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Every question here is also in the free driving license mock exam, where you answer one at a time and get instant feedback. This page lists all 100 at once, numbered Q1 to Q100. Each section ends with an answer key. Short source notes such as "[1]" point to the full list of sources at the end of the page. For fees, documents and how to apply for or renew your license, see the driving license renewal guide.
Sri Lanka Road Signs and Meanings (Q1 to Q38)
Sri Lanka Road Signs and Meanings
What do Sri Lankan road signs mean?
Sri Lankan road signs are grouped by shape and colour. Danger warning signs are yellow diamonds. They warn you of a hazard ahead, such as a bend, a junction or a level crossing. Prohibitory signs are red circles. They ban something, such as entering, overtaking or U-turns. The table below lists all 38 signs in this paper and what each one means.
Source: Motor Traffic (Signs, Signals, Symbols and Road Markings) Regulations No. 01 of 2014, Gazette Extraordinary No. 1845/31, Schedule I (danger warning signs, DWS series: diamond, yellow) and Schedule II (regulatory signs; prohibitory PHS series: circle, red). Registry row exam_road_signs_shapes_colors.
In this paper: 24 danger warning signs, 11 regulatory signs and 3 priority signs.
| Q | Sign | Type | What it looks like and what it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 | “T”-shaped intersection ahead | Danger warning | A yellow diamond with a T shape marks a junction where the road you're on ends at a T-intersection. |
| Q2 | Roundabout ahead | Danger warning | 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 | Slippery road ahead | Danger warning | The skidding-car symbol on a yellow diamond indicates the road surface ahead may be slippery, for example after rain or oil spillage. |
| Q4 | Road narrows ahead | Danger warning | Converging lines on a yellow diamond mean the road ahead narrows, so drivers should be ready to give way or merge. |
| Q5 | Level crossing without a barrier | Danger warning | 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 | STOP | Priority / junction control ¹ | A STOP sign always requires a full, complete stop before proceeding, regardless of whether traffic is visible. |
| Q7 | Give Way | Priority / junction control ¹ | 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 | No entry for vehicles | Regulatory (prohibitory) | A black arrow blocked by a red diagonal bar inside a red circle prohibits vehicles from entering or proceeding into that road. |
| Q9 | No overtaking | Regulatory (prohibitory) | Two vehicle silhouettes inside a red circle prohibit overtaking on that section of road. |
| Q10 | No parking | Regulatory (parking) | A red diagonal bar across a “P” prohibits parking in that area. |
| Q11 | No U-turn | Regulatory (prohibitory) | A U-shaped arrow crossed out means U-turns are prohibited at that point. |
| Q12 | Maximum speed limit of 50 km/h | Regulatory (speed limit) | 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. |
| Q13 | Pedestrian crossing ahead | Danger warning | A walking figure on a yellow diamond marks an upcoming pedestrian crossing. |
| Q14 | Children: school or play area ahead | Danger warning | Two child figures on a yellow diamond indicate a school or area where children may be crossing or playing near the road. |
| Q15 | Animals may cross the road ahead | Danger warning | An animal silhouette on a yellow diamond warns that animals may cross or be present on the road ahead. |
| Q16 | Roadworks ahead | Danger warning | A figure with a tool on a yellow diamond indicates roadworks ahead, so drivers should slow down and watch for workers. |
| Q17 | Two-way traffic ahead | Danger warning | 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 | Steep descent ahead | Danger warning | A downward-sloping line with a gradient percentage warns of a steep descent ahead, where drivers should reduce speed and use engine braking. |
| Q19 | Falling rocks ahead | Danger warning | Rock shapes on a yellow diamond indicate a stretch of road where rocks may fall from an adjoining slope. |
| Q20 | Priority road | Priority | A yellow diamond-within-a-diamond marks a priority road, meaning traffic joining from side roads must give way to you. |
| Q21 | A crossroads ahead | Danger warning | A plus-shaped junction on the warning diamond marks an ordinary crossroads ahead, where a road crosses yours at right angles. |
