Virginia Permit Practice Test: Safe Driving (2026)

Question 1 of 13

What following distance does Virginia recommend at 50 mph on dry pavement?

1. 4 seconds
2. 2 seconds
3. 1 second

Question 2 of 13

How far ahead do expert drivers look?

1. 2 seconds
2. 20 to 30 seconds ahead
3. Only at the car in front

Question 3 of 13

How often should you check your rearview mirror?

1. Once a minute
2. Only when backing
3. About every 10 seconds

Question 4 of 13

At an intersection, which way should you look first?

1. Left, because cars from the left are closer
2. Right
3. Straight ahead only

Question 5 of 13

Someone is tailgating you. What should you do?

1. Brake hard
2. Do not brake suddenly; change lanes or tap your brakes and slow down
3. Speed up a lot

Question 6 of 13

How should the side mirrors be adjusted?

1. Pointed at your own car
2. Pointed at the ground
3. So you can barely see the sides of your vehicle

Question 7 of 13

What is the best way to see a car in your blind spot?

1. Quickly turn your head and glance over your shoulder
2. Use the inside mirror
3. Honk

Question 8 of 13

You feel drowsy while driving. What can help?

1. Open the window
2. Stop safely and nap 10 to 20 minutes
3. Drink an energy drink

Question 9 of 13

On a long trip, how often should you stop to rest?

1. Every six hours
2. Only for fuel
3. At least every two hours

Question 10 of 13

About what share of Virginia traffic crashes involve driver distraction?

1. Roughly 17 percent
2. 1 percent
3. 90 percent

Question 11 of 13

How should you react to an aggressive driver?

1. Speed up to block them
2. Stay out of the way and avoid eye contact
3. Gesture back

Question 12 of 13

During a traffic stop, what should you do with your seat belt?

1. Take it off
2. Take it off and step out
3. Keep it fastened, and passengers too

Question 13 of 13

You notice you are in another driver's blind spot. What should you do?

1. Speed up or drop back
2. Stay there
3. Honk