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QuizTraffic rulesSouth Africa

This interesting quiz helps you test your knowledge in a clear and visual way. With easy multiple-choice questions, you can quickly build confidence and learn new facts while keeping it simple, interactive, and fun.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
South Africa
True/false 17 South Africa 23 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 590
What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

151. What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

Continue if you feel fine and the bicycle looks normal.
✓ Check yourself and inspect the bicycle before riding again.
Check only the parts that were directly involved in the fall.
Test the bicycle by riding it before checking for damage.

A fall can damage the brakes, wheels, frame, handlebars, or helmet. Injuries may also not be immediately obvious.

Checking a bicycle after a fall or collision
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

152. What should you do if spray from other vehicles makes it hard to see?

✓ Slow down and increase following distance.
Move closer to the vehicle ahead for guidance.
Change lanes immediately to find a clearer view.
Speed up to move out of the spray more quickly.

Spray can seriously reduce visibility. Slowing down and increasing your distance gives you more time and a clearer view.

Road spray from a vehicle ahead
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What normally happens to cruise control when you press the brake pedal?

153. What normally happens to cruise control when you press the brake pedal?

The selected speed increases.
✓ Cruise control is cancelled or temporarily disengaged.
The parking brake is applied.
The accelerator pedal locks in position.

Pressing the brake pedal normally cancels or temporarily disengages cruise control, returning speed control to the driver.

Brake-pedal operation to disengage cruise control
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

154. How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

✓ It can prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards.
It increases engine power.
It selects a lower gear automatically.
It releases the clutch.

When moving off uphill, the parking brake can hold the vehicle stationary while you prepare to move. Release it smoothly once the clutch reaches the biting point and sufficient power is applied.

Parking-brake control during an uphill start
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you brake on a slippery road?

155. How should you brake on a slippery road?

✓ Brake gently and progressively.
Use the parking brake to help slow the vehicle.
Brake harder than usual to shorten the stopping distance.
Apply the brakes suddenly before the tyres lose grip.

Sudden braking can cause the wheels to lose grip. Smooth, progressive braking reduces the risk of skidding.

Braking on a slippery road surface
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

156. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Speed limiter.
✓ Cruise control.
Electronic stability control.
Engine-management warning.

This symbol indicates the cruise-control system. Cruise control can maintain a selected vehicle speed without the driver continuously pressing the accelerator. The exact indicator behaviour can vary between vehicles.

Cruise-control indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

157. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Anti-lock braking system warning.
Electronic stability control.
Low tyre pressure.
Brake-pad wear warning.

This symbol indicates a possible fault with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Normal braking may still be available, but ABS may not operate during heavy braking, so the system should be checked.

Anti-lock braking system warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How may drivers normally use a phone while driving in South Africa?

158. How may drivers normally use a phone while driving in South Africa?

✓ Hands-free.
Handheld.
Only for texting.
Either handheld or hands-free.

When phone use while driving is permitted in South Africa, drivers must generally use a hands-free system rather than holding the phone.

Hands-free phone use inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a motorcyclist do before entering a bend?

159. What should a motorcyclist do before entering a bend?

Move close to the centre of the road.
Look only at the road directly in front of the wheel.
Accelerate before checking how sharp the bend is.
✓ Reduce speed before the bend and look through it.

Adjust your speed before entering the bend so you can steer smoothly and remain within a safe position. Look through the bend towards where you want to travel and be prepared for hazards that may be hidden from view.

Motorcyclist approaching a bend
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

160. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Cabin temperature adjustment.
Air recirculation.
✓ Airflow direction.
Cabin fan speed.

This control selects the direction of the ventilation airflow, such as towards the face, feet or windscreen.

Control for directing cabin ventilation airflow
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave a safe following distance inside a tunnel?

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

✓ You need enough space to react if traffic slows or stops.
Because tunnels usually have a poor road surface.
Because vehicles ahead cannot see you in their mirrors.
To prevent your headlights from overheating.

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
What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

162. What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

Follow another vehicle closely for visibility.
Use hazard lights and continue to your destination.
✓ Reduce speed and stop safely using any remaining lights or hazard lights.
Continue slowly if the road is well lit.

Without effective headlights, you may not see hazards and other road users may not see you. Stop in a safe location as soon as possible.

Vehicle with failed headlights at night
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should stay focused on the road and avoid unnecessary distractions.

