TheoryCar Theory UK Study Guide
Study for the Car Theory UK with exam topics, practice questions, a free PDF, video walkthrough and timed mock exam links.
How to study for Car Theory UK
- Read the topic list so you know what the exam is likely to cover.
- Answer the free practice questions and read every explanation.
- Download the PDF for offline review.
- Use timed mock exams when your untimed practice feels comfortable.
Topics to review
- Road signs, signals and markings
- Right-of-way and intersection rules
- Speed, stopping distances and safe following
- Hazard perception and defensive driving
Try Car Theory UK questions now
Q1You are driving on a dual carriageway and notice a large lorry ahead whose load appears to be shifting. The lorry driver shows no signs of awareness. What is the most appropriate immediate action?
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✓ Correct answer: Increase your following distance and be prepared to brake or change lane
The Highway Code advises drivers to anticipate hazards and increase following distance when a potential danger is identified ahead; overtaking or using the horn aggressively creates additional risk.
Q2You are driving in slow-moving motorway traffic and a driver behind you is tailgating aggressively. Which response best reduces the risk without escalating the situation?
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✓ Correct answer: Gradually increase your gap to the vehicle ahead and allow a larger buffer
The Highway Code states you should never brake sharply in retaliation; creating a larger cushion ahead reduces the chance of a rear-end collision and gives the tailgater space to overtake safely.
Q3When driving at 60 mph on a dry single carriageway, the Highway Code recommends maintaining at least a 2-second gap to the vehicle in front. In wet conditions, what should that gap become?
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✓ Correct answer: At least 4 seconds
The Highway Code states that the minimum following distance should be doubled in wet conditions, extending the 2-second rule to at least 4 seconds to account for reduced braking efficiency.
Q4You approach a junction where a pedestrian with a white cane is waiting to cross. The pedestrian appears uncertain about the traffic. What should you do?
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✓ Correct answer: Slow down, be prepared to stop, and do not use the horn or flash lights
The Highway Code advises that the horn and headlight flashes must not be used to direct or pressure vulnerable road users; you should slow down and give them time and space to cross safely.
Q5While driving through roadworks at night, your view ahead is frequently broken by intermittent floodlights. What is the primary concentration hazard this creates?
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✓ Correct answer: Temporary blind spots as your eyes adjust between bright and dark zones
Alternating between intense floodlit areas and unlit stretches causes momentary loss of night vision (dark adaptation), creating temporary blind spots — a recognised observation hazard highlighted in DVSA guidance on roadwork driving.
Q6A vehicle in front of you on a rural road brakes heavily for no apparent reason. Which explanation should you consider first before deciding how to respond?
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✓ Correct answer: There may be a hazard ahead that you cannot yet see
The Highway Code emphasises anticipation: a driver ahead braking unexpectedly is the strongest signal of an unseen hazard, so you should ease off and scan ahead rather than assume a mechanical fault or deliberate action.
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