Rules of the Road (Highway Code) Flashcards
6 cards from real DVSA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Rules of the Road (Highway Code) flashcards as text
What is the legal minimum tread depth for car tyres in the UK?
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.
When must you use dipped headlights?
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.
A pelican crossing differs from a puffin crossing because:
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.
What is the maximum fine for using a handheld mobile phone while driving?
Answer: £1,000 and 6 penalty points
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving can result in a fixed penalty of £200 and 6 penalty points. However, if the case goes to court, the maximum fine is £1,000 (£2,500 for lorry or bus drivers) and you could be disqualified from driving.
You are waiting at a junction and see a vehicle with a flashing green beacon. What does this indicate?
Answer: A doctor on an emergency call
A flashing green beacon on a vehicle indicates a doctor on an emergency call. While they do not have the same legal exemptions as blue-light emergency vehicles, you should treat them with consideration and allow them to pass where safe.
When driving in the left-hand lane on a three-lane motorway, you see a vehicle broken down on the hard shoulder. What should you do?
Answer: Move to the middle lane if it is safe to do so
If you see a vehicle on the hard shoulder, you should move over to the next lane if it is safe, to give them more space. This follows the principle of creating a safety buffer and is recommended in the Highway Code.