Wisconsin permit test: speed, stopping and space
Understanding vehicle speed, stopping, the sight distance rule and space between vehicles. 24 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.
Rules to remember10 key speed, stopping and space rulesShow the rules
- When you merge, try to enter at the same speed that traffic is moving. (p. 14)
- You cannot drive over the speed limit to pass other vehicles. (p. 14)
- Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit in residential areas is 25 mph. (p. 14)
- Wisconsin teaches a four-second following distance in normal conditions. (p. 14)
- In the deceleration lane (off-ramp), traffic slows down, and you gradually slow down as well. (p. 14)
- The normal school zone limit when children are present is 15 mph. (p. 14)
- If you reach the object before finishing 'one thousand four,' you are too close and going too fast. (p. 14)
- The maximum speed in outlying parts of cities and villages with no posted limit is 35 mph. (p. 14)
- If you cannot see 10 to 15 seconds ahead, slow down so you have better control. (p. 16)
- Look in the rearview mirror every 6 to 8 seconds to spot anyone following too closely. (p. 17)
Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.
Sample speed, stopping and space questions
1.You want to pass a slow car on a two-lane road. May you go over the speed limit to pass?
- AOnly on a straight road with clear view
- BYes, by up to 10 mph over the limit
- CNo, you cannot exceed the limit to pass
- DYes, for up to 10 seconds while passing
Show the answer
✓ C. No, you cannot exceed the limit to pass
You cannot drive over the speed limit to pass other vehicles.
Source: Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook (BDS126) (2026), page 14
2.You are in an outlying part of a city with no posted speed limit. What is the maximum speed?
- A55 mph
- B35 mph
- C45 mph
- D25 mph
Show the answer
✓ B. 35 mph
The maximum speed in outlying parts of cities and villages with no posted limit is 35 mph.
Source: Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook (BDS126) (2026), page 14
3.How often should you check your rearview mirror for tailgaters?
- AEvery 6 to 8 seconds
- BEvery 30 seconds
- CEvery 2 to 3 seconds
- DOnly when braking
Show the answer
✓ A. Every 6 to 8 seconds
Look in the rearview mirror every 6 to 8 seconds to spot anyone following too closely.
Source: Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook (BDS126) (2026), page 17
4.You need to pick up a friend on a busy road. Where should you stop?
- AAt a safe place out of traffic
- BIn the left turn lane
- CRight at the intersection
- DIn your lane with flashers on
Show the answer
✓ A. At a safe place out of traffic
Pull out of traffic to a safe spot before you pick up or drop off passengers.
Source: Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook (BDS126) (2026), page 17