Two cars reach an intersection with no stop signs or signals at the same instant, approaching from directions that will cross paths. What is the correct right-of-way rule?

The driver on the left must yield to the vehicle approaching from the right.

Whichever driver honks first gets to proceed.

The larger vehicle always has the right-of-way regardless of position.

The driver going straight must always yield to a driver turning.

You are driving on a two-lane road and see a school bus ahead stopped with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended. What must you do?

Stop and remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or the lights stop flashing.

Proceed at reduced speed since the rule only applies to vehicles behind the bus.

Stop only if you are within one car length of the bus.

Slow down but you may pass if no children are visible near the bus.

A pedestrian is standing at the edge of a marked crosswalk without a traffic signal, clearly waiting to cross. What is the driver's obligation?

The driver must yield the right-of-way and allow the pedestrian to cross safely.

The driver must only yield if the pedestrian has already stepped into the lane the driver occupies.

The driver should honk to alert the pedestrian and then proceed.

The driver may proceed if traveling under the posted speed limit.

As you approach a roundabout, another vehicle is already circulating inside it near your entry point. Who has the right-of-way?

The vehicle already circulating within the roundabout has the right-of-way.

Whichever vehicle is traveling faster.

The entering driver, because vehicles already in the roundabout must yield to new traffic.

Right-of-way is decided by which vehicle signals first.

You are merging onto a highway from an entrance ramp and see traffic already flowing in the lane you intend to join. Who has the right-of-way?

Traffic already established in the through lane has the right-of-way.

The merging driver may force their way in if using a turn signal.

The merging vehicle, since ramp traffic has priority to enter.

Whichever vehicle is positioned further ahead physically.

You are driving on a minor road that ends at a T-intersection with a through road that has no stop sign. What should you do?

Stop or yield as required and let traffic on the through road proceed first.

Proceed since the vehicle already moving on the through road must stop for cross traffic.

Treat the intersection as a four-way stop and take turns in order.

Only yield if the through road has more than one lane.

You are approaching a bicyclist riding near the right edge of your travel lane and need to pass in the same lane. What should you do?

Move partially or fully into an adjacent lane, if available, to leave safe clearance before passing.

Honk before passing so the bicyclist moves further right.

Stay in your lane and pass at normal speed since bicyclists must yield to cars.

Pass closely but slow down so the bicyclist has time to react.

You notice a line of vehicles with headlights on, led by a car displaying a flag or flashing lights, moving slowly together through several intersections. What should you do?

Avoid cutting into or interrupting the procession and yield the right-of-way as it passes through intersections.

Treat each vehicle in the line as a separate, unrelated car for right-of-way purposes.

Pass the line of vehicles as soon as a gap appears.

Cut into the line between vehicles if you are in a hurry.

You are pulling out of a hidden driveway partially obscured by hedges onto a busy street with limited sight distance. What is the safest approach?

Creep forward slowly until you have a clear view of traffic in both directions before entering.

Rely on your mirrors alone since they show approaching traffic reliably.

Wait for another driver to wave you out before proceeding.

Enter quickly to minimize the time spent blocking the driveway.

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PRACTICE ENGINE · MAINE ROAD SIGNS

Maine Road Signs Practice Test.
Free practice exam — 55 verified questions, instant feedback.

Written and reviewed by Vincent Ruan, EA, CFP®

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QUESTION 1 / 55Right-of-Way and Safe DrivingEasy0/0

You arrive at a four-way stop at the exact same moment as another vehicle approaching from your right. Who should proceed first?

