Official question bank: Motorcycle (A/A1/A2/AM)
These questions come from the official theory question bank published by Transport Malta — the real test draws from this pool. Turkish and Maltese translations are ours; the test itself is in English or Maltese.
1. Alertness
When turning your motorcycle in the road you must:
Before and during a turn in the road you must check all around, including over your shoulders, as traffic can come from either direction.
In which of the following situations should you avoid overtaking?
A dip in the road can hide oncoming vehicles, so avoid overtaking when approaching one.
You should not use a mobile phone whilst riding:
Using a phone distracts your attention from the road ahead, which is the main safety reason not to use one while riding.
Your motorcycle is fitted with a hands-free phone system. This could:
Even a hands-free call can distract your attention from the road.
Using a hands-free phone is likely to:
A phone conversation, even hands-free, diverts your attention from riding.
Riding the motorcycle when you are feeling cold could cause you to:
Being cold makes you uncomfortable and tired, so you can lose concentration.
The white arrow in the diagram means that you should not plan to:
A white deflection arrow warns you to move back to your side of the road, so you should not plan to overtake.
The road marking in the diagram warns:
These arrows tell overtaking drivers to move back to the left side of the road, as traffic in Malta drives on the left.
You are driving along a narrow country road. When passing the cyclist you should ride:
Pass a cyclist slowly and leave plenty of room; sounding the horn could startle them.
To answer your mobile phone when riding you should:
Only answer a phone after stopping in a safe and convenient place.
Before making a U-turn in the road you should always:
Signal so that other road users know your intention and take a final look over your shoulder to check your blind spot before turning.
You need to use your mobile phone while riding. You can do so only:
You may use a mobile phone only once you have stopped in a safe place.
You should always check your blind spots (life saver) before:
Before moving off, take a 'life saver' look over your shoulder to check the blind spots that mirrors do not cover.
Why should you be parked before using a mobile phone?
Using a phone while riding takes your hands and attention away, affecting control of your motorcycle.
You are riding in the dark and you are dazzled by the headlights of an oncoming car. You should:
If you are dazzled, slow down or stop until your vision recovers.
You are riding at dusk. Your motorcycle lights should be switched on:
At dusk switch your lights on so others can see you, even when the street lights are lit.
To overtake safely, which one of the following applies?
Before overtaking you must judge the speed and position of the vehicle you are passing; sharp steering and cutting in are dangerous.
As a driver, what do you understand by the term 'blind spot'?
A blind spot is an area around your vehicle that you cannot see in your mirrors, so you must look over your shoulder.
You are about to turn right. What should you do just before you turn?
Just before turning, take a final shoulder check (the 'life saver') to make sure nothing is in your blind spot, such as a vehicle overtaking on your right.
What could save your life on a motorcycle?
The 'life saver' is a last look over your shoulder just before changing direction, checking the blind spot that mirrors miss.
You are approaching a road marking indicating a sharp turn. What should you do?
Reduce your speed on the approach, before the bend, so that you can ride through it under control.
What does the abbreviation MSM mean?
MSM stands for Mirror – Signal – Manoeuvre, the routine to follow before any change of speed or direction.
When following a large vehicle you should stay well back because:
Staying well back keeps you visible in the large vehicle's mirrors and also gives you a better view ahead.
2. Attitude
A pelican crossing that crosses the road in a STRAIGHT line and has a central traffic island MUST be treated as
A pelican crossing that goes straight across the road is one crossing even if it has a central island, so you must give way to pedestrians on either part of it.
A two-second gap between yourself and the car in front is usually sufficient when conditions are
The two-second rule applies in good, dry conditions; in wet or foggy weather you need a much bigger gap.
When you are riding in heavy traffic a two-second gap may be enough only when conditions are
A two-second gap may only be enough on dry roads; in damp, wet or foggy conditions leave a larger gap.
What is the meaning of tailgating?
Tailgating means following another vehicle too closely, leaving no safe stopping distance.
Following this vehicle too closely is unwise because
If you follow a large vehicle too closely, the driver cannot see you in the mirrors and your view of the road ahead is reduced.
You are following this truck. You should keep well back from it to
Keeping well back from a truck gives you a much better view of the road ahead.
You are riding behind a large vehicle. It signals left but steers to the right. You should
Long vehicles often swing out to the right before turning left, so slow down and let it complete the turn.
You are following a vehicle on a wet and slippery road. You should leave a time gap of at least
Stopping distances increase on wet and slippery roads, so allow a time gap of at least four seconds.
You are riding along this road. The red van cuts in close in front of you. What should you do?
Stay calm and drop back to restore a safe separation distance; do not react aggressively.
You are in a line of traffic. The driver behind you is following very closely. What action should you take?
By slowly increasing the gap in front, you give yourself more time to brake gently, reducing the risk of the tailgater hitting you.
At a pelican crossing the amber light means you MUST
A steady amber light at a pelican crossing means stop, because the light is about to turn red.
You are riding at the legal speed limit. A vehicle comes up quickly behind, flashing its headlights. You should
Do not try to block or race the other vehicle; allow it to overtake safely.
You are riding at the legal speed limit. A vehicle behind tries to overtake. Should you try to prevent the driver from overtaking?
You should never try to prevent another vehicle from overtaking; blocking it only creates danger.
You are riding within the speed limit. The driver behind is going to overtake you. You should
Let the driver behind overtake; do not speed up, wave them on or close the gap to block them.
A long, heavy lorry is taking a long time to overtake you. What should you do?
Slow down to help the lorry complete its overtake and get back in safely.
You are approaching a pelican crossing. The amber light is showing. You MUST
A steady amber light at a pelican crossing means you must stop because the light is about to turn red, even if the crossing is clear.
Which of the following cars will use blue flashing beacons?
Blue flashing beacons are used by emergency vehicles such as police patrols and ambulances.
When being followed by an ambulance showing a flashing blue light you should
Help the ambulance get through by pulling over as soon as it is safe to do so; never brake harshly or stop suddenly in the road.
A bus has stopped at a bus stop ahead of you. Its right-hand indicator is flashing. You should
A bus signalling to pull out from a stop should be given way to if it is safe to do so: slow down and let it move off.
You should ONLY flash your headlights to other road users
Flashing your headlights has the same meaning as the horn: it only lets others know you are there, never that you are giving or taking priority.
Why should you use your horn?
The horn is for alerting others to your presence, not for showing annoyance, greeting or claiming right of way.
A car pulls out in front of you at a junction. What should you do?
Stay calm: slow down and be ready to stop to avoid a collision, rather than reacting aggressively.
You wish to turn right ahead. Why should you take up the proper position in good time?
Positioning correctly in good time helps other road users understand what you intend to do.
You are riding along a narrow country road. A horse and rider are approaching. What should you do?
Horses are easily frightened: give them plenty of room and pass slowly, without revving, flashing lights or sounding the horn.
When you are overtaking a horse and rider you should
Pass a horse and rider slowly and carefully, giving plenty of room, so the horse is not frightened.
You are approaching a zebra crossing. Pedestrians are waiting to cross. You should
When pedestrians are waiting at a zebra crossing, slow down and be prepared to stop to let them cross; do not wave them across.