163. You should stay focused on the road and avoid unnecessary distractions.

✓ True.
False.

Distractions reduce awareness and reaction time, making driving more dangerous.

Driver keeping attention on the road ahead
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

164. What should you do if birds are swooping at you while cycling?

✓ Slow down, stay calm, and leave the area without provoking them.
Accelerate as fast as possible to escape.
Throw objects towards the birds.
Wave your arms to frighten the birds away.

Some birds become territorial during the breeding season and may swoop people near their nests. Stay calm, avoid provoking or approaching the birds, and leave the area safely. If necessary and safe, dismount and walk your bicycle through or away from the area while keeping your helmet on.

Bird swooping near a cyclist
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

165. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Instrument-panel brightness.
✓ Interior lighting.
Hazard warning lights.
Dipped headlights.

This control operates the vehicle's interior lighting. Depending on the vehicle, the lights can be switched on manually or set to illuminate automatically when a door is opened.

Control for the vehicle's interior lighting
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing without barriers?

166. What should you do at a railway crossing without barriers?

✓ Stop if required, check carefully, and cross only when safe.
Follow the vehicle ahead without checking yourself.
Cross quickly if you cannot see a train.
Maintain your speed if the tracks look clear.

Approach railway crossings carefully, obey any requirement to stop and any warning signals or barriers, and cross only when it is safe.

Railway crossing without barriers
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

167. How should a motorcyclist cross tram or railway rails?

While braking firmly on the rails.
With the motorcycle leaning sharply.
By accelerating hard as the front wheel reaches the rail.
✓ At a safe angle, as close to perpendicular as practical.

Rails can be slippery and can catch a motorcycle tyre, especially when wet. Cross them at a sufficiently large angle, as close to perpendicular as practical, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering while crossing.

Motorcycle crossing rails in the road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
When should you select R (Reverse) in an automatic vehicle?

168. When should you select R (Reverse) in an automatic vehicle?

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

Select R (Reverse) only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Selecting Reverse while the vehicle is still moving forward can damage the transmission.

Selecting Reverse in a stationary automatic vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a passenger normally sit on a motorcycle?

169. How should a passenger normally sit on a motorcycle?

Sideways so they can get off more easily.
With one foot hanging down when travelling slowly.
✓ Securely on the passenger seat with both feet on the footrests.
Standing on the footrests when the road is uneven.

A motorcycle passenger should sit securely on the designated passenger seat, keep both feet on the footrests and avoid sudden movements that could affect the motorcycle's balance and stability.

Passenger seated on a motorcycle with feet on the footrests
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

170. What does the intermittent wiper interval control adjust?

The speed of the rear wiper.
✓ The time between wiper sweeps.
The amount of washer fluid sprayed.
The brightness of the dashboard.

The intermittent wiper interval control adjusts the time between windscreen-wiper sweeps, allowing the driver to match the wiping frequency to light rain or spray.

Interval adjustment for intermittent windscreen wiping
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you pass a large vehicle in strong winds?

171. How should you pass a large vehicle in strong winds?

Accelerate sharply as soon as you start passing.
Keep the steering fixed while you move past it.
Use the horn before moving alongside the vehicle.
✓ Be prepared for sudden wind changes when passing.

Large vehicles can block wind and then expose you to strong gusts when you pass them.

Vehicle passing a large vehicle in windy conditions
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

172. You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

True.
✓ False.

Hazard lights are used to warn other road users of a hazard or an unexpectedly stopped vehicle. They do not make illegal or unsafe parking acceptable.

Parked vehicle with hazard warning lights flashing
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

173. How does higher speed affect a vehicle's stopping distance?

✓ It increases the distance needed to stop.
It affects braking distance only on wet roads.
It decreases the distance needed to stop.
It affects reaction distance but not braking distance.

As speed increases, the vehicle travels farther while the driver reacts and requires more distance to brake. This means the total stopping distance increases significantly as speed rises.

Vehicle speed and the distance needed to stop
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

174. What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

✓ Use the correct lights and keep a safe distance.
Increase speed to spend less time inside.
Switch on the hazard lights before entering.
Stop and wait until the tunnel is clear.

When entering a tunnel, use the correct lights, keep enough distance, and stay alert for slower traffic.

Vehicle approaching a road tunnel
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

175. Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

Because a phone may be used only at low speeds.
Because phones must be switched off while cycling.
Because phone signals can interfere with traffic lights.
✓ It reduces your control and attention.

