Utah permit test: following distance & space
Following-distance rules, stopping distance and keeping a space cushion. 4 questions.
What minimum following distance does the Utah handbook recommend in good conditions?
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Sample following distance & space questions
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What minimum following distance does the Utah handbook recommend in good conditions?
- A Two seconds
- B Four seconds
- C One second
- D One car length for every 20 mph
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A. Two seconds
Use the two-second rule: stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead. Increase the gap in bad weather or poor visibility.
Source: Utah Driver Handbook (AAMVA Model Non-Commercial), page 36
How should you change your following distance when driving at night?
- A Keep the same two-second gap as in daylight
- B Increase it by at least two seconds
- C Increase it by a half second
- D Shorten it so you can use the other car's lights
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B. Increase it by at least two seconds
At night, add at least two seconds to your following distance. Darkness limits how far you can see, so you need extra time to react.
Source: Utah Driver Handbook (AAMVA Model Non-Commercial), page 71
According to 2025 Utah Highway Safety data in the handbook, what is the leading cause of all crashes on Utah highways?
- A Running red lights
- B Following too closely
- C Unsafe lane changes
- D Speeding too fast for conditions
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B. Following too closely
Following too closely causes 21% of all crashes on Utah highways, more than any other factor, and it is also the top cause for teen drivers. Keeping at least two seconds of space is one of the best ways to avoid a crash.
Source: Utah Driver Handbook (AAMVA Model Non-Commercial), page 7
You stop behind another vehicle at an intersection. How much space should you leave?
- A Close enough that its license plate fills your view
- B Exactly one car length
- C Enough that you can see its rear tires
- D Close enough to touch bumpers
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C. Enough that you can see its rear tires
When stopping behind another vehicle, stop where you can see its rear tires on the road. This leaves room to go around it if it stalls, and it cushions you if you are hit from behind.
Source: Utah Driver Handbook (AAMVA Model Non-Commercial), page 41