Road and traffic signs questions Motorcycle theory test
This topic has 135 practice questions. Here are 10 of them with the right answer and why.
When should you use your vehicle's horn?
- To alert others to your presenceRight answer
- To allow you right of way
- To greet other road users
- To signal your annoyance
You must not use your vehicle's horn between 11:30pm and 7am in a built-up area or when you're stationary, unless a moving vehicle poses a danger. Its function is to alert other road users to your presence.
How should you give an arm signal to turn left?
Right answer
Arm signals can be effective during daylight, especially when you're wearing bright clothing. Practise giving arm signals when you're learning. You need to be able to keep full control of your motorcycle with one hand off the handlebars.
You're giving an arm signal, ready to turn left. Why should you return your hand to the handlebars while you turn?
- Because you might hit a pedestrian on the corner
- To help you keep control of the steeringRight answer
- Because you'll need to hold the clutch lever
- To stop other motorists thinking that you're stopping on the corner
Consider giving an arm signal if it will help other road users; for example, in bright sunshine, when your indicators may be difficult to see. Do not maintain an arm signal when turning, but return your hand to the handlebars to help you steer through the turn.
What does this sign mean?
- Side windsRight answer
- Airport
- Slippery road
- Service area
Side winds can suddenly blow you off course. Keep your speed down when it’s very windy, especially on exposed roads.
Which of these signs are you allowed to ride past on a solo motorcycle?
Right answer
Most regulatory signs are circular. A red circle tells you what you must not do.
Which arm signal shows you're slowing or stopping your motorcycle?
Right answer
Arm signals can be given to reinforce your flashing indicators, especially if the indicator signal could cause confusion; for example, if you intend to pull up close to a side road.
Why should you make sure that you cancel your motorcycle's indicators after you've turned at a junction?
- To avoid flattening the battery
- To avoid misleading other road usersRight answer
- To avoid dazzling other road users
- To avoid damage to the indicator relay
Always check that you've cancelled your indicators after turning. Failing to cancel your indicators could lead to a serious or even fatal collision. Other road users might pull out in front of you if they think you're going to turn off before you reach them.
Your indicators are difficult to see due to bright sunshine. What could you do to let other road users know your intentions?
- Give an arm signalRight answer
- Sound your horn
- Flash your headlights
- Keep both hands on the handlebars
Arm signals can be used to confirm your intentions when you’re not sure that your indicators can be seen by other road users. Use the signals shown in The Highway Code and return your hand to the handlebars before you turn.
You're riding on a motorway. What should you do if there's a slow-moving vehicle ahead with this sign displayed?
- Pass on the right
- Pass on the leftRight answer
- Leave at the next exit
- Drive no further
If this vehicle is in your lane, you'll have to move to the left. Use your mirrors and signal if necessary. When it’s safe, move into the lane on your left. You should always look well ahead so that you can spot such hazards early, giving yourself time to react safely.
How can you identify traffic signs that give orders?
- They're rectangular with a yellow border
- They're triangular with a blue border
- They're square with a brown border
- They're circular with a red borderRight answer
There are 3 basic types of traffic sign: those that warn, those that inform and those that give orders. Generally, triangular signs warn, rectangular signs give information or directions and circular signs give orders. An exception is the eight-sided 'stop' sign.