Control questions

Danish driving test control questions

At the Danish practical driving test, the examiner can ask you to explain or show how you check the car's equipment – for example the brakes, lights, tyres and fluids. Here are all 55 questions in English, with the right answer and an explanation of why.

Read them through, then test yourself. It helps to be able to explain the answer in your own words. How the whole driving test works.

Brakes

  1. How do you check that the brake pedal is working properly?

    I press the brake down, and I must not be able to push it all the way to the floor.

    If the pedal goes all the way to the floor, there may be air in the brake system, too little brake fluid or a leak. The pedal should feel firm and stop well above the floor.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Sit in the driver's seat.
    2. Press the brake pedal down firmly and hold it for a few seconds.
    3. Show that the pedal stops well above the floor and doesn't slowly sink.

  2. How do you check whether the car has a brake booster (vacuum booster)?

    With the engine off, I press the brake a few times and hold it down. When I start the engine, the pedal should sink slightly.

    The brake booster uses vacuum from the engine. When the engine starts, it begins to assist and the pedal sinks slightly. If nothing happens, the booster isn't working and you have to press much harder to brake.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. With the engine off, press the brake 4–5 times until it feels hard.
    2. Keep the pedal pressed and start the engine.
    3. Feel the pedal sink slightly as the engine starts.

  3. How do you check that the handbrake works?

    I start the car, give it a little gas and see if it moves forward.

    With the handbrake on, the car should stay put when you give it a little gas. If it moves forward, the handbrake isn't holding well enough.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Apply the handbrake or the electronic parking brake.
    2. Start the engine, select first gear (or D) and gently give a little gas.
    3. Show that the car stays put.

  4. How do you check that the brakes work?

    The pedal must feel firm and not go to the floor. The car must stop straight without pulling to one side.

    The pedal must be firm and the car must stop in a straight line. If it pulls to one side, the wheels are braking unevenly and the brakes need checking.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Drive forward slowly in a safe place with no other traffic.
    2. Brake firmly with a light grip on the wheel.
    3. Feel that the car stops straight without pulling to one side.

  5. How do you check that the ABS brakes are working?

    The ABS light should come on briefly when the ignition is switched on and go out once the engine has started.

    ABS stops the wheels locking under hard braking, so you can still steer around obstacles. It is normal for the pedal to vibrate when ABS works. If the light stays on, there is a fault.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch the ignition on and point to the ABS light on the dashboard.
    2. Start the engine and show that the light goes out.

  6. What does it mean if the red brake warning light comes on while driving?

    The handbrake is on, or the brake fluid is low. I release the handbrake or stop somewhere safe.

    The red brake light can mean the handbrake isn't fully released or the brake fluid is low. If it stays on with the handbrake released, don't drive on until the brakes have been checked.

  7. How can you tell if the brake discs are worn?

    Look through the wheel rim: the disc should be smooth and even, without deep grooves or a noticeable ridge at the edge.

    You can often see the brake discs through the openings in the wheel rim. A worn disc has a visible ridge at the edge and deep grooves in the surface. Worn brake pads and discs increase braking distance.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Look through the wheel rim and point out the brake disc.
    2. Explain that the surface should be smooth and there should be no large ridge at the edge.

Steering

  1. How do you check that the power steering works?

    With the engine off, I turn the wheel so it feels heavy. When I start the engine, it should become easy to turn.

    Power steering helps you turn the wheel while the engine is running. Without it the wheel becomes heavy, and it is hard to steer safely at low speed.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Turn the wheel a little with the engine off and feel that it is heavy.
    2. Start the engine and turn again: now it should be easy.

  2. How do you check whether there is too much play in the steering?

    With the wheels straight, I gently turn the steering wheel back and forth. The wheels should start turning almost immediately.

    Play means the steering wheel can move some distance before the wheels react. Too much play makes the car imprecise to steer and must be repaired.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Set the wheels straight.
    2. Gently turn the wheel back and forth while watching a front wheel.
    3. The wheel should start turning almost immediately.

Lights

  1. How do you check that the dipped headlights work and are correctly adjusted?

    The beam must light the kerb side more than towards oncoming traffic, and you must be able to see at least 30 m ahead. It must be white or yellow.

