Section 1b: Getting ready to drive

The “Getting ready to drive” section of the Ontario written driving test assesses your knowledge of safe preparation before starting a vehicle.

Ontario Driving Test - Section 1b: Getting ready to drive

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A child may begin using a seatbelt alone once they are 145 cm tall, weigh 36 kg, OR...

Have their parent's permission.

Can sit still for the entire trip.

Turn eight years old.

Turn seven years old.

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What is a key consideration when buying a used child car seat?

It should be purchased from a friend or relative.

It must be a popular brand.

It must be less than two years old.

It must not show any signs of deterioration or damage.

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If your vehicle is not equipped with daytime running lights, what should you do to enhance visibility in good conditions?

Turn your headlights on.

No extra lights are needed.

Turn on your hazard lights.

Turn on your parking lights.

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When must you switch from high-beam to low-beam headlights when approaching an oncoming vehicle?

Within 150 metres

Within 110 metres

Within 60 metres

As soon as you see their lights

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How much more protection do booster seats provide compared to seatbelts alone?

60 per cent

25 per cent

40 per cent

80 per cent

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A child must use a booster seat if they are under 145 cm tall, weigh more than 18 kg, and are under what age?

Age ten

Age eight

Age seven

Age six

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What is one of the main benefits of seatbelts in a collision?

They prevent the airbag from deploying.

They automatically call for emergency services.

They reduce the vehicle's stopping distance.

They help keep you inside and in control of the vehicle.

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How should the shoulder belt be positioned when using a booster seat?

Loosely across the neck

Under the child's arm

Behind the child's back

Over the shoulder and across the centre of the chest

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What color light must shine on the rear licence plate when headlights are on?

Red

Blue

Amber

White

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What should you do with an unoccupied booster seat while driving?

Leave it loose on the seat.

Secure it with a seatbelt or remove it from the vehicle.

Cover it with a blanket.

Place it on the floor of the vehicle.

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What can be used to help a rear-facing car seat rest at the proper 45-degree angle?

A small pillow or blanket.

A stack of books.

Nothing, the angle cannot be adjusted.

A towel or a 'pool noodle'.

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Where can you find certified technicians to help you install a child car seat?

At most auto repair shops.

By calling the car manufacturer.

At any vehicle dealership.

At a local car seat clinic.

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What is the minimum weight requirement for a child to use a booster seat as described in the text?

15 kilograms (33 lbs.)

18 kilograms (40 lbs.)

22 kilograms (50 lbs.)

36 kilograms (80 lbs.)

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When following another vehicle, you should use your low beams when you are less than:

150 metres behind it.

60 metres behind it.

30 metres behind it.

100 metres behind it.

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What should be done with loose objects in the vehicle before driving?

Secure them with cargo nets/straps or move them to the trunk.

Place them under the seats.

Place them on the floor behind the front seats.

Have a passenger hold them.

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What is the 'human collision' described in the text?

An argument between passengers that causes a distraction.

A collision between two pedestrians.

When an unbelted person hits the inside of the vehicle or another person.

When a driver intentionally causes a collision.

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Under what circumstance is it acceptable to use a booster seat with a lap belt only?

If the vehicle was made before 2005.

Never.

If the child is over six years old.

For short trips only.

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According to the text, what is the safest place for a child under the age of 13?

The back seat.

The middle seat, front or back.

The front passenger seat with the airbag off.

Any seat with a lap/shoulder belt.

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What is the proper use for parking lights?

Driving at dusk.

As an alternative to daytime running lights.

Driving in fog.

Only for parking.

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When are drivers required to turn on their headlights?

Between one-half hour before sunset and one-half hour after sunrise, and in poor light conditions.

Only when it is completely dark.

Only during rain, fog, or snow.

From one hour before sunset to one hour after sunrise.

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Why are daytime running lights not suitable for use as headlights in poor lighting conditions?

They are not bright enough.

They may cast glare onto others or deactivate other required lights like tail lights.

They are only for daytime use as per their name.

They use too much battery power.

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Your vehicle's headlights must be strong enough to light up objects how far away?

200 metres

150 metres

110 metres

60 metres

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At least what percentage of the base of a forward-facing car seat should be supported by the vehicle seat?

75 per cent

80 per cent

50 per cent

60 per cent

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What is the primary function of a booster seat?

To raise a child so the adult seatbelt works more effectively.

To provide a more comfortable ride for the child.

To replace the need for a forward-facing car seat entirely.

To allow the child to see out the window.

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How much movement is acceptable for a correctly installed child car seat?

The seat should not move at all.

No more than 7.5 centimetres (3 inches)

No more than 5 centimetres (2 inches)

No more than 2.5 centimetres (1 inch)

Your score is

It covers steps like adjusting your seat and mirrors for optimal visibility, fastening your seatbelt, and ensuring all passengers are secure. You must know how to check your vehicle’s surroundings and identify dashboard controls such as lights, signals, and wipers. The test may ask about the importance of removing obstructions from your windows and making sure your vehicle is in good working order before driving. These practices are key to safety and compliance.