RSA Driver Theory Test (Category B) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What should a driver do when driving on a wide road behind a vehicle that has signalled to turn right ahead?

Overtake on the left, but only if turning left a short distance ahead.
Overtake on the left-hand side and carry on. (Correct answer)
Overtake on the right-hand side and carry on.
Stay behind and tap the brakes to signal other drivers to slow down.

Correct answer: Overtake on the left-hand side and carry on.

If a vehicle ahead is signalling to turn right and there is sufficient clear space on its left on a wide road, it is generally permissible and often safer to overtake on the left. This allows the turning vehicle to complete its manoeuvre without obstruction and helps maintain traffic flow. However, this action must only be taken if there is ample room and it is entirely safe, without entering a bus or cycle lane.

Question 2: When should signals (for example, with indicators) be given to other road users?

Only when it is necessary to warn following traffic.
Clearly and in good time to let other road users know your intentions. (Correct answer)
Only when it is necessary to warn oncoming traffic.
Except where road markings indicate your direction.

Correct answer: Clearly and in good time to let other road users know your intentions.

Signals are vital for communication on the road, informing other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians of your planned actions. Giving clear and timely signals allows others to anticipate your movements and react accordingly, preventing confusion and reducing the risk of collisions. This promotes a safer and more predictable driving environment for everyone.

Question 3: What should a driver do when approaching a junction normally controlled by traffic lights and the traffic lights are not lighting?

Switch on the hazard warning lights and drive on.
Drive smartly through the junction to avoid delay.
Treat the junction as an unmarked junction and proceed cautiously while watching out for other traffic. (Correct answer)
Stop at the junction and give way to traffic on your left.

Correct answer: Treat the junction as an unmarked junction and proceed cautiously while watching out for other traffic.

When traffic lights at a junction are not working, the junction becomes uncontrolled. Drivers must treat it as an unmarked junction, exercising extreme caution, reducing speed, and being prepared to give way to traffic from all directions. Vigilance is key to navigating such a situation safely.

Question 4: What should the driver do?

The driver does not need to signal.
The driver should allow the cyclist to turn.
The driver should allow the yellow car to proceed. (Correct answer)
The driver may cross the junction first.

Correct answer: The driver should allow the yellow car to proceed.

At a junction, drivers must yield to vehicles that have the right of way. This typically includes traffic already on the main road or approaching from the right at an uncontrolled junction. In this scenario, the yellow car appears to have priority, so the driver must wait for it to proceed safely.

Question 5: What does using the vehicle’s hazard warning lights allow a driver to do?

To double-park when making a delivery
To warn other road users that the vehicle is broken down. (Correct answer)
To stop on a clearway to let out a passenger.
To park on a double-yellow line.

Correct answer: To warn other road users that the vehicle is broken down.

Hazard warning lights are specifically designed to signal to other road users that your vehicle is temporarily posing a hazard. Their primary purpose is to warn others that your vehicle is broken down, stationary, or moving unusually slowly, indicating a potential danger. Misusing them for parking or other non-emergency situations can confuse other drivers and reduce their effectiveness when truly needed.

Question 6: What should a driver do before turning right from a major road into a minor road?

Stop and signal traffic to exit left from the minor road.
Turn in front of oncoming traffic as it must give right-of-way to you.
Stop and signal traffic to exit right from the minor road.
Yield right of way to oncoming traffic and to pedestrians crossing at the junction. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Yield right of way to oncoming traffic and to pedestrians crossing at the junction.

Before turning right from a major road into a minor road, a driver must yield right of way to both oncoming traffic and pedestrians crossing at the junction. Turning right involves crossing the path of oncoming vehicles, which have priority, and pedestrians who may be using the crossing. This ensures the safety of all road users and prevents collisions.

Question 7: What effect could incorrectly aligned headlights have?

They could reduce battery life.
They could dazzle oncoming drivers. (Correct answer)
They could wear out the bulbs prematurely.
They could cause a fire.

Correct answer: They could dazzle oncoming drivers.

Incorrectly aligned headlights, particularly if pointing too high, can shine directly into the eyes of oncoming drivers. This can cause severe glare or temporary blindness, significantly impairing their vision and increasing the risk of a collision. Proper headlight alignment is crucial for road safety, ensuring adequate illumination for the driver without dazzling others.

Question 8: At road junctions, what type of road users are particularly vulnerable?

