UK Driving Theory Questions Test 7

Since June 2018, learner drivers have been permitted to drive on motorways in England, Scotland and Wales, provided they are accompanied by an approved driving instructor in a vehicle with dual controls. A qualified driver who is not an ADI cannot supervise a learner on a motorway.

A speed limit displayed inside a red circle on a motorway overhead gantry sign is a mandatory speed limit and is legally enforceable. You must not exceed this limit. This differs from an advisory speed shown without a red circle, which is a recommendation only.

At 60 mph the thinking distance is 18 metres and the braking distance is 55 metres, giving a total stopping distance of 73 metres. This is equivalent to approximately 18 car lengths and is a commonly tested figure in the DVSA theory test.

In wet conditions, stopping distances at least double compared to dry roads. This is because water reduces tyre grip on the road surface. Drivers must increase their following distance significantly and reduce speed to maintain safe stopping distances.

At 70 mph the thinking distance is 21 metres. This is the distance your vehicle travels from the moment you see a hazard to the moment you begin to apply the brakes. Combined with the braking distance of 75 metres, the total stopping distance at 70 mph is 96 metres.

When your view is obstructed at a junction, you should edge forward very slowly in short movements until you can see clearly in both directions. Pulling out quickly or relying on others to warn you is dangerous. Take time to build up a full picture of the traffic situation.

A red triangular sign with two circular arrows warns of a roundabout ahead. It gives drivers advance notice so they can reduce speed, select the correct lane, and be prepared to give way to traffic already on the roundabout.

A red triangular sign with a flame symbol warns of a risk of fire ahead, typically near fuel stations, chemical plants, or areas where flammable materials are present. Drivers should reduce speed and avoid any actions that could cause a spark, such as smoking.

The only truly effective remedy for tiredness while driving is rest. Opening a window or turning up the radio provides only a very brief and temporary effect. The recommended approach is to stop at a safe location, consume two cups of coffee or a high-caffeine drink, and rest for at least 15 minutes.

The Highway Code updated in January 2022 states that drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking a cyclist at speeds up to 30 mph. At higher speeds more space should be given. This rule was introduced to reduce the number of cyclists killed and seriously injured on UK roads.

A blue rectangular sign with a white M indicates the start of a motorway. This sign informs drivers that motorway regulations now apply, including the prohibition on learner drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and motorcycles under 50cc. The national speed limit of 70 mph applies unless otherwise signed.

A red circle with a bicycle symbol is a prohibition sign meaning cyclists are not permitted to use that road or area. All red circle signs are mandatory prohibitions. This sign is commonly found at the entrance to motorways or pedestrianised zones.

When towing a trailer or caravan, the maximum permitted speed on a single carriageway road is 50 mph, not the normal 60 mph national speed limit. This lower limit exists because towing significantly increases stopping distances and affects vehicle stability at higher speeds.

Flashing amber beacons are used by vehicles that are required to travel slowly or may cause an obstruction, such as road maintenance vehicles, refuse trucks, tractors, and abnormal load vehicles. They warn other drivers to approach with caution and be prepared to slow down or stop.

When parked facing downhill, you should turn your front wheels toward the kerb. This means that if the handbrake fails, the vehicle will roll into the kerb rather than into the road. This is standard practice for safe parking on any gradient.

In icy conditions, braking should be done gently and progressively with light pressure on the brake pedal. Harsh braking locks the wheels immediately on ice, causing a skid. You should brake early, use engine braking by selecting a lower gear, and allow much greater stopping distances.

Even after passing the horse, you should not accelerate sharply as the noise of a revving engine can cause the horse to bolt suddenly. Drive slowly and quietly until you are well past the horse and rider and can no longer cause a disturbance, then accelerate gently.

A distracted pedestrian is a significant hazard. You should slow down and be prepared to stop, even if the pedestrian does not appear to be stepping further into the road. Their attention is elsewhere and they may move unpredictably without checking for traffic.

20 mph speed limits are most commonly found in residential areas, near schools, and in town centres where pedestrian activity is high. They are mandatory limits enforced by law and must be observed at all times regardless of road conditions.

The minimum age to drive a car on a public road in the UK is 17 years old. The only exception is for recipients of the higher rate mobility component of the Personal Independence Payment, who may drive at 16.

When the continuous white line is on your side of the road, you must not cross or straddle it to overtake. You may cross it to turn into a property, pass a stationary obstruction, or if directed by a police officer, but never to overtake another moving vehicle.

When a vehicle ahead stops to turn right, you should check your mirrors, signal left if safe, and pass on the left if there is sufficient room. You must not attempt to pass on the right as this puts you in the path of oncoming traffic that the turning vehicle is waiting for.

When a vehicle is merging from a slip road, you should check your mirrors and, if safe, move to the middle lane to allow the merging vehicle space to join. If you cannot move over, maintain your speed and position but be prepared to adjust slightly to assist the merging driver.

Stopping distance is the total distance a vehicle travels from the moment a hazard is seen to the moment the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It combines thinking distance — the distance covered while reacting — and braking distance — the distance covered while the brakes are applied.

Full beam headlights should not be used in built-up areas where street lighting is present, as they can dazzle other road users. Full beam is appropriate on unlit rural roads when no other vehicles are present. You must always dip when meeting or following another vehicle.