    Dipped headlights are asymmetric, so they light up the kerb side without dazzling oncoming traffic. They must light the road at least 30 m ahead.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch on the dipped headlights.
    2. Walk round to the front and check that both headlights are on.
    3. Show against a wall that the beam points down and mostly towards the kerb side.

  2. How do you check that the rear lights work?

    They must be red.

    Rear lights must be red. White light to the rear is only allowed from the reversing light and the number plate light.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch on the lights.
    2. Walk round to the back and check that both rear lights shine red.
    3. Check that the lenses are intact.

  3. How do you check that the main beam (high beam) works?

    You must be able to see 100 m ahead. The light must be white or yellow.

    Main beam must light the road at least 100 m ahead. Remember to dip your lights when you meet other traffic or drive close behind someone.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch on the lights and select main beam with the light stalk.
    2. Check that the blue main-beam light comes on on the dashboard.
    3. Check at the front that both lights shine brighter.

  4. How do you check that the indicators work?

    I start the car, push the indicator stalk up and down and check that the indicators flash correctly, front and rear.

    Check both sides, front and rear. If one side flashes faster than normal, a bulb has often failed.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch the ignition on.
    2. Push the indicator stalk up for right and down for left.
    3. Walk around the car and check the indicators at the front, rear and sides.

  5. How do you check that the hazard warning lights work?

    I press the red triangle button and check that all four indicators flash – front, rear and on both sides.

    The hazard lights switch on all indicators at once. They are used when the car is a danger to others, for example after an accident or a breakdown.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Press the button with the red triangle.
    2. Check that all indicators flash together and that the button or warning light flashes too.

  6. How do you check that the position lights work?

    Switch on the position lights and walk around the car. Check that the lights are on at both the front and rear.

    The position lights must work both front and rear so the car can be seen when it is parked in the dark.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Turn the light switch to position lights.
    2. Walk around the car and check the small lights at the front and rear.

  7. How do you check that the brake lights work?

    I press the brake and look for the reflection in a window, or ask a helper to watch from behind.

    Brake lights shine red and brighter than the rear lights when you brake. Ask someone to watch, or look for the reflection in a window or garage door.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Ask a helper to press the brake, or watch the reflection in a window or garage door.
    2. Check that both brake lights – and the high brake light, if fitted – shine brighter.

  8. How do you check that the number plate light works?

    I switch on the lights, walk to the back and check that the number plate is clearly lit by all lamps.

    The number plate must be lit so it can be read in the dark. If the car has several lamps, they must all work.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch on the lights.
    2. Walk round to the back and check that the number plate is lit by all its lamps.

  9. How do you check that the reversing light works?

    With the ignition on, I put the car in reverse and look behind the car or at a reflection to see if white light comes on.

    The reversing light shines white to the rear and shows others that you are reversing. It only comes on when reverse gear is selected.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch the ignition on and press the clutch or brake.
    2. Select reverse gear.
    3. Check behind the car or in a reflection that the reversing light shines white.

  10. Why must the light lenses be clean and intact?

    Dirt and cracks make the light weaker and scatter it, so I see less and may dazzle oncoming traffic.

    Dirty lights can give much less light and scatter it so oncoming drivers are dazzled. Keep all lights clean, especially in winter.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Walk around the car and look at all the lights.
    2. Wipe off dirt, snow and ice, and look for cracks.

  11. How do you check that the rear fog light works, and when may you use it?

    I switch it on and check at the back that it shines bright red. It may only be used when visibility is severely reduced.

    The rear fog light is very bright and dazzles the cars behind you if used in normal weather. Only use it in thick fog, heavy snow or similar, and switch it off when visibility improves.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch on the dipped headlights, then the rear fog light.
    2. Point to the amber indicator light for the rear fog light.
    3. Check behind the car that the light shines bright red.

  12. What do you use the headlight levelling control for?

    To lower the beam when the car is heavily loaded at the back, so oncoming traffic isn't dazzled.

    When the back is heavily loaded, the headlights point upwards and dazzle oncoming drivers. The levelling control – often a numbered wheel near the steering wheel – lowers the beam again.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Find the headlight levelling wheel near the steering wheel or light switch.
    2. Explain that 0 is for an empty car and higher numbers lower the beam when loaded.

