Speed Limits and Control - Qatar Driving Theory Test

If you are driving a truck within city limits in Qatar

You must follow the posted speed limit, typically 60 to 80 km/h. In urban areas, trucks must adhere to standard limits unless lower speeds are posted for heavy vehicles.

When operating a truck on highways in Qatar

The speed limit generally ranges from 80 to 100 km/h for heavy vehicles. Heavy trucks have lower speed limits than cars due to longer braking distances and vehicle mass.

At industrial or construction zones

Truck drivers must slow down to 30 to 40 km/h or posted temporary limits. Work zones may have temporary limits to protect workers and account for lane shifts or equipment

If your truck is heavily loaded

You must reduce speed, especially on curves or slopes. Heavy loads increase stopping distance and affect steering control and speed must be adjusted accordingly.

When driving a truck during heavy rain or sandstorms

Reduce speed significantly to maintain safe control. Poor visibility and slippery roads require slower speeds to avoid skidding or hydroplaning.

If the road is wet, flooded, or partially covered in sand

Lower your speed and increase following distance. Reduced tire traction makes it harder to stop quickly, and steering may be less responsive

At sharp turns or roundabouts with a loaded truck

Slow to below 25 to 30 km/h to avoid rollover. Turning too quickly with a top-heavy load can destabilize the vehicle and cause tipping.

When descending a steep hill with a loaded vehicle

Use engine braking and reduce speed before the slope. Excessive speed with a heavy truck can lead to brake failure due to overheating.

If a truck carries oversized or extended cargo

Reduce speed to prevent loss of control and increase maneuvering space. Wider or longer loads require more time to respond to traffic or road changes.

When following another vehicle in poor weather

Maintain a 4-second gap or more. Reduced visibility and longer stopping distances mean drivers need extra space to react.

If visibility is severely reduced by fog, dust, or rain

Drive below the speed limit with low-beam headlights. Speed must be adjusted to ensure you can stop within your visible range.

When traffic flow is slow or congested

Match the speed of surrounding traffic without abrupt stops. Avoid frequent braking or lane changes, especially in a heavy vehicle.

If the road has posted signs indicating truck limits

You must follow truck-specific speed limits even if lower than general traffic. Some roads in Qatar impose special restrictions for heavy vehicle safety.

If road signs are unclear or missing

Default to the general commercial vehicle limits (60 to 80 km/h in city, 80 to 100 km/h on highway). Never exceed a speed unsafe for your load or conditions.

When entering residential areas or near schools

Trucks must slow to 30 to 40 km/h or as posted. Trucks pose a higher risk due to size and limited visibility near pedestrian areas.

If your truck is towing a trailer

Drive at reduced speed to prevent trailer sway. Towing changes your vehicle handling and increases stopping distance, especially on highways.

At times of strong crosswinds

Truck drivers must reduce speed to maintain stability. High-sided trucks are prone to sway or tipping in wind and slow, steady driving helps maintain control.

When approaching a traffic signal or pedestrian crossing

Reduce speed early and prepare to stop fully. Trucks require more distance to stop, so early deceleration is essential for safety.

If your truck is empty and lightly loaded

Need to reduce speed to prevent bounce or skidding. Empty trucks have less traction, especially on rough or slippery roads.

When approaching tunnels, checkpoints, or weighbridges

Observe and adjust speed to marked limits. Tunnels and weigh stations in Qatar often impose lower limits for safety and monitoring.

If descending a long downgrade on a highway

Use a lower gear and apply brakes intermittently. Continuous braking can lead to brake fade engine braking improves control.

When driving in early morning fog

Visibility is compromised-slower speed ensures you can stop within your visible range.

If tires are underinflated due to heavy load

Reduce speed and use fog lights or low beams. Visibility is compromised and slower speed ensures you can stop within your visible range.

At unpaved or gravel access roads in industrial zones

Trucks must drive under 25 to 30 km/h. Unsealed surfaces reduce traction and increase braking distance.

When carrying perishable or sensitive cargo

Drive smoothly at steady speed to avoid product damage. Sudden acceleration or harsh braking can ruin delicate loads like food or equipment.

If speed cameras are installed on truck routes

Ensure speed does not exceed posted heavy vehicle limits. Radar enforcement is strict in Qatar violations result in fines and demerit points.

When overtaking another slow vehicle

Accelerate only within posted limits and complete the maneuver safely. Never exceed legal truck speed or use road shoulders to pass.

Driving at sharp interchanges or loops

Trucks must reduce speed well below standard posted limits. These sections may require as little as 30 km/h for safe negotiation by heavy vehicles.

If a sign indicates No Trucks Over 5 Tons

Avoid or reroute even if speed is within limits. Road strength and structure determine access and not just speed compliance.

When traffic enforcement vehicles are visible

Maintain legal speed and lane discipline at all times. Sudden braking or lane changes attract inspection and may be penalized.