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QuizTraffic rulesSwitzerland

Test your knowledge with our multiple-choice quiz. Learn from each answer and improve your understanding of the traffic rules and road signs of Switzerland.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Switzerland
True/false 17 Switzerland 33 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 600
What should you do before reversing your vehicle?

1. What should you do before reversing your vehicle?

Check the mirrors and reverse if they appear clear.
Sound the horn before reversing and proceed.
✓ Check all around and make sure it is safe.
Check behind only after you start moving.

Before reversing, check all around the vehicle, including blind spots, for pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, and other hazards. Reverse slowly and keep checking as you move.

Vehicle preparing to reverse from a driveway
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you switch off your fog lights?

2. When should you switch off your fog lights?

Only after the journey is finished.
Never, because they always improve visibility.
Whenever you stop at a traffic light.
✓ When visibility improves and they are no longer needed.

Fog lights can dazzle other road users when visibility is normal, so switch them off when conditions improve.

Fog-light control as visibility improves
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

3. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking assistance.
Electronic stability control.
Lane-departure warning.
✓ Forward-collision warning.

This symbol relates to the forward-collision warning or automatic emergency braking system. It may warn the driver when the vehicle detects a risk of collision with traffic ahead.

Forward-collision warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why are roads especially slippery during rain after a dry period?

4. Why are roads especially slippery during rain after a dry period?

The first rain makes the road surface softer.
Cold rain quickly reduces the tyre pressure.
✓ Oil, dust, and dirt mix with water on the road surface.
Rain temporarily reduces the weight of the vehicle.

After a dry period, oil and dirt can build up on the road. The first rain mixes with them and can make the surface very slippery.

Rain falling on a road after dry weather
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check blind spots before moving off?

5. Why should you check blind spots before moving off?

To make sure your mirrors are adjusted correctly.
✓ A cyclist, pedestrian, or vehicle may be beside you.
To confirm other drivers have seen your indicator.
To judge the speed of traffic approaching from behind.

Mirrors do not show every area around your vehicle. A blind-spot check can reveal cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, or vehicles before you move off.

Driver checking a blind spot before moving off
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle begins to drift onto the shoulder?

6. What should you do if your vehicle begins to drift onto the shoulder?

Brake firmly before returning to the road.
Accelerate slightly before steering back onto the road.
✓ Ease off the accelerator and steer back smoothly when safe.
Steer back onto the road as quickly as possible.

If you drift onto the shoulder, avoid sudden steering or braking. Slow gently and return to the road smoothly when it is safe.

Vehicle drifting towards the road shoulder
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

7. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Electric window control.
Central door locking.
Seat adjustment.
✓ Exterior mirror folding.

This control folds or unfolds the vehicle's exterior mirrors. It is useful when parking in narrow spaces or when leaving the vehicle parked.

Control for folding the exterior mirrors
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when traffic lights are not working?

8. What should you do when traffic lights are not working?

Proceed if the junction appears clear.
✓ Proceed carefully and follow signs or priority rules.
Wait for another driver to enter first, then follow.
Follow the vehicle ahead through the junction.

If traffic lights are not working, slow down, observe carefully, and follow signs, road markings, or local priority rules.

Junction with traffic lights out of operation
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used for normal forward driving?

9. Which selector position is used for normal forward driving?

N (Neutral).
R (Reverse).
✓ D (Drive).
P (Park).

Select D (Drive) for normal forward driving in a vehicle with an automatic transmission. The transmission then selects the appropriate gear automatically.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

10. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Windscreen washer.
Rear window demister.
✓ Rear window wiper.
Windscreen wiper.

This symbol controls the rear window wiper. Depending on the vehicle, the same control may also operate the rear-window washer.

Rear-window wiper control and symbol
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

11. Why can temporary road surfaces increase stopping distance?

Roadworks switch off anti-lock braking.
Temporary surfaces make the brakes colder.
✓ Loose gravel, mud, or uneven material may reduce tyre grip.
Temporary roads always slope downhill.

Temporary surfaces may provide less grip than normal asphalt. Reduce speed and allow more distance for braking.

Loose or uneven road surface through roadworks
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does AUTO on a windscreen-wiper control normally do?

12. What does AUTO on a windscreen-wiper control normally do?

Runs the wipers continuously at maximum speed.
✓ Operates the wipers automatically when rain is detected.
Operates only the rear wiper.
Sprays washer fluid automatically.

When AUTO is selected, a rain sensor can operate the windscreen wipers automatically and adjust their operation according to the amount of moisture detected on the windscreen.