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1. You arrive at a four-way stop at the exact same moment as another vehicle approaching from your right. Who should proceed first?
- A. Both vehicles should proceed at the same time to save time.
- B. You should proceed first, since drivers on the left always yield to drivers who arrived later.
- C. Whichever vehicle has the newer or larger vehicle should proceed first.
- D. The vehicle to your right should proceed first, since it has the right-of-way when arrivals are simultaneous.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
When two vehicles reach a four-way stop at the same time, the standard right-of-way rule gives priority to the driver on the right; the other driver must wait until it is clearly safe to proceed rather than assuming priority or racing across simultaneously.
2. Two cars reach an intersection with no stop signs or signals at the same instant, approaching from directions that will cross paths. What is the correct right-of-way rule?
- A. The larger vehicle always has the right-of-way regardless of position.
- B. Whichever driver honks first gets to proceed.
- C. The driver going straight must always yield to a driver turning.
- D. The driver on the left must yield to the vehicle approaching from the right.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
At an uncontrolled intersection where no signs or signals assign priority, the general right-of-way rule requires the driver approaching from the left to yield to a vehicle approaching from the right, since size, speed of reaction, or intended maneuver do not determine priority under this basic rule.
3. You are driving on a two-lane road and see a school bus ahead stopped with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended. What must you do?
- A. Stop and remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or the lights stop flashing.
- B. Slow down but you may pass if no children are visible near the bus.
- C. Proceed at reduced speed since the rule only applies to vehicles behind the bus.
- D. Stop only if you are within one car length of the bus.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A flashing red light and extended stop arm on a school bus mean children may be entering or exiting the roadway, so traffic in both directions on most roads must come to a complete stop and wait until the bus turns off its signals and begins moving again, since children can be difficult to see and may dart out unexpectedly.
4. A pedestrian is standing at the edge of a marked crosswalk without a traffic signal, clearly waiting to cross. What is the driver's obligation?
- A. The driver may proceed if traveling under the posted speed limit.
- B. The driver must yield the right-of-way and allow the pedestrian to cross safely.
- C. The driver must only yield if the pedestrian has already stepped into the lane the driver occupies.
- D. The driver should honk to alert the pedestrian and then proceed.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Pedestrians at marked crosswalks are given priority so they can cross safely; a driver must stop and yield rather than waiting for the pedestrian to already be in their lane, because assuming the pedestrian will wait puts them at serious risk of injury.
5. As you approach a roundabout, another vehicle is already circulating inside it near your entry point. Who has the right-of-way?
- A. Right-of-way is decided by which vehicle signals first.
- B. The vehicle already circulating within the roundabout has the right-of-way.
- C. Whichever vehicle is traveling faster.
- D. The entering driver, because vehicles already in the roundabout must yield to new traffic.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Roundabouts are designed so that traffic already circulating continues to flow without interruption; a driver waiting to enter must yield and wait for a safe gap rather than assuming entering traffic takes priority, which helps keep the circular flow smooth and prevents collisions at the entry points.
6. You are merging onto a highway from an entrance ramp and see traffic already flowing in the lane you intend to join. Who has the right-of-way?
- A. The merging vehicle, since ramp traffic has priority to enter.
- B. Traffic already established in the through lane has the right-of-way.
- C. Whichever vehicle is positioned further ahead physically.
- D. The merging driver may force their way in if using a turn signal.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Drivers entering a highway from a ramp are responsible for adjusting their speed and finding a safe gap to merge into moving traffic, since vehicles already traveling in the through lane are not required to slow down or move over for merging vehicles that have not yet found a safe opening.
7. You are driving on a minor road that ends at a T-intersection with a through road that has no stop sign. What should you do?
- A. Only yield if the through road has more than one lane.
- B. Stop or yield as required and let traffic on the through road proceed first.
- C. Proceed since the vehicle already moving on the through road must stop for cross traffic.
- D. Treat the intersection as a four-way stop and take turns in order.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
When a minor road terminates into a continuing through road, the driver on the terminating road is typically required to yield, since the road configuration itself signals that through traffic keeps moving while the ending road must stop or yield before entering.
8. You are approaching a bicyclist riding near the right edge of your travel lane and need to pass in the same lane. What should you do?
- A. Move partially or fully into an adjacent lane, if available, to leave safe clearance before passing.
- B. Stay in your lane and pass at normal speed since bicyclists must yield to cars.
- C. Honk before passing so the bicyclist moves further right.
- D. Pass closely but slow down so the bicyclist has time to react.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Bicyclists are entitled to share the road, and because a bicycle can wobble or need to avoid road hazards, a driver overtaking one should change lanes or move well to the side to leave a generous safety cushion instead of passing tightly within the same lane at normal speed.
9. You notice a line of vehicles with headlights on, led by a car displaying a flag or flashing lights, moving slowly together through several intersections. What should you do?
- A. Avoid cutting into or interrupting the procession and yield the right-of-way as it passes through intersections.
- B. Pass the line of vehicles as soon as a gap appears.
- C. Cut into the line between vehicles if you are in a hurry.
- D. Treat each vehicle in the line as a separate, unrelated car for right-of-way purposes.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A funeral procession traveling together with headlights on and a lead vehicle marked is generally treated as a single unit moving through intersections, so other drivers should not break into the line or dispute right-of-way with individual vehicles, and should instead let the entire procession pass safely.
10. You are pulling out of a hidden driveway partially obscured by hedges onto a busy street with limited sight distance. What is the safest approach?