When should you give signals?
Signals are given to let others know you intend to change course or direction.
You have stopped at a pedestrian (zebra) crossing to allow pedestrians to cross. You should
Once you have stopped at a zebra crossing, wait patiently until the pedestrians have finished crossing.
You should never wave or urge people across at a pedestrian crossing because
Another vehicle may be coming that has not seen them, so waving pedestrians across could lead them into danger.
You have stopped for pedestrians to cross at a zebra crossing. They do not start to cross. What should you do?
Be patient and wait; do not wave them across, sound your horn or drive on.
You may use the 'Two-Second Rule'
The two-second rule helps you keep a safe gap from the vehicle in front in good conditions.
3. Safety and your motorcycle
Which of these fluids if allowed to get low is dangerous?
Low brake fluid can lead to brake failure, which is immediately dangerous.
Why should you wear a high-visibility vest during the day?
A high-visibility vest makes you much easier for other road users to see.
Why do motorcyclists wear a high-visibility vest while riding?
High-visibility vests help motorcyclists to be seen clearly both during the day and at night.
Which of these make a motorcyclist easier to see?
Keeping the front light on and wearing a fluorescent or white helmet make a motorcyclist more visible; dark jackets, tinted visors and grey helmets do not.
Your visor is scratched, what should you do?
A scratched visor scatters light and seriously reduces your vision, especially at night, so it should be replaced.
You need to ride a motorcycle at night. What should you wear to be seen?
At night, reflective clothing and a white helmet reflect light from other vehicles and make you easier to see.
Why are side mirrors useful on a motorcycle?
Mirrors give you a good view of the road behind, which you need before moving off, changing lanes or turning.
When is it essential to use dipped beam lights during the day?
According to the official answer, motorcyclists should always ride with dipped beam lights on, day and night.
If the side stand is not fully raised while riding, What is more likely to happen?
A side stand left down can dig into the road when leaning into a bend, causing you to lose control of the motorcycle.
When MUST you use dipped lights during the day?
According to the official answer, motorcyclists must always use dipped lights, including during the day.
How can you as a motorcycle rider help the environment?
A well-serviced motorcycle, gentle acceleration and lower speeds all reduce fuel use and emissions.
As a road user, which THREE can you do to help the environment?
Planning ahead, keeping your motorcycle properly tuned and serviced, and walking whenever you can all reduce fuel use and emissions.
Motorcycles can harm the environment, resulting in
Motor vehicles use up natural resources, their emissions and vibration damage buildings, and they cause air pollution.
To reduce the impact of your motorcycle on the environment, you should
Smooth riding — anticipating well ahead, braking in good time and avoiding harsh acceleration — saves fuel and cuts emissions.
You will help the environment if you
Walking instead of using a vehicle for short trips produces no emissions at all; the other options increase fuel use.
An unserviced transmission drive chain can
A neglected drive chain can rattle at the rear wheel, make gear changes rough and may even snap or jump off, causing an accident.
To help the environment you should NOT
Very short journeys with a cold engine use the most fuel and cause the most pollution, so walk or cycle instead.
Excessive or uneven wear on the tyres can be caused by faults in which THREE?
Faults in the suspension, wheel alignment or braking system change how the tyre meets the road and cause excessive or uneven wear.
Which of the following will reduce fuel consumption?
Planning well ahead lets you ride smoothly, and lower speeds use less fuel; the other options all increase consumption.
To avoid spilling fuel, you should make sure that
A securely fastened filler cap stops fuel spilling out; spilt fuel is wasteful, polluting and makes the road slippery.
You should NOT sound your horn
According to the official answer, you must not sound your horn in a built-up area between 11.00 pm and 6 am, unless another vehicle poses a danger.
Which TWO are adversely affected if the tyres are under-inflated?
Under-inflated tyres make steering heavy and imprecise and increase braking distances.
What will NOT cause high fuel consumption?
Gentle braking and acceleration is economical riding; high speed, accelerating around bends and poor control all waste fuel.
In some residential roads you will find a speed limit of
According to the official answer, some residential roads have a reduced speed limit of 35 kph to protect pedestrians and residents.
Road humps and chicanes are
Road humps and chicanes are traffic calming measures designed to slow traffic down, usually in residential areas.
You enter a road where there are road humps. You should...
Road humps are there to keep speeds low along the whole stretch, so keep a reduced speed throughout rather than speeding up between them.
How often should you check the motorcycle tyre pressure?
Motorcycle tyres depend heavily on correct pressure for grip and stability, so check them at least once a week.
Your motorcycle is fitted with tube tyres from the factory. When you replace a tyre you must
A new tyre should always be fitted with a new inner tube, since an old tube may be worn or stretched and could fail.
It is important that tyre pressures are regularly checked. When should this be done?
Tyre pressures should be checked when the tyres are cold, because warm tyres give a falsely high reading.
You are riding your motorcycle in warm weather. You must
Protective clothing protects you in a fall whatever the weather, so you must wear it even when it is warm.
4. Safety margins
In general, the stopping distance of your motorcycle is longer when
Carrying a pillion passenger adds weight, so the motorcycle needs a longer distance to stop.
Your overall stopping distance will be longer when riding
Wet roads reduce tyre grip, so braking distances — and therefore overall stopping distance — are longer in the rain.
When riding at night you should
At night use dipped headlights and wear reflective clothing so you can see and be seen; a tinted visor reduces your vision.
You have been riding through heavy floods. What should you do?
Water reduces brake performance, so after riding through floods check that your brakes are working properly before continuing.
The main causes of skidding are
According to the official answer, skids are mainly caused by the road surface, the weather conditions and the rider's actions (harsh braking, steering or acceleration).
You are riding your motorcycle in good road conditions. Which is the most effective way to use your brakes in an emergency?
The front brake provides most of the stopping power; applying it just before the rear brake gives the most effective, controlled stop on a good surface.
If you are at a junction with limited visibility you should
Edge forward slowly, looking both ways, until you can see clearly, because traffic may come from either direction.
In very hot weather the road surface can get soft. Which TWO of the following will be affected most?
A soft road surface in hot weather reduces tyre grip, which affects steering and braking.
Your indicators may be difficult to see in bright sunlight. What should you do?
In bright sunlight an arm signal together with your indicator makes your intention clear to other road users.
When approaching a right-hand bend you should keep well to the left. Why?
Keeping to the left on a right-hand bend lets you see further around the bend earlier, as shown in the picture.
You are approaching a right-hand bend. You should
Keeping well to the left on a right-hand bend gives you a better view around the bend and keeps you away from oncoming traffic.
You should not overtake when
Never overtake when you cannot see clearly ahead, when approaching a junction, or when you are about to turn left soon after.
For motorcyclists, it is important to have a good road surface, because
A motorcycle tyre has only a small contact patch with the road, so any poor surface quickly affects grip and stability.
The condition of the road surface is very important for motorcyclists. Which FOUR of the following will affect the stability of your motorcycle?
Potholes, gutters, loose gravel and oil spills can all upset a motorcycle or reduce its grip.
