20 questions from the Missouri driver handbook. Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1. How long must proof of insurance be kept on file with the Driver License Bureau after facing consequences of a DWI or BAC?
Answer: Two years. The handbook mandates that proof of insurance remains on file for a duration of two years.
Missouri driver handbook, page 71: “Proof of insurance must be kept on file with the Driver License Bureau for two years.”
2. When riding a bicycle from half an hour after sunset until half an hour before sunrise, what visibility requirement applies to the rear reflector or light?
Answer: It must be visible from 600 feet. The handbook specifies that the rear red reflector or light must be visible to drivers at a distance of 600 feet.
Missouri driver handbook, page 35: “A Rear Red Reflector, at least two square inches, or a Rear Red Light that drivers can see when reflected by their vehicles’ low beam headlights at 600 feet.”
3. Why does the handbook advise against turning the ignition key to the 'lock' position while the vehicle is still moving?
Answer: It causes the steering wheel to lock when trying to turn it, leading to loss of control. The handbook explains that locking the steering wheel while moving prevents turning it, resulting in a loss of vehicle control.
Missouri driver handbook, page 59: “This will cause the steering wheel to lock if you try to turn the steering wheel, and you will lose control of your vehicle.”
4. When entering a roundabout, which direction should drivers make their initial turn?
Answer: Right. Drivers must make a slight right turn to enter the roundabout and proceed counterclockwise around the center island.
Missouri driver handbook, page 28: “At a roundabout, drivers who approach the intersection make a slight right turn to go counterclockwise around a circular center island.”
5. How are exit numbers on interstates traveling west/east determined?
Answer: They start at zero and increase as you drive east. The handbook states that for west/east interstates, numbering starts at zero on the west side and increases as the driver moves eastward.
Missouri driver handbook, page 56: “This means exit numbers start at zero and increase as you drive east.”
6. What is the recommended following distance when driving on snow or ice?
Answer: About eight to ten seconds. The handbook advises leaving a gap of about eight to ten seconds between vehicles when driving on snowy or icy roads.
Missouri driver handbook, page 65: “So be sure to leave a safe distance, about eight to ten seconds, between your vehicle and any vehicle ahead of you.”
7. In the event of a minor, non-injury traffic crash, what action does the 'Move It' law require drivers to take?
Answer: Move the vehicle off the road. The handbook specifies that drivers involved in minor crashes without injuries are legally required to move their vehicles off the roadway.
Missouri driver handbook, page 83: “A state law that took effect ten years ago requires vehicles involved in minor, non-injury crashes to move off the road.”
8. What is the recommended action if you disagree with a traffic ticket issued by an officer?
Answer: Politely ask for clarification, but do not prolong the contact by arguing. The handbook advises against arguing at the scene, stating that you should respectfully ask for clarification if needed but otherwise proceed, noting that signing the ticket is not an admission of guilt.
Missouri driver handbook, page 63: “If you disagree with the officer’s decision to issue a traffic ticket, don’t prolong the contact by arguing with the officer.”
9. What is the stated consequence for commercial drivers who violate the provisions regarding the use of electronic communication devices?
Answer: They are subject to disqualification. The handbook specifically states that commercial drivers face disqualification for violating these electronic device usage rules.
Missouri driver handbook, page 95: “Commercial drivers violating this section may be subject to disqualification.”
10. Under Missouri’s Abuse and Lose Law, how long is a driver under 21 years of age suspended for any intoxication alcohol-related traffic offense?
Answer: 90 days. The handbook specifies a 90-day suspension for drivers under 21 for alcohol-related offenses.
Missouri driver handbook, page 71: “If you are younger than 21 years of age, your driver license may be taken away for 90 days for any of the following:”
11. When driving on a road with three or more lanes traveling in the same direction, where should you generally stay?
Answer: In the right lane except when passing. The handbook states that drivers should remain in the right lane unless they are actively passing another vehicle.
Missouri driver handbook, page 45: “On a road with three or more lanes traveling in the same direction, stay in the right lane except to pass.”
12. How many points are assigned for the violation of failing to stop for a school bus receiving or discharging students?
Answer: 5 points. The list of violations specifies that failing to stop for a school bus carries a penalty of 5 points.
Missouri driver handbook, page 75: “Failure to Stop for a School Bus Receiving or Discharging Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 points”
13. Why should you ensure your turn signal is turned off after completing a lane change or turn?
Answer: So other drivers do not think you plan to turn again. Leaving the signal on after a maneuver can mislead following drivers into believing another turn is imminent, causing confusion.
Missouri driver handbook, page 61: “If you do not, other drivers might think you plan to turn again.”
14. Why does the handbook advise against using cruise control on wet pavement?
Answer: It continues to provide power to the tires if traction is lost, potentially causing loss of control. The handbook explains that cruise control maintains power to the tires even when traction is lost, which can lead to a loss of vehicle control.
Missouri driver handbook, page 65: “The cruise control system will continue to provide power to the tires if you lose traction and may cause you to lose control.”
15. If you miss your intended exit on a controlled access highway, what should you do?
Answer: Continue to the next exit and come back. The handbook clearly directs drivers to proceed to the next exit rather than stopping, backing up, or turning around on the highway.
Missouri driver handbook, page 41: “If you miss your exit, DO NOT stop, back up, or try to turn around on the highway. You will have to get off the highway at the next exit and come back to the exit you missed.”
16. According to the handbook, when should you switch to low beams when approaching an oncoming vehicle?
Answer: Within 500 feet of the vehicle. The handbook states that low beams should be used when coming within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle.
Missouri driver handbook, page 64: “Use your low beams when you come within 500 feet (about one block) of an oncoming vehicle.”
17. What action should a driver take when passing a truck on the highway?
Answer: Ensure you can see the cab of the truck in your rearview mirror before reentering the lane. The handbook instructs drivers to verify they can see the truck's cab in their mirror before merging back into the lane.
Missouri driver handbook, page 31: “After you pass, make sure you can see the cab of the truck in your rearview mirror before reentering the lane.”
18. Why should a driver use low beam headlights rather than high beams when driving in fog?
Answer: In fog, you will see less if your lights are on high beam. The handbook states directly that visibility is reduced when using high beams in foggy conditions.
Missouri driver handbook, page 66: “In fog, you will see less if your lights are on high beam.”
19. When approaching a railroad crossing with flashing red lights or a lowered gate, within what distance must you stop before the tracks?
Answer: Within 15 to 50 feet. The handbook specifies that drivers must stop between 15 and 50 feet before the railroad tracks when signals are active.
Missouri driver handbook, page 53: “You must stop within 15 to 50 feet before the railroad tracks.”
20. How should a driver interpret the advisory speed plate on a curve or turn sign during rainy conditions?
Answer: Drive at the recommended speed shown on the plate. The handbook advises adhering to the recommended speed on the advisory plate, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Missouri driver handbook, page 49: “Although you may feel comfortable driving at a higher speed in fair weather, you should never do so in rain, snow or icy conditions.”