ACT General Driving Rules Explained
Driving General is the largest category in the ACT test (about a third of the question bank), covering speed, following distance, overtaking, lane changes and signals. You're allowed two wrong answers here.
ACT default speed limits
- Built-up areas (houses and streetlights, no sign): default 50 km/h.
- Rural areas: default 100 km/h.
- Where a sign is posted, the sign's number is the legal maximum (school, worksite, shared zones).
Following distance
Keep at least a 3-second gap to the vehicle ahead, and more in rain, at night or in poor conditions. The 3-second rule gives you time to react if the car in front stops suddenly.
What to do at an amber light
Amber warns the light is about to turn red and you must stop — unless you are too close to stop safely. Don't brake harshly (you may be rear-ended) and don't accelerate through. Entering after it turns red earns an infringement.
Overtaking and lane changes
- Always signal before changing lanes or turning.
- Before overtaking, make sure the road ahead is clear with room to return safely.
- Radar detectors/jammers are illegal in the ACT — owning, using or selling them is an offence.
FAQ
- What's the limit in town with no sign?
- 50 km/h in built-up areas and 100 km/h in rural areas by default; a posted sign overrides this.
- How far should I follow behind?
- At least 3 seconds, and more in bad weather or at night.
Related guides
Text adapted from the ACT Road Rules Handbook; diagrams © Australian Capital Territory, from the ACT Road Rules Handbook, used for study reference only. Passmate is an independent study tool, not an official or affiliated ACT Government product.