AUTO setting on the windscreen-wiper control
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

13. When should you select reverse gear in a manual vehicle?

✓ After the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
While the vehicle is still moving forward slowly.
Whenever you want to reduce speed.
Before pressing the clutch pedal.

Select reverse gear only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Press the clutch fully before selecting reverse to avoid unnecessary wear or damage to the transmission.

Selecting reverse gear in a stationary manual vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

14. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Seat adjustment.
Steering-wheel adjustment.
Lumbar support.
Seat heating.

This control adjusts the position of the seat. Depending on the vehicle, it may move the seat forwards or backwards, raise or lower it, or change the backrest angle.

Control for adjusting the driver's seat
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you take regular breaks during a long journey?

15. Why should you take regular breaks during a long journey?

To reduce tyre pressure.
✓ To help prevent fatigue and maintain concentration.
To improve fuel quality.
To allow the engine to cool down.

Regular breaks during a long journey help reduce fatigue and maintain concentration. Do not wait until you are struggling to stay awake before stopping to rest.

Driver resting during a long journey
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave space beside large vehicles when they turn?

16. Why should you leave space beside large vehicles when they turn?

✓ They may need extra room to complete the turn.
They must stop before making every turn.
They always turn more slowly than cars.
They can turn only from the centre of the road.

Large vehicles often swing wide when turning and have larger blind spots. Keep clear and do not move into the space beside them.

Large vehicle needing extra space to turn
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

17. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine-management warning.
Engine-temperature warning.
✓ Diesel glow-plug preheating.
Diesel particulate filter warning.

This symbol indicates the diesel glow-plug preheating system. In a diesel vehicle, wait for the light to go out before starting the engine when required. If it remains illuminated or flashes while driving, it may indicate a fault.

Diesel glow-plug preheating symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

18. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Front windscreen demister.
Rear window demister.
Fan speed.
✓ Air conditioning.

The A/C symbol controls the vehicle's air-conditioning system. Air conditioning can cool and dehumidify the air inside the vehicle, which can also help clear mist from the windows.

Air-conditioning control with the A/C symbol
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you notice the location of emergency exits in a tunnel?

19. Why should you notice the location of emergency exits in a tunnel?

Pedestrians may be crossing near them.
✓ You may need to reach one quickly during an emergency.
They show where overtaking is prohibited.
They provide shortcuts to nearby roads.

Knowing where emergency exits and refuge areas are located can save valuable time during a fire, collision, or evacuation.

Emergency exit inside a road tunnel
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do with the accelerator when changing to a higher gear?

20. What should you normally do with the accelerator when changing to a higher gear?

✓ Ease off it while pressing the clutch.
Press it fully while pressing the clutch.
Press the brake pedal instead.
Keep it pressed at the same position.

When changing to a higher gear, ease off the accelerator as you press the clutch and select the next gear. Release the clutch smoothly and then apply the accelerator progressively.

Changing to a higher gear in a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main risk when following a vehicle with limited rear visibility?

21. What is the main risk when following a vehicle with limited rear visibility?

The vehicle must always travel more slowly.
The vehicle has priority when changing lanes.
✓ The driver may not see you clearly.
The driver can see you better if you follow closely.

Vans, trucks, and vehicles with blocked rear windows may have limited visibility. Keep extra distance and avoid sitting in blind spots.

Vehicle with limited rearward visibility
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which colour combination is commonly used for warning signs in Switzerland?

22. Which colour combination is commonly used for warning signs in Switzerland?

Red border with yellow background.
Black border with yellow background.
Blue border with white background.
✓ Red border with white background.

Most warning signs in Switzerland have a red border with a white background.

Colour combinations used for road warning signs
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave a safe following distance inside a tunnel?

23. Why should you leave a safe following distance inside a tunnel?

✓ You need enough space to react if traffic slows or stops.
To make it easier for other vehicles to overtake.
Because vehicles ahead cannot see you in their mirrors.
Because tunnels usually have a poor road surface.

Limited space and visibility can make incidents inside tunnels especially dangerous. A safe gap gives you more time to react.

Gap between vehicles travelling through a tunnel
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid changing lanes inside an intersection?

24. Why should you avoid changing lanes inside an intersection?

It can reduce the effectiveness of your indicators.
✓ It can confuse other road users and increase collision risk.
It can make your route through the junction longer.
It can make road markings harder to follow.

Changing lanes inside an intersection can surprise drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. It is safer to choose the correct lane before entering.

Vehicle changing lanes within a junction
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control button operate?

25. What does this vehicle-control button operate?

✓ The engine or drive system.
The automatic start-stop system.
The central locking system.
The parking brake.

