DVSA theory topic

Road and Vehicle Markings theory test questions

What lines on the road and markings on vehicles tell you — from white lines to hazard plates. Practise 25 questions free, each with the correct answer and a plain-English explanation mapped to the Highway Code.

What you need to know

  • A solid white centre line means don't cross or straddle it (with few exceptions).
  • Longer white lines mean greater hazard ahead; double whites with a solid line on your side mean no overtaking.
  • Long vehicles may show a hazard 'tail' marking — give them room to turn.

Sample question

If you see a tank vehicle displaying a diamond symbol with a 3 in it, it means the vehicle is

  • not travelling in the right direction.
  • carrying a load overhanging by more than 3 metres.
  • part of the road works equipment.
  • carrying dangerous goods (flammable liquid).

Why

Certain tank vehicles carrying dangerous goods must display hazard information panels. If you see such panel with a diamond symbol with number 3 in it, it means the vehicle is carrying flammable liquid. Other dangerous goods codes include (6) - toxic substance, (5.1) - oxidizing substance, (2) - non-flammable compressed gas, (7) - radioactive substance, (4) - spontaneously combustible substance, (8) - corrosive substance.

Common mistake

Crossing a solid white line to overtake — only allowed to pass a stationary obstruction or slow cyclist/horse.

Exam tip

Match line length and solidity to 'how serious is the hazard / can I cross?'.

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