Braking hard at high speed on a sharp bend can make your vehicle
Hard braking while cornering at speed upsets the balance of the vehicle and can cause a skid, making it unstable.
When driving in fog, which of the following measures are correct?
In fog use dipped headlights, slow down and allow extra time; full beam reflects off the fog and dazzles you.
Why should you ride with dipped headlights during the daytime?
Using dipped headlights in daylight makes a motorcycle much easier for other road users to see.
You are driving in good conditions on a fast open road. For safety, the distance between you and the vehicle in front should be
In good conditions keep at least a two-second gap from the vehicle in front; this distance automatically grows with your speed.
5. Hazard awareness
You see this sign ahead. You should expect the road to
This warning sign shows a sharp bend to the left ahead, so slow down before reaching it.
What else, other than alcoholic drinks, can seriously affect your concentration when driving?
Loud music distracts you, while tiredness and drugs slow your reactions and impair judgement, just like alcohol.
How does alcohol affect your driving?
Alcohol reduces concentration, slows reactions and impairs co-ordination and judgement.
After drinking alcohol heavily you should not drive the following day. Why is this?
After heavy drinking, alcohol can stay in your body into the next day, so you may still be over the limit and your concentration impaired.
What advice should you give to a driver who has had a few alcoholic drinks at a party?
Only time removes alcohol from the body — coffee or a short wait does not — so the driver should not drive and should use public transport instead.
You go to a social event and need to drive a short time after. What precautions should you take?
If you need to drive soon afterwards, the only safe choice is not to drink any alcohol at all.
It is eight hours since you last had an alcoholic drink. Which of the following applies?
Alcohol leaves the body slowly, so after a heavy session you may still be over the legal limit and unfit to drive many hours later.
Your doctor has given you a course of medicine. Why should you ask if it is OK to drive?
Some medicines can slow your reactions or cause drowsiness, so always ask whether it is safe to drive.
You have been taking medicine for a few days which made you feel drowsy. Today you feel better but still need to take the medicine. You should only drive
Medicine can still affect your driving even if you feel better, so check with your doctor before driving.
You become ill. A doctor prescribes drugs which are likely to affect your driving. You should
If prescribed medicine is likely to affect your driving, you should not drive; arrange other transport.
During periods of illness your ability to drive may be impaired. You MUST
You must be medically fit to drive and must not drive after taking medicines that can impair your driving.
When must you stop at this junction?
A STOP sign means you must always come to a complete stop at the line, whatever the traffic conditions.
You are not sure if your cough medicine will affect your driving. What TWO things could you do?
Your doctor (or pharmacist) and the medicine label are the reliable sources for whether a medicine affects driving.
You are taking drugs that are likely to affect your driving. What should you do?
If drugs are likely to affect your driving, seek medical advice before you drive.
Your reactions will be much slower when driving
Tiredness slows your reactions and reduces concentration; if you feel tired, stop and rest.
Which THREE are likely to make you lose concentration while driving?
Using a mobile phone, listening to loud music and looking at maps all take your attention away from the road.
A driver pulls out of a side road in front of you. You have to brake hard. You should
Everyone makes mistakes; stay calm and do not react aggressively, as that only increases the danger.
A car driver pulls out, causing you to brake. You should
Keep calm and do not retaliate; reacting aggressively can lead to conflict and accidents.
Another driver does something that upsets you. You should
Try not to react; staying calm keeps your attention on driving safely.
An elderly person's driving ability could be affected because they may be unable to
Reaction times tend to slow with age, so elderly drivers may not be able to react very quickly.
A driver can only read a number plate at the required distance with glasses on. The glasses should be worn
If you need glasses to meet the eyesight standard, you must wear them every time you drive.
You take the wrong route and find you are well into a one-way street. You should
Never drive or reverse against the flow in a one-way street; continue to the end and then find another route.
You are about to drive home. You cannot find the glasses you need to wear when driving. You should
If you need glasses to drive and do not have them, you must not drive; find another way home.
You MUST wear glasses or contact lenses when driving on public roads if
According to the official answer, if you cannot read a number plate from 20.5 metres (67 feet) without glasses or lenses, you must wear them when driving.
Which THREE result from drinking alcohol and driving?
Alcohol reduces control, impairs judgement of speed and gives a false sense of confidence.
Which THREE of these are likely effects of drinking alcohol on driving?
Alcohol leads to poor judgement, (false) increased confidence and slower reactions.
Drinking any amount of alcohol is likely to
Even a small amount of alcohol gives false confidence, worsens judgement of speed and slows reactions to hazards.
You are invited to a lunch. You know that you will have to drive in the evening. What is your best course of action?
Alcohol can stay in your body for many hours, so the safest choice is not to drink any alcohol at all.
6. Vulnerable road users
You should not drive closely behind a truck
Following a truck too closely blocks your view of the road ahead; dropping back lets you see further.
You want to turn from a junction but your view is partly restricted by parked vehicles. What should you do?
When your view is blocked, stop and edge forward slowly until you can see clearly before pulling out.
What should a rider do at a pelican crossing when the red and amber lights are on?
According to the official answer, you must always wait for the green light before moving off at these lights.
You have stopped at a pelican crossing. A disabled person is crossing slowly in front of you. The lights have now changed to green. You should
Even when the light turns green, you must let a pedestrian who is still crossing reach the other side safely.
As you approach a pelican crossing the lights change to green, but elderly people are still halfway across. You should
Elderly pedestrians may take longer to cross; wait patiently until they have safely reached the other side.
Look at this picture. What is the danger you should be most aware of?
Children near an ice cream van may run into the road without looking, so slow down and be ready to stop.
You are driving past parked cars. You notice the wheel of a bicycle sticking out between them. What should you do?
A cyclist (possibly a child) may come out from between the parked cars, so slow down and be ready to stop.
You are driving and you notice a ball bouncing out into the road. What should you do?
A child may run out after the ball, so slow down and be prepared to stop.
If you are following an elderly driver you should
Older drivers may react more slowly, so be patient and keep a safe distance.
Which sign means that there may be people walking along the road?




The first sign warns that there may be pedestrians walking along the road ahead.
Which sign tells you that pedestrians may be walking in the road as there is no pavement?




The second sign warns of pedestrians in the road ahead where there is no pavement.
Which sign means there may be elderly pedestrians likely to cross the road?




The first sign warns of elderly (or disabled) people likely to be crossing the road ahead.
If you see a person with a white stick, this means that the person is
A white stick shows that the person is blind or partially sighted, so take extra care.
You are driving towards a pedestrian crossing. Waiting to cross is a person in a wheelchair. You should
Be ready to stop and wait patiently; do not wave pedestrians across, as you cannot know if other traffic will stop.
What action should you take when elderly people are crossing the road?
Elderly people may be slow to cross, so be patient and let them cross in their own time without hurrying them.
You should NEVER attempt to overtake a cyclist
In Malta we drive on the left, so overtaking a cyclist and then turning left would cut across their path.
You are driving behind a cyclist and you wish to turn left. You should
Hold back until the cyclist has passed the junction, so you do not cut across them when turning left.
You are coming up to a roundabout and a cyclist is signalling to turn right. What should you do?
