UK PCV Bus Theory Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21A driver moves house but fails to update the address on their driving licence. They subsequently complete their periodic training, triggering the automatic issue of a new Driver Qualification Card (DQC). What is the likely consequence?
✓ Correct answer: D. The card is mailed to the wrong address
The DVSA uses the address on the driver's main licence record to issue the DQC. If this is not updated before the card is generated, the DQC will be sent to the old address, causing potential loss and delays.
Q22Enforcement officers stop a driver who has committed a traffic offence. If the driver cannot provide a satisfactory UK address for the service of a summons, what specific enforcement measure may be used to secure the penalty?
✓ Correct answer: A. A financial deposit notice
When a fixed penalty cannot be issued because the offender cannot verify a suitable UK address (often involving non-UK drivers), enforcement officers can issue a financial deposit notice. The driver must pay this deposit immediately; failure to do so can result in the vehicle being prohibited or immobilised.
Q23A driver has applied for a replacement Driver Qualification Card (DQC) and is driving using the application receipt. If the replacement card does not arrive within the validity period of the receipt, what action must the driver take?
✓ Correct answer: C. Contact the authority immediately
Drivers are responsible for ensuring they possess a valid card. If a replacement does not arrive within the expected timeframe (often indicated on the receipt or guidance notes), the driver must contact the issuing authority (DVLA/DVSA) to resolve the issue rather than continuing to drive without valid cover.
Q24A driver realizes they have left their Driver Qualification Card (DQC) at home but has a letter from their employer confirming their training status. How is this letter viewed during a roadside inspection?
✓ Correct answer: E. It is legally insufficient
Employer letters, training receipts, or certificates are not legal substitutes for the DQC. The law requires the driver to carry the official card while driving professionally. Such paperwork does not satisfy the inspection requirement and may lead to penalties for failing to produce the card.
Q25A driver's current DQC expires on 10 September 2024. They complete their 35 hours of periodic training early, on 1 June 2024. What will be the expiry date of their new DQC?
✓ Correct answer: B. 10 September 2029
The new DQC is valid for five years from the expiry date of the current card, not from the date the training was completed. Therefore, if the current card expires on 10 September 2024, the new card will be valid until 10 September 2029, preserving the original cycle dates.
Q26A UK-licensed coach driver is planning a journey to a non-EU country. Depending on the specific destination's regulations, what additional document might the driver be required to carry to validate their driving licence?
✓ Correct answer: D. International Driving Permit
While a UK photocard licence is widely accepted, some countries (especially those outside the EU/EEA) require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to be carried alongside the national licence. This document translates the licence details into multiple languages to aid local enforcement.
Q27You are checking your driving licence before starting work as a coach driver. Which specific category entitlement must appear on your licence to legally drive a vehicle with more than 16 passenger seats?
✓ Correct answer: A. Category D entitlement
Category D is the specific entitlement required for driving buses and coaches with more than 8 passenger seats (often used for vehicles with >16 seats). A standard car licence (Cat B) or smaller bus licence (Cat D1) is insufficient for full-sized coaches. Drivers must verify this specific code is valid.
Q28You are parking a heavy coach on a steep downhill gradient. In addition to applying the parking brake, which action provides the most effective protection against rolling away?
✓ Correct answer: C. Select reverse gear and use wheel chocks securely
When parking downhill, relying solely on the parking brake is insufficient. Select reverse gear to use engine compression against forward movement. Use wheel chocks for a mechanical stop. Turning wheels towards the kerb is also recommended.
Q29You are conducting a pre-journey security check on your vehicle. Which areas must be included in your visual inspection for suspicious items?
✓ Correct answer: E. Luggage holds, overhead shelves, and under seats
Security checks focus on concealed or suspicious items. You must inspect areas where items could be hidden, such as luggage holds, overhead racks, under seats, and toilets. Mechanical checks like fluid levels or tyre pressure are maintenance, not security.
Q30You must evacuate passengers from your bus due to a vehicle fire. Where should you direct them to assemble?
✓ Correct answer: B. Upwind and at least 20 metres away
The priority during an evacuation is to move passengers to a safe location away from danger. They should be at least 20 metres from the vehicle to ensure safety from explosions or heat. Crucially, they must be positioned upwind to avoid inhaling toxic smoke or fumes carried by the wind.
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