| Q22 | A Y-junction ahead | Danger warning | A Y-shaped fork on the warning diamond marks a Y-junction, where the road splits into two at a shallow angle. |
| Q23 | A narrow bridge ahead | Danger warning | Two inward-facing brackets mark a narrow bridge ahead, which may not have room for two vehicles to pass side by side. |
| Q24 | Steep ascent ahead | Danger warning | A vehicle silhouette climbing an incline marks a steep ascent ahead, the mirror image of the steep-descent warning sign. |
| Q25 | Loose gravel or chippings ahead | Danger warning | A car throwing up loose stones marks a stretch of road surfaced with loose gravel or chippings, where grip is reduced. |
| Q26 | Blind pedestrians may be crossing ahead | Danger warning | A pedestrian walking with a cane marks a crossing point used by blind or visually impaired pedestrians; extra caution is needed. |
| Q27 | A bus lane ahead | Danger warning | 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 | A dangerous cliff or unguarded drop ahead | Danger warning | A vehicle shown tipping over an edge marks a stretch of road running alongside a dangerous cliff or unguarded drop. |
| Q29 | A bump or speed hump ahead | Danger warning | A raised hump silhouette marks a bump or speed hump ahead; slow down to avoid damage or loss of control. |
| Q30 | A dip in the road ahead | Danger warning | A V-shaped dip silhouette marks a sudden dip in the road ahead, which can unsettle a vehicle taken at speed. |
| Q31 | A hump bridge ahead | Danger warning | An arched bridge profile marks a hump bridge ahead; the road rises sharply to cross it, limiting visibility of oncoming traffic. |
| Q32 | Low-flying aircraft may be encountered | Danger warning | This sign warns that low-flying aircraft may be encountered ahead, typically near an airport approach. |
| Q33 | No left turn | Regulatory (prohibitory) | A left-curving black arrow inside a red-ringed circle prohibits turning left at this junction. |
| Q34 | No right turn | Regulatory (prohibitory) | A right-curving black arrow inside a red-ringed circle prohibits turning right at this junction. |
| Q35 | No horns (use of the horn is prohibited) | Regulatory (prohibitory) | A horn pictogram with a red diagonal bar prohibits sounding the horn, typically near hospitals or other quiet zones. |
| Q36 | No motorcycles | Regulatory (prohibitory) | A motorcycle silhouette with a red diagonal bar prohibits motorcycles from using this road. |
| Q37 | No pedestrians | Regulatory (prohibitory) | A walking figure with a red diagonal bar prohibits pedestrians from using this road, common on expressways. |
| Q38 | No parking and no standing or stopping | Regulatory (parking and stopping) | A blue circle with a red X (rather than a single diagonal line) prohibits both parking and standing or stopping, even briefly. |
1 The question data labels these only as "STOP sign" and "Give Way sign". Their category name in Gazette 1845/31, Schedule II, is still being confirmed.
Road sign questions (Q1 to Q38)
Q1. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. “T”-shaped intersection ahead (danger warning sign)
A yellow diamond with a T shape marks a junction where the road you're on ends at a T-intersection.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q2. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. Roundabout ahead (danger warning sign)
This warning sign alerts drivers to a roundabout ahead, so they can slow down and prepare to give way to traffic already on it.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q3. What does this sign mean?
Answer: A. Slippery road ahead (danger warning sign)
The skidding-car symbol on a yellow diamond indicates the road surface ahead may be slippery, for example after rain or oil spillage.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q4. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Road narrows ahead (danger warning sign)
Converging lines on a yellow diamond mean the road ahead narrows, so drivers should be ready to give way or merge.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q5. What does this sign mean?
Answer: A. Level crossing without a barrier (danger warning sign)
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q6. What is required at this sign?
Answer: B. A complete stop before proceeding, even if the road looks clear (STOP sign)
A STOP sign always requires a full, complete stop before proceeding, regardless of whether traffic is visible.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q7. What does this sign require?