The engine start/stop button is used to start or switch off the vehicle's engine or electric drive system. Starting the vehicle normally also requires the brake or clutch pedal to be pressed.

Engine start/stop button in a vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an overtaking vehicle is coming toward you?

26. What should you do if an overtaking vehicle is coming toward you?

Move closer to the centre so the other driver notices you.
Accelerate to pass the danger point more quickly.
Brake sharply as soon as the vehicle enters your lane.
✓ Slow down and move slightly aside if safe.

If an oncoming vehicle creates danger while overtaking, reduce speed and make space if it is safe to do so. Avoid sudden movements that could create an additional hazard.

Oncoming vehicle overtaking into the driver's lane
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the ACC position of a traditional ignition switch normally allow?

27. What does the ACC position of a traditional ignition switch normally allow?

The starter motor to turn the engine.
The parking brake to release.
The transmission to select Drive.
✓ Electrical accessories to be used without starting the engine.

The ACC (accessory) position normally supplies power to certain electrical accessories, such as the audio system, without starting the engine. The exact functions available can vary between vehicles.

ACC accessory position on an ignition switch
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the ignition key once the engine starts?

28. What should you do with the ignition key once the engine starts?

Turn it immediately to ACC.
Remove it from the ignition.
✓ Release it so it returns from START to ON.
Keep holding it in the START position.

Once the engine starts, release the ignition key so it returns from START to the ON position. Holding the key in START unnecessarily can keep the starter motor engaged.

Releasing the ignition key after the engine starts
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

29. What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

✓ Hold their hand and keep them close.
Let them walk slightly ahead of you.
Let them run once the first lane is clear.
Ask them to decide when it is safe to cross.

Children can be unpredictable near traffic. Keep them close and guide them safely across the road.

Adult holding a child's hand while crossing the road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

30. What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

✓ Slow down and stay in your lane.
Maintain your speed if the road ahead appears clear.
Move slightly toward the centre for a better view.
Brake only after entering the curve if necessary.

A curve can hide oncoming traffic, obstacles, cyclists, or pedestrians. Reduce speed and keep a safe position.

Road bend with a restricted view ahead
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does pulling the lighting stalk towards you normally do?

31. What does pulling the lighting stalk towards you normally do?

Activate the hazard warning lights.
✓ Flash the main-beam headlights.
Activate the direction indicators.
Switch on the dipped headlights.

Pulling the lighting stalk towards you normally flashes the main-beam headlights. This briefly illuminates the main beam while the stalk is held or operated.

Lighting stalk used to flash the main-beam headlights
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

32. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Interior lighting.
Front fog lights.
Automatic headlights.
✓ Instrument-panel brightness.

This control adjusts the brightness of the instrument panel and dashboard illumination, allowing the driver to reduce or increase the lighting level.

Control for adjusting instrument-panel brightness
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are bicycle lights required at night in Switzerland?

33. Are bicycle lights required at night in Switzerland?

✓ Yes.
No.

Cyclists in Switzerland are generally required to use bicycle lights at night.

Bicycle lights used at night
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

34. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Windscreen wiper speed.
Rear window demister.
✓ Windscreen washer.
Air recirculation.

This symbol indicates the windscreen washer. Operating the control sprays washer fluid onto the windscreen and normally activates the wipers to help clean the glass.

Windscreen-washer control and spray symbol
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a hill crest?

35. What should you do when approaching a hill crest?

✓ Slow down and be prepared for hidden hazards.
Maintain speed if no traffic is visible.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely for guidance.
Move toward the centre of the road for a better view.

A hill crest can hide vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, or obstacles. Reduce speed and stay in your lane.

Vehicle approaching the crest of a hill
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can a heavy load affect stopping distance?

36. How can a heavy load affect stopping distance?

It makes the brakes respond more quickly.
✓ It can increase the distance needed to stop.
It always shortens the stopping distance.
It reduces the driver's reaction time.

A heavily loaded vehicle has more mass and may require additional distance to slow down or stop safely.

Loaded vehicle and the space needed for braking
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

37. What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

Increase the engine speed until the light goes out.
Add engine oil while the engine is still running.
Ignore it if the engine sounds normal.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.

Low oil pressure can quickly cause severe engine damage. Stop as soon as it is safe, switch off the engine, and investigate the cause before continuing.

Oil-pressure warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do around a damaged electric or hybrid vehicle?

38. What should you do around a damaged electric or hybrid vehicle?

Assume the system is safe once the vehicle is switched off.
✓ Keep clear of damaged high-voltage components and call trained assistance.
Inspect damaged cables closely before calling for help.
Move damaged high-voltage parts away from the road.

Electric and hybrid vehicles can contain dangerous high-voltage systems. Do not touch damaged cables, batteries, or electrical components.