- A. Rely on your mirrors alone since they show approaching traffic reliably.
- B. Creep forward slowly until you have a clear view of traffic in both directions before entering.
- C. Enter quickly to minimize the time spent blocking the driveway.
- D. Wait for another driver to wave you out before proceeding.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
When visibility is limited by obstructions like hedges or parked cars, easing out slowly lets the driver gradually gain a clear sightline of approaching traffic in both directions, whereas entering quickly or relying only on mirrors increases the chance of pulling into the path of a vehicle that could not be seen in time.
11. You are on a road with no stop sign, approaching an intersection where the cross street has a stop sign posted for its traffic. What does this mean for you?
- A. You must still yield to cross traffic that has already stopped.
- B. The stop sign only applies to commercial vehicles on the cross street.
- C. You must stop as well, since all vehicles at any intersection must stop.
- D. You have the right-of-way and cross traffic must stop and wait for a safe gap before entering.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
A stop sign placed on the cross street assigns priority to the road without a stop sign, meaning drivers on that uncontrolled road may proceed through at normal speed while traffic on the stop-controlled street is required to come to a complete stop and wait for a safe opening before entering or crossing.
12. You see a pedestrian using a white cane or being guided by a service animal preparing to cross at an intersection. What is required of drivers?
- A. Drivers must come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian.
- B. Drivers should honk to alert the pedestrian of their presence before proceeding.
- C. No special action is required beyond the normal crosswalk rules for any pedestrian.
- D. Drivers may proceed if the pedestrian has not started tapping the cane on the pavement.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A pedestrian using a white cane or a guide animal is a recognized signal that the person has a visual impairment and cannot reliably see approaching traffic, so the law requires drivers to stop completely and yield rather than relying on a horn or assuming the pedestrian will judge traffic on their own.
13. An eight-sided (octagon) red sign posted at an intersection instructs drivers to do what?
- A. Slow down and proceed only if the intersection is clear.
- B. Come to a complete stop before proceeding.
- C. Yield to any traffic already in the intersection but continue without stopping.
- D. Merge into the nearest lane before continuing.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
The octagon shape is reserved exclusively for stop signs under the national uniform sign standard, so drivers who see this eight-sided red sign must bring their vehicle to a full stop at the marked line or intersection before proceeding, regardless of whether cross traffic appears to be present.
14. A yellow diamond-shaped sign along a roadway is generally intended to communicate what type of information to drivers?
- A. A regulatory rule that carries the force of law.
- B. Guidance toward a destination or route number.
- C. Information about nearby services such as gas or food.
- D. A warning about upcoming road conditions or hazards.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Diamond-shaped signs with a yellow background are standardized as warning signs, alerting drivers to conditions ahead such as curves, intersections, or hazards, which differs from the rectangular white signs used for laws that must be obeyed or the green and blue signs used for directions and services.
15. A round sign with black lettering on a yellow background is most commonly used to warn drivers of what specific hazard ahead?
- A. A steep downhill grade requiring lower gear.
- B. An upcoming railroad crossing.
- C. A sharp curve in the roadway.
- D. A pedestrian crossing near a park.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
The circular shape is uniquely reserved for advance railroad crossing warning signs, distinguishing it from every other warning sign shape on the roadway, so drivers who see this round yellow sign should anticipate tracks ahead and be prepared to slow, look, and listen for an approaching train.
16. A red circular sign containing a symbol with a diagonal line drawn through it generally communicates what to a driver?
- A. A warning about a hazard that requires reduced speed only.
- B. A recommended maximum speed that can be exceeded if conditions allow.
- C. A prohibition against the specific action or movement shown in the symbol.
- D. Information about a nearby point of interest.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A red circle with a diagonal slash through a symbol is the universal way of indicating that the depicted action, such as a turn or type of vehicle, is prohibited at that location, so drivers must not perform the movement shown regardless of how clear the road appears.
17. Orange-colored signs and devices placed along a roadway typically indicate what to approaching drivers?
- A. Temporary conditions related to construction or maintenance work.
- B. Information about food, lodging, or fuel services.
- C. A permanent regulatory speed limit for the area.
- D. Directions to a nearby recreational or historic site.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Orange is reserved specifically for temporary traffic control related to construction, maintenance, or incident work zones, so drivers who see orange signs, cones, or barrels should anticipate changed traffic patterns, workers near the roadway, and often reduced posted speeds through that section.
18. A double solid yellow line running down the center of a two-way road indicates what to drivers in both directions?
- A. Passing is prohibited for traffic in both directions.
- B. The line is purely decorative and carries no restriction.
- C. Passing is allowed for the lane closer to the shoulder only.
- D. Passing is permitted only during daylight hours.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Double solid yellow lines mark the center of a roadway where passing is unsafe for traffic moving in either direction, typically due to limited sight distance or other hazards, so drivers on both sides of the line must remain in their lane and wait for a broken or dashed section before attempting to pass.
19. A single broken (dashed) white line separating two lanes traveling in the same direction indicates what to drivers?
- A. Lane changes are prohibited at all times in that section.
- B. The dashed line marks the edge of the roadway.
- C. The lane to the left is reserved for turning traffic only.
- D. Lane changes are permitted when it is safe to do so.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
A broken white line between lanes traveling the same direction signals that changing lanes is allowed there, provided the driver checks mirrors and blind spots and moves only when it can be done safely, unlike a solid white line which discourages lane changes in that section.