  13. When must the car's lights be on?

    The lights must always be on while driving, even in daylight. The car may have automatic daytime running lights.

    In Denmark, lights must always be on while driving, day and night. Most new cars have daytime running lights (DRL) that come on automatically, but DRL don't always light the rear – check that the rear lights are on when it gets dark.

  14. When may you use the front fog lights?

    Only when visibility is seriously reduced, e.g. in dense fog, heavy rain or snowfall.

    Front fog lights may only be used when visibility is seriously reduced. They may be used with dipped headlights or on their own. Remember to switch them off when conditions improve, as they can dazzle other road users.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Show where the front fog light switch is.
    2. Switch them on and walk round to the front to check that both are on.

Tyres

  1. How do you check that the tyres have the correct tread depth?

    No colour may be visible, and the tread pattern must be visible. 1.6 mm tread depth in the middle of the tyre.

    The legal minimum is 1.6 mm of tread depth. Many tyres have wear indicators in the grooves that show when the limit is reached. With less tread, braking distances get longer, especially on wet roads.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Find the wear indicators in the main grooves – small bumps at the bottom of the tread.
    2. Check that the tread is deeper than the indicators, i.e. at least 1.6 mm.
    3. Check across the whole width of all four tyres.

  2. How do you check that the tyres have the correct tyre pressure?

    I measure the pressure with a tyre gauge while the tyres are cold and compare it with the car's recommended pressure.

    The recommended pressure is usually printed in the door frame, inside the fuel flap or in the owner's manual. Low pressure means less grip, longer braking distances and higher fuel use. Many cars also show a warning light if the pressure is too low.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Find the recommended pressure in the door frame, inside the fuel flap or in the owner's manual.
    2. Measure with a tyre gauge on the valve while the tyres are cold.
    3. Add or let out air until the pressure is right.

  3. How do you check whether the tyres are damaged?

    Inspect the tyres visually for damage such as cracks, bulges or unusual wear.

    Cracks and bulges weaken the tyre so it can burst while driving. Uneven wear can mean the wheels are misaligned. A damaged tyre must be replaced.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Walk around the car and look at the sidewalls and tread of each tyre.
    2. Look for cracks, bulges, cuts and nails or stones in the tread.
    3. Check whether the wear is even across the tyre.

  4. May the front and rear wheels have different types of tyres?

    No

    All four tyres must be the same type, for example all summer tyres or all winter tyres. Different tyre types give different grip front and rear, which can make the car unstable.

  5. What should you check if the car has a spare wheel?

    That the spare wheel has the correct tyre pressure and that you know where the tools and jack are.

    The spare wheel slowly loses air even when not in use. Check the pressure regularly. A space-saver spare typically has a speed limit of 80 km/h and may only be used temporarily.

  6. How can you tell how old the tyres are?

    The DOT number on the sidewall has four digits: the first two are the week, the last two are the year.

    The DOT code is on the sidewall. For example, "2419" means week 24 of 2019. Tyres age even when not in use – the rubber hardens and loses grip. Most experts recommend replacing tyres after 6–10 years.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Find the DOT number on the sidewall – it is usually after the letters "DOT".
    2. Read the last four digits and explain what they mean (week and year).

Fluids

  1. How do you check that the engine oil is at the correct level?

    The oil must be between minimum and maximum. I pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, put it back in, pull it out again and read the level.

    You wipe the dipstick first so you read the real level, not oil that splashed onto it while driving. Both too little and too much oil can damage the engine.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Park on level ground and switch off the engine.
    2. Open the bonnet and find the dipstick – it often has a yellow or orange handle.
    3. Pull it out, wipe it, push it fully back in and pull it out again.
    4. Show that the oil is between the min and max marks.

  2. How do you check that there is enough washer fluid?

    The fluid must be between the min and max marks on the reservoir.

    The fluid must be between the min and max marks on the reservoir. Without washer fluid you can't clean the windscreen, and you must always have a clear view.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Open the bonnet and find the reservoir with the windscreen-and-spray symbol.
    2. Show that the fluid is between the min and max marks.

  3. How do you check that there is enough coolant?

    The level must be between min and max on the expansion tank, and the engine must be cold.