A cyclist turning right at a roundabout may need to move across in front of you; give them plenty of room.
You are riding along a main road with multiple junctions. You should be alert for
Drivers emerging from side roads often fail to see motorcyclists, so watch every junction carefully.
You are approaching a roundabout and see a cyclist signal right. Why is the cyclist keeping to the left?
Cyclists are slower and more vulnerable, so they may keep to the left at a roundabout even when turning right.
When you are overtaking a cyclist on the road you should leave as much room as you would give to a car. What is the main reason for this?
Cyclists may swerve suddenly to avoid potholes, drains or wind gusts, so give them plenty of room.
Where should you take particular care to look out for motorcyclists and cyclists?
Motorcyclists and cyclists are small and easily hidden, and many collisions with them happen at junctions.
In daylight an approaching motorcyclist is using a dipped headlight. Why?
Motorcyclists use dipped headlights in daylight so that they can be seen more easily by other road users.
Motorcyclists should wear bright clothing mainly because
Bright clothing makes motorcyclists easier for other drivers to see.
Motorcyclists ride in daylight with their headlights switched on because
Riding with headlights on in daylight helps motorcyclists to be seen by other road users.
You are riding behind a moped or small motorcycle. You want to turn left just ahead. You should
Stay behind until the moped has passed the junction so that you do not cut across it when turning left.
At road junctions, which of the following are most vulnerable?
Motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians are small, easily missed and unprotected, making them most vulnerable at junctions.
When emerging from a side road into a queue of traffic, which road users can be difficult to see?
Motorcycles are narrow and can be hidden by queuing vehicles, so look carefully for them before emerging.
You want to turn right from a main road into a side road. Just before you turn you should
Just before turning right, check (with a look over your right shoulder) for any traffic overtaking you on the right.
In a long queue of traffic, which of the following are the most hazardous situations to be expected from motorcyclists?
In queues, motorcyclists filtering may cut in close in front of cars, weave between lanes and pass very close to vehicles, so expect them.
You are riding and ahead of you there is a vehicle with a flashing amber beacon. This means it is
A flashing amber beacon warns that the vehicle is slow moving, such as a road maintenance or works vehicle.
Motorcyclists are most vulnerable to a serious road accident when they
Newly qualified riders lack experience in spotting and dealing with hazards, so they are at the greatest risk of serious accidents.
An injured motorcyclist is lying unconscious in the road. You should
Do not move an injured motorcyclist or remove their helmet unless absolutely necessary; get medical help by calling 112.
You are riding in town. There is a bus at the bus stop on the other side of the road. Why should you be careful?
Passengers who have just got off may step out from behind the bus to cross the road without seeing you.
How should you overtake horse riders?
Pass horses slowly and wide; noise or speed can frighten them.
You notice horse riders ahead of you. What should you do FIRST?
Your first action on seeing horse riders is to be prepared to slow down, as horses can be unpredictable.
A horse rider is in the left-hand lane approaching a roundabout. You are driving behind. You should expect the rider to
Horse riders often keep to the left at roundabouts even when going ahead or turning right, so be ready for them to go in any direction.
You see a group of horse riders as you approach a roundabout. They are signalling right but keeping well to the left. You should
Horse riders turning right often keep to the left of the roundabout; stay well back and give them plenty of room.
What is the most common cause of road accidents?
Most road accidents are caused by human (driver) error rather than by vehicle faults, the road or the weather.
A learner driver starts to emerge in front of you from the left at a road junction. You should
Learner drivers may make mistakes; be ready to slow down and stop to avoid a collision.
Which age group is most likely to be involved in road accidents?
Young drivers aged 18 to 25 are statistically the most likely to be involved in road accidents, mainly due to inexperience.
You are following a learner driver who stalls at a junction. What should you do?
Learners are still gaining skill and may stall; be patient and give them time.
The vehicle you are following is being driven by a learner driver. What should you do?
Learner drivers may be slow or hesitant; keep calm, be patient and do not put pressure on them.
7. Other types of vehicle
You are following a long vehicle and approaching a mini-roundabout. The vehicle is indicating a left turn but it is moving to the right. You should
Long vehicles often need to swing out to the right to make a left turn; keep well back and give them room.
Before overtaking a large vehicle or lorry you should keep well back. Why is this?
Keeping well back from a large vehicle gives you the best view of the road ahead, so you can judge when it is safe to overtake.
You wish to overtake a long, slow-moving vehicle or lorry on a busy road with oncoming traffic. You should
Stay well back so you can see the road ahead, and only overtake when you can see it is clear; do not rely on the lorry driver's signals.
You are driving downhill. There are cars parked on the other side of the road, partly blocking it. Large slow lorries are coming towards you. You should
Heavy lorries climbing uphill find it hard to stop and restart, so slow down and give way to them.
When about to overtake a long vehicle or lorry you should
Staying well back gives you a much better view of the road ahead before you decide to overtake.
Why is passing or overtaking a lorry more risky than passing a car?
Lorries are much longer than cars, so overtaking takes more time and distance on the opposite side of the road.
You are travelling behind a bus that suddenly pulls up at a bus stop. What should you do?
Be ready to give way when the bus moves off again, and watch for passengers who may step out from around it.
You are driving in a city. Ahead of you a bus is at a bus stop. Which TWO of the following should you do?
Pedestrians may appear suddenly from around the bus, and the bus may pull out, so watch carefully and be ready to give way.
When you approach a bus that is about to move off from a bus stop you should
Let the bus pull away from the stop whenever it is safe to do so.
Which of these vehicles is LEAST likely to be affected by strong crosswinds?
Cars are heavier than two-wheelers and lower than high-sided vehicles, so they are least affected by crosswinds.
What does 'tailgating' mean?
Tailgating means following another vehicle too closely, leaving no safe stopping distance.
You are following a large lorry on a wet road. Spray makes it difficult to see. You should
Drop back out of the spray to improve your view and give yourself more stopping distance on the wet road.
You are driving on a dual carriageway with surface spray. You should use
Dipped headlights help you to be seen in spray without dazzling other road users.
You are waiting to emerge left from a minor road. A large vehicle is approaching from the right. You have time to turn but you should wait. Why?
A large vehicle can hide another vehicle that is overtaking it, so wait until it has passed and you can see clearly.
You are driving behind a long articulated vehicle (trailer). It is going to turn left into a narrow road. What action should you take?
A long vehicle may swing out or need extra room to turn into a narrow road; be prepared to stop and wait behind it.
You are driving behind a long vehicle. It approaches a crossroads and signals left but moves out to the right. You should
Long vehicles often move out to the right before turning left; stay well back and give it room.
You are driving behind a long vehicle approaching a crossroads. The driver signals right but moves close to the left-hand kerb. What should you do?
The driver is moving to the left to make room to turn right; wait behind the long vehicle until it has completed the turn.
You are approaching a small roundabout. The long vehicle in front is signalling left but is positioned over to the right. You should
A long vehicle may need to position to the right to turn left at a small roundabout; keep well back and give it room.
You keep well back while waiting to overtake a large lorry. Another car fills the gap. You should
Drop back further to restore a safe gap and a good view of the road ahead.
