Answer 48 questions, check each correct answer and work through the explanations at your own pace.
Question 1 of 480 correct answers
Question 1 of 48
You're going to drive an articulated lorry with an ISO container on the trailer. How should the container be secured to the trailer?
Explanation
ISO International Standards Organization cargo containers should only be carried on lorries or trailers with the appropriate securing points. These are designed to lock into the container body.
Question 2 of 48
You're covering a load using more than one sheet. Why should you start with the rearmost sheet, then work forwards?
Explanation
If the load is sheeted incorrectly, the wind may get underneath a sheet, making it flap about. This is dangerous, as it can catch unsuspecting pedestrians or cyclists, and it can also seriously reduce the driver's view of what's happening behind.
Question 3 of 48
Tankers carrying liquids can experience the wave effect. What helps to reduce this problem?
Explanation
Modern tankers are fitted with baffle plates inside the tank compartment. These help to minimise the movement of liquids and, therefore, reduce the wave effect.
Question 4 of 48
Which articulated trailer is most at risk of jack-knifing?
Explanation
Jack knifing occurs when the tractor unit is pushed by the semi trailer pivoting around the coupling fifth wheel. This is more likely to occur with an unladen vehicle.
Question 5 of 48
In what circumstances will short wheelbase vehicles bounce more noticeably than long wheelbase vehicles?
Explanation
Short wheelbase vehicles will bounce more noticeably than some long wheelbase vehicles when empty. This can affect braking efficiency and all-round control.
Question 6 of 48
The lorry you're driving is heavily laden. How will the load affect the vehicle if you approach a left-hand bend too fast?
Explanation
The forces acting on a lorry will try to move it in a straight line as it enters a bend. The greater the weight, the greater the force. If you're going too fast, there's a danger that you could lose your load or tip over.
Question 7 of 48
When must you notify telephone companies that you're moving a high load?
Explanation
You should tell telephone companies about your intended route when planning the movement of loads over 5.25 metres 17 feet 6 inches high. You should tell them in plenty of time before making the journey.
Question 8 of 48
When is trailer swing most likely to occur on a lorry and drawbar combination?
Explanation
The forces that act on your vehicle if you brake while cornering can lead to instability and may cause trailer swing. You should try to plan ahead so that you brake smoothly and in good time as you approach a bend.
Question 9 of 48
Which of the following is important when you're getting out of a lorry cab?
Explanation
When getting out of your lorry cab, it's essential that you check it's safe to dismount by checking your mirrors and looking out for traffic. When you're safely down, it's then a good idea to walk round and check your tyres, load, lights, brake lines, electrical connections, etc.
Question 10 of 48
When will an articulated car transporter be least stable?
Explanation
Keeping the centre of gravity as low as possible will improve the handling of a car transporter. Top heavy loads are more unstable and require more care when turning and cornering.
Question 11 of 48
You're driving an articulated lorry. What could happen if you change to a lower gear while you're going too fast?
Explanation
Severe braking or selecting a gear too low for your road speed can cause the tractor unit to slow more quickly than the trailer. The trailer can then pivot around the coupling fifth wheel, causing the vehicle to jack-knife. Jack-knifing is more likely to occur with an unladen vehicle, particularly on a bend or curve.
Question 12 of 48
You're driving a lorry from a wet construction site onto a motorway. Why must you take extra precautions before leaving the site?
Explanation
You should take precautions against dropping mud on the road, because it's a hazard to other road users. It's also an offence for which you could be prosecuted.
Question 13 of 48
Your tractor unit has three air lines. You're connecting to a trailer that has two air line couplings. What colour is the line you shouldn't connect to the trailer?
Explanation
When connecting a three line tractor unit to a two line trailer, the blue line is the one that shouldn't be connected to the trailer. This is the auxiliary line. Always follow the manufacturer's advice it may be necessary to reconnect the extra line to the tractor unit.
Question 14 of 48
Which of the following is good practice in keeping your lorry and its load safe?
Explanation
Load security is one of the many responsibilities of the driver. When choosing a site to park your vehicle overnight, you should always look for a location that's legal and well lit. Many allocated lorry parks are patrolled by the police or security firms.
Question 15 of 48
You're driving on a motorway and it's raining heavily. What should you do when spray is causing poor visibility?
Explanation
Whenever visibility is reduced, use dipped headlights to make your vehicle easier to see. During and after heavy rain, you should also reduce speed and increase your distance from the vehicle in front.
Question 16 of 48
You're driving a lorry with a sleeper cab. When would a quick sideways glance be helpful?
