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Driving License Exam Questions & Answers

All Questions & Answers: All 100 original practice questions for the Sri Lankan driving license written test, with the correct answer, explanation, and source shown for every question — covering road signs, road markings, speed limits, priority rules, documents, and general safety for light vehicle classes.

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✓ Last verified 2026-09-24

Every question here also appears in the interactive Practice Quiz, one at a time with instant feedback. This page lists all 100 at once — correct answer, explanation, and source shown for each — for reference, for search, or to cite directly. For fees, documents, and how to apply for or renew the license itself, see the Driving License Guide.

Road Signs (38 questions)

Q1. What does this sign mean?

Road closed ahead
End of the road ahead
“T”-shaped intersection ahead — Correct answer
Main road ahead

A yellow diamond with a T shape marks a junction where the road you're on ends at a T-intersection.

Source: Motor Traffic (Signs, Signals, Symbols and Road Markings) Regulations No. 01 of 2014, Gazette Extraordinary No. 1845/31 of 17 January 2014 — Ministry of Transport (scanned copy — official archive unavailable) (2014-01-17)

Q2. What does this sign mean?

Intersecting roads ahead
Compulsory roundabout ahead
Roundabout ahead — Correct answer
Stop the vehicle

This warning sign alerts drivers to a roundabout ahead, so they can slow down and prepare to give way to traffic already on it.

Q3. What does this sign mean?

Slippery road ahead — Correct answer
Road with bends ahead
Dangerous junction ahead
Road narrows ahead

The skidding-car symbol on a yellow diamond indicates the road surface ahead may be slippery, for example after rain or oil spillage.

Q4. What does this sign mean?

Dual carriageway starts ahead
Road narrows ahead — Correct answer
Dual carriageway ends ahead
Narrow bridge ahead

Converging lines on a yellow diamond mean the road ahead narrows, so drivers should be ready to give way or merge.

Q5. What does this sign mean?

Level crossing without a barrier — Correct answer
Road closed for all vehicles
Level crossing with a barrier
Intercepting roads are ahead

A black steam-train silhouette on a yellow diamond marks a railway level crossing with no barrier, so drivers must look both ways and listen for trains before crossing.

Q6. What is required at this sign?

Slow down only if other traffic is present
A complete stop before proceeding, even if the road looks clear — Correct answer
Yield only to pedestrians
Stop only during peak hours

A STOP sign always requires a full, complete stop before proceeding, regardless of whether traffic is visible.

Q7. What does this sign require?

A complete stop regardless of traffic
Slow down and yield to traffic on the priority road, proceeding only when safe — Correct answer
Sound the horn and proceed
Ignore it if no vehicles are visible

Unlike a STOP sign, a Give Way sign does not require a mandatory full stop — only yielding right of way to traffic on the priority road.

Q8. What does this sign mean?

One-way street ahead
No parking
No entry for vehicles — Correct answer
Road closed for maintenance

A black arrow blocked by a red diagonal bar inside a red circle prohibits vehicles from entering or proceeding into that road.

Q9. What does this sign mean?

No parking
No overtaking — Correct answer
No two vehicles side by side
Two-way traffic ahead

Two vehicle silhouettes inside a red circle prohibit overtaking on that section of road.

Q10. What does this sign mean?

No stopping at any time
No parking — Correct answer
Paid parking only
Parking for permit holders only

A red diagonal bar across a “P” prohibits parking in that area.

Q11. What does this sign mean?

No left turn
No right turn
No U-turn — Correct answer
No entry for buses

A U-shaped arrow crossed out means U-turns are prohibited at that point.

Q12. What does this sign mean?

Minimum speed 50 km/h
Maximum speed limit of 50 km/h — Correct answer
Distance marker, 50 km to go
Route number 50

A black number on a red-bordered white circle is a maximum speed limit sign — 50 km/h is also the statutory limit for motor cars in built-up areas.

Source: Motor Traffic (Speed Limits) Regulations, No. 1 of 2012, Gazette Extraordinary No. 1763/26 of 22 June 2012 — Ministry of Transport (scanned copy — official archive unavailable) (2012-06-22)

Q13. What does this sign mean?

School ahead
Pedestrian crossing ahead — Correct answer
Hospital ahead
No pedestrians

A walking figure on a yellow diamond marks an upcoming pedestrian crossing.

Q14. What does this sign mean?