Using a phone can distract you and may prevent you from steering, braking, or reacting properly.

Cyclist using a handheld phone
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect if the engine suddenly stalls while the vehicle is moving?

176. What should you expect if the engine suddenly stalls while the vehicle is moving?

The steering and brakes will stop working completely.
✓ Steering and braking may require more effort, so move to a safe place.
The steering will become lighter as the vehicle slows.
Power assistance will continue working normally.

Power assistance may be reduced when the engine stops. Keep control, use the hazard lights if needed, and steer toward a safe stopping area.

Driver responding to an engine stall while moving
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a large animal suddenly enters your path?

177. What should you do if a large animal suddenly enters your path?

Accelerate to pass before the animal moves.
✓ Brake firmly while keeping control of the vehicle.
Release the steering wheel and brake hard.
Swerve sharply into another lane.

If a large animal enters the road, brake firmly while keeping the vehicle under control. Avoid sudden swerving, as this can cause you to lose control or collide with other traffic.

Large animal entering a vehicle's path
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

178. Why should you not ignore temporary speed limits?

They are recommendations rather than limits.
They apply only when traffic is congested.
✓ They are used to protect people and manage hazards.
They apply only to road workers.

Temporary speed limits may be used near roadworks, accidents, events, or dangerous conditions. They help keep traffic safe.

Temporary speed-limit sign at roadworks
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the oil-pressure warning light stays on?

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

✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.
Increase the engine speed until the light goes out.
Continue slowly until you reach a service station.
Ignore it if the engine sounds normal.

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 may happen if you release the clutch too quickly when moving off?

180. What may happen if you release the clutch too quickly when moving off?

The headlights may switch off.
The parking brake may engage.
The steering may lock.
✓ The engine may stall.

Releasing the clutch pedal too quickly when moving off can cause the engine to stall. Release the clutch smoothly through the biting point while applying the accelerator progressively.

Clutch release and engine stalling when moving off
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you obey traffic signs?

181. Why should you obey traffic signs?

✓ To improve safety for everyone.
To let you drive at the maximum permitted speed.
To make sure you always have priority.
To avoid checking for other road users.

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
What should you do if a friend who has been drinking wants to drive?

182. What should you do if a friend who has been drinking wants to drive?

Let them drive slowly on quiet roads.
✓ Encourage them not to drive and arrange safe transport.
Let them drive if they say they feel sober.
Give them coffee and wait a short while.

Preventing an impaired person from driving can protect them, their passengers, and other road users. Arrange a sober driver, taxi, public transport, or accommodation.

Friends discussing safe transport after drinking
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

183. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine coolant is too cold.
The windscreen is frozen.
✓ Risk of icy road conditions.
Air conditioning is active.

This symbol warns that the outside temperature is low enough for ice to form. Road surfaces, especially bridges and shaded areas, may be slippery even when they appear clear.

Icy-road warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a bicycle helmet fit?

184. How should a bicycle helmet fit?

Loose enough to move slightly on your head.
High on the head with the straps loose.
✓ Level, secure, and comfortably fitted.
Tilted back to keep your forehead clear.

A helmet should sit level on the head and remain securely in place so it can provide effective protection.

Bicycle helmet positioned securely on the rider's head
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

185. Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

It must always stop before reaching the top.
Its headlights may point higher uphill.
Its tyres may warm up more quickly.
✓ It may slow down suddenly or roll backward.

Vehicles may lose speed or briefly roll backward when starting on a steep incline. Extra space gives you more time to react.

Vehicle following another up a steep hill
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can higher speed affect fuel or energy consumption?

186. How can higher speed affect fuel or energy consumption?

✓ It can increase consumption because air resistance rises.
It always reduces consumption.
It improves tyre efficiency in every situation.
It has no effect once the vehicle is moving.

As speed increases, aerodynamic resistance generally rises, so the vehicle needs more energy to maintain that speed. Driving smoothly at an appropriate speed can therefore reduce fuel or energy consumption.

Vehicle speed and aerodynamic resistance
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another vehicle is tailgating you?

187. What should you do if another vehicle is tailgating you?

Speed up to create more space behind you.
Move toward the centre to discourage them from passing.
✓ Stay calm and increase your safety margin ahead.
Tap the brakes to make them increase their distance.