8. Vehicle handling
When you are stationary on your motorcycle, your position should be
When stopped, keep both feet on the ground so the motorcycle is balanced and stable.
Which THREE of the following are likely causes of a skid?
Leaning over too far, braking suddenly or changing direction suddenly can make the tyres lose grip and cause a skid.
You are riding towards a gravel road surface. You should
Loose gravel reduces tyre grip, so slow down before reaching it and avoid harsh braking or steering on it.
When riding, you wear protective clothing
Protective clothing should be worn on every ride, however short, because a fall can happen anywhere.
You have to ride in fog. Which TWO important things should you do before you start your journey?
In fog you must be able to see and be seen: check that all your lights work and that your visor is clean.
The best place to park your motorcycle is
Firm, level ground stops the stand from sinking and the motorcycle from falling over.
When riding in windy conditions, you have to
Strong gusts can blow a motorcycle off course, so ride at a lower speed to stay in control.
In normal riding, your position should be
In normal conditions ride in the centre of your lane, where you are clearly visible and away from the gutter and oncoming traffic.
During night riding you must
At night, reflective clothing helps you to be seen and a clean visor or goggles helps you to see clearly.
Your motorcycle is parked on a two-way carriageway. You should mount from the
In Malta we drive on the left, so mount from the left (kerb) side, away from passing traffic, holding the front brake so the motorcycle cannot roll.
How should you leave your scooter when you park for a short period in a town centre?
Park the scooter firmly on a sound, level surface, using the centre stand if it has one, with the fuel cap secured so it cannot fall over or leak. Pavements are for pedestrians, not for parking.
What is the main reason why coasting downhill is dangerous or wrong?
Coasting (in neutral or with the clutch pulled in) removes engine braking and reduces your control of the motorcycle, especially downhill.
You are following other vehicles in fog with your lights on. How else can you reduce the chances of being involved in an accident?
In fog, slowing down and leaving a bigger gap gives you more time to react if traffic ahead stops suddenly. Main beam reflects off fog and makes visibility worse.
Why should you always reduce your speed when driving in fog?
Fog reduces how far ahead you can see, so you must slow down to be able to stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
You are driving in fog. Why should you keep well back from the vehicle in front?
In fog you see hazards late, so the vehicle in front may have to stop suddenly; a big gap gives you room to stop safely.
Why is coasting wrong or dangerous?
When coasting, the engine is disconnected from the wheels, so you lose engine braking and have less control.
Which ONE of the following is correct? When overtaking at night you should
At night your view is limited to what your lights show, so you must take extra care before overtaking.
You are overtaking a car at night. You must be sure that
When overtaking at night you must use your lights so that you do not dazzle the driver you are passing or oncoming road users.
At night you are dazzled by headlights coming towards you. You should
If you are dazzled you cannot see the road properly, so slow down or stop safely until your vision recovers.
How should you brake?
A motorcycle brakes most safely when it is upright and travelling in a straight line; braking while leaned over in a bend can cause a skid.
You are on a narrow road at night. A slower-moving vehicle ahead has been signalling right for some time. What should you do?
The driver ahead may be about to turn right, so do not overtake until the signal is cancelled and you know their intentions.
Which TWO are correct? The passing places on a single-track road are
Passing places let vehicles pass each other on a single-track road: pull in to let following traffic overtake or oncoming traffic go by. They are not for parking, resting or turning.
You see a vehicle coming towards you on a single-track road. You should
On a single-track road, pull into (or wait opposite) a passing place so the oncoming vehicle can get by.
Which of these plates may appear with this road sign?




Only the plate shown in the first option is used with this sign, as given in the official answer.
When you apply the brakes for a normal stop, you should
For a normal stop on a motorcycle, use both front and rear brakes smoothly together for the best control and shortest stopping distance.
You are approaching a bend at a high speed. You should begin to brake
Do your braking before the bend, while the motorcycle is upright and travelling straight, so you enter the bend at a safe speed.
You are approaching this junction. If you were the motorcyclist you should
As you approach the junction shown, start slowing down so that you are ready to react if the other vehicle pulls out.
As a motorcyclist, what can you do to ensure a safe ride?
Anticipating what other road users might do lets you spot hazards early and react in time, which is key to riding safely.
In which FOUR of these situations may you overtake another vehicle on the inside or the left?
In Malta you normally overtake on the right, but passing on the left is allowed when the vehicle ahead is turning right, in one-way streets, in slow queues where the right lane is slower, and when heading for a slip road to turn off. A slow vehicle in the right lane of a dual carriageway is not a reason to undertake.
You suddenly have to stop and your motorcycle starts to skid. You should
A skid under braking happens when the wheels lock; releasing the brakes lets the wheels grip again, then re-apply them more gently.
9. Dual carriageway rules
As soon as you join a dual carriageway you should normally
In Malta you drive on the left, so after joining a dual carriageway stay in the left lane and use the right lane only for overtaking.
You are intending to leave the multi-lane carriageway at the next exit. Before you reach the exit you should normally position your motorcycle
Exits leave from the left in Malta, so move into the left-hand lane in good time before the exit.
You are driving on a multi-lane carriageway. By mistake you go past the exit that you wanted to take. You should
If you miss your exit, never turn round or reverse; simply continue to the next exit and find another route.
When joining a dual carriageway you must always
Traffic already on the dual carriageway has priority; match your speed in the acceleration lane and merge into a safe gap.
A fundamental rule when driving on a dual carriageway is
Since Malta drives on the left, keep to the left lane on a dual carriageway and use the right lane only to overtake.
You are driving on a dual carriageway. You have to slow down quickly due to a hazard. You should
On a dual carriageway you may briefly use hazard warning lights to warn drivers behind that you are slowing quickly because of a hazard ahead.
What should you use the hard shoulder of a multi-lane carriageway for?
The hard shoulder is only for emergencies, such as a breakdown; it is not for joining, leaving or resting.
After a breakdown you need to rejoin the main carriageway of a multi-lane carriageway from the hard shoulder. You should
Build up speed on the hard shoulder first and then merge into a safe gap, so you do not pull out slowly in front of fast traffic.
The minimum safe time gap to keep between you and the vehicle in front in good conditions is at least
In good, dry conditions leave at least a two-second gap to the vehicle in front; increase it in wet or poor conditions.
10. Rules of the road
You may drive over a footpath:
You may only cross a footpath to gain lawful access to a property, giving way to pedestrians.
Which three of the following are most likely to take an unusual course at roundabouts?
Cyclists, horse riders and long vehicles often take an unusual position or path at roundabouts, so give them plenty of room.
You are leaving your motorcycle parked on a road. When may you leave the engine running?
You must never leave a parked vehicle with its engine running.
In which FOUR places must you NOT park or wait?
Parking on the brow of a hill, on a zebra crossing, opposite a traffic island or at a bus stop creates danger or obstruction, so it is not allowed.
What is the nearest you may park your vehicle to a junction?
According to the official answer, you must not park closer than 5 metres to a junction.
Can you park on the zigzag lines of a zebra crossing?
