Traffic Signs Test in Pakistan 2025 – The Ultimate Guide
Obtaining a driving license in Pakistan is not just about learning to control a vehicle — it’s about understanding the rules, regulations, and traffic signs that ensure safety on the road. Among the most crucial parts of the licensing process is the Traffic Signs Test, an assessment designed to evaluate a driver’s knowledge of road signs and symbols used across Pakistan.
Every driver, whether new or experienced, must be familiar with informative, regulatory, and warning signs to navigate safely and confidently. In this detailed guide, we cover everything you need to know about the Traffic Signs Test in Pakistan 2025, including its purpose, structure, categories of signs, preparation tips, and examples of the most common traffic signs used across the country.
Understanding the Traffic Signs Test in Pakistan
The traffic signs test is a computer-based examination conducted by the Driving License Issuing Authorities across Pakistan, including the Punjab Traffic Police, Sindh Police, and City Traffic Police in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar. This test evaluates a candidate’s understanding of the official road signs and traffic rules as defined by the Pakistan Highway Code.
During the exam, candidates are presented with a series of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) that include visual depictions of various traffic signs. Applicants must select the correct interpretation of each sign to demonstrate that they can recognize road signals quickly and respond appropriately while driving.
The test is available in both English and Urdu, ensuring accessibility for all applicants. A passing score is mandatory to progress toward obtaining a permanent driving license.
Purpose of the Traffic Signs Test
The goal of the traffic sign test is to ensure that every licensed driver in Pakistan:
- Understands the meaning and importance of all traffic signs
- Recognizes regulatory and safety signals instantly while driving
- Can interpret road warnings, directions, and instructions correctly
- Drives responsibly, minimizing accidents and violations
This test is not merely a formality; it is a critical measure to maintain road safety and discipline across Pakistan’s ever-busy highways and urban streets.
Types of Traffic Signs in Pakistan
Pakistan categorizes traffic signs into three main types, each serving a specific purpose. Drivers must understand these categories to pass the test and drive safely on any road in the country.
1. Informative Signs – Guidance and Direction
Informative signs provide drivers with essential information that helps them navigate smoothly. These signs typically feature blue backgrounds and white symbols or text, offering directions, locations, or services.
Examples of Informative Signs:
- Speed Limit: Displays the maximum or minimum allowed speed on a particular road section (e.g., 60 km/h).
- Hospital Ahead: Indicates a nearby medical facility.
- Fuel Station: Alerts the driver to the location of a petrol station.
- Parking Area: Shows a designated space where parking is permitted.
- Direction/Route Sign: Guides drivers toward specific destinations such as cities, highways, or landmarks.
- Rest Area: Indicates a safe zone for resting or vehicle maintenance.
Purpose: To keep drivers informed and reduce confusion on long routes or within urban zones.
2. Regulatory Signs – Rules and Restrictions
Regulatory signs are among the most critical for drivers, as they define laws, restrictions, and mandatory instructions that must be followed at all times. Ignoring these signs can result in fines, penalties, or even accidents.
They usually feature red and white colors, symbolizing commands or prohibitions.
Examples of Regulatory Signs:
- Stop Sign: Instructs drivers to bring the vehicle to a complete halt before proceeding safely.
- No Entry: Restricts entry into a specific lane or area.
- No Parking: Prohibits vehicle parking in the marked area.
- One Way: Directs vehicles to move in only one designated direction.
- No U-Turn: Indicates that taking a U-turn is prohibited.
- Pedestrian Crossing: Alerts drivers to slow down and give way to pedestrians.
- Horn Prohibited: Restrains drivers from honking in sensitive areas such as near hospitals or schools.
- Weight Limit / Load Restriction: Specifies the maximum vehicle weight allowed on a particular bridge or road.
Purpose: To ensure lawful driving practices and maintain traffic order across all routes.
3. Warning Signs – Awareness and Caution
Warning signs alert drivers to potential dangers or changes in road conditions ahead. These triangular signs, usually yellow or red, are meant to prepare the driver for preventive actions like slowing down, maintaining lane discipline, or taking an alternate route.
Examples of Warning Signs:
- Sharp Turn Ahead: Indicates a sudden bend in the road.
- Narrow Bridge: Warns that a narrow passage or bridge is coming up.
- Uneven Road: Alerts drivers about bumps, potholes, or rough surfaces.
- Animal Crossing: Indicates areas where livestock or animals may cross the road.
- Children Crossing: Common near schools, signaling drivers to reduce speed.
- Slippery Road: Cautions about wet or slippery surfaces, especially during rain.
- Falling Rocks: Warns drivers about hilly or mountainous terrain where rocks may fall.
- Traffic Signal Ahead: Alerts drivers of an upcoming signal to prepare for stops.
Purpose: To improve driver awareness and reduce accident risks by pre-warning them of potential hazards.
Traffic Signs Table for Quick Reference
| Type of Sign | Examples |
|---|---|
| Informative Signs | Speed Limit, Fuel Station, Parking Area, Direction Sign |
| Regulatory Signs | No Entry, Stop, One Way, No Parking, Pedestrian Crossing |
| Warning Signs | Curve Ahead, Narrow Bridge, Slippery Road, Falling Rocks |
When is the Traffic Signs Test Required in Pakistan?
