The conditions are good and dry. When should you use the 'two-second rule'?

Choose the answer you think is correct, then reveal the explanation to check your understanding of this car theory test topic.

Before restarting the engine after it has stalled

When checking your gap from the vehicle in front

Before using the 'Mirrors - Signal - Manoeuvre' routine

When traffic lights change to green

View the DVSA car theory test explanation

Reveal the answer to understand why the answer is correct rather than memorising the wording of one question.

Reveal the answer and DVSA explanation

In good conditions, the 'two-second rule' can be used to check the distance between your vehicle and the one in front. This technique works on roads carrying faster traffic. Choose a fixed object, such as a bridge, sign or tree. When the vehicle ahead passes this object, say to yourself 'Only a fool breaks the two-second rule.' If you reach the object before you finish saying this, you're too close.

Previous car question

Next car question

Ready to book your theory test?

Find your nearest DVSA theory test centre and book your theory test with unlimited re-sits* until you pass.

Find your nearest test centre

Continue your Car theory test revision

This is question 90 of 98 in our collection of free UK DVSA car theory test revision questions. Use the explanation to help you understand the topic, then continue to another question to check whether you can apply your knowledge in a different situation.

Use Book Theory Tests to work through free car practice theory test questions, check your knowledge and find any weak areas before you sit your real DVSA car theory test.

Ready to book and prepare for your Car theory test?

Book your car theory test and get access to the latest DVSA theory test practice questions, CGI hazard perception clips, unlimited mock theory tests, AI Personal Trainer and Pass Protection Plus with unlimited re-sits.

Tell us your preferred test centre, dates and times, and we will book your DVSA theory test.

Book Theory Test with Unlimited Re-sits

More ways to prepare

Want more car theory test questions and answers?

Tap the Next car question button to see the next car theory test question, or pick a few random questions from the list below to mix up your practice.

→

What's the first thing you must do if you have a collision while you're driving your car?

→

You're driving a car that has a diesel engine. What can a loose filler cap on your fuel tank cause?

→

What should you do if your mobile phone rings while you're driving or riding?

→

At an incident, how could you help a small child who's not breathing?

→

You arrive at an incident. A pedestrian is bleeding heavily from a leg wound. The leg is not broken and there's nothing in the wound. How could you help?

Want to take a different DVSA practice theory test?

Choose another free practice theory test

Book Theory Tests

Book Theory Tests is an online theory test booking and practice preparation platform that helps learner car drivers and motorcyclists in the UK book and pass their official DVSA driving theory and hazard perception tests first time.

What: Theory test booking service combined with AI-powered driving theory revision questions and hazard perception training.

Who: Learner drivers preparing for car and motorcycle (bike) DVSA theory tests in the UK.

Where: For DVSA theory tests across England, Scotland and Wales.

Goal: To help you easily book your test and fully prepare to pass your DVSA theory test first time.

WHO WE HELP

Book Theory Tests supports learner car drivers and motorcyclists who must pass the official DVSA theory test.

Learner car drivers (UK car theory test).
Motorcyclists (motorcycle/bike theory test).

WHAT WE OFFER

Comprehensive DVSA driving theory test training with our premium AI-powered theory test app and online learning zone.
The latest DVSA driving theory test questions and answers with explanations.
Interactive hazard perception test practice clips like the real exam.
Unlimited timed mock theory tests that mirror the DVSA format.
Unlimited theory test re-sits through Pass Protection Plus if you fail your DVSA theory test and meet the eligibility requirements.
Clear dashboards that show your progress through the practice theory test material.
Mobile, tablet & desktop friendly revision.

WHY LEARNERS CHOOSE BOOK THEORY TESTS

Everything you need to pass first time - DVSA revision questions, CGI hazard perception test videos, mock theory tests, Highway Code, road signs and smart progress tracking all in one place.
The most up-to-date DVSA driving theory test revision questions and CGI hazard perception test clips.
Simple, accessible online and in-app learning.
Designed to build confidence so you feel ready on test day.
Smart AI that targets your weak spots - our app quickly predicts what you'll find hardest and focuses your revision where you need it most.
Trading Standards Approved - Book Theory Tests has been independently checked and approved by Trading Standards, so you can revise and book with confidence.