Playground ahead
Children — school or play area ahead — Correct answer
Pedestrian crossing ahead
Hospital zone ahead

Two child figures on a yellow diamond indicate a school or area where children may be crossing or playing near the road.

Q15. What does this sign mean?

Farm ahead
Animals may cross the road ahead — Correct answer
No animal-drawn vehicles
Veterinary clinic ahead

An animal silhouette on a yellow diamond warns that animals may cross or be present on the road ahead.

Q16. What does this sign mean?

Roadworks ahead — Correct answer
Pedestrian crossing ahead
Falling rocks ahead
School ahead

A figure with a tool on a yellow diamond indicates roadworks ahead, so drivers should slow down and watch for workers.

Q17. What does this sign mean?

One-way traffic ahead
Two-way traffic ahead — Correct answer
Dual carriageway ends
Oncoming priority traffic

Two arrows pointing in opposite directions warn that the road ahead carries two-way traffic, often after a stretch of one-way or dual carriageway.

Q18. What does this sign mean?

Steep ascent ahead
Steep descent ahead — Correct answer
Uneven road ahead
Road narrows ahead

A downward-sloping line with a gradient percentage warns of a steep descent ahead, where drivers should reduce speed and use engine braking.

Q19. What does this sign mean?

Loose gravel ahead
Uneven road ahead
Falling rocks ahead — Correct answer
Quarry area ahead

Rock shapes on a yellow diamond indicate a stretch of road where rocks may fall from an adjoining slope.

Q20. What does this sign mean?

Roundabout ahead
You are on a priority road — Correct answer
End of priority road
Give way to oncoming traffic

A yellow diamond-within-a-diamond marks a priority road, meaning traffic joining from side roads must give way to you.

Q21. What does this sign mean?

A roundabout ahead
A crossroads ahead — Correct answer
A staggered junction ahead
A T-junction ahead

A plus-shaped junction on the warning diamond marks an ordinary crossroads ahead, where a road crosses yours at right angles.

Q22. What does this sign mean?

A crossroads ahead
A roundabout ahead
A Y-junction ahead — Correct answer
A staggered junction ahead

A Y-shaped fork on the warning diamond marks a Y-junction, where the road splits into two at a shallow angle.

Q23. What does this sign mean?

Road narrows ahead
A narrow bridge ahead — Correct answer
Two-way traffic ahead
A level crossing ahead

Two inward-facing brackets mark a narrow bridge ahead, which may not have room for two vehicles to pass side by side.

Q24. What does this sign mean?

Steep descent ahead
Steep ascent ahead — Correct answer
Hump bridge ahead
Roadworks ahead

A vehicle silhouette climbing an incline marks a steep ascent ahead — the mirror image of the steep-descent warning sign.

Q25. What does this sign mean?

Slippery road ahead
Falling rocks ahead
Loose gravel or chippings ahead — Correct answer
Roadworks ahead

A car throwing up loose stones marks a stretch of road surfaced with loose gravel or chippings, where grip is reduced.

Q27. What does this sign mean?

Bus stop ahead
A bus lane ahead — Correct answer
No buses beyond this point
End of bus lane

A bus over a dashed lane line marks the start of a bus lane ahead, generally reserved for buses during its hours of operation.

Q28. What does this sign mean?

Quayside or riverbank ahead
A dangerous cliff or unguarded drop ahead — Correct answer
Steep descent ahead
Roadworks ahead

A vehicle shown tipping over an edge marks a stretch of road running alongside a dangerous cliff or unguarded drop.

Q29. What does this sign mean?

A dip in the road ahead
A hump bridge ahead
A bump or speed hump ahead — Correct answer
Uneven road ahead

A raised hump silhouette marks a bump or speed hump ahead — slow down to avoid damage or loss of control.

Q30. What does this sign mean?

A bump ahead
A dip in the road ahead — Correct answer
A hump bridge ahead
Falling rocks ahead

A V-shaped dip silhouette marks a sudden dip in the road ahead, which can unsettle a vehicle taken at speed.

Q31. What does this sign mean?

A dip ahead
A narrow bridge ahead
A hump bridge ahead — Correct answer
Uneven road ahead

An arched bridge profile marks a hump bridge ahead — the road rises sharply to cross it, limiting visibility of oncoming traffic.

Q32. What does this sign mean?