20. An orange diamond-shaped sign showing two arrows merging into one lane is warning drivers of what upcoming condition?
- A. A designated carpool or high-occupancy vehicle lane beginning.
- B. A lane closure ahead where traffic must merge into a single lane.
- C. A speed limit change specific to trucks.
- D. A four-way intersection with stop signs on all approaches.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
This merge symbol is a temporary work-zone warning sign that tells drivers a lane ahead is ending or closed, usually due to construction, and that vehicles from two lanes will need to merge into one, so drivers should adjust speed and watch for openings well before reaching the merge point.
21. Blue-colored roadway signs are generally used to provide drivers with what type of information?
- A. Regulatory speed limits enforceable by law.
- B. The location of motorist services such as fuel, food, or lodging.
- C. Directions to state parks or historic landmarks.
- D. Warnings about hazardous road conditions ahead.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Blue is the standardized color for motorist service signs, which point out nearby amenities like gas stations, restaurants, hospitals, or lodging, helping travelers plan stops without confusing these informational signs with warning signs or legally binding regulatory signs.
22. Green-colored signs posted along highways are primarily used to provide drivers with what kind of information?
- A. Notice of a temporary construction zone ahead.
- B. Guide information such as directions, distances, and route names.
- C. Warnings of an immediate hazard requiring reduced speed.
- D. A regulation that carries a legal penalty if ignored.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Green is the standard color for guide signs, which help drivers navigate by showing directional information such as exit numbers, distances to cities, and route confirmations, distinguishing them from the yellow warning signs and white regulatory signs used elsewhere on the roadway.
23. Brown-colored signs posted along a highway typically direct drivers toward what kind of destination?
- A. Public recreational areas or sites of cultural interest.
- B. An active construction or maintenance zone.
- C. A weigh station for commercial trucks.
- D. The nearest hospital or urgent care facility.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Brown is the standardized color reserved for recreational and cultural interest guide signs, directing travelers toward destinations such as parks, campgrounds, or historic sites, which sets them apart from the blue signs used for everyday motorist services like fuel and food.
24. A white rectangular sign posted at the roadside displaying an instruction or restriction represents what type of sign?
- A. An informational sign with no legal requirement to comply.
- B. A guide sign showing distances or destinations.
- C. A regulatory sign describing a rule that drivers are legally required to obey.
- D. A warning sign describing a hazard ahead.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
White rectangular signs are the standard format for regulatory signs, which state legal requirements such as required actions, prohibitions, or limits; unlike warning or guide signs, these carry the force of law and drivers are required to comply with the instruction shown.
25. You are driving at the posted speed limit, but heavy fog has significantly reduced visibility. What does the basic speed law require of you?
- A. Continue at the posted limit since it is always legal regardless of conditions.
- B. Increase your following distance only, while maintaining the posted speed.
- C. Reduce your speed below the posted limit to a speed that is safe for existing conditions.
- D. Turn on your high-beam headlights and maintain your current speed.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
The basic speed law requires drivers to travel at a speed that is safe for current conditions, which can be well below the posted limit when visibility, weather, or road surface conditions are poor; a posted limit is always a maximum, not a speed that is safe to maintain under every circumstance such as heavy fog.
26. Road conditions are wet and visibility is reduced due to steady rainfall. How should you adjust your following distance compared to normal dry conditions?
- A. Increase your following distance well beyond the normal minimum gap.
- B. Following distance is not affected by weather, only by speed.
- C. Reduce your following distance so you can react more quickly.
- D. Keep the same following distance since braking systems compensate automatically.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Wet roads increase stopping distances because tires have less traction, so drivers need significantly more space between vehicles than they would use on dry pavement, giving themselves time to brake safely if the vehicle ahead slows or stops suddenly.
27. While driving on a wet highway, you feel your steering suddenly become light and unresponsive, as if the car is gliding on the surface. What is happening and what should you do?
- A. This is a normal sensation on wet roads and requires no action.
- B. This means the brakes have failed, so you should pump them rapidly.
- C. This indicates a flat tire, so you should brake hard immediately.
- D. This is hydroplaning, so you should ease off the gas and avoid sudden braking or steering.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tires and the road, causing a temporary loss of traction and steering control; the correct response is to ease off the accelerator and let the vehicle slow gradually while avoiding sudden braking or sharp steering, which could cause a skid once the tires regain contact with the pavement.
28. The air temperature is right around freezing, and you are approaching a bridge on an otherwise clear road. Why should you be especially cautious here?
- A. Bridge surfaces warm up faster than the road due to sun exposure.
- B. Bridges are always treated with anti-icing chemicals, so they are safer than the road.
- C. Bridges tend to freeze before the rest of the roadway, so ice can form even when the road surface looks clear.
- D. Ice cannot form on bridges because of constant air circulation underneath.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Bridges lose heat from both the top and bottom surfaces since air circulates underneath them, causing them to cool and freeze faster than the road surface on solid ground; this means a bridge can be icy even when the pavement leading up to it appears completely dry, so drivers should slow down and avoid sudden movements when crossing in near-freezing temperatures.
29. You are driving at night on an unfamiliar rural road with no streetlights. How should your speed compare to what you would use on the same road during daylight?
- A. Speed should increase slightly to compensate for the shorter effective driving time.
- B. Speed should remain the same since headlights fully replace daylight visibility.
- C. Speed should be reduced so you can stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights.