Answer: B. Slow down and yield to traffic on the priority road, proceeding only when safe (Give Way sign)
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q8. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. No entry for vehicles (regulatory sign)
A black arrow blocked by a red diagonal bar inside a red circle prohibits vehicles from entering or proceeding into that road.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q9. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. No overtaking (regulatory sign)
Two vehicle silhouettes inside a red circle prohibit overtaking on that section of road.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q10. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. No parking (No parking sign)
A red diagonal bar across a “P” prohibits parking in that area.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q11. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. No U-turn (regulatory sign)
A U-shaped arrow crossed out means U-turns are prohibited at that point.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q12. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Maximum speed limit of 50 km/h (speed limit sign)
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: Speed Limits Regs 2012, reg. 2(2) [2]
Q13. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Pedestrian crossing ahead (danger warning sign)
A walking figure on a yellow diamond marks an upcoming pedestrian crossing.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q14. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Children: school or play area ahead (danger warning sign)
Two child figures on a yellow diamond indicate a school or area where children may be crossing or playing near the road.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q15. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Animals may cross the road ahead (danger warning sign)
An animal silhouette on a yellow diamond warns that animals may cross or be present on the road ahead.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q16. What does this sign mean?
Answer: A. Roadworks ahead (danger warning sign)
A figure with a tool on a yellow diamond indicates roadworks ahead, so drivers should slow down and watch for workers.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q17. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Two-way traffic ahead (danger warning sign)
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q18. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Steep descent ahead (danger warning sign)
A downward-sloping line with a gradient percentage warns of a steep descent ahead, where drivers should reduce speed and use engine braking.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q19. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. Falling rocks ahead (danger warning sign)
Rock shapes on a yellow diamond indicate a stretch of road where rocks may fall from an adjoining slope.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q20. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. You are on a priority road (priority sign)
A yellow diamond-within-a-diamond marks a priority road, meaning traffic joining from side roads must give way to you.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q21. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. A crossroads ahead (danger warning sign)
A plus-shaped junction on the warning diamond marks an ordinary crossroads ahead, where a road crosses yours at right angles.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q22. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. A Y-junction ahead (danger warning sign)
A Y-shaped fork on the warning diamond marks a Y-junction, where the road splits into two at a shallow angle.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q23. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. A narrow bridge ahead (danger warning sign)
Two inward-facing brackets mark a narrow bridge ahead, which may not have room for two vehicles to pass side by side.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q24. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Steep ascent ahead (danger warning sign)
A vehicle silhouette climbing an incline marks a steep ascent ahead, the mirror image of the steep-descent warning sign.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q25. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. Loose gravel or chippings ahead (danger warning sign)
A car throwing up loose stones marks a stretch of road surfaced with loose gravel or chippings, where grip is reduced.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q26. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. Blind pedestrians may be crossing ahead (danger warning sign)
A pedestrian walking with a cane marks a crossing point used by blind or visually impaired pedestrians; extra caution is needed.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q27. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. A bus lane ahead (danger warning sign)
A bus over a dashed lane line marks the start of a bus lane ahead, generally reserved for buses during its hours of operation.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q28. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. A dangerous cliff or unguarded drop ahead (danger warning sign)
A vehicle shown tipping over an edge marks a stretch of road running alongside a dangerous cliff or unguarded drop.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q29. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. A bump or speed hump ahead (danger warning sign)
A raised hump silhouette marks a bump or speed hump ahead; slow down to avoid damage or loss of control.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q30. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. A dip in the road ahead (danger warning sign)
A V-shaped dip silhouette marks a sudden dip in the road ahead, which can unsettle a vehicle taken at speed.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q31. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. A hump bridge ahead (danger warning sign)
An arched bridge profile marks a hump bridge ahead; the road rises sharply to cross it, limiting visibility of oncoming traffic.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q32. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. Low-flying aircraft may be encountered (danger warning sign)
This sign warns that low-flying aircraft may be encountered ahead, typically near an airport approach.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. I [1]
Q33. What does this sign mean?
Answer: A. No left turn (regulatory sign)
A left-curving black arrow inside a red-ringed circle prohibits turning left at this junction.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q34. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. No right turn (regulatory sign)
A right-curving black arrow inside a red-ringed circle prohibits turning right at this junction.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q35. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. No horns (use of the horn is prohibited) (regulatory sign)
A horn pictogram with a red diagonal bar prohibits sounding the horn, typically near hospitals or other quiet zones.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q36. What does this sign mean?