An airport terminal ahead
Low-flying aircraft may be encountered — Correct answer
No entry for aircraft
Helicopter landing zone ahead

This sign warns that low-flying aircraft may be encountered ahead, typically near an airport approach.

Q33. What does this sign mean?

No left turn — Correct answer
No right turn
No U-turn
Mandatory left turn

A left-curving black arrow inside a red-ringed circle prohibits turning left at this junction.

Q34. What does this sign mean?

No left turn
No right turn — Correct answer
No U-turn
Mandatory right turn

A right-curving black arrow inside a red-ringed circle prohibits turning right at this junction.

Q35. What does this sign mean?

No motor vehicles
No horns — use of the horn is prohibited — Correct answer
No overtaking
Silent zone ahead

A horn pictogram with a red diagonal bar prohibits sounding the horn, typically near hospitals or other quiet zones.

Q36. What does this sign mean?

No bicycles
No three-wheelers
No motorcycles — Correct answer
No motor vehicles

A motorcycle silhouette with a red diagonal bar prohibits motorcycles from using this road.

Q37. What does this sign mean?

No pedestrians — Correct answer
Pedestrian crossing ahead
Blind pedestrians crossing
School crossing patrol

A walking figure with a red diagonal bar prohibits pedestrians from using this road — common on expressways.

Q38. What does this sign mean?

No parking
No parking and no standing or stopping — Correct answer
No parking on odd-numbered days
End of no-parking zone

A blue circle with a red X (rather than a single diagonal line) prohibits both parking and standing or stopping, even briefly.

Road Markings (20 questions)

Q1. What does this road marking mean?

Give way to traffic on the intersecting road
Stop completely before entering the intersection — Correct answer
Pedestrian crossing ahead
No stopping on this section of road

A single continuous transverse line (Road Marking RM-01) requires every vehicle to stop at the line before entering the intersection, matching a Stop sign.

Q2. What does this broken transverse line across the road mean?

Stop completely, as with a solid line
Give way to traffic on the road ahead before proceeding — Correct answer
Speed bump ahead
Lane ends ahead

A broken transverse line (Road Marking RM-02) means a road user must give way to traffic on the adjacent road before proceeding, without necessarily coming to a full stop if the way is clear.

Q3. You are driving alongside a single continuous white line down the middle of the road. When may you cross it?

To overtake a slower vehicle when the road is clear
Only to turn right — Correct answer
At any time it is safe to do so
Never, under any circumstances

Where a single continuous line is placed along the middle of the road, vehicles must keep to the left of it and may cross it only to turn right — not to overtake.

Q4. What does a broken white line down the middle of the road allow a driver to do?

Nothing — it must never be crossed
Cross it only to turn right
Cross it to overtake a vehicle ahead or to turn right — Correct answer
Park along either side of it

A broken centre line means a vehicle may cross it to turn right, or to overtake a vehicle travelling ahead, provided it is safe to do so.

Q5. What do two continuous parallel lines down the middle of the road mean?

Cross either line to overtake if the road is clear
Keep left of the lines and never cross or straddle them — Correct answer
The road is closed ahead
Only motorcycles may cross

Where double continuous lines are placed along the middle of a road, vehicles must keep to the left of the lines and must not cross or straddle them under any circumstances.

Q6. Broken lines divide a wide carriageway into four or more marked lanes. What are vehicles required to do?

Straddle two lanes at all times for safety
Drive within a single marked lane, crossing the lines only to overtake or to turn — Correct answer
Use only the outermost lane
Ignore the lines, as they are advisory only

Where Road Marking RM-13 divides a carriageway into four or more lanes, vehicles must be driven within the traffic lanes formed, crossing the lines only to overtake or to turn left or right.

Q7. What does a single continuous yellow line along the edge of the carriageway mean?

No parking permitted along this section of road — Correct answer
No parking or standing (not even to drop off passengers)
Bus lane ahead
Priority road ahead

A single yellow edge-of-carriageway line (Road Marking RM-16) indicates a section of road where parking is prohibited.

Q8. What does a double yellow line along the edge of the carriageway mean, compared to a single yellow line?

It has the same meaning as a single yellow line
It prohibits both parking and standing — even briefly stopping is not allowed — Correct answer
It only applies to heavy vehicles
It marks a cycle lane

Double yellow lines (Road Markings RM-17/RM-18) are a stronger prohibition than a single yellow line: both parking and standing are prohibited along that section of road.

Q9. What does this road marking — a band of white stripes across the carriageway — indicate?