- D. Speed adjustments at night apply only on highways, not rural roads.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Headlights illuminate only a limited distance ahead, so if a hazard appears at the edge of that illuminated zone, a driver traveling at daytime speeds may not have enough distance to stop safely; reducing speed at night keeps the stopping distance within the range that headlights can actually reveal.
30. You are approaching an active construction zone where workers are present near the travel lanes and a reduced speed is posted. What is expected of you?
- A. Ignore the posted reduction unless workers are directly in your lane.
- B. Obey the reduced posted speed and stay alert for workers and equipment near the roadway.
- C. Maintain the normal posted highway speed since work zones only affect the closed lane.
- D. Follow the reduced speed only if other vehicles are also slowing down.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Work zones often have narrower lanes, shifted traffic patterns, and workers or equipment close to moving traffic, so posted reduced speeds account for these hazards; drivers are expected to obey the lower speed and stay especially alert, since ignoring it or waiting for other traffic to slow first increases risk to workers and other drivers.
31. You are descending a long, steep downhill grade in your vehicle. What is the safest way to control your speed on the way down?
- A. Maintain the same gear used on flat roads and brake only when necessary.
- B. Shift to a higher gear to reduce engine strain and rely entirely on the brakes.
- C. Shift to a lower gear and use moderate, steady braking rather than relying on continuous heavy braking.
- D. Coast in neutral to save fuel while controlling speed with the brakes alone.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Riding the brakes continuously on a long downhill grade can cause them to overheat and lose effectiveness, so shifting to a lower gear lets the engine help slow the vehicle, allowing the driver to use the brakes intermittently and moderately rather than depending on them exclusively for the entire descent.
32. A driver is stopped by police and refuses to take a requested chemical test to measure blood alcohol content. What is generally true about this refusal under implied consent laws?
- A. Implied consent laws only apply to drivers under a certain age.
- B. Refusing the test has no legal consequence as long as the driver passes a field sobriety test.
- C. Refusing the test can result in license consequences separate from any criminal impaired-driving charge.
- D. Refusing the test automatically clears the driver of any impaired driving charge.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
By obtaining a license, drivers agree in advance to submit to chemical testing when lawfully requested; refusing that test typically triggers its own administrative penalty, such as a license action, independent of whether the driver is later charged or convicted of impaired driving, so refusal is not a way to avoid consequences.
33. A driver has open alcoholic beverage containers within reach in the passenger area of the vehicle while driving on a public road. What is generally true about this situation?
- A. It is permitted as long as the vehicle is not currently moving.
- B. It is permitted as long as the driver is not the one drinking.
- C. Most jurisdictions prohibit open alcohol containers within the passenger area of a vehicle on a public road.
- D. It is permitted if the containers are less than half full.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Open container laws are designed to reduce the temptation and opportunity for a driver or passenger to consume alcohol while the vehicle is in use on public roads, so having accessible open containers in the passenger compartment is generally prohibited regardless of who is drinking or whether the vehicle happens to be stopped at that moment.
34. A driver has taken a prescription medication that carries a warning label about drowsiness or impaired alertness. What should the driver do before getting behind the wheel?
- A. Only avoid driving if the medication was prescribed within the last 24 hours.
- B. Drive as usual since prescription medications cannot cause legal impairment.
- C. Compensate by driving more slowly than usual on all roads.
- D. Avoid driving until certain the medication does not impair alertness or coordination.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Prescription and over-the-counter medications can impair alertness, coordination, and reaction time just as alcohol can, even though they were legally obtained, so a driver should wait until the effects are understood and have worn off before driving rather than assuming a lawful prescription makes driving automatically safe.
35. A group of friends is planning an evening where alcohol will be consumed and driving will be needed afterward. What is the safest plan?
- A. Split the driving duties evenly among everyone regardless of drinking.
- B. Designate one person who will not drink any alcohol to be the driver for the group.
- C. Wait exactly one hour after drinking before anyone drives.
- D. Choose the friend who feels most confident to drive after drinking a small amount.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
A designated driver who consumes no alcohol at all removes any uncertainty about impairment, since even small amounts of alcohol can affect judgment and reaction time in ways that are hard for the drinker to self-assess; relying on a fixed waiting period or personal confidence does not reliably indicate that impairment has actually passed.
36. You are a passenger and realize the driver of the vehicle you are in has been drinking heavily and appears impaired. What is the safest course of action?
- A. Say nothing and hope the driver takes extra caution on the way home.
- B. Sit in the back seat to reduce your own risk while the driver proceeds.
- C. Offer to navigate so the impaired driver can focus only on the road.
- D. Refuse to ride with the driver and arrange alternative transportation.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
An impaired driver poses a serious danger to themselves, passengers, and others on the road regardless of how carefully a passenger tries to assist or reposition; the safest response is to decline riding with that driver entirely and find another way home, such as a rideshare, taxi, or another sober driver.
37. A driver under the legal drinking age is found to have consumed any measurable amount of alcohol before driving. How do zero tolerance laws generally treat this situation?
- A. Underage drivers are treated identically to adult drivers with no additional restriction.
- B. Zero tolerance laws apply only to drivers who have a prior offense on record.
- C. Even a small measurable amount of alcohol can result in license consequences for an underage driver.
- D. Zero tolerance laws only apply once the driver reaches the standard adult impairment threshold.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Zero tolerance laws set a much stricter standard for drivers under the legal drinking age, meaning that even a small, measurable amount of alcohol in their system, well below the level that would be needed to cite an adult driver, can result in license consequences, reflecting the added risk of combining inexperience with any degree of impairment.
38. You approach an intersection where the traffic signal is flashing red in all directions due to a malfunction. How should you treat this signal?
- A. Treat it as a yield sign and slow down without fully stopping.
- B. Wait for a police officer to arrive before moving at all.
- C. Treat it the same as a stop sign, coming to a complete stop before proceeding.
- D. Proceed through without stopping since a malfunctioning signal grants free passage.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A flashing red signal carries the same legal meaning as a stop sign, so every driver approaching the intersection must come to a complete stop, check for cross traffic, and proceed only when it is safe, rather than assuming a malfunctioning light removes the need to stop or that the intersection is closed entirely.
39. You approach an intersection where the traffic signal is flashing yellow rather than displaying a steady color. What does this indicate?
- A. Drivers may proceed but should slow down and use caution through the intersection.
- B. The signal is broken and the intersection must be treated as closed to traffic.
- C. Drivers must stop completely just as they would for a flashing red signal.
- D. Only cross traffic must slow down while the main road has unrestricted right-of-way.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A flashing yellow signal is a caution indicator, alerting drivers that they may proceed through the intersection but should reduce speed and watch carefully for cross traffic, pedestrians, or other hazards, which is a less restrictive requirement than the complete stop demanded by a flashing red signal.
40. You are approaching an intersection and the traffic light changes from green to a steady yellow as you get close. What does the steady yellow light mean?
- A. The light has malfunctioned and should be treated as a four-way stop.
- B. You must accelerate to clear the intersection before the light changes again.
- C. Cross traffic already has a green light and you must yield immediately.
- D. The signal is about to turn red, so you should prepare to stop if it can be done safely.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
A steady yellow light warns that the signal is transitioning to red, giving drivers already close to or within the intersection time to clear it, while drivers who can still stop safely before reaching the intersection should do so rather than accelerating to beat the changing light, which increases collision risk.
41. A driver holding only a learner's permit, not a full license, wants to practice driving on public roads. What is generally required for this to be legal?
- A. No supervision is required once the permit has been issued for more than a week.
- B. The permit holder must be accompanied by a licensed adult supervising driver.
- C. The permit holder may drive alone as long as it is during daylight hours.
- D. The permit holder may drive alone on roads with a low posted speed limit.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
A learner's permit allows a new driver to gain supervised experience before obtaining full driving privileges, so the permit holder is generally required to have a licensed, qualified adult in the vehicle to provide guidance and take over if needed, rather than being allowed to drive unsupervised regardless of the time of day or type of road.
42. A new driver has recently obtained a learner's permit and wonders whether it allows the same driving privileges as a full driver's license. What is true about a learner's permit?
- A. It authorizes supervised driving practice but does not permit unsupervised solo driving.
- B. It authorizes solo driving only during a probationary nighttime curfew.
- C. It grants identical privileges to a full license immediately upon issuance.
- D. It allows unsupervised driving but only within the driver's home county.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A learner's permit is an intermediate step designed to let a new driver build experience under supervision before being trusted with the full independence of a license, so it authorizes practice with a qualified supervising driver present but does not extend the same unsupervised driving privileges that come with a full license.
43. A downward-pointing triangular sign posted where a minor road meets a major road instructs the driver to do what?
- A. Slow down and yield the right-of-way to traffic on the road being entered.
- B. Merge smoothly without slowing down.
- C. Come to a complete stop regardless of traffic conditions.
- D. Proceed at reduced speed without checking for other traffic.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
The downward-pointing triangle is the standardized shape for a yield sign, which requires a driver to slow down, and if necessary come to a complete stop, in order to let crossing or oncoming traffic pass safely before entering or merging into the roadway.
44. You are driving in the left lane of a multi-lane road when you notice an ambulance with lights and siren activated approaching rapidly from behind. What should you do?
- A. Stop immediately in your current lane regardless of surrounding traffic.
- B. Speed up to clear the intersection ahead before the emergency vehicle arrives.
- C. Maintain your current speed and lane position since emergency vehicles must navigate around traffic.
- D. Signal, move toward the right side of the road, and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Emergency vehicles need a clear, predictable path, so drivers should safely move as far right as possible and come to a stop, giving the emergency vehicle room to pass; stopping abruptly in place or speeding up instead can create a collision risk for both the driver and the emergency crew.
45. You are stopped at a green light waiting to turn left, and a vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction with no turn signal. What should you do?
- A. Yield to the oncoming vehicle and wait for a safe gap before turning.
- B. Proceed only if the oncoming vehicle is more than two blocks away.
- C. Flash your headlights so the oncoming driver stops for you.
- D. Turn immediately since a green light always grants you priority to turn.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A green light without a protected turn arrow permits a left turn only when it can be made safely; oncoming through traffic retains the right-of-way, so the turning driver must wait for a safe gap rather than assuming the green signal alone clears the turn.
46. You are stopped at the end of your driveway getting ready to back onto a public street where pedestrians and vehicles are passing. What is your responsibility?
- A. You only need to check for other vehicles, not pedestrians.
- B. Through traffic and pedestrians must stop and let you back out first.
- C. You must yield to pedestrians and moving traffic before backing into the street.
- D. You may back out as long as you use your horn to signal your intent.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A driver backing out of a driveway is entering a roadway that already has the right-of-way, so the backing driver bears responsibility for checking carefully and yielding to any pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles already using the street rather than expecting them to stop.
47. You are driving straight through an intersection on a green light when a vehicle from the opposite direction begins a left turn in front of you. Who has the right-of-way?
- A. Whichever vehicle entered the intersection first, regardless of direction of travel.
- B. Right-of-way is shared and both vehicles should proceed simultaneously.
- C. The vehicle going straight through the intersection has the right-of-way over the left-turning vehicle.
- D. The turning vehicle, because turning maneuvers always take priority at intersections.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A driver turning left must yield to oncoming traffic proceeding straight through the intersection, since through traffic has an uninterrupted path and turning traffic is crossing that path; a turning vehicle that begins its turn without a clear gap is responsible for causing a right-of-way conflict.
48. You are exiting a shopping center parking lot and need to merge onto a public street with continuous traffic flow. Who has the right-of-way?
- A. Right-of-way depends on which vehicle is closer to the center line.
- B. The exiting driver may proceed as long as a turn signal is used.
- C. Traffic already traveling on the public street has the right-of-way over vehicles exiting the lot.
- D. The exiting vehicle has priority since it is entering from a business driveway.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A driveway or parking lot exit is treated like any other minor entry point onto a roadway, so a vehicle leaving the lot must wait for a safe gap in traffic and yield to vehicles already moving on the public street rather than expecting oncoming traffic to slow down or stop.
49. A pentagon-shaped, five-sided yellow sign posted along a roadway is typically used to indicate what?
- A. A railroad crossing without gates.
- B. A designated bicycle-only lane.
- C. A school zone or nearby school crossing.
- D. A hospital or emergency medical facility ahead.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
The pentagon shape, resembling a simplified house outline, is reserved specifically for school-related warning signs, alerting drivers that they are approaching a school zone or a crossing where children may be present, so extra caution and reduced speed are expected in that area.
50. A solid white line separating two lanes traveling in the same direction, such as near an exit ramp, generally signals what to a driver?
- A. The line has the same meaning as a double yellow line.
- B. Lane changes are encouraged to keep traffic flowing smoothly.
- C. Drivers should stay within their lane and avoid crossing except when necessary.
- D. The lane is closed and vehicles must merge immediately.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A solid white lane line discourages lane changes, signaling drivers to remain in their current lane except when a maneuver, such as safely exiting, genuinely requires crossing it, which is different from a broken line that freely permits lane changes whenever it is safe to do so.
51. Rain has just begun falling on a road that has not seen rain in several weeks. What driving hazard should you be especially alert for?
- A. Visibility improves significantly compared to dry conditions.
- B. Braking distances shorten because tires grip wet pavement better.
- C. The road becomes safer than normal because dust is washed away.
- D. Oil and grime on the pavement can make the road unusually slick right after rain begins.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
When rain first falls after a dry spell, it mixes with accumulated oil, dust, and grime on the pavement, creating an especially slick surface until the rain washes it away; this initial slickness increases stopping distances and skid risk, so drivers should slow down and increase following distance right when rain begins rather than assuming conditions have merely gotten a little wet.
52. You are driving through a residential area where children are actively playing near the road and may enter the street unexpectedly. What should you do regarding your speed?
- A. Speed up briefly to pass the area before any child can run out.
- B. Reduce your speed below the posted limit to allow more time to react if a child enters the road.
- C. Maintain the posted speed limit since children are responsible for watching for cars.
- D. Speed is not something a driver can adjust for pedestrian activity.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
The posted limit is a maximum for ideal conditions, and when children are present near the roadway there is a heightened risk of sudden, unpredictable movement into the street, so a prudent driver slows down below the posted limit to increase reaction time and reduce stopping distance, protecting against a hazard that a driver cannot fully control.
53. How does alcohol consumption most directly affect a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely?
- A. It slows reaction time and impairs judgment, coordination, and perception.
- B. It primarily affects hearing rather than vision or reaction time.
- C. It has no measurable effect on driving ability below certain amounts.
- D. It sharpens visual focus while slightly slowing reflexes.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, and even small amounts can slow the reaction time needed to brake or steer away from a hazard while also impairing judgment about risk, coordination in handling the vehicle, and the ability to accurately perceive distance and speed, all of which are essential to safe driving.
54. A driver is convicted of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Which of the following is a realistic consequence they may face?
- A. Only a requirement to attend a single informational class.
- B. Penalties that may include license suspension, fines, and other court-imposed requirements.
- C. No consequences beyond a verbal warning for a first offense.
- D. An automatic permanent ban from ever obtaining insurance.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Impaired driving convictions typically carry a range of consequences determined by the court and licensing authority, which can include suspending driving privileges, imposing fines, and requiring programs such as education or treatment, reflecting the seriousness of operating a vehicle while impaired rather than being treated as a minor infraction.
55. You are stopped at an intersection facing a steady red arrow signal for your direction of travel. What are you permitted to do?
- A. You may proceed if you are turning right, regardless of the arrow's direction.
- B. The red arrow only restricts left turns, never other movements.
- C. You must remain stopped and may not proceed in the direction of the arrow until it changes.
- D. You may proceed cautiously after checking that no other vehicles are present.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A steady red arrow is a directional prohibition that specifically restricts the movement it points toward, meaning the driver facing it must remain stopped and wait for the arrow to change to green, unlike a steady red circle where a right turn on red may sometimes be permitted after stopping.

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Key facts: Maine Road Signs exam

MCQ questions

80% (24 of 30 correct)

To pass

Exam fee

The Maine Road Signs is administered by Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (Department of the Secretary of State), with 30 scored questions and a 80% (24 of 30 correct) result.

This free Maine Road Signs practice test has 55 original questions written to Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (Department of the Secretary of State)'s official content outline, last checked against it on August 9, 2026. Every question shows a worked explanation, and nothing here requires a signup.

As of 2026, the Maine Road Signs exam fee is $0 (covers rules of the road, meaning of signs, pedestrian/bicycle safety, OUI laws, and distracted driving; $35 permit fee).

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Official sources

Every exam fact on this page traces to a primary document published by the body that administers the exam.

Drivers License Exam | SOSMaine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (Department of the Secretary of State)maine.gov
How to Obtain a License | SOSMaine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (Department of the Secretary of State)maine.gov
Graduated Drivers License | SOSMaine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (Department of the Secretary of State)maine.gov
Driver Licenses and IDs Overview | SOSMaine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (Department of the Secretary of State)maine.gov

Last verified against the official exam content outline: August 9, 2026

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the real Maine knowledge test?

The Maine permit knowledge test has 30 questions covering rules of the road, sign meanings, pedestrian and bicycle safety, OUI laws, and distracted driving. A good practice test should mirror that mix rather than drilling signs alone.

What score do I need on a practice test before I'm ready for the real one?

Aim to consistently score at least 80% (24 of 30 correct), since that is the passing standard on Maine's actual knowledge exam. If you're missing more than a few sign-identification questions, keep reviewing before scheduling your real test.

Is the road-signs section tested separately from the rest of the Maine exam?

No, Maine's BMV does not administer a standalone signs-only test; sign recognition is folded into the single 30-question knowledge exam. This practice test isolates sign questions so you can focus your study, but the real exam mixes them in with other topics.

How should I use this practice test to prepare for the Maine BMV exam?

Work through the questions, review any sign you miss, and retake the set until you're comfortable identifying warning, regulatory, and guide signs on sight. Pair it with a read-through of the official Maine Driver's Manual for the rules-of-the-road material the signs test doesn't cover.

Is this Maine road signs practice test free, and do I need to sign up?

Yes, this practice test is free to take and does not require creating an account or providing payment information.