Oregon permit test: speed and space cushion
Speed limits, the basic rule, variable speed signs, slow drivers, following distance, space cushions and stopping distances. 22 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.
Rules to remember10 key speed and space cushion rulesShow the rules
- Residential districts, public parks and ocean shores open to vehicles have a 25 mph limit. (p. 27)
- When no other category applies and nothing else is posted, Oregon's limit is 55 mph. (p. 27)
- Business districts and school speed zones have a 20 mph limit set in law. (p. 27)
- In alleys and narrow residential areas the legal limit is 15 mph, posted or not. (p. 27)
- Drive at a speed that suits current conditions; this rule applies on every road at all times. (p. 28)
- Oregon bans racing on every road, including any speed or acceleration contest. (p. 29)
- The basic rule can require slower speeds but never permits going over the limit. (p. 29)
- Give riders of bicycles and motorcycles extra space in case they fall or stop quickly. (p. 35)
- If you cannot move right, ease off your speed; never slam the brakes to scare a tailgater. (p. 37)
- From noticing a hazard to stopping at 60 mph, you travel more than a football field's length. (p. 37)
Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.
Sample speed and space cushion questions
1.At 60 mph, how does the total stopping distance compare with a football field?
- AIt is longer
- BIt is much shorter
- CIt is about the same
- DIt is about half
Show the answer
✓ A. It is longer
From noticing a hazard to stopping at 60 mph, you travel more than a football field's length.
Source: Oregon Driver Manual 2026-2027 (Form 735-37) (2026 - 2027), page 37
2.Does the basic rule ever let you drive over the speed limit when conditions are perfect?
- AYes, when passing
- BYes, on empty roads
- CYes, by up to 5 mph
- DNo, never
Show the answer
✓ D. No, never
The basic rule can require slower speeds but never permits going over the limit.
Source: Oregon Driver Manual 2026-2027 (Form 735-37) (2026 - 2027), page 29
3.Vehicles are allowed on an Oregon ocean shore with no posted speed. What is the limit?
- A35 mph
- B25 mph
- C15 mph
- D55 mph
Show the answer
✓ B. 25 mph
On ocean shores where driving is allowed, the legal limit is 25 mph.
Source: Oregon Driver Manual 2026-2027 (Form 735-37) (2026 - 2027), page 27
4.No speed sign is posted. What is the speed limit in an alley in Oregon?
- A15 mph
- B25 mph
- C20 mph
- D10 mph
Show the answer
✓ A. 15 mph
In alleys and narrow residential areas the legal limit is 15 mph, posted or not.
Source: Oregon Driver Manual 2026-2027 (Form 735-37) (2026 - 2027), page 27