A speed hump
A pedestrian crossing, where pedestrians have the right of way — Correct answer
A cycle lane crossing
A junction box

A band of stripes laid across the carriageway (Road Markings RM-27 to RM-32) marks a Pedestrian Crossing, where pedestrians have the right of way subject to the regulations, with a give-way line for approaching vehicles.

Q10. How close to a pedestrian crossing's give-way line may a vehicle stop or park, on the approach side?

There is no restriction
Within 5 metres
Not within 30 metres of the give-way line on the approach side — Correct answer
Not within 100 metres

No vehicle may be stopped, wholly or partly, on a Pedestrian Crossing or within 30 metres of the give-way line on the approach side (or 15 metres from the crossing's exit side), except where unavoidable or to avoid an accident.

Q11. A lane is marked off by a broken line with bus-lane signage. Who may generally use this lane?

Any vehicle, at any time
Only public transport vehicles, with limited exceptions (e.g. turning, avoiding an obstruction) — Correct answer
Only motorcycles
Only vehicles turning left

A bus lane, marked with Road Marking RM-44 alongside Sign OSD-07, may not be traversed or used by a road user other than a public transport vehicle, except in specific circumstances such as avoiding a collision, an obstruction ahead, or when directed by a Police Officer.

Q12. A lane is marked off with cycle-lane signage and road markings. Who may generally use this lane?

Any slow-moving vehicle
Only cyclists and persons on cycles, with limited exceptions — Correct answer
Only three-wheelers
Pedestrians only

A cycle lane, marked with Road Marking RM-42 alongside Sign OSD-09, may not be traversed or used by a road user other than cyclists, except in specific circumstances such as avoiding a collision or when directed by a Police Officer.

Q13. What does a yellow cross-hatched box painted at a junction (a "Junction Box") mean?

A parking bay reserved for taxis
Do not enter the box unless your exit is clear, even if your light or turn is otherwise permitted — Correct answer
A pedestrian waiting area
A bus stop

A Junction Box (yellow cross-hatched lines bounded by a perimeter) is placed at a junction to prevent vehicles from entering and blocking it — a driver should not enter the box unless the exit beyond it is clear.

Q14. A single continuous line runs alongside a broken line down the middle of the road (Road Markings RM-07/RM-08). What does this mean?

Overtaking is allowed from both sides
A vehicle on the continuous-line side may not cross to overtake; a vehicle on the broken-line side may — Correct answer
Overtaking is banned entirely at this point
Only motorcycles may overtake here

Regulation 27(3): where a single continuous line is combined with a broken line, no vehicle may cross to overtake on the side where the continuous line is placed, while the broken-line side may still be used to overtake.

Q15. What are the raised reflective studs sometimes set into the road surface instead of, or alongside, painted lines?

Decorative markers with no legal meaning
An alternative form of Road Marking — some incorporate reflectors for night-time visibility — Correct answer
Temporary construction markers only
A signal reserved for cyclists

Regulation 26(1) allows a Road Marking to consist of studs or plates as well as paint; depressible studs may incorporate reflectors, improving visibility of the marking at night.

Q16. What is the purpose of rumble strips placed across the road surface on the approach to a pedestrian crossing or a sharp bend?

To mark a bus lane
To reduce the speed of approaching vehicles through vibration and noise — Correct answer
To indicate a toll collection point
To mark a cycle lane

Regulation 25(5): Rumble Strips (RM-33, RM-34, RM-35) are placed on the approaches to pedestrian crossings, sharp bends, or other locations the Competent Authority considers necessary, to reduce the speed of approaching vehicles.

Q17. On a four-lane undivided road, diagonal Asphalt Strips (Road Marking RM-53) are used as a centre divider. When may a vehicle cross them?

Never, under any circumstance
Only to make a right turn — Correct answer
Only to overtake a slower vehicle
At any time if the road is clear

Regulation 25(2)-(3): vehicles are prohibited from crossing the Asphalt Strips to overtake; only vehicles turning right may cross them.

Q18. A broken white line (Road Marking RM-43) appears on the approach to a solid centre line, warning of a hazard ahead. What must a driver do?

Speed up to clear the hazard quickly
Not cross or straddle the line unless it is safe to do so — Correct answer
Stop completely before proceeding
Sound the horn continuously

Regulation 27(10): Road Marking RM-43, a broken line, warns a driver of a hazard ahead and cautions against crossing or straddling it unless the driver considers it safe to do so.

