The DMV written test is not just about common sense. It contains several tricky questions that catch even experienced drivers off guard. Based on our analysis of over 100,000 practice test attempts, here are the top 10 questions people consistently get wrong.
1. You are driving on a one-way street. You may turn left onto another one-way street only if:
Why it's tricky: Most people assume you need a sign or must stop, but the key requirement is that traffic on the destination street flows left. This allows for safe merging.
Answer: A. Traffic on the street moves to the left
2. When a school bus is stopped on the other side of a DIVIDED highway with a physical barrier, you must:
Why it's tricky: The physical barrier (median strip, concrete wall) is the key detail. Many people think 'children = always stop' but the barrier prevents children from crossing, so you continue at normal speed.
Answer: C. Continue driving at normal speed
3. Hydroplaning is most likely to occur:
Why it's tricky: Counter-intuitive but true: light rain creates the most dangerous conditions by mixing with accumulated oil and debris. Heavy rain actually washes the road cleaner.
Answer: C. In the first few minutes of a light rain
4. The 'Three-Second Rule' applies to the space _______ of your vehicle.
Why it's tricky: Many people think this rule applies to all directions, but it specifically measures following distance behind the vehicle ahead of you.
Answer: C. In front
5. When parking uphill on a street with a curb, you should turn your wheels:
Why it's tricky: Away from the curb so if your car rolls, it hits the curb instead of rolling into traffic. People often confuse uphill vs. downhill parking rules.
Answer: B. Away from the curb
6. A solid yellow line on your side of the center line means:
Why it's tricky: The solid line on YOUR side is what matters. Many people think a broken line on the other side means they can pass, but you're governed by the line on your side.
Answer: B. You may not pass
7. What does a flashing red traffic light mean?
Why it's tricky: Flashing red = stop sign. Many people treat it like a yield sign or think they must wait for it to turn green. You stop completely, then proceed when safe.
Answer: A. Stop, then proceed when safe
8. When must you use headlights?
Why it's tricky: The 1000-foot rule is often missed. People focus on time of day but forget about fog, rain, or other conditions that reduce visibility below 1000 feet.
Answer: C. When visibility is less than 1000 feet
9. If you are involved in a minor accident with no injuries and the cars are blocking traffic, you should:
Why it's tricky: Safety first: move vehicles out of traffic flow. Many people think you must preserve the 'scene' but this only applies to serious accidents with injuries.
Answer: B. Move the cars to the side of the road
10. When approaching a curve, you should:
Why it's tricky: Braking IN a curve can cause loss of control. The safe technique is to slow down BEFORE the curve, then maintain steady speed or gently accelerate through it.
Answer: C. Slow down before entering the curve