The answer options
- There may be an issue with your vehicle
- They are just saying hello
- They are warning you of their presenceCorrect
- They are giving way to you
Why that is the answer
According to the Highway Code, flashing your headlights has the exact same official meaning as sounding your horn: to warn other road users of your presence. Although many drivers flash their lights to give way or invite you to pull out, this is an unofficial usage. You must never assume a flash means it is safe to proceed, as relying on these signals can easily lead to dangerous misunderstandings.
How this comes up in the real test
Questions from road and traffic signs appear throughout the 50-question multiple-choice section, and the wording changes between versions. Learn the rule rather than the sentence: the DVSA can ask the same point from the opposite direction, and a memorised answer falls over the moment the phrasing moves.
The pass mark is 43 out of 50, so seven wrong answers is your entire margin. If a whole category is shaky, run the topic practice below until you are getting every question right for the right reason, then go back to full mocks under the clock.
More road and traffic signs questions
- A police car is following you. If a police officer gestures to go left while flashing their headlights, what should you do?
- After turning at a junction you should ensure your indicators are cancelled promptly. Why is this?
- At traffic lights, what does it mean when the amber light shows on its own?
- How can you identify traffic signs that give orders?
- How should one indicate a left turn with their arms?