GDL Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield GDL facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What do orange signs primarily indicate on US roads? → Construction or work zones with temporary traffic control
2. A GDL driver notices the road surface appears shiny under streetlights on a night above freezing. This most likely indicates: → A wet road or possible freezing rain coating
3. A GDL driver approaches an intersection with a flashing red light. What must the driver do? → Treat it as a stop sign: come to a complete stop, then proceed when safe
4. To obtain a Basic Driver’s License in the Early Bird Road, you must: → do all of the above.
5. Which color are highway guide signs that display route numbers and distance information? → Green
6. A GDL intermediate-license holder driving solo on a freeway is stopped by police at 11 PM. What primary violation may be cited? → Driving under the GDL nighttime curfew restriction
7. Special Learner Permits and Examination Permits are valid until all qualifications for a Probationary License are met, or for _______, whichever occurs first. → 2 years
8. How much can wet pavement increase a vehicle's stopping distance compared to dry pavement? → About 50–100%
9. What is the recommended following distance for a new GDL driver travelling at highway speeds? → At least 3–4 seconds
10. Under most Graduated Driver License (GDL) programs, which of the following is a common restriction for drivers holding an intermediate license? → Restrictions on driving during late-night hours.
11. Under GDL rules, if a new driver is too nervous to merge onto a busy freeway during supervised practice, what should the supervising adult do? → Calmly guide the driver through the steps and, if unsafe, have them use an alternate route
12. Which of the following best describes a common GDL speed restriction for novice drivers on high-speed roadways? → Some states cap intermediate-license drivers at 65 mph on freeways
13. A GDL permit holder sees a pentagon-shaped yellow sign with a child-crossing symbol. What action is required? → Slow down and be prepared to yield to children crossing
14. To participate in the GDL program, you must have __________ if you are under 18 years of age. → consent from a parent or guardian
15. When driving in fog, a new driver should use: → Low-beam headlights or fog lights
16. A GDL driver's vehicle has a tire blowout at freeway speed. What is the first recommended action? → Grip the steering wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and steer straight
17. How should a GDL driver adjust their speed in work zones during wet weather? → Reduce speed below the posted work zone limit due to the combined hazards
18. What is the primary reason for passenger restrictions under most Graduated Driver License (GDL) programs? → To minimize distractions for new and inexperienced drivers.
19. What role does tire tread depth play in adverse weather driving for GDL holders? → Worn tires reduce water channeling ability and dramatically increase hydroplaning risk
20. A GDL intermediate driver wants to practice driving in heavy snow. Under most state GDL laws, what is required? → A licensed adult supervisor must be present during all adverse weather practice
21. A Special Learner permit holder may not drive: → between 11:01 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
22. When driving in heavy rain, a GDL driver should: → Slow down and turn on headlights
23. To get a Probationary License in the Early Bird Road, you must: → do all of the above.
24. In the GDL program, there are three paths to obtaining a basic driver’s license, depending on your age: → the Early Bird Road, the Young Adult Road, and the Adult Road.
25. When driving on a wet road, a new GDL driver should increase their following distance to at least how many seconds? → 4–5 seconds
26. What is the standard penalty for a first-time violation of any GDL restriction, such as the driving curfew or passenger limits? → A $100 fine.
27. A 17-year-old with a probationary license needs to drive home from a religious event that ends at 11:30 p.m. What must they do to be exempt from the GDL curfew? → Carry legible documentation from the religious institution on official letterhead.
28. Which of the following is a mandatory requirement for a vehicle being driven by a person with a GDL permit or probationary license in New Jersey? → Displaying two red, reflective decals on the front and rear license plates.
29. The Adult Road of the GDL has ____ steps. → 5
30. What shape and color is a standard US regulatory sign that GDL drivers must obey immediately, such as a STOP sign? → Red octagon