If someone follows too closely, avoid sudden actions. Keeping more space in front gives you more time to brake gently if needed. If it is safe, allow the tailgating vehicle to pass.

Following vehicle visible close behind
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

188. Which factors can increase a vehicle's stopping distance?

Using dipped headlights and keeping the windows closed.
✓ Higher speed, slower reactions, poor grip, and vehicle condition.
Having a full fuel tank and adjusted mirrors.
Lower speed, dry roads, and good tyres.

Stopping distance can increase because of higher speed, slower driver reactions, reduced tyre grip, poor weather or road conditions, worn tyres, weak brakes, or a heavier vehicle. Both the driver's reaction distance and the vehicle's braking distance can be affected.

Road and vehicle conditions affecting stopping distance
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

189. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

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

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
What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

190. What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

✓ Press the clutch pedal fully.
Apply the parking brake.
Press the accelerator pedal fully.
Switch off the engine.

Pressing the clutch pedal disconnects the engine from the transmission so that another gear can be selected. After changing gear, the clutch should be released smoothly.

Clutch operation when changing 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?

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

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

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
What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

192. What should you do if you are approaching an animal-drawn vehicle?

Flash your headlights to encourage it to move aside.
Sound your horn so the driver notices you.
✓ Slow down and pass carefully with plenty of space.
Overtake quickly before the animal changes direction.

Animals can be startled by noise or sudden movement. Reduce speed, keep distance, and pass only when it is safe.

Vehicle approaching an animal-drawn vehicle
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

193. Why should motorcyclists take extra care on wet road markings?

✓ They can provide less grip than the surrounding road.
They can make the brakes overheat.
They can prevent the indicators from working.
They can increase the motorcycle's engine temperature.

Wet painted road markings can provide less grip than the surrounding road surface. Ride smoothly over them and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering that could cause the tyres to lose grip.

Motorcycle approaching wet painted road markings
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

194. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low tyre pressure.
✓ Parking brake applied.
Brake pads worn.
Power-steering fault.

This symbol indicates that the parking brake is applied. It should normally go out when the parking brake is fully released.

Parking-brake indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

195. What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

Pull out because the vehicle will turn.
✓ Do not rely on the signal alone, proceed only when it is safe.
Enter the road before the vehicle reaches you.
Assume the driver has seen you.

An indicator shows an intention, but it does not guarantee that the driver will turn. The signal may have been left on accidentally or the driver's intentions may change. Observe the vehicle's speed and position and proceed only when you are sure it is safe.

Another vehicle signalling to turn
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

196. What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

Your steering may become lighter.
✓ A sudden gust may affect your vehicle.
The road surface may suddenly become more slippery.
The vehicle may automatically slow down.

Buildings, trees, and other obstacles can block wind. When you leave shelter, a sudden gust may push your vehicle.

Vehicle leaving a sheltered stretch of road
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

197. What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

You may stop watching the road when they are active.
✓ You remain responsible and must stay alert.
The systems can always detect every hazard.
The systems can take full responsibility for driving.

Driver-assistance systems can help with tasks such as maintaining speed, monitoring lanes, or warning about hazards, but they do not replace the driver. Stay attentive, monitor the road and traffic, and be ready to take control whenever necessary.

Driver monitoring the road while using driver assistance
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

198. What should you do before attempting to jump-start a vehicle?

Use any battery that physically fits the vehicle.
✓ Check the owner's manual and make sure the connections are compatible.
Start both vehicles before connecting the leads.
Ignore battery damage if the terminals look clean.

Incorrect jump-starting can damage electrical systems, cause sparks, or make a battery explode. Connect the leads in the correct order before starting the vehicles, and follow the manufacturer's procedure exactly.

Preparing to jump-start a vehicle battery
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

199. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Passenger airbag deactivation.
Seat-belt reminder.
Airbag-system fault.
Central door locking.

This control allows the front passenger airbag to be deactivated on vehicles equipped with this function. The airbag must be deactivated when a rear-facing child restraint is used on the front passenger seat.

Front passenger airbag deactivation control
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

200. What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

Continue if you cannot see or hear a train.
Drive around the barrier if the road ahead is clear.
Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
✓ Stop before the crossing and wait until it is safe to proceed.

Flashing warning lights mean a train may be approaching. Stop before the crossing and wait until the warning has ended and the crossing is clear.

Flashing warning lights at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Rijbewijs-online.be • WCIT • CC BY-SA