The Traffic Signs Test is a mandatory part of the driving license process for all applicants applying for a permanent driving license.
You become eligible for this test after successfully completing your learner’s license period (usually 42 days). Once your learning duration has ended, you must appear for both the theoretical (traffic sign) and practical driving tests.
Without passing the traffic sign test, you cannot proceed to the final driving exam or obtain your full driving license.
Structure of the Traffic Signs Test
The traffic sign test is conducted digitally at the local Driving License Issuing Office (DLIO) or Traffic Police Licensing Center.
Test Format:
- Type: Computerized multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
- Duration: Approximately 10–15 minutes
- Questions: Around 15–20 visual questions
- Language: English or Urdu
- Passing Marks: Typically 80%
Each question displays a traffic sign image, and the candidate must select the correct meaning from the given options. Incorrect answers reduce the final score, so accuracy and attention to detail are essential.
How to Prepare for the Traffic Signs Test in Pakistan
Preparation for the traffic sign test requires focus and understanding of Pakistan’s official road signs. Below are some of the most effective strategies for success:
1. Study the Official Traffic Sign Booklet
Visit your nearest Traffic Police Licensing Office or access the Punjab Police official website to download the Traffic Signs Guide PDF. This booklet contains every sign that may appear in the test, along with its meaning.
2. Take Online Practice Tests
Many regional police websites and driving schools offer mock traffic sign tests online. Taking these practice exams helps familiarize you with the exam format and improves your recognition speed.
3. Understand Real-World Sign Placement
When traveling on roads, observe real-life traffic signs. This reinforces memory and provides practical understanding of how signs function in actual driving environments.
4. Learn Sign Categories Thoroughly
Memorize the difference between regulatory, informative, and warning signs, as this distinction is often tested.
5. Revise Commonly Confused Signs
Certain signs, like “No Entry” and “One Way”, or “No U-turn” and “Left Turn Only”, can appear similar. Pay close attention to their visual differences.
6. Practice in Both English and Urdu
Since the test may be conducted in either language, it’s helpful to understand the meanings of key terms in both.
Common Traffic Signs You Must Know
Below are some of the most frequently used traffic signs across Pakistan that every driver should be familiar with before appearing for the test:
1. Stop Sign
A red octagonal sign instructing the driver to bring the vehicle to a complete stop before proceeding safely.
2. No U-Turn
A red circle with a crossed U-arrow — indicates U-turns are strictly prohibited at that point.
3. No Parking
A circular red-bordered sign showing the letter “P” crossed out — vehicles cannot be parked in that area.
4. No Entry
A circular red sign with a white horizontal bar — vehicles are not allowed to enter from that direction.
5. Speed Limit Sign
Displays the maximum speed limit allowed (e.g., 50 km/h, 80 km/h). Exceeding the limit can result in fines.
6. Pedestrian Crossing
Depicts a human figure walking — alerts drivers to slow down for pedestrians crossing the road.
7. Roundabout Ahead
Indicates an upcoming roundabout, requiring drivers to slow down and yield to vehicles already in the circle.
8. School Zone
Warns drivers of children crossing near educational institutions. Speed must be reduced.
9. Slippery Road
Depicts wavy lines behind a car — warns of wet or slick road conditions ahead.
10. Railway Crossing
Shows a locomotive symbol — alerts of an upcoming railway crossing, requiring caution.
Importance of Knowing Traffic Signs
Mastering traffic signs is more than just passing a test — it’s about driving responsibly and saving lives. Every symbol on the road communicates vital information that ensures smooth traffic flow and prevents collisions.
Knowing your signs means you can:
- React quickly to changing conditions
- Avoid fines and penalties
- Reduce accident risks
- Enhance road awareness and confidence
Ignorance of even a single sign can lead to traffic violations, vehicle damage, or worse, fatal accidents. Hence, traffic sign knowledge forms the foundation of responsible driving in Pakistan.
After Passing the Traffic Signs Test
Once you’ve cleared the traffic signs test, you can proceed to the practical driving test, which assesses your on-road control, parking skills, and adherence to traffic rules. Passing both stages makes you eligible for a permanent driving license issued by the City Traffic Police Department.
Keep your learner’s license, CNIC, and test slip with you when appearing for the final driving test.
Tips for a Successful Traffic Signs Test Experience
- Arrive early at the testing center to avoid last-minute stress.
- Ensure your learner’s license period (42 days) has been completed.
- Choose your preferred test language (English or Urdu) beforehand.
- Carefully observe every sign — even minor details like arrows or colors can change the meaning.
- Stay calm and confident during the test — don’t rush through questions.
Also read: How to trim your Fuel Expenses: Here are Top 10 Tips.
Final Verdict
Passing the Traffic Signs Test in Pakistan 2025 is a crucial step toward becoming a licensed, responsible, and confident driver. It not only validates your knowledge of road symbols but also prepares you for real-world driving challenges.
Understanding the three main categories of traffic signs — informative, regulatory, and warning — enables you to drive safely and efficiently across Pakistan’s diverse road networks.
With proper preparation, practice, and attention to detail, the test is straightforward to pass. Once you succeed, you’re one step closer to obtaining your permanent driving license and ensuring your journey on Pakistan’s roads is both safe and lawful.
Also read: Online Driving License Check Punjab (DLIMS Online Check)