Mock Test #9 – Find Your Weaknesses

#1: In winter weather, you must clear ice and snow from your vehicle’s windows, lights, and number plates:

Before you set off Unless your journey is short Only if snow can fall off into the path of other road users Only if you plan to drive outside city limits

Before you set off you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows. You MUST also ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible.

Highway code rule: 229.

#2: What does this sign mean?

Left turn only Do not enter No right turn Keep right

No right turn.

#3: At the scene of a traffic accident you should do the following, except:

Call the emergency services Ask drivers to switch off their engines Switch on your hazard warning lights Offer someone a cigarette to calm them down

Further collisions and fire are the main dangers following a crash. Approach any vehicle involved with care. Switch off all engines and, if possible, warn other traffic. Stop anyone from smoking.

Highway code rule: 283.

#4: Which road marking indicates that overtaking is not allowed?

Double white lines where the line nearest you is solid. This means you must not cross or straddle it unless it is safe and you need to enter adjoining premises or a side road. You may cross the line if necessary, provided the road is clear, to pass a stationary vehicle, or overtake a pedal cycle, horse or road maintenance vehicle, if they are travelling at 10 mph (16 km/h) or less.

Highway code rule: 129.

#5: You are dazzled by headlights coming towards you at night. What should you do?

Slow down or stop Pull down your sun visor Put your hand over your eyes Turn on your full beam headlights

If you are dazzled by oncoming headlights slow down, or stop, if necessary.

Never look directly into the oncoming headlights. Glance toward the right edge of your lane.

Highway code rule: 115.

#6: You are travelling on this one-way street. You wish to turn left ahead. How should you position yourself?

In the right-hand lane In the left-hand lane In the centre lane In either lane, it doesn't matter

Unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise, you should use

the left-hand lane when going left
the right-hand lane when going right
the most appropriate lane when going straight ahead.

Highway code rule: 143.

#7: You approach this sign. What must you do?

Stop, ONLY if traffic is approaching Stop, ONLY if you must give way to pedestrians Stop, ONLY if a red light is showing Stop, even if the road is clear

You must stop behind the line at a junction with a stop sign and a solid white line across the road. Wait for a safe gap in the traffic before you proceed.

Highway code rule: 171.

#8: Your vehicle breaks down in a tunnel. What is the first thing you should do?

Stand in the lane behind your vehicle to warn others Switch on hazard warning lights and call for help Stay in your vehicle and wait for the police Stand in front of your vehicle to warn oncoming drivers

You should not rely on being found by the police or being seen by a CCTV camera. Remember, the longer your vehicle stays where it is, the more danger it poses to other drivers.

Turn on your hazard warning lights. Leave the vehicle by the left-hand door. Walk to an emergency telephone and call for assistance.

Highway code rules: 274, 275.

#9: If motorcyclists look over their shoulder it often means that they:

Think you are driving to close Don't have mirrors Need to listen for following traffic Intend to pull out, turn right or change direction

If motorcyclists look over their shoulder it could mean that they intend to pull out, turn right or change direction.

Highway code rule: 212.

#10: You take some over-the-counter cough medicine. What should you do before driving?

Ask your friend for advice Check the label Drink strong coffee Take a short nap

You must not drive under the influence of drugs or medicine.

Check the instructions or ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Using illegal drugs is highly dangerous. Never take them if you intend to drive - the effects are unpredictable, but can be even more severe than alcohol and may result in fatal or serious road crashes.

Remember, many medicines can affect your ability to drive safely - always read the warning on the label.

Highway code rule: 96.

#11: You carry a 5 year-old child in the back seat of your car for a short distance. The child is under 1.35 metres (4 feet 5 inches) and a correct child restraint is not available. The child must:

Sit behind the driver seat Use an adult belt Share a belt with an adult Sit in the lap of an adult

Correct child restraint must be used where seat belts fitted.

If correct child restraint is not available in a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle, or for reasons of unexpected necessity over a short distance, or if two occupied restraints prevent fitment of a third, adult belt must be used.

Highway code rules: 99, 100.

#12: Which sign tells you there is a steep hill downwards ahead?

Steep hill downwards.

#13: You are in the right-hand lane at traffic lights. You are waiting to turn right. At which of these traffic lights must you not move on?

You may proceed in the direction of the green arrow when it, or the full green light shows. Read and amber mean stop.

Highway code rule: 177.

#14: The main purpose of traffic calming measures is to:

Slow traffic down Reduce air pollution Simplify parking Allow for street cleaning

Traffic calming measures such as road humps, chicanes and narrowings are intended to slow you down. When you approach these features reduce your speed.

Highway code rule: 153.

#15: You arrive at a serious motorcycle crash. The motorcyclist is unconscious and bleeding. Which of the following should you NOT do, unless it is necessary:

Remove the motorcyclist's helmet Call the emergency services. Try to stop the bleeding Check the motorcyclist's airways

DO NOT remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless it is essential.

Highway code rule: 283.

#16: You are driving at daytime. When MUST you use dipped headlights?

All the time Along narrow streets In poor visibility When parking

Use dipped headlights, or dim-dip if fitted, in dull daytime weather, to ensure that you can be seen.

Highway code rules: 113, 226.

#17: Car skids are mainly caused by

Driver mistakes Vehicle weight Bad tyres Slow speed

Skidding is usually caused by the driver braking, accelerating or steering too harshly or driving too fast for the road conditions. A road that is normally safe can become dangerous when it is slippery. Slow down to a speed at which you can control the car.

Highway code rule: 119.

#18: What is the purpose of the yellow criss-cross lines on the road in this junction?

To guide you into position as you turn To prevent the junction from becoming blocked To make you more aware of the traffic lights To show you where to stop

Box junctions have criss-cross yellow lines painted on the road. They tell you that you must not enter the box until your exit road or lane is clear.

Highway code rule: 174.

#19: You are driving along a wet road. How can you tell if your vehicle’s tyres are losing their grip on the surface?

The steering will feel very light The engine noise will increase The engine will stall The tyres will make a thumping sound

If the steering becomes unresponsive, it probably means that water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

Highway code rule: 227.

#20: If you try to avoid busy times when travelling:

You will use more fuel. You will travel a much shorter distance Your journey time will be longer You are less likely to be delayed

Before setting off, you should ensure that you have planned your route and allowed sufficient time. By avoiding busy times you are not adding to traffic congestion. You will also use less fuel and have a less stressful journey.

Highway code rule: 97.

#21: You are travelling along a motorway. Which sign indicates reduced visibility ahead?

Reduced visibility ahead. Amber flashing lights may indicate a temporary maximum speed limit, lanes that are closed or a message such as Fog.

Highway code rule: 257.

#22: This sign indicates a mandatory cycle lane. It shows no hours of operation. What does it mean?

It is only in operation during daytime It is in operation at all times It is not in operation at all It is only in operation during peak hours

When hours of operation are not shown the lane is in operation at all times.

Highway code rule: 140.

#23: You are keeping a steady speed of 55 mph. What should you do when you approach this road sign?

Take the next right turn Maintain your speed Reduce your speed Take the next left turn

Staggered junction ahead.

Driving at speeds too fast for the road and traffic conditions is dangerous. You should always reduce your speed when the road layout or condition presents hazards.

Highway code rules: 125, 146.

#24: You are driving at 50 mph. Road conditions are ideal. Your overall stopping distance is approximately

122 metres (400 feet) 53 metres (175 feet) 12 metres (39 feet) 260 metres (853 feet)

Typical stopping distances are for general information only. The stopping distance will depend on your attention (thinking distance), the road surface, weather conditions, and the condition of your car.

Highway code rule: 126.

#25: When turning right across a line of slow-moving or stationary traffic, you should be especially alert for:

Cyclists and motorcyclists Police patrols Lorries with a heavy load Horse riders

When turning right across a line of slow-moving or stationary traffic, look out for cyclists or motorcyclists on the inside of the traffic you are crossing. Be especially careful when turning, and when changing direction or lane. Be sure to check mirrors and blind spots carefully.

Highway code rules: 170, 211, 212.

#26: Which of the following road users are most vulnerable?

Horse riders Police patrols Lorry drivers Drivers of small cars

The most vulnerable road users are pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders.

Highway code rule: 204.

#27: You are towing a caravan along a motorway. The caravan begins to swerve from side to side. What is the best thing to do?

Brake hard and firm Move closer to the centre of the road Ease off the accelerator and slow down gently Steer off the road

Ease off the accelerator and reduce speed gently to regain control. Braking or steering heavily can make matters worse.

To avoid swerving or snaking, you should properly distribute the weight in your caravan or trailer with heavy items mainly over the axle(s).

Highway code rule: 98.

#28: You are approaching a motorcycle from behind. Which sign tells you to use extra caution in this situation?

Side winds can suddenly move a motorcycle from one side of the lane to the other. If you are following a motorcycle in this situation give yourself extra room to account for the unexpected movements of the cycle. The side winds sign is used where vehicles are suddenly exposed to risk from strong winds. Such locations may include exposed bridges or places where vehicles emerge from cuttings in areas which are particularly prone to high winds.

#29: Which of the following is most likely to take an unusual course at roundabouts?

A milk float A fast sports car A horse rider A delivery van

Give plenty of room to cyclists and horse riders who may stay in the left-hand lane and signal right if they intend to continue round the roundabout. Allow them to do so.

Highway code rule: 187.

#30: The hard shoulder of a motorway could be used for:

Leaving the motorway Joining the motorway Stopping in an emergency Stopping when you are tired

You may only stop in an emergency or breakdown.

Do not stop on the hard shoulder to either make or receive mobile phone calls.

Highway code rules: 269, 270.

#31: What is the national speed limit for cars and motorcycles in built-up areas?

50 mph 60 mph 40 mph 30 mph

National speed limits for cars and motorcycles are: 30 mph (48 km/h) in built-up areas, 60 mph (96 km/h) on single carriageways, and 70 mph (112 km/h) on dual carriageways and motorways.

The 30 mph limit usually applies to all traffic on all roads with street lighting unless signs show otherwise.

Highway code rules: 124, 125.

#32: When this line is painted along the centre of the road it is a:

Bus lane marking Cycle lane marking Hazard warning Give way marking

Where forward visibility is restricted or on the approach to some other hazard, the centre line marking lengthens and the gaps shorten. It means that there is a hazard ahead

Highway code rule: 127.

#33: Signs have different colours and shapes for easy identification. What is the background colour on a tourist destination sign like this?

Brown Yellow Green Blue

Tourist destinations are shown on signs with brown backgrounds.

#34: Who must give way on a road with this sign?

Oncoming traffic Traffic facing the sign

Priority must be given to vehicles from the opposite direction on a narrow length of road.

#35: Your vehicle is fitted with anti-lock brakes. When pressing firmly on the brake pedal you hear a rumble and the brake pedal vibrates. What should you do?

Immediately remove your foot from the brake pedal Keep firm pressure on the brake pedal Start pumping the brake pedal Apply the handbrake

When the ABS engages, you may hear a rumble from the brakes and the brake pedal will vibrate under your foot. Resist the temptation to take your foot off the brake when ABS is engaged. Removing firm pressure from the brake pedal or pumping the brakes will disengage or turn off the ABS.

Highway code rule: 120.

#36: While driving, this warning light on your instrument panel comes on. What should you do?

Continue quickly to your local garage Continue with your full beam headlights on Stop and investigate the problem Switch off all lights and reduce speed

Make sure that you understand the meaning of all warning displays on the vehicle instrument panel. An exclamation mark in a circle could indicate that there is a fault within the braking system.

#37: You are feeling tired when driving. You decide to find a safe place to stop. Until you can stop and rest it is a good idea to:

Increase speed to find a rest area quickly Open a window to get fresh air Decrease your speed by half Keep your eyes still and focused

Open a window to increase fresh airflow. It may help you stay alert until you can stop and rest.

Highway code rules: 91, 262.

#38: Another road user drives up by your side and behaves aggressively. It may be a good idea to do the following, except:

Keep calm Avoid eye contact Speed up and block the way Give them room

Do not make the situation worse. Try to be understanding if other road users cause problems. Do not allow yourself to become agitated or involved if someone is behaving badly on the road.

Highway code rule: 147.

#39: You are driving on a narrow road and holding up a long queue of traffic. What should you do?

Maintain a steady course and speed Put on your hazard warning lights Pull over, where safe, and let others pass Make room by driving on the hard shoulder

Do not hold up a long queue of traffic, especially if you are driving a large or slow-moving vehicle. Check your mirrors frequently, and if necessary, pull in where it is safe and let traffic pass.

Failure to pull over when you have a long queue of traffic behind you could constitute an offence of inconsiderate driving.

Highway code rule: 169.

#40: What does this sign mean?

T-junction Staggered junction Double bend Crossroads

Crossroads sign.

Take extra care at road junctions. Make sure there are no vehicles about to cross your path.

#41: You are following a moped. You wish to turn left just ahead. You should:

Use your horn and carefully overtake the moped before the junction Stay behind until the moped has passed the junction Pull alongside the moped and stay level until after the junction Go around the moped on the junction

Do not overtake just before you turn left and watch out for traffic coming up on your left before you make the turn.

Highway code rules: 182, 212.

#42: A speed limit sign like this may be placed ahead of what?

Staggered crossroads Road works Bus lanes Low bridges

Where a mandatory speed limit is imposed at a road works site, advance warning may be given, especially on motorways and high-speed dual carriageway roads.

#43: On right-hand bends you should:

Keep well to the right Keep well to the left Position in the centre of the road

Keep well to the left on right-hand bends. This will improve your view of the road and help avoid the risk of colliding with traffic approaching from the opposite direction.

Highway code rule: 160.

#44: Powered vehicles, such as wheelchairs or scooters, used by disabled people have a maximum speed of

36 mph 24 mph 16 mph 8 mph

These small vehicles travel at a maximum speed of 8 mph (12 km/h).

Highway code rule: 220.

#45: Red reflective road studs mark:

The right-hand edge of the road The left-hand edge of the road A slip road or exit Driving lanes going in the same direction

Red studs mark the left edge of the road. White studs mark the lanes or the middle of the road.

If you see red studs on your right and white studs on your left, you are going the wrong way.

Highway code rule: 132.

#46: When joining a motorway it is important to make full use of the slip road. Why is this?

To be able to turn round if you need to To see and to be seen by others To build up a speed To access to the overtaking lanes directly

Use the slip road (acceleration lane) to build up speed. Check the traffic on the motorway and match your speed to fit safely into the traffic flow in the left-hand lane.

Highway code rule: 259.

#47: Near schools, you should:

Come to a full stop at all crossings Speed up to clear the area quickly Drive slowly and be particularly aware of young cyclists and pedestrians Keep up your speed and sound the horn

Drive slowly and be particularly aware of young cyclists and pedestrians.

Highway code rule: 208.

#48: When must you stop on a motorway?

When your mobile phone rings When signalled by another driver When red lights show above every lane When you are tired and need a rest

You MUST NOT stop except in an emergency, when told to do so by the police or HA traffic officers, or when red lights on the overhead signals flash above all lanes.

Highway code rule: 270.

#49: You approach this road sign. What should you expect ahead?

A humpback bridge Road humps Road works A tunnel entrance

Traffic calming schemes can employ a variety of measures, including road humps and narrowings. Warning signs often indicate the type of measure to be expected.

Highway code rule: 153.

#50: When you approach traffic signal with a steady red light:

After stopping, you may turn right You must always stop completely After stopping, you may turn left

A red traffic signal means Stop. Wait behind the stop line on the carriageway.

Highway code rules: 175, 176, 109.

Continue

Rethink Your Weaknesses and Identify Your Areas for Improvement

This mock test is a full-length car theory test with 50 questions and answers, randomly drawn from a pool of 100 questions. You’ll find the answers at the end of the test.

Topics You Should Focus on

The car theory questions picked for our mock tests cover all areas of the DVSA examination. They help you find your weaknesses and help you determine if you are ready for the final exam or not.

If you are uncertain about answers or miss 8 or more questions, start by identifying your weaknesses. There are always areas that we more or less about.

If you don’t really know your weak spots, look at these three major topics:

Vulnerable road users: Most accidents happen at junctions. Vulnerable road users like children, pedestrians, older or disabled people, cyclists and motorcyclists are often involved. You must be aware the risks and what you can do to avoid accidents.
Give Way: Understand that laws don’t give you the right of way in any situation. They only advise you when you should give way to others. Signalling and other proper actions at junctions are extremely important. Learn how to read different situations when you get reach a junction or roundabout.
Fit to Drive: A driver must always be fit to drive when he or she is behind the wheel. It is your responsibility to make sure that you are fit to drive safely. Understand that medical conditions, alcohol, drugs, and even emotions can negatively affect your driving. It all boils down to that you need to protect yourself, your passengers, and other road users.

Next Step: Scan the Highway Code

Look at the three topics above and scan the Highway Code for every rule that fits into these the categories. How many can you find? What do you think that DVSA is likely to ask on an exam that covers these topics. Write down your own questions and answers.

This is strategic learning. You should now be off to a good start for passing the next mock test.