Q19. What is a 'raised' pedestrian crossing (Road Markings RM-30/RM-31), as opposed to an ordinary marked crossing?

A crossing with overhead lighting only
A crossing built as a raised table or hump in the road surface, so vehicles slow naturally — Correct answer
A crossing reserved for wheelchair users only
A crossing that is only marked at night

Regulation 28(2): RM-30 and RM-31 mark pedestrian crossings built as a raised table across the carriageway on two-lane and four-lane roads respectively, which physically slows approaching traffic.

Q20. Two continuous parallel lines set 600 millimetres apart (Road Marking RM-54) mark a centre median divider on a four-lane undivided road. What is a vehicle permitted to do across it?

Overtake, but not turn
Turn right only — not overtake — Correct answer
Cross freely at any point
Park temporarily between the lines

Regulation 25(4): RM-54 represents a centre median dividing opposing traffic flows on a four-lane undivided road; vehicles are permitted to turn right across it, but crossing it to overtake is not permitted.

Speed Limits (8 questions)

Q1. What is the speed limit for a motor car in a designated built-up area?

40 km/h
50 km/h — Correct answer
60 km/h
70 km/h

Regulation 2(2) of the Motor Traffic (Speed Limits) Regulations, No. 1 of 2012 sets 50 km/h for motor vehicles generally in built-up areas.

Q2. What is the speed limit for a motor tricycle (three-wheeler) in a built-up area?

30 km/h
40 km/h — Correct answer
50 km/h
60 km/h

The proviso to Regulation 2(2) sets a lower 40 km/h limit for land vehicles, motor tricycles, motor tricycle vans, and special purpose vehicles in built-up areas.

Q3. What is the speed limit for a motor car in a non-built-up area?

50 km/h
60 km/h
70 km/h — Correct answer
80 km/h

Regulation 3(2)(a) sets 70 km/h for motor vehicles generally on non-built-up road sections.

Q4. What is the speed limit for a lorry or motor coach in a non-built-up area?

40 km/h
50 km/h
60 km/h — Correct answer
70 km/h

Regulation 3(2)(b) sets a lower 60 km/h limit specifically for motor coaches and lorries in non-built-up areas — lower than the general 70 km/h limit.

Q5. What is the speed limit for a motor tricycle in a non-built-up area?

30 km/h
40 km/h — Correct answer
50 km/h
70 km/h

The proviso to Regulation 3(2) keeps land vehicles, motor tricycles, motor tricycle vans and special purpose vehicles at 40 km/h even outside built-up areas.

Q6. How is a road section legally defined as a “built-up area” for speed limit purposes?

Any area the driver judges to be urban
Any road within a Municipal or Urban Council boundary
A specific schedule of named road sections listed in the regulations — Correct answer
Any road with streetlights

Regulation 2(1) defines built-up areas as the specific road sections listed by route number, township and kilometre markers in the Schedule to the regulations — not a general judgment call.

Q7. What is the general maximum speed limit on a Sri Lankan expressway?

80 km/h
100 km/h — Correct answer
110 km/h
120 km/h

The Road Development Authority's expressway safety guidance sets the maximum speed on the expressway mainline at 100 km/h.

Source: Drive Safely - Expressway Rules & Tips — Road Development Authority (RDA), Expressway Operations, Maintenance & Management Division (2026-09-24)

Q8. What is the speed limit on an expressway's entry or exit ramp?

30 km/h
40 km/h
60 km/h — Correct answer
100 km/h

The Road Development Authority's expressway safety guidance sets the speed limit on entry and exit ramps at 60 km/h, lower than the 100 km/h mainline limit.

Source: Drive Safely - Expressway Rules & Tips — Road Development Authority (RDA), Expressway Operations, Maintenance & Management Division (2026-09-24)

Priority & Right of Way (12 questions)

Q1. At a roundabout with no traffic lights, who has priority?

Vehicles entering the roundabout
Vehicles already on the roundabout, approaching from the right — Correct answer
Whichever vehicle arrives first
The larger vehicle

In Sri Lanka's left-hand traffic system, vehicles already on the roundabout have priority, and they approach entering traffic from the right.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q2. At a junction with a Give Way sign, what must a driver do?