Minibus or van drivers.
Motorcyclists. (Correct answer)
Tractor drivers.
Car drivers.

Correct answer: Motorcyclists.

At road junctions, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable road users. Their smaller size makes them less visible to other drivers, especially when turning or changing lanes, leading to the 'looked but failed to see' phenomenon. Additionally, motorcyclists have no protective shell like car drivers, making them highly susceptible to serious injury in a collision.

Question 9: When should tyre pressure be checked?

When the tyres are cold. (Correct answer)
When the vehicle is unladen.
When the vehicle is loaded.
When the tyres are hot.

Correct answer: When the tyres are cold.

Tyre pressure should always be checked when the tyres are cold, meaning they haven't been driven for at least a few hours or for more than a couple of kilometres. Driving heats up the tyres, causing the air inside to expand and temporarily increase the pressure. Checking them cold ensures an accurate reading against the manufacturer's recommended pressure, which is specified for cold tyres.

Question 10: What should a driver be aware of before crossing railway or tram lines?

There may be an uneven surface and tyre grip may be reduced when crossing. (Correct answer)
Tyre grip may be improved crossing the rails.
The wheels may become caught in the rails.
Oncoming trains.

Correct answer: There may be an uneven surface and tyre grip may be reduced when crossing.

Railway or tram lines often create an uneven surface and can be slippery, especially when wet. The metal rails themselves offer poor grip, and wheels can get caught if not crossed at a suitable angle. Drivers should approach with caution, reduce speed, and cross at a near right angle if possible to maintain control.

Question 11: What should the driver do when there is a sharp dip in the road ahead?

Flash your lights to warn oncoming drivers of your presence.
Increase your speed.
Move to the centre of the road in order to avoid a vehicle that may be parked on the left.
Reduce your speed, keep to the left and be alert for hazards ahead. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Reduce your speed, keep to the left and be alert for hazards ahead.

A sharp dip in the road can obscure visibility of oncoming traffic or hazards beyond the dip. Reducing speed allows more time to react, keeping to the left maintains safe road positioning, and being alert ensures readiness for any unexpected situations. This is crucial for maintaining control and safety.

Question 12: What should a driver do if a tyre bursts on the vehicle they are driving?

Brake as quickly as possible.
Hold the steering wheel firmly and pull in on the side of the road. (Correct answer)
Pull on the handbrake.
Continue on at a normal speed.

Correct answer: Hold the steering wheel firmly and pull in on the side of the road.

A tyre burst can cause a sudden and violent pull on the steering wheel, making the vehicle difficult to control. Holding the steering wheel firmly helps maintain control, while gradually easing off the accelerator and steering to the side of the road allows for a controlled stop. Sudden braking could worsen the instability.

Question 13: What may the hard shoulder of a motorway be used for?

Stopping in an emergency. (Correct answer)
Exiting the motorway.
Stopping the vehicle so the driver can have a rest.
Stopping to receive a call on a mobile phone.

Correct answer: Stopping in an emergency.

The hard shoulder on a motorway is strictly reserved for emergencies only, such as a vehicle breakdown, medical emergency, or if instructed by emergency services. It is not to be used for non-emergency stops like making a phone call, resting, or exiting the motorway, as stopping there unnecessarily poses a significant risk to safety.

Question 14: What lights should a driver use in a fog?

Just normal lights.
Dipped headlights.
Front and rear fog lights along with dipped headlights. (Correct answer)
Front and rear fog lights .

Correct answer: Front and rear fog lights along with dipped headlights.

In fog, visibility is severely reduced, making it crucial to use appropriate lighting to see and be seen. Dipped headlights illuminate the road ahead without dazzling others, while front and rear fog lights are specifically designed to penetrate fog and make your vehicle visible from both directions. Using all three maximizes safety in these hazardous conditions.

Question 15: At traffic lights, a driver should take particular care for which road users coming up on the left?

Cyclists. (Correct answer)
Buses or vans.
Tractors.
Cars.

Correct answer: Cyclists.

Cyclists often filter through traffic on the left side, making them less visible to drivers, especially when a driver intends to turn left. Drivers must always check their left blind spot and mirrors at traffic lights to avoid colliding with cyclists who may be alongside or approaching.

Question 16: What should someone do before checking the engine oil level on a vehicle?

Make sure that the engine is switched off. (Correct answer)
Make sure that the engine is hot.
Make sure that the engine is running.
Make sure that the engine is cold.

