When taking your driving test, things can get pretty serious really quickly. The written test, in particular, seems to be the bane of many who take it, which means they'll have to go home and study some more before retaking it.

While it may initially seem like the test is designed to make you fail, it really isn't. Some of the questions are technically the same, just worded differently. There's also no room for interpretation, you either know the answer or you don't. Of course, guessing is always an option, but in some cases, there's only a 25 percent chance you'll guess correctly.

But don't worry, here are the most commonly asked driving test questions to help you along as you prepare for the DMV test for your driving license. Once you've passed the test, you can start looking at these fun cars for new and inexperienced drivers.

UPDATE: 2024/03/15 10:15 EST BY MONDAY GOMA

If you're currently in the process of getting your driver's license, you'll be happy to know that we've updated this article to feature the latest information we could find regarding driving test questions. We also provided some valuable tips regarding some of the questions and rules of the road in general. Keep in mind, however, that you may find that none of these questions appear on your test, so you'll still have to study!

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10 Choose The Statement That Is NOT TRUE/TRUE For The Following Question…

True - False Traffic Sign
via Shutterstock

Apart from being one of the most common questions, this is also one of the more difficult questions. It doesn't matter what the topic is, this type of question is one test-takers often get wrong. The reason for this is that three of the four answers will be wrong, so you really need to read everything carefully.

In addition, there's not a lot of time to answer each question and many people don't respond well to stress, causing them to choose one of the incorrect answers. This type of question will come up frequently across multiple topics, so be prepared and read both the questions and the answers thoroughly. Using the DMV practice test questions could be good preparation for questions such as these.

How to Choose The Statement That Is True/Not True For A Given Question

When it comes to Not True/True questions, it is important to know how to approach them to increase your chances of success. Here are a few tips for effectively tackling this type of question:

  • Read the question carefully to understand what it is asking
  • Analyze each statement provided as an answer option and compare it with the information in the text
  • Eliminate statements that you are sure are wrong so that you are left with only a few possibly correct options
  • Look for any contradictions or inconsistencies between the remaining statements and the question
  • Choose the statement that does or does not match the facts or requirements stated in the question (depending on the nature of the question)

9 What Should You Do If You Have A Tire Blowout?

Ford Thunderbird Flat Tire
Via: Kenan Reed / Unsplash

While some might consider taking a test to be a stressful situation, it's nothing compared to a tire blowout. This question frequently pops up on the theoretical driving test. Most of the options you can choose from can potentially lead to the car spinning out of control, so the option that will slow it down in a controlled manner is the most reasonable. Test takers have to consider that the questions are actually very literal.

What You Should Do If You Have A Tire Blowout While Driving

According to Firestone, there are many steps you can take to keep yourself safe if you experience a tire blowout. They include:

  • Stay calm and in control: In the event of a tire blowout, it is recommended to remain composed and avoid sudden or panicked movements. So try keeping both hands on the wheel and make sure your movements are smooth and steady.
  • Avoid slamming on the brakes: Though it may be instinctive to brake immediately, slamming on the brakes can result in a loss of control. Instead, apply the brakes gradually and gently to slow down.
  • Steer straight: Resist the temptation to jerk the wheel, aiming to keep the vehicle moving in a straight line. Instead, gently steer toward the direction of the road and maintain your lane.
  • Consider light acceleration if needed: If you find yourself in a situation where you lack control or the vehicle veers towards a hazardous area, such as oncoming traffic or a ditch, lightly accelerating may help regain control. However, it is recommended to exercise this option only if it is safe to do so.
  • Signal and move to a safe location: Once you've regained control, it is advisable to activate your emergency flashers to alert other drivers. Proceed slowly and cautiously to a safe location away from oncoming traffic, such as the road shoulder or a nearby parking lot.
  • Inspect the tire and seek assistance: After reaching a safe location, visually inspect the blown-out tire. If you are unsure how to change a tire or if doing so is unsafe, call roadside assistance or a tow truck for professional help.

8 What Should You Do At An Intersection With A Roundabout Island?

Roundabout
via Transport For NSW YouTube channel

Many of those taking the test often get the answers to the questions regarding intersections all wrong. Various situations regarding intersections appear frequently in the written test. When it comes to intersections and roundabout islands, that's where the majority of test-takers fail.

There is actually no change in the way that it is organized; a roundabout is just another take on the intersection. The same rules are applicable, only that drivers need to have their respective blinkers on, signaling where they intend to go. It's a little complicated in theory, but once you've actually learned how to do it, you'll never forget. Since this is a common question, it's always good to be aware of the roundabout rules.

7 Your Vehicle’s Lights Must Be Turned On From…

BMW Headlight
via BMW

This is another one of those questions that catch a lot of test-takers out. While most modern cars have automatic lights that turn on when the car's sensors deem they are needed, there are still cars around that need you to turn on the lights manually. That's probably what most test takers don't expect.

