PCV Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. You see a diamond-shaped road marking. What does this indicate? → Bus lane ahead
2. How should you react when you see a person with a white stick at a pedestrian crossing? → Be prepared for them to take longer to cross and give them extra time
3. What is the recommended safe following distance for a coach travelling at 60 mph on a dry motorway? → At least 3 seconds (greater on large vehicles)
4. What is the minimum legal tyre tread depth for a PCV in the UK? → 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread width
5. What is the minimum break required under GB domestic rules after 5.5 hours of PCV driving? → 30 minutes
6. On a downhill gradient, which driving technique best prevents brake fade in a fully loaded coach? → Using a lower gear to provide engine braking rather than relying solely on the footbrake
7. After driving for 4.5 hours continuously, what break must a PCV driver take? → A 45-minute break
8. When approaching a pelican crossing, you see a flashing amber light. What should you do? → Give way to any pedestrians still on the crossing, then proceed if clear
9. What should a PCV driver do if a passenger complains of chest pain and difficulty breathing? → Stop safely, call 999, keep the passenger still and comfortable, and loosen tight clothing
10. What is the minimum daily rest period a PCV driver must normally take? → 11 hours
11. A deaf passenger is trying to communicate with you but you cannot understand them. What should you do? → Offer a pen and paper so they can write their query
12. What is the purpose of a 'clearway' on a major road? → No stopping at any time — the road must remain clear for moving traffic
13. How should heavy items be positioned when loading a PCV? → Low down and near the centre of the vehicle
14. What is the maximum continuous driving period before a driver must take a break? → 4.5 hours
15. When must a driver produce tachograph records to an enforcement officer? → At the roadside or at the operator's premises, on demand
16. During an emergency evacuation of your single-deck bus, passengers should exit through: → The nearest available exit including emergency windows and doors
17. A passenger appears pale, feels cold and clammy, and is breathing rapidly after a fall on your bus. Which condition are they most likely suffering from? → Shock
18. A PCV driver has been driving for 4 hours and 15 minutes without a break. What must they do? → Take a break of at least 45 minutes immediately
19. To maintain optimal vehicle stability when loading heavy suitcases into the main luggage hold of a coach, what is the correct procedure? → Position the heaviest items as low down and as centrally as possible.
20. Which type of tachograph has been mandatory in newly registered goods and passenger vehicles in the EU since 2019? → Smart (DSRC) tachograph
21. What does 'defensive driving' mean for a PCV driver? → Anticipating hazards and adjusting driving to keep a safe space cushion around the vehicle
22. What is the environmental benefit of an electric bus compared to a diesel bus? → Electric buses produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing local air pollution
23. You feel very drowsy partway through your PCV driving shift. What should you do? → Stop in a safe place and rest until you are alert enough to drive safely
24. What is the purpose of the 'kneeling' feature on modern low-floor buses in relation to loading? → To lower the entrance for easier boarding of passengers and wheelchairs
25. When inspecting tyres, what should you check in addition to tread depth? → Tread depth, tyre pressure, sidewall condition, and any cuts or bulges
26. Which of the following is a key principle of 'eco-safe' driving that improves fuel efficiency and passenger comfort? → Anticipating the road ahead to avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking.
27. What fluid levels should a PCV driver check as part of their daily routine? → Engine oil, coolant, windscreen washer fluid, and power steering fluid where accessible
28. What is the purpose of the emergency door release on a PCV? → To allow passengers to open doors in an emergency when the normal system fails
29. What is the purpose of the 'kneeling' facility on modern low-floor buses? → To lower the entrance step height for easier passenger boarding and alighting
30. Under which regulation are UK bus operators required to report their greenhouse gas emissions? → The Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework for large operators