Roundabout theory test questions
Roundabouts are one of the situations the Irish driving theory test comes back to again and again, because they bring together yielding, lane choice, signalling and judging gaps all at once. Getting them right on the test means knowing that you give way to traffic already on the roundabout, which approaches from your right, and that you wait for a safe gap rather than forcing your way on. You also need to be in the correct lane for the exit you want and to signal clearly so other drivers can read what you intend to do. The questions below are drawn from our question bank and cover how to approach a roundabout, which lane to take and how to signal on the way round. Each one shows the full set of answer options, marks the correct answer and explains why it is right, so you learn the reasoning rather than memorising a letter. Work through them, then practise the same ideas in a full session.
Related reading: Right of way and junctions.
1. What is the correct procedure when a driver approaches a roundabout?
- AStop at the roundabout regardless of traffic.
- BGive way only to vehicles coming from the left.
- CProceed without stopping as roundabouts are free-flowing.
- Give way to vehicles coming from the right or already circulating.Correct
Drivers must yield to traffic coming from the right or already on the roundabout. This ensures smooth and safe merging onto the roundabout.
2. What position should a driver generally adopt on approach to a roundabout when intending to take the first exit to the left?
- AApproach by straddling both lanes.
- BApproach in the right-hand lane.
- CApproach in any lane available.
- Approach in the left-hand lane.Correct
When a driver intends to take any exit between the 6 o’clock and 12 o’clock positions they should generally approach the roundabout in the left lane unless road markings dictate otherwise.
3. When driving a tractor and trailer, what should the driver do on entering a roundabout to avoid possible roll-over?
- AEngage the parking brake.
- BIncrease speed.
- CDrive in a high gear.
- Reduce speed.Correct
Drivers should always drive at a speed which is safe. In particular, when changing direction, such as entering a roundabout. If driving a tractor with a trailer, extra care should be taken due to their instability.
4. When is it acceptable to drive over a mini roundabout?
- AIf you’re in a rush.
- BOnly if there is no traffic.
- CWhen turning left.
- Never.Correct
You should drive around the central markings unless it is physically impossible.
5. In general, where two lanes are provided on the approach to a roundabout, which lane should a driver select when they intend taking an exit to the right (past the 12 o’clock position) of the roundabout?
- AEither lane.
- BThe left-hand lane.
- The right-hand lane.Correct
- DBy straddling both lanes.
When a driver approaches a roundabout where two lanes are provided, they should choose the most suitable one based on the road markings and the exit they intend to take off the roundabout. The left lane is generally used for vehicles exiting to the left (9 o’clock) or straight ahead (12 o’clock) and the right is for vehicles exiting at any exit after 12 o’clock.
6. In what direction should a driver turn when entering a roundabout?
- To the left.Correct
- BTo either left or right.
- CTo the right when controlled by a traffic light.
- DTo the right.
By law you must enter a roundabout by turning to the left and giving way to traffic already on the roundabout.