Depending on where you are, traffic rules vary.If you are a new driver, take some time to learn the rules before you hit the road.You can check online to find the rules.You should review information about passing and turning, as well as learn about road signs.You can take practice quizzes to test your knowledge.
Step 1: The "STOP" sign is octagonal and red.
The stop signs look the same.Bring the car to a complete stop if you see one of these red signs.Slowing down doesn't count.The car that arrived first has the right of way.It doesn't mean that oncoming traffic also has a stop sign.When crossing the road or making a turn, use caution.If you're driving somewhere new, check the signs to make sure they look right.In the UK, signs might say "Halt" instead of "Stop".
Step 2: The speed limit is posted.
You need to pay attention to the signs while driving.A minimum speed is included in some signs, as well as the speed limit.These signs have black numbers and letters.You could get a ticket if you stick to the speed limit.If you are driving an American car in another country, you should check the manual to learn how to change the speedometer from miles to kilometers.
Step 3: If you see a triangular sign, slow down.
Obeying yield signs can be either yellow or white.You should check both ways for incoming traffic if you see this sign.You are all set to proceed if you don't see any.If you're in a different country than usual, ask what signs mean.
Step 4: On one-way signs, follow the arrow.
Travel is only allowed in the direction that the arrow is pointing if you see a black arrow on a white sign.These signs are usually black and white.If you accidentally turn the wrong way down a one-way street, drive with caution until you can find a safe spot to turn your car around.The sign in the UK might be an arrow with a red circle and a slash over it.It's not the same as the US sign.
Step 5: There are nearby signs when you park.
Make sure to check the "no parking" sign for different parking regulations.It is a capital P with a red circle and a slash mark.You can find somewhere else to park if you see that.There are signs that indicate restricted parking.Time limits on parking can be included in some signs, as well as certain hours where parking is not allowed.
Step 6: When you see a traffic light, obey the signals.
You will most likely run into a lot of traffic lights if you are in an urban area.Green, yellow, and red mean to stop when you come to a light.It is safe to turn right on a red light if there is no sign prohibiting it.Before turning, make sure to come to a complete stop and check for cars and pedestrians.Don't turn left at a red light.If you're going to be driving in a new country, you need to know about traffic lights.
Step 7: Slow down or stop when there are flashing lights.
Slow down and check for oncoming traffic when the yellow lights are flashing.Come to a complete stop when you see a red light.Allow any vehicles that arrived before you to go first because these lights are a four-way stop.When it's your turn, incoming traffic has stopped so you can proceed.
Step 8: When you see a solid white line, stay in your lane.
There are lines on the road in most places.Paying attention to them while driving is important.You can't change lanes to pass another car if you see a solid white line.White lines separate traffic that is traveling in the same direction.You can change lanes if the white line is broken.Before you drive in a new country, check out the rules.
Step 9: Caution is used when you see yellow lines.
If there is no oncoming traffic, a broken yellow line means you may pass carefully.Stay in your lane if you see a solid or double yellow line.You shouldn't change lanes.
Step 10: When it's safe to do so, pass and turn.
No matter what the road markings mean, always check for oncoming traffic when you pass or turn.It is not always safe to pass or turn.The left lane is used to pass a car going in the same direction.Don't pass from the right lane.You can use your turn signal to switch lanes.Obey the road signs that prohibit turning.It's always a good idea to check out the rules of the road when you're in a new country.
Step 11: Make a turn or pass by turning on your indicators.
blinkers or turn signals are lights on your car that let others know you are turning.Press the lever to indicate a left-hand turn or pass after flipping the indicator up.To give other drivers advance notice, turn on your blinkers about 100 ft (30 m) before your turn.
Step 12: There are motorcycles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Motorcycles are smaller than cars and can be hard to see.Before passing or changing lanes, make sure to check your side and rearview mirrors.Cyclists should also be looked for.They have the right to bike on the street, so always look around for bikes before turning, backing out, or crossing the road.Pedestrians have the right of way and you should yield to them.
Step 13: For emergency vehicles, pull over.
Different states might have different regulations, but this is standard procedure in the U.S.If you see or hear an emergency vehicle, you should slow down and pull over to the side of the road.If you see an emergency vehicle with lights on the side of the road, it's a good idea to move to the furthest away lane.
Step 14: Know the basics of the car and the road.
The steering wheel is on the left side of the car if you are in the U.S.In many other countries, you can drive on the left side of the road.It is a good idea to check to see what side of the car people are driving.Take a few minutes to learn where everything is.Make sure you know how to use the blinkers and other controls.Understanding your car will help you drive.
Step 15: Rules for where you will be driving can be found online.
This is the easiest way to find the information you are looking for.To find the guidelines that you need, do a basic internet search.If you have questions, choose a site with lots of resources, such as a manual, FAQ page, and contact information.You can learn the rules if you spend some time going over the materials that you find.You can search for traffic rules in Ireland if you are going to be there.There are different regulations in every place.
Step 16: If you don't understand something, ask for assistance.
It is okay if you did not have time to study before driving.Ask the local if there are any special rules.If you are not sure if you will obey the rules, don't drive.
Step 17: Enroll in driver's education with an instructor.
Sign up for a driver's ed class if you're a new driver or worried about your skills getting rusty.Check with the Department of Motor Vehicles if they can recommend some courses.You can find a driving school near you on the internet.These courses are not free, but they are reasonably priced.If you are a teenager, check to see if your school offers driver's education classes.You should check the rules in your state.Before you apply for a license, some states require you to complete driver's ed.
Step 18: You can get a study guide at the local Department of Motor Vehicles.
If you are in the U.S., you should be able to get a hard copy study guide from the Department of Motor Vehicles.Go to the one nearest you and ask for a manual.You can check to see if they have other materials.You can find the agency that handles driver's licenses online if you're not in the U.S.They should have the resources to give you.If hard copies work best for you, you can download and print the materials online.
Step 19: Practice tests can be taken online.
Sample tests can be found on most websites.Try the practice tests after you have studied the rules.Try until you get a passing score.You have learned the rules of the road.
Step 20: If you are traveling to the U.S., look for specific state guidelines.
The basic rules of the U.S. are the same no matter where you are.Each state has its own set of rules, such as speed limits.Guidelines about each state you will be in can be found online.If you are a new driver, you need to know the rules for the state where you will take the test to get your license.You should start studying a few months before taking the test.It is important that you do not have to cram the information at the last minute.