To answer the question, it is necessary to have your vehicle's headlights on from thirty minutes before sunset until thirty minutes after sunrise. However, it turns out many test-takers choose the option stating the lights should always be turned on. This may seem right, but it is incorrect. Test takers should consider more technical answers when responding to this type of question. A car's lights don’t always have to be on.

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6 What Is Expected Of The Drivers Entering An Intersection To Turn Left?

Left Turn Only Sign
via Shutterstock

Turning left in an intersection is arguably one of the most dangerous actions a driver can perform. That's also why people are frequently tested on it. The answer to this is that drivers should only turn if they can complete the turn without having to stop.

In theory, it seems like a simple and completely doable process, although it's more complicated in practice. Misjudging the distance to oncoming vehicles is the biggest danger in these situations.

What To Do When Turning Left In An Intersection

To safely turn left at an intersection, you're expected to:

  • Give way to oncoming traffic: Always let vehicles coming from the opposite direction go first. Wait for a clear opening before turning left.
  • Signal your left turn: Use your left-turn signal in advance to let other drivers and pedestrians know your intentions. This gives them time to adjust and helps prevent confusion.
  • Position your vehicle correctly: If possible, move your vehicle into the leftmost lane or a designated left-turn lane as you approach the intersection. This keeps traffic flowing smoothly and makes turns easier for everyone.
  • Stay alert and cautious: Continuously be aware of the intersection and be ready to stop or yield if anything changes suddenly. Look out for pedestrians, bicycles, and unexpected obstacles that may affect your turn.
  • Complete the turn safely: Once you have a safe gap in oncoming traffic, proceed with your turn cautiously. Maintain a reasonable speed for turning, and always yield to pedestrians and vehicles that have the right-of-way at the intersection or crosswalk.

5 Why Should A Driver Be Extra Alert For Motorcyclists, Bicycles, And Pedestrians?

Kymco three wheeler
KYMCO

Most people think they got this question right. But they're wrong! For some almost unbelievable reason, it seems a lot of test-takers believe that their common factor is that they all use sidewalks and crosswalks. It should be obvious that motorcyclists don't use these, and in some places neither do bicyclists.

The correct answer to this is that they should be especially alert since they are difficult to see in traffic. But people end up answering that it is because they have the right of way, probably due to the whole crosswalk thing.

4 What Should You Do When Parking Downhill By A Curb After Using The Parking Brake?

car parked on a hill
via Morozov Automotive YouTube channel

This is a very frequent question. You can expect this on your driving test without a doubt. It comes up for everyone. Apparently, downhill parking is one of the most complicated types of parking out there.

The proper way to downhill park is to pull the handbrake and turn the wheels of the car, so they point towards the curb. Surprisingly, many people get this wrong, believing that their cars would not roll down the hill with the parking brake on.

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3 What Is The Visibility Distance For A Bicycle’s White Headlight When Riding At Night?

Bicyclist
via New Alfa Star

If remembering all these questions is hard, then remembering the answers will be even more complicated. Especially those that require you to remember numbers. Large numbers. Unless you’ve ridden a bicycle, this question will stump you. Maybe by guessing, you will get it right. Usually, the answers vary from 300, 400, or 500 feet.

The answer to this question is 500 feet. Of course, in reality, this may not always be the case, because we don't live in a perfect world. The further the bike's light can be seen, the easier it is for drivers to know there's a bike on the road. Many other biking questions will come up, so be aware that safety for all types of vehicles is a topic you should study.

2 How Much Space Is A Sufficient Gap To Pass Another Vehicle On A Two-Lane Road Where The Posted Speed Is 55 MPH?

Speed Limit Sign
via Shutterstock

Who really knows what a safe passing space is? In the real world, it depends on the size of the car and other factors which the test does not give you. However, there is a correct answer, and it’s got more to do with time rather than space: 10 to 12 seconds.

Rest assured that if you get this answer wrong, you probably won't be the only one. Most test-takers get it wrong because it is not very intuitive.

1 When Must You Stop If You See A School Bus On A Road With Two Lanes Traveling In Opposite Directions?

School Bus stopping
Chris Waits via Flickr

Bus stops are often very frequent and drivers tend to hate them. It takes a few minutes, and it's very appealing to just pass the bus. If it is a school bus, that could be illegal. Laws differ in different states, so know what they are in your state.

The correct thing to do is stop if you are going in the same direction that the bus is going in. In many states, you must also stop when on a two-lane highway if you are traveling in the opposite direction. Two-lane roads are not very wide, and it is important to remain alert for children trying to dart across the street.

Sources: Driving Tests, Firestone, CarBuzz, CTF ASSETS