Parking on the zigzag lines of a zebra crossing is never allowed, because it hides pedestrians from drivers.
In which TWO places must you NOT park?
Parking at a bus stop or near a school entrance creates danger and obstruction, especially for children and buses.
What is the meaning of this sign?
This sign indicates waiting restrictions, so waiting is limited or prohibited where it applies.
You are looking for somewhere to park your vehicle. The area is full EXCEPT for spaces marked 'disabled use'. You can:
Spaces marked for disabled use are reserved; you may not park there unless you are permitted to.
You are driving at night with full-beam headlights on. A vehicle is overtaking you. You should dip your lights:
Dip your lights as soon as the overtaking vehicle passes you, so your full beam does not dazzle its driver.
What is the meaning of this sign?
This sign means the national speed limit applies from this point.
You are entering an area of roadworks. There is a temporary speed limit displayed. You should:
A temporary speed limit at roadworks is mandatory at all times; do not exceed it.
You are approaching a busy junction. There are several lanes with road markings. At the last moment you realise that you are in the wrong lane. You should:
Changing lanes at the last moment is dangerous; continue in your lane and find another way back to your route.
On a one-way street with two lanes, from which side can you pass a vehicle?
In a one-way street with two lanes, you may pass a vehicle using either the right-hand or the left-hand lane.
You are riding on a single-lane road in the country, with passing places only on the right. The driver behind you wishes to overtake. You should:
Wait opposite a passing place on your right so the following driver can use it to overtake you.
You are on a road that is only wide enough for one car. There is a car coming towards you. Which TWO of these would be correct?
As we drive on the left, pull into a passing place on your left, or if it is on your right, wait opposite it so the oncoming car can use it.
Signals are normally given by direction indicators and:
Brake lights also act as a signal, telling road users behind that you are slowing down or stopping.
When going straight ahead at a roundabout you should:
When going straight ahead, you normally don't signal on approach, but indicate left before leaving the roundabout.
Which vehicle might have to use a different course than normal at roundabouts?
Long vehicles may need extra room and take a different course at roundabouts, so give them space.
You are going straight ahead towards the second exit at a roundabout. How should you signal?
Signal left just after passing the exit before the one you will take, so others know you are about to leave.
At a crossroads there are no signs or road markings. Two vehicles approach. Which has priority?
At an unmarked crossroads no one has priority, so both drivers must take care and be ready to give way.
What are the national speed limits for motorcycles?
According to the official answer, the national speed limits for motorcycles are 80 kph on open roads and 50 kph in built-up areas.
Who has priority at an unmarked crossroads?
Nobody has priority at an unmarked crossroads; approach with care and be prepared to give way.
You are intending to turn right at a junction. An oncoming driver is also turning right. What should you do?
Turning offside to offside (keeping the other vehicle on your right and passing behind it) gives both drivers a clear view of oncoming traffic.
The dual carriageway you are turning right onto has a central reservation. You should:
If the central reservation is wide enough, you can cross the first carriageway, wait in the central gap, then join the second when it is clear.
While driving you intend to turn left into a minor road. On the approach you should:
As we drive on the left, keep well to the left on the approach to a left turn, without swinging out.
You may only enter a box junction when:
You must not enter a yellow box junction unless your exit road is clear.
Pedestrians are waiting on the pavement to cross at a zebra crossing. You should:
Pedestrians waiting at a zebra crossing should be allowed to cross; stop, let them cross and wait patiently.
You are on a busy main road and you find that you are travelling in the wrong direction. What should you do?
On a busy main road, the safest option is to turn round in a quiet side road rather than turning in the main road.
You are parked in a busy street. What is the safest way to turn your motorcycle around?
Riding to a quiet side road to turn round avoids conflict with busy traffic.
Which lights should you use when going through a tunnel, and why must you switch them on?
In a tunnel use dipped headlights so that you can see and be clearly seen by others.
When can you overtake in a tunnel?
According to the official answer, overtaking in a tunnel is only acceptable to get past a broken-down vehicle obstructing your lane.
What is the national speed limit in built-up areas?
According to the official answer, the national speed limit in built-up areas is 50 kph.
What is the meaning of a white sign, showing a bold black number 30, in a red circle?
A number in a red circle is a mandatory maximum speed limit: do not exceed 30 kph after passing the sign.
What does a speed limit sign like this mean?
A speed limit sign sets a legal maximum: you must not exceed the speed shown.
You are driving along a street with parked vehicles on the left-hand side. For which THREE reasons should you keep your speed down?
Children may run out between parked cars, doors may open and vehicles may pull out, so keep your speed down.
You meet an obstruction on your side of the road. You should:
When the obstruction is on your side, oncoming traffic has priority, so give way to it.
There is a tractor ahead of you. You wish to overtake but you are NOT sure if it is safe to do so. You should:
If you are in any doubt about whether it is safe, do not overtake.
11. Road and traffic signs
Which sign has an octagon shape?
The STOP sign is the only sign with an octagonal (eight-sided) shape, so it can be recognised even from behind.
What does this sign mean?
Two cars side by side in a red circle (one red) means no overtaking.
What does this sign mean?
This sign prohibits overtaking.
What does this sign mean?
A blue circle with a single red diagonal bar means waiting restrictions apply.
Which sign means 'no stopping'?




The second picture is the 'no stopping' sign.
What does this sign mean?
This sign means no stopping: you must not stop where it applies.
You see this sign ahead. It means:
This is the 'no entry' sign: vehicles must not enter the road beyond it.
What does this traffic sign mean?
This sign tells you to give priority to oncoming traffic on a narrow stretch of road.
What is the meaning of this traffic sign?
This rectangular blue sign means you have priority over vehicles coming towards you.
Traffic signs giving orders are generally which shape?
Signs that give orders (mandatory or prohibitory) are generally circular.
Which sign warns you that a zebra crossing is on the approach?




The first picture is the warning sign for a zebra crossing ahead.
What MUST you do when you see this sign?
A STOP sign means you must stop completely at the line, even if the road is clear.
What does this sign mean?
This sign means no overtaking.
What is the shape of a GIVE WAY sign at a junction?
The GIVE WAY sign is an inverted triangle.
What colour is the background of an indication sign?
According to the official answer, indication signs have a blue background.
At a roundabout you should:
In Malta traffic goes round roundabouts clockwise, so you give way to traffic coming from your right.
What does this sign mean?
This sign means you may pass on either side of it.
What does a circular traffic sign with a blue background do?
Blue circular signs give a positive instruction, telling you what you must do.
Which of these signs means that you are entering a one-way street?




The first picture is the sign showing that you are entering a one-way street.
What are triangular signs for?
Triangular signs are warning signs that alert you to a hazard ahead.
What does this sign mean?
This triangular warning sign shows a T-junction ahead, where the road you are on ends at a crossing road.
What does this sign mean?
This warning sign shows a crossroads ahead; slow down and be ready for traffic joining from either side.
What does this sign mean?
This sign warns of a roundabout ahead. In Malta you go round clockwise and give way to traffic coming from the right.
Which FOUR of these would be indicated by a triangular road sign?