Explanation
The size and design of some cabs can create blind spots. This is especially true of a sleeper cab. A quick sideways glance might show something you can't see in your mirrors, especially when traffic is merging.
Question 17 of 48
What's prohibited when a Red Route is in operation?
Explanation
The hours of operation of Red Routes vary from one area to another. As a rule, you mustn't stop on a Red Route, but there may be special marked boxes where loading and unloading can be carried out at certain times. Look out for signs giving information about the restrictions in place.
Question 18 of 48
How frequently should the components of a fifth wheel coupling be inspected?
Explanation
A fifth wheel must be maintained properly. It requires regular lubrication and inspection. This should be carried out monthly or every 10 000 km whichever comes first.
Question 19 of 48
What can help to reduce fuel consumption?
Explanation
Poorly maintained engines use more fuel and emit more exhaust fumes than those that are well maintained. Filters need to be changed on a regular basis. Remember that members of the public are encouraged to report vehicles emitting excessive exhaust fumes.
Question 20 of 48
Your vehicle has a maximum authorised mass of 40 tonnes. The kerbside weight is 15 tonnes. What's your maximum payload?
Explanation
Overloading a vehicle is dangerous. Your stopping distance will increase, and your vehicle could become unstable and difficult to control. You'll need to work out the payload. Do this by taking away the kerbside weight from the maximum authorised mass MAM. This will give you the maximum weight you can carry.
Question 21 of 48
You're making several deliveries. What problems may the decreasing payload cause?
Explanation
As items are unloaded from the rear of the vehicle, weight will be transferred to the front axle. Take care that this axle doesn't become overloaded. You may need to redistribute the load.
Question 22 of 48
Your lorry is fitted with a driver's seat belt. When may you drive without wearing it?
Explanation
It's compulsory for drivers and passengers to wear seat belts. However, if you're making deliveries that are less than 50 metres apart, you may leave the seat belt undone. It would be impractical to keep fastening and unfastening your seat belt over such short distances.
Question 23 of 48
What happens to diesel fuel when it gets hot?
Explanation
When a full diesel fuel tank heats up, the fuel expands and can be forced out of the breather vent and onto the road. This wastes fuel and makes the road surface very dangerous for other road users.
Question 24 of 48
By how much can your stopping distance increase in icy weather?
Explanation
It's vital that you give yourself enough separation distance when driving on icy roads ten times as much as in normal conditions. You should brake gently to reduce the risk of losing control.
Question 25 of 48
What can happen to drivers who break EU tachograph regulations?
Explanation
The driver must take responsibility and follow the drivers hours and tachograph rules. Failure to do so can result in legal action and penalties such as a fine.
Question 26 of 48
The analogue tachograph on your vehicle becomes faulty. How long do you have before you must have it repaired?
Explanation
If the tachograph on your vehicle becomes faulty, you should take it to an approved tachograph repairer as soon as possible. If you can't return to your base within a week of finding the fault, it must be repaired while you're away. While the tachograph is faulty or broken, you must keep a manual record of your activities.
Question 27 of 48
You're approaching a bridge that has no height restriction on it. What's the minimum height under the bridge?
Explanation
The headroom under bridges in the UK is at least 5 metres 16 feet 6 inches, unless otherwise stated. Where the overhead clearance is arched, this headroom is normally only between the limits marked.
Question 28 of 48
You arrive at an incident where someone is suffering from severe burns. What should you do to help?
Explanation
Cold water will cool the burning tissue and help prevent further damage. It will also reduce swelling, minimise shock and alleviate pain. Use water, or any other liquid, that's clean and non toxic.
Question 29 of 48
What should you do if you notice that two wheel nuts are missing from one of the wheels on your vehicle?
Explanation
If you notice any missing wheel nuts, park and phone for assistance. It's essential that all wheel fixings are in place and tightened to the torque specified by the manufacturer. Checks should be made before you start any journey, but make a visual check every time you start up again after a rest stop.
Question 30 of 48
What would be illegal?
Explanation
You should check your tyres as part of your routine check of the vehicle. A damaged tyre such as one with exposed ply can have a major effect on your vehicle's handling and will make it a danger to you and other road users.
Question 31 of 48
What proportion of the width of a tyre must have at least the legal minimum depth of tread?
Explanation
Keeping your vehicle's tyres in good condition will give them a good grip on the road and will improve the vehicle's overall stability. Each tyre must have at least the minimum legal depth of tread across three quarters of its width. Renew tyres well before they wear to less than that.
Question 32 of 48
What should you do before leaving your vehicle parked on a public road?