    Check the coolant when the engine is cold. When the engine is hot, the system is under pressure and the cap must not be opened.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Let the engine be cold – never open the cap when the engine is hot.
    2. Find the expansion tank under the bonnet.
    3. Show that the coolant is between the min and max marks.

  4. How do you check that there is enough brake fluid?

    The level must be between min and max on the reservoir. The cap should not be opened.

    The level drops slowly as the brake pads wear. If it drops quickly, there may be a leak in the brake system.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Find the brake fluid reservoir under the bonnet, often at the back of the engine bay on the driver's side.
    2. Show that the fluid is between the min and max marks. Don't open the lid.

  5. What can happen if you drive with too little coolant?

    The engine can overheat, which can lead to serious engine damage such as a blown head gasket.

    Coolant carries heat away from the engine. Too little coolant causes overheating, which can destroy the head gasket and in the worst case the engine. Check the level on the expansion tank when the engine is cold.

Visibility

  1. How do you check that the wipers work?

    I turn on the washer and wipers and check that they clear the water evenly without streaks, and that the blades aren't cracked.

    Worn wiper blades leave streaks and give poor visibility, especially in rain and darkness. Replace the blades when they are cracked or hard.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch on the wipers and use the washer.
    2. Check that the windscreen comes clean without streaks.
    3. Lift the wiper blades and look for cracks and wear in the rubber.

  2. How do you check that the mirrors are in order?

    I settle into the seat and adjust the mirrors so I can see behind and to the sides. The glass must not be cracked.

    Adjust the mirrors before you drive so they fit you. You still need to look over your shoulder, but the mirrors give you the overview behind you.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Adjust the seat first.
    2. Adjust the rear-view mirror so you see the whole rear window.
    3. Adjust the side mirrors so you can just see the side of the car.

  3. How do you check the windscreen?

    I check that it is clean and free of cracks or chips in the driver's field of view, so visibility isn't reduced.

    Cracks and chips in the driver's field of view can reduce visibility and weaken the glass. Small chips can often be repaired before they turn into cracks.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Look over the windscreen from both inside and outside.
    2. Look for cracks and chips, especially in the area in front of the driver.

  4. How do you make sure the windows don't fog up while driving?

    I turn on the fan towards the windscreen and check that the fog clears. Air conditioning removes the moisture faster.

    You must have a clear view all the way around. The fan and air conditioning remove moisture from the windows so they don't fog up while you drive.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Select the fan towards the windscreen – the symbol with a curved window.
    2. Switch on the air conditioning if the car has it.
    3. Check that the windscreen clears.

  5. How do you check that the heated rear window works?

    Switch on the heated rear window and feel the glass from inside – the heating wires should become warm after a short while.

    The heated rear window removes condensation and ice from the rear window, so you can see through the rear-view mirror. It has a button with a window symbol. Check that the heating wires are not damaged – a broken wire won't heat that area.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Show where the heated rear window button is.
    2. Switch it on, and after a moment, feel that the glass becomes warm along the heating wires.

Safety and warning lights

  1. How do you check that the seatbelts work?

    I pull the belt sharply, and it should lock. It must also click into the buckle and roll back in neatly.

    The belt reel must lock on a sharp pull or hard braking. The belt must not be frayed, and the buckle must hold securely.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Pull the belt out sharply: it should lock.
    2. Fasten it and pull: it should stay locked in the buckle.
    3. Let go and check that it rolls back in and isn't frayed.

  2. Where should the warning triangle be placed if the car is stopped on the road?

    Well behind the car, typically about 50 m on an ordinary road and about 100 m on a motorway.

    The triangle must warn traffic from behind in good time. Also switch on the hazard lights, and put on a reflective vest when you get out of the car.

  3. What does it mean if the red oil warning light comes on while driving?

    The oil pressure is too low. I stop as soon as possible in a safe place and switch off the engine.

    Red warning lights mean you must stop. Without oil pressure the engine can be ruined in a short time. Yellow lights usually mean the car needs checking soon.

  4. How do you use the warning lights when you start the car?

    The lights come on briefly when the ignition is switched on and should go out once the engine has started. If one stays on, there is a fault.

    When the ignition is switched on, the car tests its warning lights. If a light is still on after the engine has started, it shows a fault you need to act on.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch the ignition on without starting the engine and see the warning lights come on.
    2. Start the engine and check that the lights go out.