Give way, children crossing, roundabout ahead and road narrows are all shown on triangular signs. Minimum speed and ahead only are circular (mandatory) signs.
Which of these signs warns you of a pedestrian crossing?




The correct sign is the triangular warning sign showing a pedestrian on a crossing, warning you of a pedestrian crossing ahead.
What does this sign mean?
This triangular sign warns that there is a pedestrian crossing ahead, so be ready to slow down and stop for people crossing.
What does this sign mean?
The sign shows a maximum speed limit (20) in a zone with traffic-calming measures such as road humps.
What does this sign mean?
This warning sign shows a hump (or series of humps) in the road ahead; slow down before reaching it.
What does this sign mean?
This warning sign means there is a tunnel ahead; be ready to switch on your dipped headlights.
Which of these signs means that the road will narrow on both sides?




The correct sign shows both edges of the road coming in, meaning the road narrows on both sides.
What does this sign mean?
This sign means no through road (dead end): the road ahead has no exit for vehicles.
What does this sign mean?
This warning sign shows two-way traffic ahead, so expect oncoming vehicles in the other lane.
What does this traffic sign mean?
A triangular sign with an exclamation mark warns of a general danger ahead; the plate below may explain the hazard.
You are about to overtake another vehicle when you see this ROAD MARKING. You should
This marking warns you not to overtake and to return to your own side, so keep to the left (Malta drives on the left).
What does this sign mean?
This sign warns of a steep hill downwards; use a lower gear and control your speed.
What does this sign mean?
This sign warns of a quayside or river bank ahead: the road leads to an unprotected edge of water.
What does this sign mean?
The sign shows that the road on the left is a no through road (dead end).
Which sign means no vehicles are allowed?




A plain red circle with a white centre means no vehicles are allowed in either direction.
What does this sign mean?
A blue square sign with a T-shaped symbol (red bar at the top) means no through road.
Which sign means 'no through road'?




The 'no through road' sign is rectangular with a T-shaped symbol (white bar with red top), showing the road is a dead end.
What is the meaning of the following sign?
A red circle showing a motorcycle means motorcycles are not allowed.
What does this sign mean?
The sign shows the right-hand lane ending ahead (lane closed), so traffic in it must merge left in good time.
You see this traffic light ahead. Which light(s) will come on next?
Amber on its own is always followed by red alone.
You are approaching a red traffic light. The signal will change from red to
The sequence after red is red and amber together, then green.
A red traffic light means
Red means stop: you must stop and wait behind the stop line until the light changes.
At traffic lights amber on its own means
Amber alone means stop, because the light is about to turn red; you may only go on if you are so close that stopping would be unsafe.
A red traffic light means
At a red light you must stop behind the white stop line; there is no filtering left on red unless a green arrow allows it.
You are approaching traffic lights. Red and amber are showing. This means
Red and amber together still mean stop; wait for the green light before you pass the lights.
Which of these signs means no powered vehicles?




The correct sign is the red circle showing a car and a motorcycle, meaning no motor (powered) vehicles.
You are at a junction controlled by traffic lights. When should you NOT proceed at green?
Even on green you must not enter the junction if your exit is blocked, as you would obstruct crossing traffic.
What do these zigzag lines at pedestrian crossings mean?
Zigzag lines at a pedestrian crossing mean no parking (or waiting) at any time, so pedestrians and drivers can see each other.
This marking appears on the road just before a
The inverted triangle marked on the road warns you of a Give way sign and junction ahead.
You see this line across the road at the entrance to a roundabout. What does it mean?
A broken give way line at a roundabout means give way to traffic from the right (traffic goes round clockwise in Malta).
The driver of the car in front is giving this signal. What does it mean?
This arm signal (arm extended and rotated) is the official signal that the driver intends to turn left.
The driver of this car is giving an arm signal. What is he about to do?
An arm moved slowly up and down out of the window is the signal for slowing down.
You are about to turn right in busy traffic. How would you confirm your intention safely?
In busy traffic an arm signal, together with correct use of your indicators, makes your intention to turn right clear.
You want to turn right at a junction but you think that your indicators cannot be seen clearly. What should you do?
If your indicators may not be seen clearly, give an arm signal as well so other road users know you are turning right.
When may you sound the horn on your vehicle?
The horn should only be used to warn other road users of your presence, never to show annoyance or claim priority.
Why should you make sure that you have cancelled your indicators after turning?
An indicator left on after turning can mislead other road users about what you are going to do.
What does this sign mean?
This circular sign introduces a new maximum speed limit of 30 kph from this point.
You are waiting at a T-junction. A vehicle is coming from the right with the left signal flashing. What should you do?
A signal does not guarantee the driver will turn; wait until the vehicle actually starts to turn in before you pull out.
Which of these signs means that the national speed limit applies?




The correct sign is the white circle with a black diagonal stripe, meaning the national speed limit applies.
What is the meaning of these road markings?
With a continuous line next to a broken line, you may cross to overtake only if the broken line is on your side and the road is clear; if the continuous line is on your side you must not cross it.
What is the maximum speed limit in a built up area unless indicated otherwise?
Unless signs show otherwise, the maximum speed limit in a built-up area is 50 kph.
What do these road markings mean?
A continuous double white line must not be driven over or across by vehicles.
What does this sign mean?
This rectangular blue sign tells you that you have priority over oncoming traffic on the narrow section ahead.
What does this sign mean?
A red circle with a white horizontal bar means no entry.
12. Documents
Before you ride someone else's motorcycle you must be sure that
You may only ride another person's motorcycle if its insurance covers you as the rider.
If a driver has been disqualified, what must be done to obtain the driving licence back?
After disqualification you must pay any outstanding fines, submit a new application and re-sit and pass both the theory and practical tests.
Who is responsible for ensuring that a vehicle is fully roadworthy when driven on a public road?
The driver is always responsible for the roadworthiness of the vehicle being driven on a public road.
For which TWO of these must you show your insurance document?
You must produce your insurance document when renewing the vehicle's road licence and when a police officer asks for it.
Which of the following documents shows the number of passengers that your vehicle can carry?
The log book (registration document) records the vehicle's details, including the number of passengers it may carry.
What is the legal minimum insurance cover you must have to drive on public roads?
Third party insurance is the legal minimum, covering injury or damage you cause to others.
Which TWO of the following do you need before you can drive legally?
To drive legally you need a valid driving licence and a valid road licence (tax disc) displayed on the vehicle.
Which THREE of these are found on a vehicle registration document (log book)?
The log book shows details such as the gross vehicle weight, the make of the vehicle and the registered owner; it does not show insurance, VRT dates or service history.
What is the maximum number of penalty points that will automatically disqualify a driver who holds a probational driving licence?
According to the official answer, a probationary licence holder is automatically disqualified on reaching 12 penalty points at any time during the 3-year period.
13. Accidents
At the scene of an accident you should
Your own safety comes first: do not put yourself at risk, or you may become another casualty.
Which of the following should NOT be done at the scene of an accident?
Never give casualties cigarettes or alcohol; calling 112, asking drivers to switch off engines and using hazard lights are all correct actions.
