District of Columbia Defensive Driving

These 47 Defensive Driving questions are framed the way the District of Columbia DMV practice test asks them, each with a clear explanation and a reference to the official District of Columbia handbook.

Question Map

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All 47 questions in this topic are in Pro.

On the District of Columbia driving test, defensive driving questions are part of the 25-question exam. District of Columbia requires a score of 80% (20 correct answers) to pass.

Defensive driving means anticipating potential hazards and making safe, informed decisions on the road. It’s about being prepared for the unexpected actions of other drivers, pedestrians, and road conditions.

Key defensive driving techniques include maintaining a safe following distance (the 3-second rule), scanning the road ahead, checking mirrors regularly, and always having an escape route. At highway speeds, increase your following distance to 4 or more seconds.

This category also covers how to handle aggressive drivers, avoid road rage situations, and make safe lane changes. The DMV test will challenge your understanding of space management and hazard anticipation.

Key Topics

Following distance (3-second rule)
Scanning and mirror checks
Space management
Hazard anticipation
Handling aggressive drivers
Special driving situations

Road Rules & Speed Limits54 SafetyPro Defensive DrivingPro Road Signs44 Traffic Signals38 Distractions & ImpairmentPro Vehicle Safety & EquipmentPro General Knowledge24 Passing & Lane ChangesPro Right of WayPro Vehicle EmergenciesPro Sharing the RoadPro Turns & IntersectionsPro Light Truck & TowingPro Adverse WeatherPro