PCV Free Theory Test

There are usually four coloured bands on the rev counter: green, amber, blue and red. The blue band will allow you to make the best use of engine braking. Try to keep in this band when going down a steep hill.

Before leaving the cab, it's very important to secure the vehicle by applying the parking brake. After leaving the cab, apply the trailer parking brake.

When you're driving on a smart motorway, speed limits will show above each lane. These limits are shown inside a red circle and must be obeyed. A red cross will usually appear above the hard shoulder. When the hard shoulder is being used as a running lane, an appropriate speed limit will be displayed instead.

If you feel the onset of tiredness, you need to take a break. This might be at a motorway service station, but if there isn't one nearby you'll need to leave at the next exit and find a safe place to stop and rest.

Where a motorway has a steep uphill gradient, slow-moving, large vehicles might get in the way of other traffic. An extra lane on the left may be provided for these slow-moving vehicles. It allows faster-moving traffic to flow more easily.

Switch off your fog lights when fog starts to clear and visibility improves to more than 100 metres (328 feet). Don't leave your fog lights on when the fog has cleared, because they can cause unnecessary glare or distraction for other drivers.

Toucan crossings can be used by cyclists and pedestrians. Some cycle routes lead cyclists to these crossings. Always look out for cyclists, as they're likely to be approaching much faster than pedestrians.

Some highly dangerous chemicals have to be transported at prescribed temperatures. Drivers must be fully trained in the use of these specially designed, temperature-controlled vehicles.

If seat belts are fitted to your lorry, you must wear them. Exemptions are allowed for holders of medical exemption certificates and for delivery drivers when travelling less than 50 metres (162 feet).

Overloading a vehicle is dangerous. Your stopping distance will increase, and your vehicle could become unstable and difficult to control. You'll need to work out the payload. Do this by taking away the kerbside weight from the maximum authorised mass (MAM). This will give you the maximum weight you can carry.

An illness that could affect you while you're driving, such as a heart condition, may make it unsafe for you to drive. You must tell DVLA if you develop any serious illness or disability that's likely to last more than three months and that could affect your driving. Partial blindness and mental disorders can also prevent you from getting a driving licence for large vehicles.

If you're driving a high vehicle, make sure that there's enough headroom available for you to go through the tunnel. There may be additional signs showing height and width restrictions.

Driving at higher speeds and for longer periods, such as on motorways, can cause your tyres to overheat and disintegrate. You should make a point of checking them when you stop for a break.

Before overtaking assess the situation. Look well ahead to see if the cyclist will need to change direction. Be especially aware of the cyclist approaching parked vehicles as they will need to alter course. Do not pass too closely or cut in sharply.

When you're driving a long vehicle, you'll often need to straddle lanes to turn into narrow side roads. When you do this, watch out for smaller vehicles - especially motorcycles and cycles - trying to squeeze past on your inside.

High-sided vehicles such as box vans are affected by side wind, particularly when they're empty. Drivers should slow down and stay alert for other road users affected by the windy conditions.

If you're using a vehicle equipped with an analogue tachograph, you'll need at least one chart for every 24 hours. Your employer should supply you with enough tachograph charts for your entire journey.

If you become unwell, it will affect your ability to concentrate. You must be fully alert and ready for any hazards that might occur while you're driving. Stop in a safe place and call for help. You may have to call out a relief driver to complete the journey for you.

Concentration and good judgement are needed to be a good, safe driver. You're strongly advised not to drink any alcohol before driving. Alcohol can stay in your system for 24-48 hours, so you should also consider your intake the day and night before driving.