Proceed if travelling slowly
Give way to traffic on the main road, stopping if necessary — Correct answer
Sound the horn before proceeding
Only give way to buses

A Give Way sign requires yielding to traffic on the priority road — a full stop is only required if it's necessary to give way safely.

Q3. At a junction with a STOP sign, what must a driver do?

Slow down only
Come to a complete stop, then proceed when safe — Correct answer
Stop only if other vehicles are visible
Give way without stopping

A STOP sign requires a complete stop every time, regardless of visible traffic, before proceeding.

Q4. A traffic policeman is facing you with an arm raised. What should you do?

Proceed with caution
Stop — Correct answer
Sound your horn
Speed up to clear the junction

A traffic officer facing a driver with a raised arm is a signal to stop.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q5. Two vehicles arrive at an uncontrolled intersection at the same time, from different roads of equal status. Who generally has priority?

The vehicle on the left
The vehicle on the right — Correct answer
The larger vehicle
Whichever vehicle sounds its horn first

At an uncontrolled junction with no signs or signals, the general convention is to give way to traffic approaching from the right.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q6. On a two-way road in Sri Lanka, from which side should a vehicle normally be overtaken?

The left
The right — Correct answer
Either side, driver's choice
Only from behind, never overtaking

Sri Lanka drives on the left, so overtaking is normally carried out from the right-hand side of the vehicle ahead, when it is safe to do so.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q7. A pedestrian is already on a marked pedestrian crossing. What must a driver do?

Sound the horn and proceed
Give way and allow the pedestrian to cross safely — Correct answer
Only stop if the pedestrian is a child
Proceed if the pedestrian is more than halfway across

Drivers must give way to a pedestrian who is already on a marked crossing, letting them finish crossing safely.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q8. An ambulance approaches from behind with its siren and lights on. What should you do?

Maintain your speed and lane
Pull aside safely as soon as possible to let it pass — Correct answer
Speed up to clear the way
Stop immediately in your current lane

Drivers should safely move aside to let an emergency vehicle with sirens and lights pass, rather than stopping abruptly in the traffic lane.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q9. A road is marked as a "Priority Road" for a continuous stretch. What does this mean for traffic joining from side or minor roads along that stretch?

Side-road traffic has equal priority at every junction
Side-road traffic must give way to traffic on the priority road at every junction along that stretch, until an "End of Priority" sign appears — Correct answer
Only the first junction is affected
It applies only to heavy vehicles

Where a road is designated a Priority Road, vehicles entering it from a minor or side road at any junction along that stretch must give priority to traffic on the priority road, and this continues until a sign notifies drivers that the priority ends.

Q10. You approach a narrow section of road (such as a narrow bridge) and see a Priority Sign indicating you must give priority to oncoming traffic. What should you do?

Proceed first since you arrived first
Wait and allow oncoming vehicles to clear the narrow section before you proceed — Correct answer
Sound your horn and proceed alongside oncoming traffic
Reverse to let oncoming traffic pass, even if you already started crossing

A Priority Sign notifying drivers that they must give priority to oncoming traffic over a narrow section of road (such as a narrow bridge) requires them to wait until oncoming vehicles have cleared that section before proceeding.

Q11. A green light is displayed at a signal-controlled junction. What are drivers required to do?

Wait a few seconds before moving, even if the way is clear
Proceed and clear the intersection and its approaches as speedily as is safe, unless prevented by circumstances beyond their control — Correct answer
Stop if any other vehicle is still in the intersection
Proceed only if no pedestrians are nearby

When a green light is displayed, drivers for whose benefit it applies must pass the signal and proceed to clear the intersection and its immediate approaches as speedily as possible, unless prevented from doing so by circumstances beyond their control.

Q12. A fire brigade, ambulance, police or armed-forces vehicle is responding to an emergency call and faces a red traffic light. Is it permitted to proceed?

No, emergency vehicles must always stop at a red light
Yes, such vehicles are exempted from the red-signal prohibition when responding to an emergency call, provided they do not endanger other road users — Correct answer
Only if a police escort is present
Only outside of peak traffic hours

Vehicles used by the Fire Brigade, Ambulance, Police or Armed Services responding to an emergency call are exempted from the prohibition conveyed by a red signal, provided they proceed in a manner and at a time that is not likely to cause danger to other road users.

Documents & Licensing (8 questions)

Q1. How long is a Sri Lankan driving license valid for light vehicle classes before renewal is required?

