This chapter shifts from the driver to the vehicle — covering registration and titling requirements, the required equipment every vehicle must have in working order (lights, brakes, mirrors, horn, wipers, tires), and the equipment that is explicitly not allowed (extra lights, sirens, obstructed windows, and similar items).
It also introduces Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), explaining the difference between systems that only warn a driver (like blind spot or forward collision warnings) and systems that actively intervene to help avoid a crash (like automatic emergency braking or lane keeping assistance), plus how anti-lock brakes (ABS) change the correct way to brake in an emergency.
Frequently tested material includes distinguishing a "warning" ADAS system from an "intervention" ADAS system, knowing that a vehicle with ABS should be braked with firm, continuous pressure (not pumped) during an emergency stop, and recognizing which equipment defects would fail a basic vehicle safety check. A common mistake is assuming all driver-assistance technology actively takes over the vehicle — many systems only alert the driver and still require the driver to react.
What's the key difference between a collision warning system and a collision intervention system?⌄
A warning system (like blind spot warning or forward collision warning) only alerts the driver that a hazard exists — the driver still has to react — while an intervention system (like automatic emergency braking or blind spot intervention) actively takes an action, such as applying the brakes or nudging the steering, to help avoid the crash.
How should you brake in an emergency if your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS)?⌄
Press down firmly on the brake pedal and hold steady pressure while steering out of danger — do not pump the brakes, since pumping (the technique used for conventional brakes) actually disengages the ABS system.
Why does a vehicle's equipment matter for a safe driving test, not just everyday driving?⌄
An examiner will refuse to administer a driving skills test if basic safety equipment — like headlights, brake lights, mirrors, or tires — is defective, so a vehicle with equipment problems can fail the test before the driving portion even begins, on top of being unsafe on the road generally.