UK PCV Theory Test Motorway Driving Rules 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: On a motorway with three or more lanes, which lanes are PCV drivers permitted to use?
- Any lane, including the right-hand lane, when overtaking
- The left-hand lane (lane 1) and middle lane (lane 2) only (Correct answer)
- The left-hand lane (lane 1) only at all times
- Any lane, provided they return to lane 1 immediately after overtaking
Correct answer: The left-hand lane (lane 1) and middle lane (lane 2) only
Coaches, buses, and other vehicles over 7.5 tonnes are prohibited from using the right-hand lane on motorways with three or more lanes. This is a legal requirement under the Highway Code (Rule 265) and keeps the outer lane clear for faster-moving traffic.
Question 2: Under what circumstances may a PCV driver legally stop on the hard shoulder of a conventional motorway?
- To rest if they feel drowsy or fatigued
- Only in a genuine emergency or breakdown (Correct answer)
- To consult a map or reprogram the sat-nav
- When passengers need to board or alight
Correct answer: Only in a genuine emergency or breakdown
The hard shoulder on a conventional motorway is reserved strictly for genuine emergencies and breakdowns. Stopping for any other reason — including fatigue, navigation, or passenger management — is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Question 3: On a smart motorway operating in all-lane running mode, what should a PCV driver do if their vehicle breaks down?
- Stop in lane 1 immediately and switch on hazard lights
- Aim to reach an emergency refuge area (ERA), or move as far left as possible and call for help (Correct answer)
- Continue driving to the next motorway junction before stopping
- Flash headlights and sound the horn to alert other drivers
Correct answer: Aim to reach an emergency refuge area (ERA), or move as far left as possible and call for help
All-lane running smart motorways have no permanent hard shoulder. Drivers must try to reach an Emergency Refuge Area (ERA), which appear approximately every 1.5 miles. If unable to reach one, stop as far left as possible, switch on hazard lights, and call 999.
Question 4: A mandatory variable speed limit of 50 mph is displayed inside a red circle on an overhead gantry above your lane. What must a PCV driver do?
- Treat it as advisory and maintain a safe speed for conditions
- Not exceed 50 mph — the limit is legally enforceable (Correct answer)
- Only comply if accompanied by a flashing amber light
- Apply it only if towing a trailer or carrying a full passenger load
Correct answer: Not exceed 50 mph — the limit is legally enforceable
A speed limit shown inside a red circle — whether on a fixed roadside sign or a smart motorway overhead gantry — is mandatory and legally enforceable. Exceeding it can result in a fixed penalty or prosecution, the same as any other speed limit offence.
Question 5: When is it appropriate for a PCV driver to use hazard warning lights on a motorway?
- Whenever speed drops below 40 mph in heavy traffic
- To warn drivers behind of a sudden hazard or obstruction, especially when stationary or slowing rapidly (Correct answer)
- When changing lanes on a three-lane motorway
- Continuously in fog when visibility falls below 100 metres
Correct answer: To warn drivers behind of a sudden hazard or obstruction, especially when stationary or slowing rapidly
Hazard warning lights should be used to alert following traffic to a danger ahead, particularly if you are braking sharply or have come to a stop on a motorway. They must not be used as a substitute for reducing speed or as a general low-speed indicator.
Question 6: What is the minimum recommended following gap for a PCV driver travelling on a motorway in dry conditions?
- A 1-second gap behind the vehicle in front
- A 2-second gap behind the vehicle in front (Correct answer)
- A fixed distance of 30 metres regardless of speed
- A gap equal to the length of the PCV
Correct answer: A 2-second gap behind the vehicle in front
The Highway Code recommends at least a 2-second gap in dry conditions for all drivers. Because large vehicles like coaches and buses have significantly longer stopping distances than cars, PCV drivers should ideally maintain a gap well in excess of the 2-second minimum.
UK PCV Theory Test Motorway Driving Rules 1
On a motorway with three or more lanes, which lanes are PCV drivers permitted to use?