Signals & Communication
16 practice questions for the BTT
Safe driving depends on other road users knowing what you are about to do. Your direction indicators are the main tool: the Basic Theory Test handbook asks for a clear signal at least three seconds before a manoeuvre, given before you turn, change lanes, pull out from a parking place, or slow down and stop. Once the manoeuvre is done, the signal should be cancelled so that it does not mislead anyone. A signal is a warning of what you intend, not permission to go, so you still check that the move is safe.
Communication works in both directions. Signals from a police officer directing traffic override traffic lights, signs and road markings, so you need to know which directions an officer is stopping and which may go. Signals from people who are not authorised to direct traffic should not be relied on, and at a junction you must still check for yourself that the way is clear. Watching the brake lights and indicators of the vehicles around you, and moving into the correct lane early, are part of the same conversation on the road.
The horn, hazard lights and headlights are also signals, and each has a proper use. The horn is for warning others of danger, not for showing anger or demanding the right of way, and near schools and hospitals it may only be used to avoid an accident. Hazard lights warn that your vehicle has broken down or has stopped briefly at the roadside. A quick flash of the headlights can warn others as you approach a blind curve. The questions below test when and how to use each of these, and how to read the signals of others.
Signals & Communication quiz
Unofficial practice questions written by coeprice.com. We are not affiliated with the Singapore Police Force, the LTA or any driving centre. Study the official handbook for your test. Read the official BTT handbook ›
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All signals & communication questions and answers
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How long before a manoeuvre should you start signalling?
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At least 3 seconds before
Give a clear signal at least 3 seconds before you act. That gives other road users time to see it and respond safely.
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You are pulling out from a parking place at the side of the road. What should you do?
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Give a clear signal in good time and pull out only when it is safe
Pulling out from a parking place is one of the moves that needs a clear signal in good time. Moving traffic has priority, so wait for a safe gap.
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You have finished changing lanes but your indicator is still flashing. Why should you cancel it?
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Other road users may think you are about to turn or change lanes again
An indicator left on sends a false message. Cancel signals once they are not needed so you do not confuse other road users.
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A police officer directing traffic signals vehicles from his front and from behind him to stop. You are approaching from his left. What does the signal mean for you?
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You may proceed
In this signal the officer stops traffic from in front of and behind him, while traffic from his right and left may go. A police officer's signals take precedence over traffic lights and signs.
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A police officer signals that right-turning vehicles in front of him may proceed. You are approaching from his left and want to go straight. What should you do?
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Stop, as traffic from all other directions must wait
This signal lets only right-turning traffic in front of the officer move. Vehicles from all other directions must stop, whatever the traffic lights show.
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You are waiting to pull out of a junction. A passer-by waves you on. What should you do?
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Check for yourself that it is safe, as signals from unauthorised people must not be relied on
Only authorised persons, such as police officers, may direct traffic. Look right, left and right again and go only when you are sure it is safe.
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When should you sound your horn?
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To warn other road users of danger, such as a likely collision
The horn is a warning device. Using it to show anger or to demand the right of way is wrong and can startle other road users.
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The car in front is driving slowly. How should you treat flashing your headlights or blasting your horn at it?
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As rude; keep a safe distance instead
The handbook describes flashing headlights or blasting the horn at slower vehicles ahead as rude. Keep a safe following distance and overtake only when it is safe.
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You are approaching a curve or intersection where visibility is poor. How can your headlights help?
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Flash them to let others know you are coming
Flashing your headlights there lets pedestrians, cyclists and oncoming drivers know you are heading into the curve or junction.
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How does pressing and releasing the brake pedal two or three times before stopping help drivers behind you?
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It gives them adequate warning that you are slowing down
The on/off braking technique flashes your brake lights repeatedly, giving following motorists earlier warning. It also helps stop the wheels locking.
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You hear a siren and pull off the road to make way for an emergency vehicle. Why should you switch on your direction signal?
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To show the emergency vehicle's driver that you know it is there
Signalling as you pull over tells the emergency vehicle's driver that you have seen it and are giving way, so they can plan their path.
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Another driver gives way to let you into their lane. What is the gracious thing to do?
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Show a 'thank you' hand gesture
When someone gives you the right of way, a thank-you gesture is courteous. Small acts of courtesy help keep tempers calm on the road.
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You are approaching a pedestrian crossing and plan to slow down or stop for pedestrians. What should you do?
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Signal to other drivers that you intend to slow down or stop
Signalling your intention lets drivers behind prepare to slow down too. Near a crossing, be ready to stop and do not overtake.
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Why should you avoid sounding your horn when you are close to pedestrians?
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It may startle them and cause them to react unpredictably
A loud horn near pedestrians can frighten them into an irrational move, which may cause an accident. Give them plenty of room instead.
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When may you use your hazard warning lights?
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To warn others that your vehicle has broken down, or when stopping briefly at the roadside
The hazard switch flashes all four direction indicators together as a warning. It is meant for a breakdown, and can also be used when you stop momentarily at the side of the road.
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Why should you move into the correct lane early when approaching a junction?
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It lets other road users know which way you intend to go
Your lane position is a signal in itself. Getting into the right lane early tells others your intended direction and avoids last-moment lane changes.
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