5 years
8 years — Correct answer
10 years
Lifetime of the holder

Section 126B of the Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017 sets an 8-year validity period for light vehicle classes.

Source: Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017, Section 126B — Department of Motor Traffic (2017-01-01)

Q2. How long is a Sri Lankan driving license valid for heavy vehicle classes before renewal is required?

2 years
4 years — Correct answer
6 years
8 years

Section 126B sets a shorter 4-year validity period for heavy vehicle classes, reflecting their higher-risk categories.

Source: Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017, Section 126B — Department of Motor Traffic (2017-01-01)

Q3. How recent must a Medical Fitness Certificate be when renewing a driving license?

Within 12 months
Within 6 months — Correct answer
Within 3 months
No expiry, as long as it was issued by NTMI

DMT requires the Medical Fitness Certificate from the National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) to be dated within 6 months of the renewal application.

Source: Department of Motor Traffic — Driving License Renewal Charges — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q4. Which authority issues driving licenses in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka Police
Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) — Correct answer
Ministry of Transport
Road Development Authority (RDA)

The Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) is the authority responsible for issuing and renewing driving licenses.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q5. If asked by a police officer, what must a driver be able to produce?

Only the vehicle registration book
A valid driving license for the vehicle class being driven — Correct answer
A copy of the Motor Traffic Act
Proof of fuel purchase

Under the Motor Traffic Act, a driver must be able to produce a valid driving license for the class of vehicle they are driving.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q6. What is the minimum age to hold a driving license for light vehicle classes (such as a motor car or motorcycle) in Sri Lanka?

16 years
17 years
18 years — Correct answer
21 years

Under Section 124 of the Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017, an applicant for a light vehicle driving licence must have completed the age of eighteen years.

Source: Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act, No. 18 of 2017, Section 124 — Parliament of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (2017-10-03)

Q7. What is the minimum age to hold a driving license for heavy vehicle classes (such as a lorry or bus) in Sri Lanka?

18 years
19 years
20 years
21 years — Correct answer

Under Section 124 of the Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017, an applicant for a heavy vehicle driving licence must have completed the age of twenty-one years.

Source: Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act, No. 18 of 2017, Section 124 — Parliament of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (2017-10-03)

Q8. Before applying for a heavy vehicle driving license, how long must an applicant have already held a valid light vehicle driving license?

No prior license required
At least 6 months
At least 1 year
At least 2 years — Correct answer

Section 124 of the Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017 requires an applicant for a heavy vehicle licence to have already held a valid light vehicle driving licence for a period of not less than two years.

Source: Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act, No. 18 of 2017, Section 124 — Parliament of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (2017-10-03)

Rules & Safety (14 questions)

Q1. What does an “Overtaking line” road marking indicate?

Overtaking is prohibited at all times
Overtaking is permitted when it is safe to do so — Correct answer
The road is one-way only
A pedestrian crossing is ahead

An overtaking line marking indicates a section where overtaking is permitted, as opposed to a warning line, which discourages it due to limited visibility.

Q2. What is the recommended sequence for responding to a hazard while driving?

Act, Decide, Observe
Signal, Decide, Act
Observe, Decide, Act — Correct answer
Decide, Act, Observe

Defensive driving practice teaches drivers to Observe a hazard, Decide on a response, then Act — rather than reacting before assessing the situation.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q3. Is wearing a seatbelt while driving in Sri Lanka a legal requirement?

Yes, for the driver and passengers — Correct answer
Only for the driver
Only on expressways
No, it is optional

Seatbelt use is a legal requirement for the driver and passengers in a motor vehicle in Sri Lanka.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q4. Why should a driver maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead?

To save fuel
To allow enough time and space to stop safely if the vehicle ahead brakes — Correct answer
It is only relevant on expressways
To avoid being overtaken

A safe following distance gives a driver enough time to react and stop safely if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q5. Is using a hand-held mobile phone while driving permitted in Sri Lanka?

Yes, at any time
No, unless it is a genuine emergency — Correct answer
Only while stationary in traffic
Yes, if using one hand to steer

Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is prohibited, except in a genuine emergency; hands-free use is treated differently under the law.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q6. A cyclist extends their right arm straight out horizontally. What does this signal mean?

I am slowing down
I intend to turn right — Correct answer
I intend to turn left
I am stopping

An extended right arm is the standard hand signal for an intention to turn right, used when indicators are unavailable.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q7. Which document should a vehicle carry to confirm it is licensed to use the road?

