Vermont permit test: speed and following distance
The four-second following distance, speed limits and safe speeds. 10 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.
Rules to remember7 key speed and following distance rulesShow the rules
- Vermont teaches a 4-second following distance, and more than 4 seconds in poor conditions, poor visibility or at higher speeds. (p. 28, Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) (opens the handbook))
- Signal 3 to 5 seconds before a turn, then begin slowing down, so others know your plans. (p. 28, Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) (opens the handbook))
- The maximum speed on a Vermont Interstate is 65 mph or as posted. (p. 29, Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) (opens the handbook))
- If you reach the checkpoint in less than four seconds, you are following too closely and must drop back. (p. 29, Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) (opens the handbook))
- Pick a fixed checkpoint, start counting when the back of the vehicle ahead passes it, and stop when you reach it. (p. 29, Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) (opens the handbook))
- Many crashes come from driving too fast for conditions, and sometimes even 10 mph can be an unsafe speed. (p. 29, Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) (opens the handbook))
- Vermont law requires that a vehicle always be driven under control, at a speed reasonable for the dangers present. (p. 29, Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) (opens the handbook))
Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.
Sample speed and following distance questions
1.Which statement about a safe speed is true according to the Vermont manual?
- AEven 10 mph can be unsafe
- BSlower driving always causes crashes
- CThe posted limit is always safe
- DSpeed matters only on highways
Show the answer
✓ A. Even 10 mph can be unsafe
Many crashes come from driving too fast for conditions, and sometimes even 10 mph can be an unsafe speed.
2.When counting your following distance, when do you start counting?
- AWhen your front bumper passes the checkpoint
- BWhen the car ahead brakes
- CWhen you see a speed limit sign
- DWhen the rear of the car ahead passes a checkpoint
Show the answer
✓ D. When the rear of the car ahead passes a checkpoint
Pick a fixed checkpoint, start counting when the back of the vehicle ahead passes it, and stop when you reach it.
3.In good conditions, what following distance does the Vermont manual recommend?
- A3 seconds
- B2 seconds
- C1 car length per 10 mph
- D4 seconds
Show the answer
✓ D. 4 seconds
Vermont teaches a 4-second following distance, and more than 4 seconds in poor conditions, poor visibility or at higher speeds.
4.Unless posted otherwise, what is the maximum speed on a Vermont Interstate?
- A55 mph
- B60 mph
- C70 mph
- D65 mph
Show the answer
✓ D. 65 mph
The maximum speed on a Vermont Interstate is 65 mph or as posted.