Correct answer: Make sure that the engine is switched off.

For an accurate engine oil level reading, the engine must be switched off and allowed to cool for several minutes. This allows all the oil to drain back into the oil pan. Checking the oil while the engine is running or immediately after it has been running will result in an inaccurate, typically lower, reading.

Question 17: What does this sign mean?

Stop, for school crossing ahead.
Other traffic must give way to you.
Stop your vehicle. (Correct answer)
Give way to traffic coming from your right.

Correct answer: Stop your vehicle.

This sign, a red octagon with the word 'STOP' in white, is a universal regulatory sign. It means that drivers must bring their vehicle to a complete halt before proceeding. This is a mandatory instruction to ensure safety at junctions or crossings.

Question 18: What should a driver do on a narrow road when another vehicle is coming in the opposite direction?

Maintain its position and expect the other vehicle to move over if necessary.
Reduce speed and allow reasonable clearance between their vehicle and the oncoming one before proceeding. (Correct answer)
Expect the other driver to pull off the road.
Drive along the middle of the road to encourage other drives to pull in.

Correct answer: Reduce speed and allow reasonable clearance between their vehicle and the oncoming one before proceeding.

On narrow roads, safety and courtesy are paramount. Reducing speed and allowing sufficient clearance prevents collisions and shows consideration for other road users, ensuring a smooth and safe passage for both vehicles. This approach prioritizes safety over asserting right-of-way, minimizing risk for everyone.

Question 19: What does this sign mean?

Pedestrians cross to the right. (Correct answer)
Pedestrianised street to the right.
Do not drive on the footpath.
Shopping mall on the right.

Correct answer: Pedestrians cross to the right.

This blue directional sign provides information specifically for pedestrians. The symbol of a person walking combined with the arrow pointing right indicates that pedestrians should cross the road or proceed in that direction. It guides pedestrians to a designated crossing point or path.

Question 20: What does this road marking mean?

You may not overtake.
A driver must not cross the broken white line unless it is safe to do so. (Correct answer)
You may not perform a reverse maneuver.
You may overtake provided you do not cross the broken white line.

Correct answer: A driver must not cross the broken white line unless it is safe to do so.

A broken white line in the center of the road indicates that it is permissible to cross it, for example, to overtake or turn, provided it is safe to do so. Drivers must ensure there is no oncoming traffic and that they have sufficient clear road ahead before crossing. This marking allows for flexibility in traffic movement where visibility and road conditions permit.

Question 21: A solid white 'STOP' line painted across the road at a junction in Ireland means you must:

Stop only if traffic is present
Give way but do not stop unless necessary
Come to a complete stop before the line (Correct answer)
Slow to 10 km/h and proceed if clear

Correct answer: Come to a complete stop before the line

A solid STOP line means drivers must bring their vehicle to a complete stop before the line, regardless of whether other traffic is visible.

Question 22: What can be affected by driving on under-inflated tyres?

Oil pressure.
The exhaust system.
Braking ability. (Correct answer)
Improve braking ability.

Correct answer: Braking ability.

Under-inflated tyres have a distorted contact patch with the road, which significantly reduces the grip and stability required for effective braking. This can lead to increased stopping distances and make the vehicle less stable during emergency braking maneuvers. Maintaining correct tyre pressure is crucial for optimal braking performance and overall road safety.

Question 23: What danger should a driver allow for over the brow of this hill?

A high-sided vehicle may be oncoming.
There may be no road markings.
Speed cameras may be in operation.
There may be oncoming pedestrians. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: There may be oncoming pedestrians.

Approaching the brow of a hill restricts your view of the road ahead, creating a blind spot. Pedestrians, particularly in rural or residential areas, may be walking on the road or verge and could suddenly become visible. Drivers must reduce speed and be prepared to stop to ensure the safety of any unseen pedestrians who might be on the other side of the hill.

Question 24: What does this light mean?

A faulty number plate light.
The high-beam headlights are switched on. (Correct answer)
The headlights should be dipped.
The reversing light switched on.

Correct answer: The high-beam headlights are switched on.

This blue indicator light, often resembling a headlight with beams extending forward, signifies that the vehicle's high-beam (or main-beam) headlights are currently active. High beams provide maximum illumination for driving in unlit areas but must be dipped when encountering other road users to avoid dazzling them and causing a hazard.