  5. How do you check that the airbag is ready for use?

    The airbag light should come on briefly when the ignition is switched on and then go out by itself.

    The car tests the airbag system every time the ignition is switched on. If the light stays on, the airbag may not work in a crash, and the car must go to a garage.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch the ignition on and point to the airbag light.
    2. Show that the light goes out after a few seconds.

  6. What does it mean if the battery (charging) light comes on while driving?

    The battery isn't being charged. I switch off unnecessary power use and drive to a garage as soon as possible.

    The charging light means the alternator isn't charging the battery. The car runs on the battery alone until it is flat, and then it stops – including the lights and wipers.

  7. How do you adjust the head restraint correctly?

    The top should be level with the top of your head, and it should be as close to the back of your head as possible.

    A correctly adjusted head restraint protects against whiplash if the car is hit from behind. If it is too low, your head can be thrown back over it.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Sit properly and feel where the head restraint meets your head.
    2. Press the button and slide it up or down until the top is level with the top of your head.

  8. How do you adjust the driver's seat correctly?

    I must be able to press the pedals fully with slightly bent knees and reach the wheel with slightly bent arms.

    Sitting correctly lets you brake hard and turn the wheel quickly without losing your grip. Adjust the seat before you adjust the mirrors.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Slide the seat forward or back until you can press the clutch or brake fully with a slightly bent knee.
    2. Adjust the backrest so your wrists can rest on top of the wheel with your shoulders against the seat.

  9. What does it mean if the engine temperature warning light is red while driving?

    The engine is overheating. Pull over as soon as safely possible and switch off the engine.

    An overheated engine can suffer serious damage. The cause may be low coolant, a faulty water pump or thermostat, or a leaking radiator hose. Do not open the radiator cap while the engine is hot – the fluid is under pressure.

  10. What does it mean if the ESP light (the yellow skid light) flashes while driving?

    The system is intervening because the car is about to skid. You should reduce your speed and drive carefully.

    ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) brakes individual wheels to prevent skidding. When the light flashes, the system is actively working. If the light stays on, ESP is off or faulty – drive to a workshop.

Exhaust

  1. What can be signs of a defective exhaust?

    Unusual noise, black smoke, or the exhaust being loose and having visible rust damage.

    A defective exhaust can be noisy, smoke or hang loose. It is completely normal for the exhaust to be hot after driving.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Start the engine and listen for roaring or rattling sounds.
    2. Look under the rear and check that the exhaust is secure and not rusted through.

  2. How do you check that the exhaust is in good condition?

    It must be firmly attached, and when you drive the car, no black smoke may come out of it.

    The exhaust must be secure and sealed so exhaust gas doesn't leak out under the car. Black smoke can point to problems with the engine or fuel system.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Look under the rear and check that the exhaust is held firmly by its hangers.
    2. Start the engine, look for black smoke and listen for leaks.

Other

  1. How do you check that the shock absorbers work?

    I push one corner down and let go. The car should settle after 1–2 bounces.

    Good shock absorbers stop the movement quickly. Worn shock absorbers mean less grip and longer braking distances.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Push one corner of the car down firmly and let go.
    2. Count the bounces: the car should settle after 1–2 bounces.
    3. Repeat at the other corners.

  2. How do you check that the horn works?

    It must have a clear, steady tone.

    The horn must give a clear, constant tone so others can hear it. It must not play a tune or change pitch.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Press the horn in the middle of the steering wheel.
    2. Listen for a clear, steady tone.

  3. How do you make sure the doors and bonnet are properly closed?

    I check that no door warning light is on on the dashboard and that the bonnet is fully latched.

    A door that opens while driving, or a bonnet that flies up and covers the windscreen, can cause a serious accident.

    How to show it on the car:

    1. Switch the ignition on and show that no door warning light is on.
    2. Lift gently at the front edge of the bonnet to show that it is latched.

  4. What should you check before you drive off?

    That the lights work, that the mirrors and seat are adjusted, and that you have a clear view through all windows.

    Before you drive, make sure you have good visibility: clear ice, snow and condensation from all windows, adjust mirrors and seat, and check that the lights work. A quick walk around the car is a good habit.

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