Fuel receipt
Revenue license — Correct answer
Bank loan agreement
Service history booklet

A valid revenue license confirms a vehicle is licensed to use public roads and should be carried in the vehicle.

Source: Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) — general provisions — Department of Motor Traffic (2026-09-14)

Q8. A police officer on traffic duty signals you to stop, but the traffic light is green. Which must you obey?

The green light, since it was showing first
The police officer's signal — Correct answer
Whichever is safer to obey
You may choose either

Under the 2014 regulations, instructions given by authorized officials directing traffic take precedence over Traffic Light Signals, Road Signs, Road Markings and other traffic regulations.

Q9. At a junction, a traffic light signal and a priority road sign (such as Give Way) give conflicting instructions. Which takes precedence?

The priority road sign
The traffic light signal — Correct answer
Whichever was installed more recently
Neither — the driver should stop and wait for a police officer

The regulations specify that instructions given by Traffic Light Signals take precedence over those conveyed by Road Signs regulating priority.

Q10. A traffic light shows amber on its own (not red-and-amber together). What must a driver do?

Speed up to clear the junction before it turns red
Not proceed beyond the stop line, unless already too close to stop safely — Correct answer
Treat it the same as a green light
Stop only if pedestrians are crossing

An amber signal shown alone conveys a prohibition: drivers must not proceed beyond the stop line, except where a vehicle is already so close to the line when the signal appears that it cannot be stopped safely before reaching it.

Q11. At a signal-controlled junction, a green arrow lights up pointing left while the main circular signal shows red. What does this mean?

It is a malfunction — treat the whole signal as red
Vehicles may proceed in the direction of the arrow, despite the red signal — Correct answer
Only buses may proceed on the green arrow
The green arrow is advisory only and may be ignored

A green arrow indicates that drivers may proceed along the road in the direction shown by the arrow, notwithstanding any other indication given by the rest of the signal.

Q12. You are turning right through a signal-controlled intersection on a green light. What must you do regarding other traffic?

Proceed immediately — you have absolute right of way on green
Give way and avoid crossing the path of other vehicles moving through the intersection in a way likely to cause danger — Correct answer
Sound your horn and proceed regardless of other traffic
Wait for a police officer to wave you through

A vehicle turning right on a green signal must not cross the path of, or merge dangerously with, other vehicles that are lawfully moving into or through the intersection on that signal phase.

Q13. What are direction indicator signals (turn signals) used for, under Sri Lanka's traffic regulations?

Only to signal an intention to overtake
To inform other road users of an intention to turn, move to a side, or slow down/stop — Correct answer
Only required on expressways
To signal a vehicle fault to other drivers

Direction indicator signals inform other road users of a driver's intention to move or turn right, to move or turn left (or stop on the left), or to slow down or stop.

Q14. On a multi-lane carriageway with clearly marked lanes, which lane should a vehicle normally be driven in?

Whichever lane has the least traffic
The inside (leftmost) lane, using the outside lane(s) only to overtake or turn right — Correct answer
The outside lane, to stay clear of parked vehicles
Any lane, provided the vehicle stays within it

Where a carriageway is divided into four or more marked lanes, vehicles are to be driven in the inside lanes, with the outside lanes used for the purpose of overtaking or turning right.

Primary Source Verification & Audit Status

Compiled from statutory publications, fee orders, and circulars published byDepartment of Motor Traffic / Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation.

These are original practice questions written and sourced by LankaSolve against the Motor Traffic Act, its gazetted regulations, and verified DMT requirements. They are not official or recalled exam questions from the Department of Motor Traffic, and passing this practice set does not guarantee a pass on the real written test.

Last Verified: 2026-09-24

Next Review Due: 2026-12-24

Volatility Tier:YELLOW (Statutory & Procedural Data)

Practice questions, not the real exam

This is an independent practice bank, not an official DMT question set. Each question is sourced and checked against Sri Lanka's traffic-sign regulations and dated when last verified.

Checked against

Dept. of Immigration & Emigration Dept. for Registration of Persons Sri Lanka Police Registrar of Companies Inland Revenue Dept.EPF / ETF Departments Survey Department Department of Motor Traffic

Road Signs (38 questions)

Road Markings (20 questions)

Speed Limits (8 questions)

Priority & Right of Way (12 questions)

Documents & Licensing (8 questions)

Rules & Safety (14 questions)

Primary Source Verification & Audit Status

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