Question 25: What should the driver be conscious of in this situation?

The steep incline may cause the vehicle to stall.
The driver allow more clearance than usual and drive on.
The pedestrian may suddenly cross the roadway in front of the vehicle. (Correct answer)
The pedestrians will first allow the vehicle to drive past before crossing the road.

Correct answer: The pedestrian may suddenly cross the roadway in front of the vehicle.

When pedestrians are near the roadway, especially in areas where they might be distracted or act impulsively, drivers must exercise extreme caution. It is crucial to anticipate that a pedestrian, particularly a child, might suddenly step into the road without warning. Being prepared for this allows a driver to react safely and prevent an accident.

Question 26: What is the minimum insurance cover which is required to drive a vehicle on a public road?

Third Party, fire and theft.
Third Party. (Correct answer)
Comprehensive.
Personal accident.

Correct answer: Third Party.

In Ireland, the minimum legal requirement for motor insurance is Third Party cover. This type of insurance protects other road users, their vehicles, and property if you are at fault in an incident. While more comprehensive options like Third Party, Fire and Theft or Comprehensive cover exist, Third Party is the absolute minimum legally mandated.

Question 27: When should children be allowed to drive a tractor?

When it is being driven at very slow speeds and without a front loader.
When it is off public road.
When it is being driven at very slow speeds and not towing a trailer.
Children should never be allowed to drive a tractor. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Children should never be allowed to drive a tractor.

Tractors are powerful and complex machinery, and it is extremely dangerous and illegal for children to operate them under any circumstances. Children lack the physical strength, judgment, and experience required to safely control such a vehicle, whether on or off public roads. Allowing them to drive poses a very high risk of serious injury or fatality.

Question 28: What problem is indicated when wipers suddenly cease to function?

The wiper blades need to be replaced.
The windscreen washer reservoir is dry.
A fuse is blown (Correct answer)
The alternator is faulty.

Correct answer: A fuse is blown

When electrical components like wipers suddenly cease to function, it often indicates a problem with the electrical circuit, most commonly a blown fuse. Fuses are designed to protect electrical systems from overcurrents by breaking the circuit if too much power flows through. Checking and replacing the relevant fuse is usually the first step in diagnosing and fixing such an issue.

Question 29: What does this sign mean?

Building site ahead.
Mud slide ahead.
Roadworks ahead. (Correct answer)
Tree planting ahead.

Correct answer: Roadworks ahead.

This warning sign alerts drivers to upcoming roadworks. It indicates that there may be temporary lane closures, reduced speed limits, uneven surfaces, or workers and machinery on or near the road. Drivers should reduce speed, be extra vigilant, and follow any temporary traffic management instructions.

Question 30: When a driver wishes to drive a vehicle and they are not sure if they are covered by insurance, what should they do?

Check with their local motor taxation office.
Check with their local Garda station.
Only drive it for short distances.
They should not drive until cover is confirmed by their insurance company. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: They should not drive until cover is confirmed by their insurance company.

Driving a vehicle without valid insurance is a serious offense with significant legal consequences, including fines, penalty points, and potential disqualification. It also leaves you personally liable for any damages or injuries in an incident. To avoid these risks, it is essential to confirm your insurance coverage with your insurance company before you begin driving.

Question 31: Why should the valve be replaced when having a tubeless tyre fitted?

To ensure the tyre will stay inflated. (Correct answer)
To ensure that the wheel can be aligned correctly.
To ensure that the wheel nuts can be tightened correctly.
To ensure that the wheel can be balanced correctly.

Correct answer: To ensure the tyre will stay inflated.

When a tubeless tyre is fitted, the valve is a critical component that seals the air inside the tyre. Over time, rubber valves can degrade, crack, or become brittle, leading to slow air leaks and potential tyre deflation. Replacing the valve ensures a proper, airtight seal, preventing air loss and maintaining correct tyre pressure for optimal safety and performance.

Question 32: What effect does carrying a load have on a vehicle’s braking ability?

It reduces the distance required to stop.
It has no effect provided the brakes are in good condition.
It increases the distance required to stop. (Correct answer)
It increases the efficiency of the brakes.

Correct answer: It increases the distance required to stop.

Carrying a load increases the overall mass of the vehicle. According to principles of physics, a greater mass requires more force and therefore a longer distance to decelerate and come to a complete stop. This is because the vehicle's inertia is higher, and the brakes have to work harder to overcome it.