Damaged electric vehicle and high-voltage safety risks
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should an unused roof rack or roof box be removed?

39. Why should an unused roof rack or roof box be removed?

It reduces the vehicle's braking power.
It prevents the battery from charging.
It makes the steering wheel harder to turn.
✓ It can increase aerodynamic drag and energy use.

An unused roof rack or roof box increases aerodynamic drag, particularly at higher speeds. Removing it when it is not needed can reduce fuel or energy consumption.

Roof rack or roof box fitted to a vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do about a flat tyre on a high-speed road?

40. What should you do about a flat tyre on a high-speed road?

✓ Move to a protected location if possible and call for professional recovery.
Stop immediately and change the tyre where you are.
Drive slowly on the damaged tyre to the next exit.
Repair the tyre beside the traffic lane using hazard lights.

Changing a wheel close to high-speed traffic is extremely dangerous. Move away from traffic and use professional assistance.

Vehicle stopped with a flat tyre on a high-speed road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

41. Why should you avoid driving through deep water?

Water causes the tyres to lose air pressure.
Deep water makes the engine use too much oil.
Increase speed to maintain full control through the water.
✓ It can damage your vehicle or make you lose control.

Deep water can damage the engine, reduce braking ability, hide hazards, or cause the vehicle to lose grip. Reduce speed, assess the depth and conditions carefully, and avoid entering the water if you are unsure it is safe. If necessary, stop and use another route.

Deep water covering part of a road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Rain can reduce tyre grip and increase stopping distance.

42. Rain can reduce tyre grip and increase stopping distance.

False.
✓ True.

Wet roads reduce traction, so your vehicle may need more distance to stop safely.

Vehicle travelling on a wet road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before making a turn?

43. What should you do before making a turn?

Signal only after you begin turning.
✓ Check mirrors, signal, and make sure it is safe.
Turn as soon as the road ahead appears clear.
Check only the traffic directly ahead.

Before turning, check your mirrors, use your indicator, and make sure the turn can be made safely.

Driver preparing to turn at a junction
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the single-wipe position of the windscreen-wiper control do?

44. What does the single-wipe position of the windscreen-wiper control do?

Runs the wipers continuously.
Sprays washer fluid onto the windscreen.
Activates the rear wiper.
✓ Operates the windscreen wipers once.

The single-wipe position operates the windscreen wipers for one sweep and then stops. It is useful when only a small amount of water or spray needs to be cleared from the windscreen.

Single-wipe setting on the windscreen-wiper control
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

45. What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.
Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.
Restart the engine repeatedly to reset the warning.

The alternator or charging system may have failed. The vehicle may stop once the remaining battery charge is exhausted.

Charging-system warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

46. Why should you avoid overloading a trailer?

✓ It can reduce stability and place excessive strain on the vehicle.
It reduces tyre wear on the towing vehicle.
It makes the trailer easier to control.
It improves braking on steep roads.

Overloading can affect braking, steering, tyres, suspension, and trailer stability. Always remain within permitted limits. After loading, check that the load is secure and correctly distributed before starting your journey.

Loaded trailer and towing limits
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should the top of the head restraint normally be positioned?

47. Where should the top of the head restraint normally be positioned?

Behind the neck only.
As low as possible.
Level with the shoulders.
✓ Approximately level with the top of the head.

The head restraint should normally be adjusted so that its top is approximately level with the top of the head. This helps reduce the risk of neck injury in a collision.

Adjusting the head restraint to head height
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if strong winds push your vehicle sideways?

48. What should you do if strong winds push your vehicle sideways?

✓ Keep calm and steer smoothly to maintain your lane.
Release the steering wheel briefly and let the vehicle settle.
Brake hard immediately to stop the vehicle moving sideways.
Turn sharply against the direction of the wind.

Strong winds can push your vehicle off course, especially at higher speeds. Reduce speed and use smooth steering to stay in control.

Crosswind affecting a vehicle's road position
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you use headlights in poor visibility?

49. Why should you use headlights in poor visibility?

✓ To see better and be seen by others.
To make the brakes respond faster.
To reduce fuel consumption.
To keep the windscreen clear.

Headlights help you see the road and make your vehicle more visible to other road users in fog, rain, darkness, or poor weather.

Vehicle using headlights in reduced visibility
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you obey traffic signs?

50. Why should you obey traffic signs?

To make other drivers responsible for your safety.
To avoid checking for other road users.
To let you drive at the maximum permitted speed.
✓ To improve safety for everyone.

Traffic signs help organise traffic and improve safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Traffic signs using Vienna-style designs
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA