At a four-way intersection with stop signs on all approaches, you come to a complete stop just before another vehicle arrives from a cross street. Who has the right-of-way to proceed first?

The vehicle that stopped first, since arriving before another vehicle grants the right to proceed first at a four-way stop.

The vehicle turning left, since left turns always take priority at stop signs.

The vehicle on the wider road, since major roads always have priority.

Whichever vehicle is larger, since smaller vehicles must always yield.

You approach an intersection where no traffic signs or signals are posted on any approach, and another vehicle arrives from your right at nearly the same moment. What should you do?

Yield the right-of-way to the vehicle approaching from the right.

Proceed first since you have no sign requiring you to stop.

Yield only if the other vehicle is larger than yours.

Flash your headlights and proceed regardless of the other vehicle.

You are entering a roundabout and see vehicles already traveling within the circle. What is the correct action?

Yield to the traffic already circulating in the roundabout before entering.

Enter immediately since traffic inside the roundabout must yield to entering vehicles.

Stop completely at the entrance regardless of circulating traffic.

Merge in only if you are turning right.

While driving, you notice a police cruiser approaching from behind with its lights flashing and siren sounding. What are you required to do?

Safely pull to the right edge of the road and come to a stop until the emergency vehicle passes.

Speed up to clear the intersection before the emergency vehicle arrives.

Continue at the same speed as long as you stay in your lane.

Pull to the left shoulder and stop, regardless of traffic direction.

A pedestrian has begun crossing at a marked crosswalk without a traffic signal as you approach in your vehicle. What must you do?

Yield the right-of-way and allow the pedestrian to finish crossing safely.

Proceed if the pedestrian is not yet halfway across the road.

Sound your horn and continue driving through the crosswalk.

Only yield if the pedestrian is a child or elderly.

You are stopped at a green light waiting to turn left, and oncoming traffic is approaching with no left-turn signal present. What should you do?

Wait and yield to the oncoming traffic before completing the left turn.

Proceed with the turn since you have a green light regardless of oncoming traffic.

Turn left only if you can complete it within five seconds.

Flash your headlights so oncoming traffic stops for you.

You are pulling out of a private driveway onto a public street with traffic and pedestrians present. What is required before entering the roadway?

Yield to all traffic and pedestrians already on the roadway before entering.

Proceed as soon as your vehicle is visible from the street.

Only yield to vehicles, not pedestrians, when leaving a driveway.

Sound your horn and pull out, expecting others to stop.

A stopped school bus ahead has its red lights flashing and stop-arm extended on a two-lane undivided road. What must drivers in both directions do?

Stop and remain stopped until the bus turns off its flashing lights and retracts the stop arm.

Only drivers behind the bus must stop; oncoming traffic may proceed.

Slow down and pass carefully without stopping.

Stop only if children are visibly crossing the road.

Approaching a rural crossing, you see a round yellow sign with a black X and two R's mounted well before the tracks. What does this advance sign warn you to prepare for?

A grade crossing where a train may be present, so you should slow down and prepare to stop if needed.

A upcoming speed limit reduction unrelated to trains.

A mandatory detour around the tracks.

A crossing that has been permanently closed.

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PRACTICE ENGINE · NEW HAMPSHIRE ROAD SIGNS

New Hampshire 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

Two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop intersection at exactly the same time from streets that meet at a right angle. Which driver should yield?

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1. Two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop intersection at exactly the same time from streets that meet at a right angle. Which driver should yield?
- A. The driver going straight should yield to the driver turning left.
- B. The driver closest to a curb should always proceed first.
- C. The driver on the left should yield to the driver on the right.
- D. Neither driver needs to yield since they arrived simultaneously.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
When two vehicles reach a four-way stop simultaneously, the standard rule breaks the tie by giving the right-of-way to whichever driver is on the right, preventing both from assuming they may proceed first. Assuming straight-moving traffic must yield to left turns reverses the actual priority used to resolve simultaneous arrivals.
2. At a four-way intersection with stop signs on all approaches, you come to a complete stop just before another vehicle arrives from a cross street. Who has the right-of-way to proceed first?
- A. The vehicle on the wider road, since major roads always have priority.
- B. The vehicle turning left, since left turns always take priority at stop signs.
- C. The vehicle that stopped first, since arriving before another vehicle grants the right to proceed first at a four-way stop.
- D. Whichever vehicle is larger, since smaller vehicles must always yield.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Arriving first at a four-way stop establishes the order of travel, so a driver who stops before another vehicle earns the right to proceed first once safely clear. Left turns, road width, and vehicle size have no bearing on the arrival-order rule at this type of intersection.
3. You approach an intersection where no traffic signs or signals are posted on any approach, and another vehicle arrives from your right at nearly the same moment. What should you do?
- A. Proceed first since you have no sign requiring you to stop.
- B. Yield the right-of-way to the vehicle approaching from the right.
- C. Yield only if the other vehicle is larger than yours.
- D. Flash your headlights and proceed regardless of the other vehicle.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Without any signs or signals present, the long-standing rule for right-of-way is that a driver yields to the vehicle approaching from their right, since it prevents both drivers from assuming priority. The absence of a stop sign does not remove this yield obligation when another vehicle is close enough to create a conflict.
4. You are entering a roundabout and see vehicles already traveling within the circle. What is the correct action?
- A. Merge in only if you are turning right.
- B. Enter immediately since traffic inside the roundabout must yield to entering vehicles.
- C. Stop completely at the entrance regardless of circulating traffic.
- D. Yield to the traffic already circulating in the roundabout before entering.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Roundabouts are designed so that vehicles already circulating keep moving without interruption, meaning entering drivers must wait for a safe gap before merging in. Assuming circulating traffic must yield to entering vehicles would cause constant stop-and-go conflicts and defeats the purpose of the roundabout design.
5. While driving, you notice a police cruiser approaching from behind with its lights flashing and siren sounding. What are you required to do?
- A. Safely pull to the right edge of the road and come to a stop until the emergency vehicle passes.
- B. Speed up to clear the intersection before the emergency vehicle arrives.
- C. Pull to the left shoulder and stop, regardless of traffic direction.
- D. Continue at the same speed as long as you stay in your lane.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Traffic laws require drivers to move safely to the right and come to a full stop when an emergency vehicle approaches with active lights and siren, giving it a clear, predictable path to pass. Continuing at normal speed in your lane can block or delay a vehicle responding to an emergency.
6. A pedestrian has begun crossing at a marked crosswalk without a traffic signal as you approach in your vehicle. What must you do?
- A. Only yield if the pedestrian is a child or elderly.
- B. Yield the right-of-way and allow the pedestrian to finish crossing safely.
- C. Sound your horn and continue driving through the crosswalk.
- D. Proceed if the pedestrian is not yet halfway across the road.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
A pedestrian who has already entered a crosswalk has the right-of-way, and a driver must wait for them to finish crossing safely regardless of how far along they are. Proceeding because the pedestrian hasn't reached the midpoint yet ignores that the obligation to yield begins as soon as the crossing starts.
7. You are stopped at a green light waiting to turn left, and oncoming traffic is approaching with no left-turn signal present. What should you do?
- A. Wait and yield to the oncoming traffic before completing the left turn.
- B. Proceed with the turn since you have a green light regardless of oncoming traffic.
- C. Turn left only if you can complete it within five seconds.
- D. Flash your headlights so oncoming traffic stops for you.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A green light permits movement but does not override the requirement to yield to oncoming traffic when turning left, since that traffic is still moving through the intersection with the same green signal. Completing the turn without yielding risks a direct collision with a vehicle that has no reason to expect an obstruction.
8. You are pulling out of a private driveway onto a public street with traffic and pedestrians present. What is required before entering the roadway?
- A. Proceed as soon as your vehicle is visible from the street.
- B. Sound your horn and pull out, expecting others to stop.
- C. Yield to all traffic and pedestrians already on the roadway before entering.
- D. Only yield to vehicles, not pedestrians, when leaving a driveway.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A driver leaving a driveway is entering an established roadway and must yield to all traffic and pedestrians already using it, since drivers and walkers on the road have no expectation of interference from a driveway. Treating vehicles and pedestrians differently ignores that both have priority over an entering vehicle.
9. A stopped school bus ahead has its red lights flashing and stop-arm extended on a two-lane undivided road. What must drivers in both directions do?
- A. Stop only if children are visibly crossing the road.
- B. Slow down and pass carefully without stopping.
- C. Stop and remain stopped until the bus turns off its flashing lights and retracts the stop arm.
- D. Only drivers behind the bus must stop; oncoming traffic may proceed.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A stopped school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop arm requires traffic in both directions on an undivided road to stop until the bus resumes moving, protecting children who may cross unexpectedly. Allowing oncoming traffic to continue creates a serious risk to any child crossing from the far side.
10. Approaching a rural crossing, you see a round yellow sign with a black X and two R's mounted well before the tracks. What does this advance sign warn you to prepare for?
- A. A mandatory detour around the tracks.
- B. A upcoming speed limit reduction unrelated to trains.
- C. A grade crossing where a train may be present, so you should slow down and prepare to stop if needed.
- D. A crossing that has been permanently closed.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
The round yellow advance warning sign with the black X and letters is placed in advance of railroad tracks to give drivers time to slow down and be ready to stop, since a train could be approaching even if it isn't yet visible. It is a warning sign, not a detour or closure notice.
11. You see a pedestrian using a white cane approaching a corner where you intend to turn. What is required of you as a driver?
- A. Proceed carefully at reduced speed without stopping.
- B. Sound your horn to alert the pedestrian and proceed.
- C. Yield only if the pedestrian is accompanied by another person.
- D. Come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way, since a white cane indicates a visually impaired pedestrian.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
A pedestrian using a white cane is a recognized signal of visual impairment, and drivers are required to stop completely and yield, since the pedestrian may not be able to see approaching traffic. Slowing down without stopping does not provide the certainty needed when the pedestrian cannot visually confirm it is safe to cross.
12. You are about to turn right at an intersection and a bicyclist is riding in the same direction near the curb. What should you do to avoid a right-hook collision?
- A. Turn immediately since bicyclists must always yield to turning vehicles.
- B. Speed up to pass the bicyclist and complete the turn first.
- C. Assume the bicyclist will stop for you and proceed with the turn.
- D. Check for the bicyclist and yield before completing the turn, merging behind or clearly ahead of them safely.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Before completing a right turn, a driver must check for bicyclists riding along the curb and yield so the turn does not cut across their path, since bicyclists have the same right to the road as other vehicles. Assuming a bicyclist will always stop for a turning vehicle can lead to a dangerous right-hook collision.
13. You reach a narrow one-lane bridge and see another vehicle has already entered it from the opposite direction. What should you do?
- A. Stop and wait at your end until the other vehicle has completely crossed the bridge.
- B. Whichever vehicle is moving faster has the right-of-way.
- C. Enter the bridge and rely on the other driver to stop halfway.
- D. Proceed cautiously and expect the other driver to reverse.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
On a narrow one-lane bridge, the vehicle that has already entered has the right-of-way, so a driver arriving afterward must stop and wait at their end until the bridge is clear. Expecting the vehicle already crossing to reverse or stop midway creates confusion and increases the risk of a head-on conflict in the confined space.
14. You are on a busy through street and a driver on a side street facing a stop sign is waiting to enter. As you approach with no sign controlling your lane, who has the right-of-way?
- A. The side-street driver has the right-of-way once stopped completely.
- B. Right-of-way is shared equally and both should proceed together.
- C. The side-street driver may proceed if turning right regardless of your approach.
- D. You have the right-of-way, since the side-street driver facing the stop sign must yield to through traffic.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
When a side-street driver faces a stop sign but your lane on the through street has no such sign, the side-street driver must wait for a safe gap in through traffic before entering, since the stop sign specifically shifts that yielding responsibility to them. Assuming shared or equal right-of-way ignores that the signage applies only to the side-street approach.
15. While driving on a state highway, you see a bright red sign with eight equal sides ahead of an intersection. What does this shape indicate you must do?
- A. Slow down and proceed only if the way is clear.
- B. Come to a complete stop and yield to cross traffic before proceeding.
- C. Yield only if another vehicle is present.
- D. Merge into the right lane.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
The eight-sided shape is reserved exclusively for stop signs under national sign standards, so drivers must bring the vehicle to a full stop and confirm the intersection is clear before proceeding, regardless of whether other traffic is visible. Slowing down without stopping fails to meet the legal requirement tied to that unique shape.
16. A downward-pointing red and white triangular sign is posted where a side street meets a busier road. What is the driver on the side street required to do?
- A. Proceed at normal speed since the busier road must yield.
- B. Slow or stop as needed and yield the right-of-way to traffic on the busier road.
- C. Always come to a complete stop before proceeding.
- D. Only yield to pedestrians, not vehicles.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
The downward-pointing triangle is the yield sign, which requires a driver to slow down or stop only if necessary to let crossing or approaching traffic clear the intersection safely, unlike a stop sign which always demands a full stop. Assuming the other road yields instead would create a serious right-of-way conflict.
17. You notice a diamond-shaped sign with a black symbol on a yellow background along a rural road. What is the general purpose of this sign category?
- A. To mark the boundary of a construction work zone only.
- B. To warn drivers of an upcoming hazard or unusual road condition.
- C. To display mandatory speed limits.
- D. To direct drivers toward services like fuel or lodging.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Yellow diamond signs are the standard warning sign format used throughout the country to alert drivers to hazards such as curves, crossings, or narrowing roads so they can adjust driving behavior in advance. Regulatory limits and service directions use different shapes and colors entirely.
18. You are driving down a one-way street and see a red circular sign with a white horizontal bar posted facing the entrance of a side road. What does this sign tell drivers approaching from that side road?
- A. A four-way stop begins ahead.
- B. Parking is not allowed nearby.
- C. Entry from that direction is prohibited.
- D. Trucks are not permitted on that side road.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
The red circle with a solid white bar is the do-not-enter sign, telling drivers that entering the roadway from that direction is prohibited, typically because it is a one-way street running the opposite direction. Confusing it with a stop or truck-restriction sign could lead a driver into oncoming traffic.
19. On a two-lane road, the center line is a solid double yellow line for a long stretch approaching a hill crest. What does this pavement marking indicate?
- A. Passing is prohibited in both directions along this stretch.
- B. The road is about to become one-way.
- C. Passing is allowed only at night.
- D. Passing is allowed only for the lane closer to the shoulder.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
A solid double yellow center line means visibility or road conditions make passing unsafe in either direction, so drivers in both lanes must stay in their lane until the marking changes to a broken line. Treating it as a one-sided restriction ignores that the marking applies equally to both directions of travel.
20. You are on a multi-lane road and notice the lane divider is a broken white line rather than solid. What does this marking permit?
- A. Driving in either direction depending on traffic volume.
- B. Passing oncoming traffic only.
- C. Parking temporarily within the marked lane.
- D. Changing lanes when it is safe to do so.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
A broken white line separates lanes of traffic moving in the same direction and signals that lane changes are permitted when it can be done safely, unlike a solid white line which discourages changing lanes. It has nothing to do with passing oncoming traffic, which is governed by the center line markings instead.
21. Near a highway exit, the lane line becomes a solid white line instead of the usual broken line. What is this marking communicating to drivers?
- A. The lane is closed and drivers must exit immediately.
- B. Lane changes are discouraged in this area, such as near a congested exit or merge point.
- C. The shoulder is now open for driving.
- D. Passing is legal in both directions here.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
A solid white lane line discourages lane changes without prohibiting them outright, commonly used near exits or interchanges where extra lane discipline keeps traffic flowing predictably. It does not mean the lane is closed, since a closed lane is marked with different channelizing devices or signs.
22. You see an orange diamond-shaped sign with a symbol of a worker along a stretch of highway. What should this sign prompt you to do?
- A. Ignore it unless barrels or cones are also visible.
- B. Slow down and be alert for workers and changed traffic patterns in a construction zone.
- C. Speed up to clear the area quickly.
- D. Expect a permanent new speed limit posted ahead.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Orange is reserved for temporary construction and maintenance signs, so a diamond-shaped orange sign warns that workers or altered traffic patterns may be present ahead and drivers should slow down and stay alert. Waiting for cones or barrels to also appear before reacting could mean encountering workers before slowing down.
23. While traveling on an interstate, you see a large green rectangular sign listing an upcoming exit number and mileage. What category of sign is this?
- A. A warning sign alerting to a hazard.
- B. A temporary construction sign.
- C. A regulatory sign setting a legal requirement.
- D. A guide sign providing directional and distance information.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Green rectangular signs are guide signs used to give drivers directional information such as exit numbers, distances, and destinations, helping with navigation rather than setting legal rules or warning of hazards. Regulatory signs are typically white or red and state a requirement, which this sign does not do.
24. Along the highway, you spot a blue rectangular sign with a symbol of a fuel pump and bed icon. What kind of information does a blue sign typically provide?
- A. The boundary of a recreational area.
- B. The location of motorist services such as gas, food, or lodging.
- C. A warning about an upcoming hazard.
- D. A mandatory regulation drivers must follow.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Blue signage is set aside for motorist services like fuel, food, and lodging, giving drivers helpful information about nearby amenities rather than issuing a legal command or hazard warning. Recreational area signs instead use brown coloring, so mixing up the two could send a driver looking in the wrong place.
25. You see a brown sign with a picture of a tent and picnic table pointing down a side road. What does the brown coloring generally indicate about this sign?
- A. It is a temporary detour sign.
- B. It marks a hospital or medical facility.
- C. It is a regulatory sign restricting vehicle types.
- D. It marks a recreational or scenic point of interest, such as a park or campground.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Brown signs are reserved for recreational and cultural points of interest such as parks, campgrounds, and historic sites, giving drivers wayfinding information distinct from services, hazards, or regulations. A medical facility would instead be marked in blue, so treating the two the same could mislead a driver in an emergency.
26. You are driving during a heavy downpour and notice standing water building up on the roadway ahead. What adjustment should you make to reduce the risk of hydroplaning?
- A. Turn sharply to avoid any contact with the standing water.
- B. Brake hard as you enter the water to reduce your speed instantly.
- C. Speed up to pass through the standing water more quickly.
- D. Slow down significantly and avoid sudden braking or steering movements through the water.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Standing water can cause a vehicle's tires to lose contact with the pavement, so slowing down and avoiding abrupt inputs reduces the risk of hydroplaning and loss of control. Speeding up or braking hard while entering water increases the chance of the tires skimming across the surface instead of gripping it.
27. You encounter thick fog on the highway and are deciding which headlights to use. What is the correct choice, and why?
- A. Use high-beam headlights to see as far ahead as possible.
- B. Alternate rapidly between high and low beams every few seconds.
- C. Turn off headlights entirely to avoid glare in the fog.
- D. Use low-beam headlights, since high beams reflect off fog and reduce visibility further.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Low-beam headlights aim light down and away from the fog particles suspended in the air, while high beams reflect directly back into the driver's eyes and reduce visibility further. Turning off headlights entirely removes visibility for both the driver and other traffic, which is far more dangerous than using low beams.
28. Snow is falling and the road surface has become slick. Compared to normal dry conditions, how should you adjust your following distance behind the vehicle ahead?
- A. Keep the same following distance since stopping distance is unaffected by snow.
- B. Decrease your following distance to stay close and follow tire tracks.
- C. Following distance only matters at highway speeds, not on slick local roads.
- D. Increase your following distance well beyond what you would use on dry pavement.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Stopping distance increases significantly on snow-covered roads because tires have less traction, so a longer following distance gives a driver more time and space to stop safely if the vehicle ahead slows suddenly. Following closer to use another vehicle's tire tracks ignores that reduced traction affects stopping distance regardless of the path taken.
29. You turn onto a rural gravel road after driving on paved highway. How does the change in surface typically affect vehicle handling and stopping distance?
- A. Loose gravel reduces tire traction, increasing stopping distance and requiring lower speeds and gentler steering.
- B. Stopping distance is unaffected by the change from pavement to gravel.
- C. Gravel roads require harder, more sudden braking to stop effectively.
- D. Gravel surfaces provide more traction than pavement, allowing higher speeds.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Loose gravel provides less friction between the tires and the road than pavement, which lengthens stopping distance and requires gentler, more gradual steering and braking inputs to maintain control. Assuming gravel offers more traction than pavement or requires harder braking misunderstands how loose surface material reduces tire grip.
30. A driver refuses to take a chemical test after being lawfully arrested on suspicion of impaired driving. What is the general consequence of this refusal?
- A. The driver faces administrative license consequences separate from any criminal impairment charge.
- B. Refusal has no effect on the driver's license or record.
- C. The officer must release the driver immediately without further action.
- D. Refusing the test automatically clears the driver of any wrongdoing.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Refusing a chemical test after a lawful arrest typically triggers separate administrative consequences for the driver's license, independent of whatever happens with the criminal impairment charge itself. Assuming refusal clears the driver of wrongdoing or has no effect misunderstands that licensing consequences can apply even without a conviction.
31. A driver has taken a prescription medication that causes drowsiness but has not consumed any alcohol. How should this driver's fitness to drive be evaluated?
- A. Prescription medications never affect a driver's legal ability to drive.
- B. The driver is exempt from impaired driving laws with a valid prescription.
- C. Impairment laws only apply to alcohol, not medication side effects.
- D. The driver may be impaired and should not drive if the medication affects alertness or coordination, regardless of alcohol use.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Impairment laws generally apply to any substance, including prescription medication, that affects a driver's alertness, judgment, or coordination, so a driver should avoid driving if a medication causes drowsiness. Assuming a valid prescription exempts a driver from impairment laws ignores that the legal concern is the actual effect on driving ability, not the legality of the substance.
32. You are a passenger in a vehicle and notice an open container of alcohol in the passenger area while the vehicle is being driven on a public road. What is generally true about this situation?
- A. Laws generally restrict having an open alcohol container accessible within the passenger area of a moving vehicle.
- B. Open containers are permitted anywhere in a moving vehicle as long as the driver isn't drinking.
- C. Open container laws only apply once the vehicle is parked.
- D. Open container restrictions only apply to the driver's seat, not passenger areas.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Restrictions on open alcohol containers generally apply to the passenger area of a vehicle while it is being driven, not just the driver's position, since easy access to alcohol increases the risk of consumption while underway. Assuming the restriction only applies once parked or only to the driver's seat overlooks the broader safety purpose of limiting access to alcohol in a moving vehicle.
33. A driver who is fatigued has also taken a sedating allergy medication before getting behind the wheel. How do these two factors typically interact?
- A. Medication side effects disappear once a driver becomes tired enough to focus.
- B. Fatigue has no effect on driving ability when medication is also present.
- C. Fatigue and sedating medication combine to compound impairment, increasing driving risk beyond either factor alone.
- D. The two factors cancel each other out, resulting in normal alertness.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Fatigue and sedating medication both reduce alertness and reaction time, and when combined, their effects compound rather than cancel out, making a driver considerably less capable of responding safely to hazards. Assuming the two factors offset each other or that tiredness overrides medication side effects misunderstands how these impairments stack together.
34. You approach an intersection where the traffic light is a steady red in your direction of travel. What is required unless a sign specifically permits otherwise?
- A. Treat the red light the same as a yield sign.
- B. Slow down and proceed if no cross traffic is visible.
- C. Come to a complete stop and remain stopped until the light turns green.
- D. Stop only if another vehicle is also present at the intersection.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A steady red light requires a full stop that is maintained until the signal changes to green, since red is the clearest and most restrictive command in the signal system. Slowing down without stopping, or treating red as equivalent to a yield sign, ignores that red specifically requires the vehicle to remain stationary until it changes.
35. You arrive at an intersection where the traffic signal is flashing red in your direction. How should you treat this signal?
- A. Treat it like a steady red light and wait for it to turn green.
- B. Disregard it since flashing signals are informational only.
- C. Treat it like a stop sign: stop completely, then proceed when it is safe to do so.
- D. Treat it like a yield sign and proceed without stopping if clear.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A flashing red signal functions the same as a stop sign, requiring a full stop before the driver may proceed once the intersection is clear, rather than waiting for the light to turn a solid color. Treating it as a yield sign that doesn't require stopping, or disregarding it altogether, misses that a flashing red still demands the same complete stop as a fixed stop sign.
36. While approaching an intersection, the traffic light changes from green to a steady yellow. What is the appropriate response?
- A. Treat yellow the same as green and maintain your current speed.
- B. Stop immediately regardless of your distance from the intersection, even if unsafe.
- C. Prepare to stop and do so safely if you have not already entered the intersection.
- D. Accelerate to clear the intersection before the light turns red.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
A steady yellow light warns that the signal is about to turn red, so a driver who has not yet entered the intersection should prepare to stop safely rather than try to beat the light. Accelerating to clear the intersection increases the risk of running a red light, while stopping abruptly regardless of distance can cause a rear-end collision if it isn't safe to do so.
37. A new resident wants to know which state agency is responsible for issuing and regulating driver licenses in New Hampshire. Which agency holds this authority?
- A. The New Hampshire State Police exclusively.
- B. The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (NH DMV), part of the Department of Safety.
- C. The local town or city clerk's office.
- D. The New Hampshire Department of Transportation.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
In New Hampshire, licensing and driver record authority rests with the Division of Motor Vehicles, which operates under the state's Department of Safety, rather than with police agencies or local government offices. Attributing this authority to the state police, a town clerk, or the transportation department misidentifies which agency actually issues and regulates driver licenses.
38. A licensed driver moves to a new address within New Hampshire. What is generally expected regarding their driver's license record?
- A. The driver should notify the licensing agency of the address change to keep the license record current.
- B. Only vehicle registration, not the driver's license, needs an address update.
- C. No action is required since license records do not track addresses.
- D. The driver must apply for an entirely new license number after any move.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Keeping a driver's license record accurate, including a current address, is generally the driver's responsibility whenever they move, since the licensing agency relies on that information for official correspondence and record-keeping. Assuming no update is needed, or that an entirely new license number is required, misunderstands how routine an address update actually is compared to reapplying from scratch.
39. You are driving on a minor road that ends at a T-intersection with a major through road, and there is no stop or yield sign posted. What is the rule at this type of intersection?
- A. The driver on the road that terminates must yield to traffic on the continuous through road.
- B. The driver on the through road must yield to traffic entering from the terminating road.
- C. Right-of-way is determined only by which vehicle signals first.
- D. Both drivers may proceed simultaneously if there is enough space.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
At an uncontrolled T-intersection, the road that comes to an end is treated as the minor approach and must yield to traffic continuing along the through road, since the through road's traffic is not expected to stop. Allowing both directions to proceed at once ignores that only one road physically continues through the intersection.
40. You are entering a highway from an on-ramp where traffic in the right lane is heavy. What is the general rule for merging in this situation?
- A. The merging driver has the right-of-way and through traffic must yield.
- B. Merging vehicles may stop on the ramp until traffic clears completely.
- C. Through traffic must always move over to let merging vehicles in.
- D. The merging driver should adjust speed and yield to find a safe gap in through traffic.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Merging traffic is generally expected to find a safe gap and adjust its own speed to blend smoothly into the flow, since through traffic already has an established right-of-way in its lane. Expecting established traffic to always move over places an unreliable burden on drivers who may not have room to shift lanes safely.
41. You encounter a funeral procession with vehicles displaying headlights and flags moving together through an intersection. What is the appropriate response?
- A. Pass individual procession vehicles whenever a gap appears.
- B. Treat the procession the same as any single vehicle with no special caution.
- C. Merge into the procession if it is moving slower than the speed limit.
- D. Yield to the procession and avoid driving between or cutting through the line of vehicles.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: D
Funeral processions are treated as a unit moving together, and other drivers should not merge into or cut through the line of vehicles even if gaps appear, since doing so disrupts the group's safety and cohesion. Treating the procession like a single ordinary vehicle overlooks the extra caution multiple linked vehicles require.
42. In a parking lot, a driver is backing out of a marked space while you are driving through the main travel lane. Who generally has the right-of-way?
- A. The vehicle backing out always has the right-of-way over through traffic.
- B. The driver traveling through the main lane generally has the right-of-way over the vehicle backing out.
- C. Neither driver has the right-of-way, so both must stop indefinitely.
- D. Right-of-way in a parking lot is determined by vehicle size.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
A vehicle backing out of a parking space is entering the flow of traffic and must watch for and yield to vehicles already moving through the main travel lane, since through traffic has an established path of travel. Assuming the backing vehicle always has priority ignores that it is the one changing position into an active lane.
43. At the railroad tracks themselves, you see a white X-shaped sign mounted on a post directly beside the rails. What must you do when a train is approaching or visible?
- A. Speed up to cross before the train arrives.
- B. Proceed as normal since this sign only applies to trains, not cars.
- C. Stop and wait until the train has completely cleared the crossing.
- D. Honk and proceed slowly alongside the train.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
The crossbuck marks the location of the tracks and functions like a yield or stop point when a train is approaching, so a driver must stop a safe distance back and wait for the train to fully pass before crossing. Attempting to beat the train or drive alongside it is extremely dangerous and illegal.
44. As you approach an elementary school, you see a five-sided sign in a bright fluorescent yellow-green color. What is the purpose of this sign?
- A. To show that pedestrians are prohibited on this road.
- B. To indicate a hospital or emergency facility nearby.
- C. To warn drivers of a school zone or school crossing ahead so they can reduce speed and watch for children.
- D. To mark a recreational park entrance.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
The pentagon shape combined with fluorescent yellow-green coloring is reserved for school-related warning signs, alerting drivers to slow down and watch carefully for children near a school or crossing. Confusing it with hospital or park signage, which use blue and brown respectively, could cause a driver to miss an important safety warning.
45. On a mountain road, you see a series of black and yellow arrow-shaped markers mounted along the outside of a sharp curve. What is the purpose of these markers?
- A. To visually guide drivers through the alignment and direction of the curve ahead.
- B. To warn of an upcoming railroad crossing.
- C. To indicate that the road is closed beyond that point.
- D. To mark a passing zone.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Chevron alignment signs are placed along sharp curves to visually trace the road's path, especially useful at night or in poor visibility, helping a driver anticipate how sharply the road turns. They do not indicate closures, passing zones, or railroad crossings, which use distinctly different sign designs.
46. The posted speed limit on a road is well within your vehicle's capability, but heavy fog has reduced visibility to a very short distance. What does the basic speed law require of you?
- A. Drive at a speed slower than the posted limit that is safe for the current visibility conditions.
- B. Turn on hazard lights and continue at the posted speed.
- C. Maintain the posted speed limit since it is the legal requirement.
- D. Drive faster than the posted limit to clear the foggy area quickly.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
The basic speed law requires driving at a speed that is safe for actual conditions, not simply obeying the posted maximum, so heavy fog demands slowing below the limit even though the sign hasn't changed. Maintaining the posted limit in poor visibility ignores that speed limits assume normal, not degraded, conditions.
47. While driving in freezing weather, you cross a bridge and the road surface suddenly feels different than the approach road. What hazard is most associated with bridges and overpasses in cold weather?
- A. Standing water, since bridges drain more slowly than other roads.
- B. Oil slicks, since bridge surfaces retain vehicle fluids longer.
- C. Black ice, since bridges and overpasses freeze faster than the surrounding roadway.
- D. Loose gravel, since bridges are commonly resurfaced with gravel.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Bridges and overpasses lose heat from both the top and underside, so they freeze before the surrounding roadway, making black ice more likely there even when nearby pavement seems fine. Attributing the hazard to gravel, standing water, or oil ignores the specific thermal reason bridges freeze first in cold weather.
48. You are approaching a highway work zone where lanes are narrowed and workers are visible near the edge of the road. What is the appropriate driving behavior?
- A. Use the shoulder to bypass the narrowed lanes.
- B. Reduce speed below the normal limit and stay alert for workers and equipment.
- C. Increase speed to pass through the work zone as quickly as possible.
- D. Maintain normal highway speed since work zones do not require adjustment.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Work zones often narrow lanes and place workers close to moving traffic, so reducing speed below the normal limit gives drivers more time to react to sudden movement or equipment. Maintaining or increasing speed through a work zone removes the margin needed to avoid a collision with a worker or piece of equipment.
49. You are driving on an unfamiliar rural road after sunset with only your headlights illuminating the way ahead. Why should you reduce your speed compared to daytime driving on the same road?
- A. Reduced visibility at night limits how quickly you can see and react to hazards, so a slower speed allows more reaction time.
- B. Headlights illuminate farther than daylight vision, so slower speeds are unnecessary.
- C. Nighttime speed limits are automatically lower than daytime limits everywhere.
- D. Other drivers are required to yield to you at night, so speed does not matter.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Headlights illuminate only a limited distance ahead compared to daylight, so a driver's ability to see and react to hazards is reduced at night, making a slower speed necessary to keep stopping distance within the visible range. Assuming headlights let you see as far as daylight overstates their range and removes the safety margin a slower speed provides.
50. You are driving on a winding mountain road and see a sharp curve ahead marked with a warning sign and recommended speed. When should you reduce your speed for the curve?
- A. Before entering the curve, while still on the straight approach.
- B. While already in the middle of the curve, to maintain momentum beforehand.
- C. Speed adjustment is unnecessary if the recommended speed is close to the posted limit.
- D. Only after exiting the curve, to prevent skidding on the way out.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A
Slowing down before entering a curve, while the vehicle is still traveling in a straight line, allows the driver to maintain control and traction through the turn itself. Braking while already turning shifts weight in a way that can cause the tires to lose grip, making mid-curve speed adjustments considerably riskier.
51. You are lawfully arrested by an officer who has probable cause to believe you have been driving while impaired by alcohol. Under implied consent principles, what have you already agreed to by driving on public roads?
- A. You have agreed to a mandatory jail sentence without a hearing.
- B. You have agreed to automatic dismissal of any impairment charges.
- C. You have agreed to submit to chemical testing to determine your alcohol or drug concentration.
- D. You have agreed to have your vehicle permanently confiscated.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Implied consent means that by driving on public roads, a person has already agreed to submit to chemical testing if lawfully arrested on suspicion of impaired driving, allowing officers to request a breath, blood, or urine test. It does not mean charges are automatically dismissed, a jail sentence is guaranteed, or a vehicle is seized as part of this agreement.
52. Alcohol consumption affects several driving-related abilities even before a driver feels obviously drunk. Which combination of effects is most accurate?
- A. Increased alertness combined with slower muscle response.
- B. Reduced reaction time, impaired judgment, and reduced coordination.
- C. No measurable effect on judgment, only on physical coordination.
- D. Improved night vision and faster reflexes.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Alcohol affects the brain functions responsible for reaction time, judgment, and physical coordination well before a person appears visibly intoxicated, which is why even moderate impairment increases crash risk. Claiming alcohol improves reflexes or has no effect on judgment contradicts how it actually slows and distorts these driving-critical functions.
53. A group of friends plans to attend an event where alcohol will be served. What is the safest practice to prevent impaired driving afterward?
- A. Rely on drinking coffee to sober up enough to drive safely.
- B. Arrange for a designated driver who will not consume alcohol before driving the group home.
- C. Choose the driver who feels least affected by alcohol at the end of the night.
- D. Wait exactly one hour after the last drink before anyone drives.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
Having a designated driver who abstains from alcohol for the entire event removes the risk of impaired judgment affecting the drive home, which is more reliable than trying to judge one's own impairment afterward. Choosing whoever feels least affected still relies on self-assessment, which alcohol itself is known to distort.
54. Compared to a sober driver, an impaired driver's ability to judge distance and required stopping distance is typically affected in what way?
- A. Impaired drivers consistently underestimate their own speed, correcting for the risk automatically.
- B. Impairment sharpens depth perception, improving distance judgment.
- C. Impairment distorts perception and judgment, making it harder to accurately gauge distance and stopping needs.
- D. Impairment has no measurable effect on distance judgment, only reaction time.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: C
Impairment distorts the perception and judgment needed to accurately estimate how far away objects are and how much distance is needed to stop, which is part of why impaired driving raises crash risk. Claiming impairment sharpens perception or has no effect on distance judgment contradicts the well-documented cognitive effects of alcohol and drugs on driving-related judgment.
55. A traffic signal ahead is flashing yellow in your direction of travel. What does this indicate you should do?
- A. Speed up to clear the intersection before the signal changes.
- B. Slow down, proceed with caution, and watch for other traffic or hazards without needing to stop.
- C. Treat it exactly like a steady green light with no extra caution.
- D. Come to a complete stop before proceeding, as with a flashing red.
Show answer & explanation
Answer: B
A flashing yellow signal warns drivers to proceed with added caution and awareness of cross traffic or hazards, without requiring the complete stop that a flashing red demands. Treating it the same as green removes the extra caution the flashing yellow is specifically meant to prompt, while treating it the same as flashing red misapplies a stricter rule than intended.

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Key facts: New Hampshire Road Signs exam

80%

To pass

Exam fee

The New Hampshire Road Signs is administered by New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (NH DMV), a Division of the NH Department of Safety, with a passing score of 80%.

This free New Hampshire Road Signs practice test has 55 original questions written to New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (NH DMV), a Division of the NH Department of Safety'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 New Hampshire Road Signs exam fee is $0 (computer-based touch-screen knowledge test, randomized per attempt; NH does not issue a separate learner's permit and does not publish a total question count).

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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.

Driver Licensing Testing Requirements | NH Division of Motor VehiclesNew Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (NH DMV), a Division of the NH Department of Safetydmv.nh.gov
Learning to Drive | NH Division of Motor VehiclesNew Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (NH DMV), a Division of the NH Department of Safetydmv.nh.gov
Licensing Fees | NH Division of Motor VehiclesNew Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (NH DMV), a Division of the NH Department of Safetydmv.nh.gov

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

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the New Hampshire road signs and rules of the road test?

New Hampshire doesn't publish a fixed total question count for its knowledge test — the NH DMV's computer-based system randomizes each exam, so no two test-takers see an identical set of questions. Check the official New Hampshire Driver's Manual for the full range of topics you'll be tested on.

What score do I need on a practice test before I take the real exam?

Aim for at least 80%, since that's the passing grade New Hampshire requires on all of its knowledge exams. Scoring consistently above that on practice tests is a good sign you're ready for the real thing.

Is the road signs section separate from the rest of the knowledge test?

No — New Hampshire's knowledge test is a single computer-based, touch-screen exam that mixes road sign identification in with rules-of-the-road and safe-driving questions rather than testing signs on their own.

What's the best way to use a road signs practice test to prepare?

Take it under timed, closed-book conditions so it mirrors the real test, then review every missed question against the official manual before retaking it. Repeating that cycle until you're consistently scoring well above 80% is the most reliable way to walk into the DMV prepared.

Is this New Hampshire road signs practice test free, and do I need to create an account?

Yes — this practice test is free to use and doesn't require signing up. You can start practicing immediately and return as many times as you'd like before your real exam.

What happens if I fail the knowledge test — can I retake it right away?

No — New Hampshire requires a 10-calendar-day wait before you're allowed to retest after failing a knowledge exam, so it pays to keep practicing during that window rather than rushing back in.