rear of the vehicle to confirm they are lit.

DVSA Driving Theory Test

The DVSA Driving Theory Test is the official UK multiple-choice exam administered by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, assessing knowledge of the Highway Code, road signs, hazard awareness, motorway rules, vehicle safety, and responsible driving practices.

Questions

57 min

Time Limit

86%

To Pass

Checking for saved progress...

Exam Rules

You can skip questions and return to them later
Flag questions for review before submitting
No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
Timer auto-submits when time runs out
Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds