Signals & Pavement Markings

Study questions with answers

7 sample Signals & Pavement Markings questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. Why should you use your turn signals even when no one seems to be around?

   Correct answer: A rider's added vulnerability makes signals important, and they help others spot you

   A rider's added vulnerability makes signals important; using them makes you easier for others to spot.

   Source: Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, Section Six — Signal

2. 2. A lamp or reflector on the front or side-front of a motorcycle must show what color?

   Correct answer: Amber

   Front and side-front lamps and reflectors display or reflect amber, while rear ones are red.

   Source: Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, Section Two — Clearance/marker lamps (MCL 257.689)

3. 3. When should you flash your brake light before slowing?

   Correct answer: When you will slow more suddenly than others expect, or where they wouldn't expect it

   Flash the brake light before you slow more suddenly than others expect, or in spots where they wouldn't expect it, such as mid-block.

   Source: Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, Section Six — Brake light

4. 4. Because many motorcycle turn signals do not self-cancel, what must the rider remember?

   Correct answer: To turn the signal off after completing the turn

   Most models don't self-cancel, so turn the signal off after your turn, or a driver may think you plan to turn again.

   Source: Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, Section Six — Signal

5. 5. If you are being followed closely, flashing your brake light before you slow does what?

   Correct answer: Warns the tailgater, who may be watching you and not the road ahead

   A tailgater may be watching you rather than the road ahead, so flashing the brake light warns them before you slow.

   Source: Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, Section Six — Brake light

6. 6. How do a motorcycle's turn signals compare with a car's?

   Correct answer: They work the same way and tell others what you plan to do

   Motorcycle turn signals work the same way as a car's, telling others what you plan to do.

   Source: Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, Section Six — Signal

7. 7. The light that illuminates the license plate must be what color?

   Correct answer: White

   All rear lighting must be red except the stop and signal light and the plate light, which must be white.

   Source: Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, Section Two — Clearance/marker lamps (MCL 257.689)