Tennessee permit test: speed limits and following distance
The basic speed rule, Tennessee speed laws, the two-second rule, stopping distance and keeping a space cushion. 19 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.
Rules to remember10 key speed limits and following distance rulesShow the rules
- Unless another limit is posted, primary and secondary state and federal highways have a 55 mph limit. (p. 61, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- The maximum interstate speed is 70 mph, posted on most rural sections. (p. 61, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- Tennessee law sets a fine of at least $250 and up to $500 for speeding in an active work zone. (p. 61, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- Exceeding the school zone speed limit is reckless driving by law, and it adds 6 points to your record. (p. 61, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- In bad weather, at higher interstate speeds, at night and when following a motorcycle, increase the two-second rule to at least four seconds. (p. 63, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- You must stop completely when a flag person at a road construction site or a police officer directs you to stop. (p. 64, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- When a train is coming, stop between 15 and 50 feet from the tracks, never on them, and wait until it is safe. (p. 64, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- Rolling stops are dangerous and illegal. (p. 64, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- Split the difference between two hazards. (p. 108, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
- A gap of at least four seconds is needed to change lanes, enter a roadway or merge. (p. 108, Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022) (opens the handbook))
Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.
Sample speed limits and following distance questions
1.You are driving 10 mph or more below the limit, and 5 cars are lined up behind you. What should you do?
- AStop in your lane to let them by
- BKeep going; they can pass you
- CSpeed up past the speed limit
- DTurn or pull off when it is safe
Show the answer
✓ D. Turn or pull off when it is safe
At 10 mph or more below the maximum you are a slow-moving vehicle. If five or more vehicles line up behind you, turn or pull off as soon as it is safe.
Source: Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022), page 60
2.You are caught speeding in an active work zone. What fine range does Tennessee law set?
- A$500 to $1,000
- B$50 to $100
- C$100 to $250
- D$250 to $500
Show the answer
✓ D. $250 to $500
Tennessee law sets a fine of at least $250 and up to $500 for speeding in an active work zone.
Source: Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (most current information as of July 1, 2022), page 61
3.About how long does it take to pass one vehicle at 55 mph?
- AAbout 10 seconds
- BAbout 5 seconds
- CAbout 3 seconds
- DAbout 30 seconds
Show the answer
✓ A. About 10 seconds
At 55 mph you need about 10 seconds to pass a single vehicle, so you need a 10-second gap in oncoming traffic and enough sight distance.
4.Someone is tailgating you on a two-lane road with no right lane. What should you do?
- ASlow down gradually when safe
- BBrake suddenly to warn them
- CSpeed up to get away from them
- DStop in the road and wait
Show the answer
✓ A. Slow down gradually when safe
If someone tailgates you and you can't move right, slow down gradually when it's safe so they can pass. Never brake suddenly.