Signals & Pavement Markings

Study questions with answers

12 sample Signals & Pavement Markings questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. When your vehicle is parked at the roadside, what should you always turn on, especially at night?

   Correct answer: The four-way emergency flashers

   When you pull off and stop, turn on the four-way emergency flashers; don't rely on the taillights to warn others.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (When Parked at the Side of the Road)

2. 2. During the walk-around inspection, what color should the parking, clearance, and identification lights be at the front of the vehicle?

   Correct answer: Amber

   At the front, parking, clearance, and identification lights and reflectors should be clean and amber in color.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Walk-around Inspection)

3. 3. When stopped on a two-lane road that carries traffic in both directions, where should warning devices be placed?

   Correct answer: Within 10 feet of the vehicle and 100 feet ahead and behind

   On an undivided two-way road, place devices within 10 feet of the vehicle's corners and 100 feet ahead of and behind the vehicle.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (When Parked at the Side of the Road)

4. 4. If a hill or curve keeps drivers from seeing your stopped vehicle within 500 feet, what should you do with the rearmost triangle?

   Correct answer: Move it farther back so warning is provided beyond the obstruction

   If the sight line is blocked by a hill or curve, move the rearmost triangle farther back down the road so drivers get warning.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (When Parked at the Side of the Road)

5. 5. Why should a driver never signal other motorists that it is safe to pass?

   Correct answer: It could cause a crash for which you may be blamed

   You should not wave others past because you could cause a crash, be blamed for it, and face heavy costs.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Don't Direct Traffic)

6. 6. When stopped on the shoulder of a one-way or divided highway, where should the three warning triangles be placed?

   Correct answer: At 10, 100, and 200 feet toward oncoming traffic

   On a one-way or divided highway the devices go at 10 feet, 100 feet, and 200 feet toward the approaching traffic.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (When Parked at the Side of the Road)

7. 7. How can a driver warn following traffic when the vehicle is stopping in the roadway to unload or to stop at a railroad crossing?

   Correct answer: Flash the brake lights and avoid a sudden stop

   Warn drivers behind you by flashing your brake lights, and do not stop suddenly.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Stopping on the Road)

8. 8. Where must hazardous-materials shipping papers be kept while the driver is at the wheel?

   Correct answer: In a door pouch or in clear view within reach

   While driving, shipping papers must be in a pouch on the driver's door or in clear view within reach, and on the driver's seat when out of the vehicle.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Hazardous Materials Rules)

9. 9. What are the three good rules for using turn signals in a large vehicle?

   Correct answer: Signal early, signal continuously, and cancel it after turning

   Signal early, keep the signal on continuously through the turn, and cancel it afterward if the signals do not self-cancel.

   Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Signal Your Intentions)

10. 10. What is the correct way to hold up a reflective triangle while walking out to place it?

    Correct answer: Between yourself and oncoming traffic for visibility

    Hold the triangle between yourself and oncoming traffic so approaching drivers can see you as you set it out.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (When Parked at the Side of the Road)

11. 11. Within what distance of an oncoming vehicle must a driver dim the high beams?

    Correct answer: 500 feet

    You must lower your headlights from high to low beam within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle, and also when following within 500 feet.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Avoid Blinding Others)

12. 12. How should a driver warn following traffic that a slowdown is coming because of a hazard ahead?

    Correct answer: Lightly tap the brake pedal to flash the brake lights

    A few light taps on the brake pedal to flash the brake lights warns drivers behind you before you slow down.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual — Section 2: Driving Safely (Slowing Down)