Traffic Laws

Study questions with answers

12 sample Traffic Laws questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. Under Connecticut rules, when may you turn right at a steady red light?

   Correct answer: After a complete stop, if it is clear and not prohibited

   A right turn on red is allowed after you make a full stop and the way is clear, unless a sign at that location prohibits it.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Traffic Lights and Signals

2. 2. Even when you drive at the posted speed limit, why can you still be ticketed?

   Correct answer: You can be cited for going too fast for conditions

   Posted limits assume ideal conditions. In rain, ice, poor visibility, or heavy traffic you must slow down, and you can be cited for driving too fast for conditions.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Rules of the Road (Speed Limits)

3. 3. On a road with fewer than three lanes going your direction, which lane must you use?

   Correct answer: The right lane, except when passing

   Connecticut law requires driving in the right lane except when passing. You may move left to pass, make a left turn, or exit on the left, done safely with a signal.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Passing (On Multi-Lane Roads)

4. 4. In heavy traffic, why should you avoid entering an intersection you cannot clear?

   Correct answer: You would block the box and can be ticketed

   Drivers may not enter an intersection unless there is room to get through without stopping. Blocking it — 'blocking the box' or gridlock — is prohibited and can earn a ticket.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Good Driving Practices (Intersections)

5. 5. A school bus ahead is stopped with its red lights flashing on the opposite side of an undivided road. What must you do?

   Correct answer: Stop and wait until the red lights stop flashing

   You must stop for a school bus with flashing red lights whether it is on your side, the opposite side, or at an intersection you are approaching, unless a median or barrier separates you.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Right-of-Way (School Bus)

6. 6. During which dates are studded tires allowed on Connecticut roads?

   Correct answer: November 15 through April 30

   The manual states studded tires may be used in Connecticut from November 15 through April 30.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Hazardous Conditions (Slippery Roads)

7. 7. You reach an intersection where the traffic signal is completely dark and not working. How should you treat it?

   Correct answer: Treat it as if controlled by a stop sign

   State law says to treat an intersection with an inoperative signal as though it were controlled by a stop sign.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Good Driving Practices (Intersections)

8. 8. When is backing up in a travel lane permitted in Connecticut?

   Correct answer: Only to parallel park or complete a three-point turn

   Backing in any travel lane is illegal and unsafe except to parallel park or to complete a three-point or K-turn. If you miss a turn, continue and turn around safely elsewhere.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Driving Behaviors (Backing)

9. 9. Is it ever acceptable to pass another vehicle by driving on the shoulder?

   Correct answer: No, passing on the shoulder is never allowed

   You must never pass on the shoulder, paved or not. Other drivers do not expect a vehicle there and may pull off without looking.

   Source: CT Driver's Manual — Passing (When Not to Pass)

10. 10. In Connecticut, what is the law about headlights when you turn on your windshield wipers?

    Correct answer: Turn your headlights on too; it is required

    State law requires headlights on whenever your wipers are running — such as in rain, snow, or fog — so others can see your vehicle.

    Source: CT Driver's Manual — Lights (Use Headlights)

11. 11. Which restriction applies to 16- and 17-year-old drivers regarding mobile devices?

    Correct answer: They may not use any device, even hands-free

    Drivers who are 16 or 17 may not use any cell phone or mobile electronic device while driving, including hands-free equipment.

    Source: CT Driver's Manual — Connecticut Cell Phone Laws

12. 12. Where does Connecticut law forbid making a U-turn?

    Correct answer: On an expressway

    U-turns are never legal on an expressway. Elsewhere, check for signs prohibiting them before turning, signal left, stop, and check traffic first.

    Source: CT Driver's Manual — Rules of the Road (U-Turns)