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. A motorcyclist facing a red light that will not change may cautiously proceed only after stopping for at least how long, among other conditions?

   Correct answer: 45 seconds

   A rider may proceed carefully through a red signal only if it appears vehicle-activated, no other vehicles are present to trigger it, they have waited at least 45 seconds, and they yield to other traffic and pedestrians.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Driving

2. 2. What license does Wisconsin require to ride a motorcycle on public roads?

   Correct answer: A Class M (motorcycle) license or a valid motorcycle instruction permit

   To operate a motorcycle on public roads in Wisconsin you need a Class M license, or a valid cycle instruction permit while you are still learning.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Wisconsin Licensing Information

3. 3. Wisconsin law allows a passenger on a motorcycle only if the passenger meets which condition?

   Correct answer: The passenger can reach the foot pegs and rests their feet on them

   A passenger may ride only on a seat made for passengers, behind (not in front of) the operator, and must be tall enough to rest their feet on the foot pegs.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Riding

4. 4. What does Wisconsin law require of every motorcycle operator regarding financial responsibility?

   Correct answer: Liability insurance in effect for the bike, with proof carried while riding

   No one may operate a motor vehicle, including a motorcycle, without liability insurance in force, and the rider must carry proof of that coverage while riding.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Motorcycle Laws

5. 5. Under what circumstance may a motorcycle be attached to another moving vehicle?

   Correct answer: Only when it is being towed for repair

   A motorcycle may not be connected to another moving vehicle except when it is being towed to have it repaired.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Motorcycle Laws

6. 6. On a road posted at 25 mph or less, when may two mopeds ride side by side?

   Correct answer: When both moped riders agree to it

   Where the speed limit is 25 mph or less, two mopeds may travel side by side if both riders agree; above 25 mph they must ride single file.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Types of Cycles: Moped

7. 7. Which motorcycles are permitted to operate on Wisconsin highways?

   Correct answer: Only those federally certified for highway use

   Only motorcycles that carry federal certification for highway operation may be ridden on the highway.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Motorcycle Laws

8. 8. What does Wisconsin law say about a motorcyclist's right to a traffic lane?

   Correct answer: A motorcyclist is entitled to the full use of a traffic lane

   A rider has the right to occupy an entire traffic lane; another vehicle may not share the rider's portion of the lane unless two cyclists agree to travel side by side.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Lane Use

9. 9. Wisconsin requires eye protection for all operators except in which case?

   Correct answer: When the motorcycle has a windshield that rises at least 15 inches above the handlebars

   Eye protection is required for all operators unless the motorcycle is fitted with a windshield reaching at least 15 inches above the handlebars.

   Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Lane Use / Equipment

10. 10. Where are mopeds prohibited from operating in Wisconsin?

    Correct answer: On freeways

    Mopeds are not allowed on freeways, and may also be barred from other roads where they are specifically prohibited.

    Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Types of Cycles: Moped

11. 11. Which riding position is specifically prohibited by Wisconsin law?

    Correct answer: Riding "side saddle"

    State law forbids riding side saddle; a rider must sit astride the motorcycle.

    Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Motorcycle Laws

12. 12. Under Wisconsin's statutory definition, a motorcycle must be capable of what?

    Correct answer: Exceeding 30 miles per hour

    The state definition of a motorcycle includes the ability to travel at speeds greater than 30 mph, along with handlebar steering and a seat the rider straddles.

    Source: Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — Types of Cycles: Motorcycle