Question 33: On a narrow busy road, what rules apply to pedestrians when walking?

Three abreast.
Walk in single file. (Correct answer)
Not more than two abreast.
Two abreast.

Correct answer: Walk in single file.

On a narrow busy road, pedestrians should walk in single file. This rule minimizes the space occupied on the road, reducing the risk of being struck by passing vehicles. Walking in single file is crucial for safety where space is limited and traffic is heavy, allowing vehicles more room to pass safely.

Question 34: What effect would under-inflated tyres have on a vehicle’s transmission?

It would have no effect on it. (Correct answer)
It would cause the clutch to overheat.
It would be easier to change gears.
It would make it more difficult to change gears.

Correct answer: It would have no effect on it.

Under-inflated tyres primarily affect the vehicle's road holding, braking, fuel consumption, and tyre wear. The transmission system, which is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, operates independently of tyre pressure. Therefore, under-inflated tyres would have no direct effect on the ease or difficulty of changing gears.

Question 35: What is the safest practice when driving on icy roads?

Apply the brakes regularly in order to improve tyre grip.
Accelerate harder using the lower gears.
Drive slower than normal and do not use the brakes.
Drive at a slower speed than usual using gentle acceleration and braking. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Drive at a slower speed than usual using gentle acceleration and braking.

Icy roads drastically reduce tyre grip, significantly increasing the risk of skidding and loss of control. Driving at a slower speed provides more time to react to changing conditions and reduces the impact force if a skid occurs. Gentle acceleration and braking are crucial to prevent sudden weight shifts that can break traction.

Question 36: Is a driver permitted to pick up or set down a passenger on a motorway?

Only when you are within 200 meters of a slip-road.
Only during daylight hours.
Only when you stop on the hard-shoulder.
No. this is not permitted. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: No. this is not permitted.

Motorways are designed for continuous, high-speed traffic flow, and stopping on them, including the hard shoulder, is strictly prohibited except in genuine emergencies or designated service areas. Picking up or setting down passengers would create a significant hazard for both the vehicle and the passengers, disrupting traffic and increasing accident risk.

Question 37: What does this sign mean?

Parking in loading area is not allowed.
Parking of vehicles under the weight shown is not allowed.
Passing other traffic that exceeds the weight shown is prohibited.
Parking of vehicles exceeding the weight shown is not allowed. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Parking of vehicles exceeding the weight shown is not allowed.

The main 'No Parking' sign prohibits parking. The supplementary plate, showing a lorry and '3t,' specifies that this parking prohibition applies to vehicles exceeding 3 tonnes in weight. This means that lighter vehicles may still be permitted to stop or park, but heavier vehicles are specifically restricted from parking in that area due to potential road damage or obstruction.

Question 38: What type of noise might fast cornering create?

Brake squeal.
Exhaust backfire.
Tyre squeal. (Correct answer)
Engine whine.

Correct answer: Tyre squeal.

Fast cornering causes the tyres to lose traction momentarily as they struggle to maintain grip on the road surface. This friction and slippage between the tyre rubber and the road create a distinctive high-pitched 'squealing' sound. This indicates that the vehicle is being pushed to its traction limits.

Question 39: What does this sign mean?

Diversion to the right ahead.
Sharp bend ahead.
One-way traffic to the right ahead.
Turn right ahead. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Turn right ahead.

This sign, a blue circle with a white arrow curving to the right, is a mandatory direction sign. It indicates that drivers must turn right ahead. This sign is typically placed in advance of a junction or bend where a right turn is compulsory.

Question 40: What does this sign mean?

Uneven road surface to the right.
River or unprotected quay ahead.
Sharp descent ahead. (Correct answer)
Sharp climb ahead.

Correct answer: Sharp descent ahead.

This triangular warning sign, featuring a downward-sloping line, indicates a sharp descent in the road ahead. Drivers should be prepared to use a lower gear to control their speed and prevent brake fade, especially when driving heavy vehicles. It warns of a significant drop in gradient.

RSA Driver Theory Test (Category B)

The Irish RSA Driver Theory Test is a mandatory computer-based exam for learner drivers, testing knowledge of rules of the road, road signs and markings, hazard awareness, vehicle safety, and eco-driving. Candidates must answer 35 of 40 questions correctly to pass.

Questions

45 min

Time Limit

87.5%

To Pass

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