Explanation
It's an offence to leave a vehicle unattended on a public road with the engine running. Take care if you have to open the cab door directly into the road. Look for passing traffic especially cyclists or motorcyclists that may not be visible in your mirrors.
Question 33 of 48
What should you be aware of before opening your cab door?
Explanation
It can be dangerous for vehicles passing close by if you open the door carelessly. Always look properly to make sure that it's safe checking the blind spots as well as using the mirrors before you get out of the cab.
Question 34 of 48
The MSM routine should be used when you negotiate a hazard. What do the initials MSM stand for?
Explanation
Always use the MSM routine when you're approaching a hazard. n M Mirrors check the position of the traffic behind you. nS Signal signal your intention to slow down or change course in good time. nM Manoeuvre a manoeuvre is any change in position, from slowing or stopping the vehicle to turning off a busy road.
Question 35 of 48
Which large vehicles are more likely to damage the road surface?
Explanation
Suspension faults may result in road damage. Road friendly suspension reduces the impact on the environment, the road surface and under road services.
Question 36 of 48
The time is 10.00 am. You've been driving non stop since 6.00 am. Under EU rules, what's the longest you may now drive without a break?
Explanation
The maximum driving period under EU rules is 4 hours 30 minutes. After this, you must take a break of at least 45 minutes. Planning your route will allow you to take your statutory rest periods in a safe place, such as a service area, where you can get food, drink and a rest.
Question 37 of 48
Which type of fire extinguisher shouldn't be used on flammable liquids?
Explanation
It's very important to know the correct fire extinguisher to use. They'll carry a coloured label or badge telling you their contents. Make sure you learn which extinguisher is which, as using the wrong one could be dangerous and may spread the fire further. For example, you should never use a water extinguisher on burning oil.
Question 38 of 48
What do you need to be careful of when you're driving in high winds?
Explanation
In severe weather conditions, you should be aware of the dangers of fallen trees or damaged branches that may fall on your vehicle. Be prepared in case a fallen tree is lying across the road just around a bend.
Question 39 of 48
You're scheduled to make a delivery. You arrive at your destination during the morning rush hour. The road is edged with double red lines. What do they mean?
Explanation
White boxes allow you to unload at any time, but during the day the length of stay is restricted. You should check nearby signs for the specific times. At other times, when it's not so busy, there may not be any restrictions on parking.
Question 40 of 48
You're often involved in the carrying of high value goods. What security measures can you adopt?
Explanation
When carrying high value goods, you can become a target for thieves. Avoid developing a set routine or pattern. Vary your routes whenever possible to make it difficult for thieves to predict when and where your cargo can be intercepted.
Question 41 of 48
What's the final thing you should do after recoupling a trailer?
Explanation
It's important to work methodically when uncoupling or recoupling a tractor unit and trailer. After recoupling, check that all connections, systems and lights are working correctly.
Question 42 of 48
Why are ropes unsuitable to tie down a load of scrap metal?
Explanation
When securing a load, the driver must use the most suitable type of restraint. Scrap metal is likely to have sharp edges that could wear through straps or ropes. Security of the load is the driver's responsibility a load that has been correctly secured shouldn't move if an emergency arises.
Question 43 of 48
What could happen if you drive a double deck lorry with the top deck loaded and the lower deck empty?
Explanation
If you're only carrying half a load on a double deck lorry, this should be carried on the lower deck whenever possible. With only the top deck loaded, your lorry is top heavy and at risk of overturning as you drive around bends or corners.
Question 44 of 48
Before starting driving, which of the following should you complete on the centre field of your tachograph chart?
Explanation
Before starting your journey, you must record a number of items on your tachograph chart. One of these is where the journey begins.
Question 45 of 48
What's the principal braking system on a lorry called?
Explanation
The service brake is usually operated by the brake pedal. It's used to control the speed of the vehicle and to bring it to a halt safely. It may also incorporate an anti lock braking system.
Question 46 of 48
When is a high-sided vehicle most affected by side wind?
Explanation
Take care if you're driving an empty high-sided vehicle when it's windy. Watch for places where the conditions could suddenly change, such as a gap between buildings or when passing under a bridge. Reduce your speed and stay alert for other road users who are also affected by these weather conditions.
Question 47 of 48
You're driving a lorry towards a high bridge on a windy day. What should you expect?
Explanation
In windy weather, exposed stretches of road may have lane closures or there may be diversions for some types of vehicle. Consider this when you're planning your journey delays will add to your driving time.
Question 48 of 48
Which vehicle is most at risk in windy conditions?
Explanation
High sided vehicles are severely affected by side wind because of the large surface area of the bodywork. The risk of loss of control is increased if the vehicle is unladen.