Frequently Asked Questions
General Road Rules & Safety
Clear Answers, Confident Driving!
everything you need to know all the answers to pass the theory test, drive safely, follow laws, handle emergencies, build confidence, improve skills, and protect others.
01.
General Road Rules & Safety
What is the legal minimum tread depth for tyres?
At least 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
What is the safest way to check if your brake lights are working without help?
Park near a reflective surface like a glass window and press the brake pedal while observing the reflection.
When is overtaking another vehicle considered unsafe?
On bends, continuous white lines, near junctions, pedestrian crossings, and when visibility is limited.
What do double yellow lines on a road mean?
No parking at any time.
Can you stop in a yellow box junction?
Only if turning right and waiting for a gap in traffic.
Which lights should be used in heavy fog?
Dipped headlights and fog lights.
Is it allowed to move into the hard shoulder to let faster vehicles pass?
Yes, if it is safe and for a short period on national roads.
What’s the safe passing distance when overtaking a cyclist at speeds above 50 km/h?
1.5 meters.
How do you regain control if your car’s rear wheels start to skid?
Steer in the direction of the skid while easing off the accelerator.
What should you do if another driver is drifting into your lane?
Use your horn, slow down, and prepare for evasive action.
02.
Traffic Lights & Road Signs
What is the correct sequence of traffic lights?
Green → Amber → Red.
What does a flashing amber traffic light mean?
Proceed with caution, giving way to pedestrians.
What does a continuous white line in the middle of the road mean?
Do not cross it unless avoiding an obstruction.
What does a broken white line indicate?
It separates lanes; crossing is allowed when safe.
What is a clearway?
An area where stopping and parking are prohibited during specified hours.
What does a yield sign instruct drivers to do?
Give way to traffic on the main road.
At an unmarked crossroads, who has the right of way?
The vehicle approaching from the right.
What does a red triangle road sign indicate?
A warning of a potential hazard ahead.
What do white zigzag lines at a pedestrian crossing mean?
No stopping, parking, or overtaking near the crossing.
What does a blue circular sign with a white arrow indicate?
A mandatory direction to follow.
Some cool tips you should know
03.
Motorway & High-Speed Driving
What is the national speed limit on Irish motorways?
120 km/h unless otherwise stated.
What should you do if you miss your exit on a motorway?
Continue to the next exit and turn back safely.
What is the purpose of a hard shoulder?
For emergency stops only.
Where are you allowed to stop on a motorway?
Only in emergency lay-bys or hard shoulders in case of breakdown.
What does a red reflector on the road indicate?
The left edge of the road.
What does a green flashing light on a vehicle mean?
A doctor on an emergency call.
When should you use your hazard lights?
When your vehicle is broken down or causing an obstruction.
What should you check before merging onto a motorway?
Speed, mirrors, and blind spots.
How should you respond to strong crosswinds while driving?
Grip the steering wheel firmly and reduce speed.
What is the best way to reduce fuel consumption while driving?
Maintain a steady speed and avoid harsh braking or acceleration.
Parking & Manoeuvring
Where should you avoid parking your vehicle?
Near junctions, bends, bus stops, or pedestrian crossings.
When reversing, who is responsible for ensuring safety?
The driver must check surroundings and proceed cautiously.
What does a broken yellow line along the side of the road indicate?
The edge of the carriageway.
How should you position your wheels when parking on a hill facing downhill?
Turn them toward the kerb.
What is the correct way to parallel park?
Align your car beside the parked vehicle, reverse into the space, and adjust as needed.
04.
First Aid & Emergency Situations
What should you do if someone is unconscious after an accident but breathing?
Place them in the recovery position and call emergency services.
If a casualty is bleeding heavily, what is the first step?
Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth.
What should you do if you suspect a person has a spinal injury?
Do not move them unless absolutely necessary; call for medical help.
How do you treat a burn injury at the scene of an accident?
Cool the burn with cold running water for at least 10 minutes.
What is the emergency phone number for ambulance and police in Ireland?
112 or 999.
If someone is choking inside a vehicle, how can you assist?
Encourage them to cough forcefully; if ineffective, perform the Heimlich manoeuvre.
What should you do if you witness a collision but are not directly involved?
Stop safely, turn on hazard lights, and call emergency services.
What is the first action to take if you arrive at an accident scene?
Check for dangers before helping others.
How can you help a driver in shock after a crash?
Keep them warm, calm, and reassured while waiting for emergency services.
What should you do if your vehicle catches fire while driving?
Pull over safely, turn off the engine, exit the car, and call for help.
05.
Vehicle Control & Driving Behavior
When should you switch to dipped headlights?
When following another vehicle, meeting oncoming traffic, or driving in built-up areas.
What should you do if dazzled by oncoming headlights?
Look toward the left side of the road and slow down.
Why is “coasting” dangerous?
It reduces control over the car as braking and steering become less effective.
What should you do before setting off on a long journey?
Check fuel, oil, tyres, brakes, and lights.
What is the “two-second rule” in driving?
It ensures a safe following distance behind another vehicle in dry conditions.
Who is responsible for ensuring seat belts are worn?
The driver for passengers under 17; adults are responsible for themselves.
How far should you park from a junction?
At least 5 meters away.
What should you do if an emergency vehicle is approaching?
Safely move aside and allow it to pass.
How should you overtake a long vehicle safely?
Ensure clear visibility and enough space before overtaking.
What is the maximum legal alcohol limit for a fully licensed driver?
50 mg per 100 ml of blood.
06.
Hazard Awareness & Emergencies
What should you do if your brakes fail?
Pump the brake pedal, downshift gears, and use the handbrake gradually.
What should you do if you see an accident ahead?
Slow down, turn on hazard lights, and call emergency services if needed.
What’s the first thing to do if your car catches fire?
Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and get out of the vehicle.
How should you deal with hydroplaning?
Ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden braking.
What’s the best way to control a skid?
Steer in the same direction as the skid while reducing speed gradually.
07.
Road Conditions & Hazard Awareness
How does rain affect your braking distance?
It can double the stopping distance.
What should you do if your car starts aquaplaning?
Ease off the accelerator, avoid braking suddenly, and steer straight.
What adjustments should you make when driving in snowy conditions?
Use higher gears, slow acceleration, and increase following distance.
What is the main danger of driving on black ice?
Loss of traction, making braking and steering unpredictable.
Why should you avoid driving through floodwater?
Water can damage the engine, brakes, and electrics, or cause the car to float.
What is the risk of driving with under-inflated tyres in wet weather?
Increased risk of skidding and aquaplaning.
How can you reduce glare when driving in bright sunlight?
Use sunglasses and sun visors, and avoid looking directly into the light.
Night Driving & Visibility
What should you do when driving on unlit roads at night?
Use full-beam headlights, but dip them for oncoming vehicles.
Why should you avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights at night?
To prevent being dazzled and losing vision temporarily.
What should you do if an oncoming driver does not dip their headlights?
Look to the left side of the road and slow down if necessary.
Why You Need to Know All the Answers
Understanding all driving theory test answers ensures you are well-prepared for real-life driving situations. It enhances road safety, boosts confidence, and helps you pass the test on the first attempt. Knowing the rules, signs, and best practices makes you a responsible driver, reducing risks for yourself and others on the road.