Answer: C. No motorcycles (regulatory sign)
A motorcycle silhouette with a red diagonal bar prohibits motorcycles from using this road.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q37. What does this sign mean?
Answer: A. No pedestrians (regulatory sign)
A walking figure with a red diagonal bar prohibits pedestrians from using this road, common on expressways.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. II [1]
Q38. What does this sign mean?
Answer: B. No parking and no standing or stopping (No stopping sign)
A blue circle with a red X (rather than a single diagonal line) prohibits both parking and standing or stopping, even briefly.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Answer key, Road Signs: Q1 C, Q2 C, Q3 A, Q4 B, Q5 A, Q6 B, Q7 B, Q8 C, Q9 B, Q10 B, Q11 C, Q12 B, Q13 B, Q14 B, Q15 B, Q16 A, Q17 B, Q18 B, Q19 C, Q20 B, Q21 B, Q22 C, Q23 B, Q24 B, Q25 C, Q26 C, Q27 B, Q28 B, Q29 C, Q30 B, Q31 C, Q32 B, Q33 A, Q34 B, Q35 B, Q36 C, Q37 A, Q38 B
Road Markings (Q39 to Q58)
Q39. What does this road marking mean?
Answer: B. Stop completely before entering the intersection
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q40. What does this broken transverse line across the road mean?
Answer: B. Give way to traffic on the road ahead before proceeding
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q41. You are driving alongside a single continuous white line down the middle of the road. When may you cross it?
Answer: B. Only to turn right
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q42. What does a broken white line down the middle of the road allow a driver to do?
Answer: C. Cross it to overtake a vehicle ahead or to turn right
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q43. What do two continuous parallel lines down the middle of the road mean?
Answer: B. Keep left of the lines and never cross or straddle them
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q44. Broken lines divide a wide carriageway into four or more marked lanes. What are vehicles required to do?
Answer: B. Drive within a single marked lane, crossing the lines only to overtake or to turn
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q45. What does a single continuous yellow line along the edge of the carriageway mean?
Answer: A. No parking permitted along this section of road
A single yellow edge-of-carriageway line (Road Marking RM-16) indicates a section of road where parking is prohibited.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q46. What does a double yellow line along the edge of the carriageway mean, compared to a single yellow line?
Answer: B. It prohibits both parking and standing; even briefly stopping is not allowed
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q47. What does this road marking (a band of white stripes across the carriageway) indicate?
Answer: B. A pedestrian crossing, where pedestrians have the right of way
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q48. How close to a pedestrian crossing's give-way line may a vehicle stop or park, on the approach side?
Answer: C. Not within 30 metres of the give-way line on the approach side
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q49. A lane is marked off by a broken line with bus-lane signage. Who may generally use this lane?
Answer: B. Only public transport vehicles, with limited exceptions (e.g. turning, avoiding an obstruction)
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q50. A lane is marked off with cycle-lane signage and road markings. Who may generally use this lane?
Answer: B. Only cyclists and persons on cycles, with limited exceptions
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q51. What does a yellow cross-hatched box painted at a junction (a "Junction Box") mean?
Answer: B. Do not enter the box unless your exit is clear, even if your light or turn is otherwise permitted
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q52. 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?
Answer: B. A vehicle on the continuous-line side may not cross to overtake; a vehicle on the broken-line side may
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q53. What are the raised reflective studs sometimes set into the road surface instead of, or alongside, painted lines?
Answer: B. An alternative form of Road Marking; some incorporate reflectors for night-time visibility
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q54. What is the purpose of rumble strips placed across the road surface on the approach to a pedestrian crossing or a sharp bend?
Answer: B. To reduce the speed of approaching vehicles through vibration and noise
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q55. 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?
Answer: B. Only to make a right turn
Regulation 25(2)-(3): vehicles are prohibited from crossing the Asphalt Strips to overtake; only vehicles turning right may cross them.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q56. 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?
Answer: B. Not cross or straddle the line unless it is safe to do so
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q57. What is a 'raised' pedestrian crossing (Road Markings RM-30/RM-31), as opposed to an ordinary marked crossing?
Answer: B. A crossing built as a raised table or hump in the road surface, so vehicles slow naturally
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Q58. 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?
Answer: B. Turn right only, not overtake
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014), Sch. V [1]
Answer key, Road Markings: Q39 B, Q40 B, Q41 B, Q42 C, Q43 B, Q44 B, Q45 A, Q46 B, Q47 B, Q48 C, Q49 B, Q50 B, Q51 B, Q52 B, Q53 B, Q54 B, Q55 B, Q56 B, Q57 B, Q58 B
Speed Limits (Q59 to Q66)
Q59. What is the speed limit for a motor car in a designated built-up area?
Answer: B. 50 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.
Source: Speed Limits Regs 2012, reg. 2(2) [2]
Q60. What is the speed limit for a motor tricycle (three-wheeler) in a built-up area?
Answer: B. 40 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.
Source: Speed Limits Regs 2012, proviso to reg. 2(2) [2]
Q61. What is the speed limit for a motor car in a non-built-up area?
Answer: C. 70 km/h
Regulation 3(2)(a) sets 70 km/h for motor vehicles generally on non-built-up road sections.
Source: Speed Limits Regs 2012, reg. 3(2)(a) [2]
Q62. What is the speed limit for a lorry or motor coach in a non-built-up area?
Answer: C. 60 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.
Source: Speed Limits Regs 2012, reg. 3(2)(b) [2]
Q63. What is the speed limit for a motor tricycle in a non-built-up area?
Answer: B. 40 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.
Source: Speed Limits Regs 2012, proviso to reg. 3(2) [2]
Q64. How is a road section legally defined as a “built-up area” for speed limit purposes?
Answer: C. A specific schedule of named road sections listed in the regulations
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.
Source: Speed Limits Regs 2012 [2]
Q65. What is the general maximum speed limit on a Sri Lankan expressway?
Answer: B. 100 km/h
The Road Development Authority's expressway safety guidance sets the maximum speed on the expressway mainline at 100 km/h.
Source: RDA expressway rules, checked 24 Sep 2026 [3]
Q66. What is the speed limit on an expressway's entry or exit ramp?
Answer: C. 60 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: RDA expressway rules, checked 24 Sep 2026 [3]
Answer key, Speed Limits: Q59 B, Q60 B, Q61 C, Q62 C, Q63 B, Q64 C, Q65 B, Q66 C
Priority & Right of Way (Q67 to Q78)
Q67. At a roundabout with no traffic lights, who has priority?
Answer: B. Vehicles already on the roundabout, approaching from the right
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 (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q68. At a junction with a Give Way sign, what must a driver do?
Answer: B. Give way to traffic on the main road, stopping if necessary
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q69. At a junction with a STOP sign, what must a driver do?
Answer: B. Come to a complete stop, then proceed when safe
A STOP sign requires a complete stop every time, regardless of visible traffic, before proceeding.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q70. A traffic policeman is facing you with an arm raised. What should you do?
Answer: B. Stop
A traffic officer facing a driver with a raised arm is a signal to stop.
Source: Motor Traffic Act (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q71. Two vehicles arrive at an uncontrolled intersection at the same time, from different roads of equal status. Who generally has priority?
Answer: B. The vehicle on the right
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 (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q72. On a two-way road in Sri Lanka, from which side should a vehicle normally be overtaken?
Answer: B. The right
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 (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q73. A pedestrian is already on a marked pedestrian crossing. What must a driver do?
Answer: B. Give way and allow the pedestrian to cross safely
Drivers must give way to a pedestrian who is already on a marked crossing, letting them finish crossing safely.
Source: Motor Traffic Act (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q74. An ambulance approaches from behind with its siren and lights on. What should you do?
Answer: B. Pull aside safely as soon as possible to let it pass
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 (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q75. 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?
Answer: B. 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
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q76. 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?
Answer: B. Wait and allow oncoming vehicles to clear the narrow section before you proceed
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q77. A green light is displayed at a signal-controlled junction. What are drivers required to do?
Answer: B. Proceed and clear the intersection and its approaches as speedily as is safe, unless prevented by circumstances beyond their control
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q78. 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?
Answer: B. Yes, such vehicles are exempted from the red-signal prohibition when responding to an emergency call, provided they do not endanger other road users
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Answer key, Priority & Right of Way: Q67 B, Q68 B, Q69 B, Q70 B, Q71 B, Q72 B, Q73 B, Q74 B, Q75 B, Q76 B, Q77 B, Q78 B
Documents & Licensing (Q79 to Q86)
Q79. How long is a Sri Lankan driving license valid for light vehicle classes before renewal is required?
Answer: B. 8 years
Section 126B of the Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017 sets an 8-year validity period for light vehicle classes.
Source: Act No. 18 of 2017, s. 126B [4]
Q80. How long is a Sri Lankan driving license valid for heavy vehicle classes before renewal is required?
Answer: B. 4 years
Section 126B sets a shorter 4-year validity period for heavy vehicle classes, reflecting their higher-risk categories.
Source: Act No. 18 of 2017, s. 126B [4]
Q81. How recent must a Medical Fitness Certificate be when renewing a driving license?
Answer: B. Within 6 months
DMT requires the Medical Fitness Certificate from the National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) to be dated within 6 months of the renewal application.
Source: DMT renewal requirements page [5]
Q82. Which authority issues driving licenses in Sri Lanka?
Answer: B. Department of Motor Traffic (DMT)
The Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) is the authority responsible for issuing and renewing driving licenses.
Source: Motor Traffic Act (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q83. If asked by a police officer, what must a driver be able to produce?
Answer: B. A valid driving license for the vehicle class being driven
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 (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q84. What is the minimum age to hold a driving license for light vehicle classes (such as a motor car or motorcycle) in Sri Lanka?
Answer: C. 18 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: Act No. 18 of 2017, s. 124 [4]
Q85. What is the minimum age to hold a driving license for heavy vehicle classes (such as a lorry or bus) in Sri Lanka?
Answer: D. 21 years
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: Act No. 18 of 2017, s. 124 [4]
Q86. Before applying for a heavy vehicle driving license, how long must an applicant have already held a valid light vehicle driving license?
Answer: D. At least 2 years
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: Act No. 18 of 2017, s. 124 [4]
Answer key, Documents & Licensing: Q79 B, Q80 B, Q81 B, Q82 B, Q83 B, Q84 C, Q85 D, Q86 D
Rules & Safety (Q87 to Q100)
Q87. What does an “Overtaking line” road marking indicate?
Answer: B. Overtaking is permitted when it is safe to do so
An overtaking line marking indicates a section where overtaking is permitted, as opposed to a warning line, which discourages it due to limited visibility.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q88. What is the recommended sequence for responding to a hazard while driving?
Answer: C. Observe, Decide, Act
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 (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q89. Is wearing a seatbelt while driving in Sri Lanka a legal requirement?
Answer: A. Yes, for the driver and passengers
Seatbelt use is a legal requirement for the driver and passengers in a motor vehicle in Sri Lanka.
Source: Motor Traffic Act (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q90. Why should a driver maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead?
Answer: B. To allow enough time and space to stop safely if the vehicle ahead brakes
A safe following distance gives a driver enough time to react and stop safely if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly.
Source: Motor Traffic Act (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q91. Is using a hand-held mobile phone while driving permitted in Sri Lanka?
Answer: B. No, unless it is a genuine emergency
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 (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q92. A cyclist extends their right arm straight out horizontally. What does this signal mean?
Answer: B. I intend to turn right
An extended right arm is the standard hand signal for an intention to turn right, used when indicators are unavailable.
Source: Motor Traffic Act (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q93. Which document should a vehicle carry to confirm it is licensed to use the road?
Answer: B. Revenue license
A valid revenue license confirms a vehicle is licensed to use public roads and should be carried in the vehicle.
Source: Motor Traffic Act (Ch. 203), section to be confirmed [6]
Q94. A police officer on traffic duty signals you to stop, but the traffic light is green. Which must you obey?
Answer: B. The police officer's signal
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q95. At a junction, a traffic light signal and a priority road sign (such as Give Way) give conflicting instructions. Which takes precedence?
Answer: B. The traffic light signal
The regulations specify that instructions given by Traffic Light Signals take precedence over those conveyed by Road Signs regulating priority.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q96. A traffic light shows amber on its own (not red-and-amber together). What must a driver do?
Answer: B. Not proceed beyond the stop line, unless already too close to stop safely
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q97. At a signal-controlled junction, a green arrow lights up pointing left while the main circular signal shows red. What does this mean?
Answer: B. Vehicles may proceed in the direction of the arrow, despite the red signal
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q98. You are turning right through a signal-controlled intersection on a green light. What must you do regarding other traffic?
Answer: B. Give way and avoid crossing the path of other vehicles moving through the intersection in a way likely to cause danger
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q99. What are direction indicator signals (turn signals) used for, under Sri Lanka's traffic regulations?
Answer: B. To inform other road users of an intention to turn, move to a side, or slow down/stop
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Q100. On a multi-lane carriageway with clearly marked lanes, which lane should a vehicle normally be driven in?
Answer: B. The inside (leftmost) lane, using the outside lane(s) only to overtake or turn right
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.
Source: Gazette 1845/31 (2014) [1]
Answer key, Rules & Safety: Q87 B, Q88 C, Q89 A, Q90 B, Q91 B, Q92 B, Q93 B, Q94 B, Q95 B, Q96 B, Q97 B, Q98 B, Q99 B, Q100 B
Sources
Each short source note in this paper, such as "[1]", points to one of these. All were last checked on 24 Sep 2026 unless shown otherwise.
- 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. Schedule I covers danger warning signs, Schedule II regulatory signs and Schedule V road markings. We read a full scanned copy, because the official archive at documents.gov.lk does not go back to 2014. Scanned copy (PDF).
- Motor Traffic (Speed Limits) Regulations No. 1 of 2012. Gazette Extraordinary No. 1763/26 of 22 June 2012. Ministry of Transport. We read the full regulation text in a scanned copy, because the official archive is not available. Scanned copy.
- Drive Safely: Expressway Rules & Tips. Road Development Authority, Expressway Operations, Maintenance & Management Division. exway.rda.gov.lk.
- Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act No. 18 of 2017. 3 October 2017. Parliament of Sri Lanka. Section 126B (license validity) and Section 124 (minimum ages and prior experience). Act text (PDF).
- Renewal of Validity and Extension of Driving License. Department of Motor Traffic. dmt.gov.lk. Checked 2026-09-22.
- Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203). Department of Motor Traffic, Acts page. Section numbers for the questions that cite it are still being confirmed. dmt.gov.lk.
Sources & last checked
Checked against Department of Motor Traffic / Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation. Every source for this topic, with dates, is on our verified sources.
Some figures on this page come from news reports, not an official notice. They are marked "reported".
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I download the driving license exam paper as a PDF?
Yes. Press the "Print or save as PDF" button at the top of this page. Your browser's print window opens with all 100 answers shown. Choose "Save as PDF" to keep a copy on your phone or computer. There is no separate file to download.
Are these real driving license exam past papers?
No. This is a model paper of 100 original questions written by LankaSolve. The Department of Motor Traffic does not publish an official question bank. Each question is checked against the regulation or Act it cites, and those are listed in the sources at the end of this page.
What do Sri Lankan road signs mean?
Road signs are grouped by shape and colour. Yellow diamonds are danger warning signs: a hazard is ahead. Red circles are prohibitory signs: something is not allowed. See the Sri Lanka Road Signs and Meanings table on this page for all 38 signs in this paper.
How many questions are in the real driving license exam?
Commonly reported, but not official: 40 questions for light vehicles (30 correct to pass) and 45 for heavy vehicles (35 to pass). The Department of Motor Traffic does not publish these figures. The free driving license mock exam gives the source and a timed 40-question practice run.
Does this exam paper cover motorcycles?
Yes. It covers light vehicle classes, which include motorcycles, cars and three-wheelers. Heavy vehicle questions (lorries, buses and similar) are not included yet.
Is this exam paper available in Sinhala or Tamil?
Yes. Read it in Sinhala (සිංහල) or Tamil (தமிழ்). The mock exam is also in Sinhala and Tamil.