DTT Rules of the Road 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the rule for driving on the hard shoulder of a motorway in Ireland?
- Only use it in an emergency or if directed by signs or Gardaí (Correct answer)
- You may use it to avoid congestion
- Cyclists and slow vehicles must use it
- It may be used between 10pm and 6am
Correct answer: Only use it in an emergency or if directed by signs or Gardaí
The hard shoulder on a motorway is reserved for emergencies, breakdowns, and when directed by signs or a Garda. Using it to avoid traffic is illegal.
Question 2: What must a driver do when an emergency vehicle with lights and sirens approaches from behind?
- Move safely to the left and allow it to pass (Correct answer)
- Accelerate to clear the road ahead
- Stop immediately wherever you are
- Maintain speed and let it manoeuvre around you
Correct answer: Move safely to the left and allow it to pass
When an emergency vehicle with flashing lights and sirens approaches, you must move safely to the left to let it pass. Do not panic, but act promptly without endangering others.
Question 3: What is 'tailgating' and why is it dangerous?
- Following too closely, reducing reaction time and stopping distance (Correct answer)
- Overtaking too quickly on a motorway
- Driving with rear fog lights on unnecessarily
- Signalling too late before a turn
Correct answer: Following too closely, reducing reaction time and stopping distance
Tailgating means following another vehicle too closely. It dramatically reduces the time and distance available to react and stop if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly.
Question 4: In Ireland, at what age may a person apply for a learner permit to drive a Category B car?
- 17 years old (Correct answer)
- 16 years old
- 18 years old
- 15 years old
Correct answer: 17 years old
You must be at least 17 years old to apply for a Category B (car) learner permit in Ireland. You must also pass the Driver Theory Test before applying.
Question 5: What is the legal requirement for a learner driver (Category B) on Irish public roads?
- Must be accompanied by a qualified driver with 2+ years full licence (Correct answer)
- May drive alone but must display L plates
- Must have completed 6 EDT lessons before driving solo
- Must use an approved driving instructor only
Correct answer: Must be accompanied by a qualified driver with 2+ years full licence
A Category B learner driver must be accompanied at all times by a fully licensed driver who has held a full licence for at least 2 years. L plates must also be displayed.
Question 6: What does a green traffic light mean?
- You may proceed if it is safe to do so (Correct answer)
- You have absolute right of way and must proceed
- Pedestrians may not cross
- Speed up to clear the junction
Correct answer: You may proceed if it is safe to do so
A green light permits you to proceed, but you must still ensure it is safe before doing so. You do not have an absolute right to proceed — other road users may still be in the junction.
DTT Rules of the Road 4
What is the rule for driving on the hard shoulder of a motorway in Ireland?