There has been an accident. The driver is suffering from shock. You should
A person in shock should not be left alone and should be reassured; do not give them cigarettes or drinks or question them about blame.
You are at the scene of an accident. Someone is suffering from shock. You should
For shock, keep reassuring the casualty, loosen tight clothing and keep them warm, but do not give them anything to drink or smoke.
You arrive at the scene of a motorcycle accident. No other vehicle is involved. The rider is unconscious lying in the middle of the road. The first thing you should do is
First warn other traffic (e.g. hazard lights, warning triangle) to prevent a further collision; avoid moving an injured rider unless there is further danger.
At an accident a small child is not breathing. When giving mouth-to-mouth you should breathe:
A small child's lungs are small and delicate, so breathe gently into them.
To start mouth-to-mouth on a casualty you should
Clear the airway, tilt the head back to open it and pinch the nostrils so your breaths go into the lungs.
You arrive at the scene of an accident. The engine of a vehicle is on fire and the casualty's hands and arms have suffered severe burns. What should you NOT do?
Never remove anything sticking to a burn, as this causes further damage; cooling the burn and reassuring the casualty are correct.
You arrive at an accident where someone is suffering from severe burns. You should
Cool severe burns with cold water; do not remove stuck material, burst blisters or apply lotions.
You arrive at the scene of an accident. A pedestrian has a severe bleeding wound on their leg although it is not broken. What should you do?
Apply firm pressure to the wound and raise the leg (as it is not broken) to reduce bleeding.
You arrive at a scene of an accident. A passenger is bleeding badly from an arm wound. What should you do?
For a badly bleeding arm, apply pressure over the wound and raise the arm to reduce the flow of blood.
You are the first to arrive at the scene of an accident. Which FOUR of these should you do?
The first person at an accident should warn other traffic, call the emergency services (112), move uninjured people away from the vehicles and switch off engines; do not leave just because someone else arrives.
At an accident a casualty is unconscious but still breathing. You should only move the person if
An unconscious but breathing casualty should only be moved if they are in further danger (e.g. fire or traffic).
At an accident you suspect a casualty has back injuries. The area is safe. You should
If a back injury is suspected and the area is safe, do not move the casualty, as this could cause permanent damage.
The police may ask you to produce which TWO of these documents following an accident?
After an accident the police may ask you to produce your insurance policy and your driving licence.
On the dual carriageway the hard shoulder should be used:
The hard shoulder is for emergencies only – not for resting, reading maps or using a phone.
You are the first person to arrive at an accident where people are badly injured. Which THREE should you do?
Get help to control traffic, make sure an ambulance is called (112) and switch on your hazard lights; do not move injured people or give them alcohol.
You arrive at the scene of a motorcycle accident. The rider is injured. When should the helmet be removed?
Removing a helmet can worsen neck or spinal injuries, so only do it when it is essential (for example to keep the airway open).
You arrive at a serious motorcycle accident. The motorcyclist is unconscious and bleeding. Your main priorities should be to
Your priorities are to call the emergency services (112), check the casualty is breathing and try to stop the bleeding.
You arrive at an accident. A motorcyclist is unconscious. Your FIRST priority is the casualty's:
With an unconscious casualty, breathing (and a clear airway) is the first priority, as life depends on it.
At an accident a casualty is unconscious. Which THREE of the following should you check urgently?
For an unconscious casualty, urgently check Airway, Breathing and Circulation (the ABC of first aid).
In first aid what does ABC stand for?
In first aid ABC stands for Airway, Breathing and Circulation.
At an accident someone is unconscious. Your main priorities should be to
With an unconscious casualty, check that the airway is clear and that they are breathing.
14. Motorcycle loading
Overloading your motorcycle can seriously affect the
Overloading upsets the motorcycle's balance, seriously affecting its handling and steering.
Who is responsible for making sure that a motorcycle is not overloaded?
The rider is legally responsible for making sure the motorcycle is not overloaded.
15. Mechanical aspects
What problem can incorrectly aligned wheels cause?
Wheels that are out of alignment make the motorcycle unstable, especially when cornering.
A loose drive chain on a motorcycle could cause
A loose drive chain can jump off the sprocket and jam, causing the rear wheel to lock.
Your steering feels wobbly. Which of these is the likely cause?
Worn steering head bearings are a common cause of wobbly, unstable steering on a motorcycle.
16. Visibility
You are riding in town at night. The roads are wet after the rain. The reflections from wet surfaces will
Glare and reflections from wet roads at night make unlit objects and people much harder to see.
You want to ride your motorcycle in the dark. What should you wear to be seen more easily?
Reflective clothing reflects vehicle headlights, making you much easier to see in the dark.
Why should you ride with your dipped headlight on in daylight?
A dipped headlight in daylight makes a motorcycle much more visible to other road users.
17. Protective equipment
Which of the following offers better protection in case of an accident?
Leather trousers with protective inserts (armour) resist abrasion and absorb impact far better than ordinary clothing.
Why should protective gloves always be used?
Gloves protect your hands from the weather and, since hands are very prone to serious injury in a fall, they reduce injuries in an accident.
You are riding on a quiet road at slow speed. Your helmet fogs up. What should you do?
If your visor fogs up you cannot see properly: stop as soon as possible to wipe it, or open the visor slightly where it is safe to do so.
18. Risk factors
You should not look down at the front wheel when riding because it can
Looking down at the front wheel takes your eyes off the road and can upset your balance; look well ahead instead.
After riding through a flood, once you are clear of the water you should test your
Water reduces braking efficiency, so test your brakes as soon as you are clear of the water.
In very hot weather the road surface becomes soft. Which of the following will be most affected?
A soft road surface reduces the grip of the tyres, which in turn affects braking.
19. Safety factors
Which TWO of the following are correct? When overtaking at night you should
At night you can see less, so take extra care and beware of bends ahead that may hide oncoming traffic.
Where are you most likely to be affected by a side wind?
Side winds are strongest on open stretches of road with no buildings, trees or hedges for shelter.
The road surface is very important to motorcyclists. Which TWO of the following are more likely to reduce stability?
Drain covers (slippery metal) and potholes can make the motorcycle lose grip or balance and reduce stability.
20. The motorcycle and the environment
What type of engine is better for fuel economy and has less impact on the environment?
A 4-stroke engine with electronic fuel injection meters fuel precisely, giving better economy and lower emissions.
In view of eco-driving, which statement is correct?
For eco-driving, keeping the engine at low RPM (using a suitable higher gear) uses less fuel.
Which motorcycle is consuming more fuel?
Fuel consumption rises sharply with speed because of air resistance, so the motorcycle at 114 km/h uses the most fuel.
21. Road contaminants
You are riding on a road and notice a strange smell of diesel (fuel). You should
A smell of diesel may mean fuel has been spilt on the road, which is very slippery for motorcycles, so slow down and approach with caution.
You see a rainbow-coloured pattern across the road. What will this warn you of?
A rainbow-coloured sheen on the road is a sign of spilt fuel, which makes the surface very slippery.
You are riding in very hot weather. What are the TWO effects that melting tar has on your motorcycle?
Melting tar makes the road surface slippery and reduces tyre grip.