1.1Basic Definitions
Start with the people and roles involved in road use. These terms come up throughout the manual.
Driver
A person who operates and controls a vehicle on public roads - or is in charge of animals - while following traffic laws and ensuring safety.
Pedestrian
A person walking on the sidewalk or along the road. Also includes anyone pushing a baby carriage, wheelchair, or small non-motor vehicle, walking a bicycle/moped, or using a wheelchair.
Vehicle Owner
The person registered as owner in the official register. Must keep ownership documents in the vehicle, show them to authorities on request, and ensure no unlicensed person drives it.
1.2Introduction to Vehicle Types
Understanding vehicle types isn't just for the exam - it makes you a safer, more knowledgeable driver. Vehicles vary widely in design, purpose, size, and the legal requirements for using them on the road.
VehicleAny apparatus capable of moving on public or private roads. May carry people, animals, goods, or equipment - motorised or non-motorised.
Motor VehicleA vehicle powered by an engine, designed for road use. Excludes mopeds, trams, and vehicles for people with reduced mobility.
AutomobileA type of motor vehicle that transports people, goods, or both - including vehicles designed to tow others. Excludes special-purpose vehicles.
Special Vehicle
Designed for specific functions such as construction, agriculture, or public service. Can be self-propelled or towed.
1.3Classification of Vehicles
Vehicles are categorised by propulsion, construction, and intended use. The official "use" categories are the most important to memorise.
Categories by use (M · N · O)
| Category | Designed to transport | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| M | People and their luggage | Cars, buses |
| N | Goods | Vans, trucks |
| O | People or goods - trailers | Trailers |
Non-motor vehicles
Cycle
- Manually powered vehicle with at least two wheels, moved by pedals or cranks.
Bicycle
- The most common cycle - two wheels.
Animal-traction vehicle
- Carts or carriages pulled by animals such as horses or oxen.
Trailer
- Designed to be pulled by a motor vehicle, used to transport goods.
Semi-trailer
- A trailer that rests part of its own weight on the towing vehicle.
Caravan
- Built to provide living accommodation while stationary.
Special category - Mopeds.
Lightweight motorised vehicles with an engine of no more than 50 cc and a maximum design speed of 45 km/h. Four-wheeled versions are called light quadricycles, common in small urban transport.
Other classified vehicles
Reduced-mobility vehicles
Specially designed for safe, comfortable transport of people with disabilities or reduced mobility.
Trams
Rail vehicles running on tracks embedded in city streets - a form of public transport.
1.4Motor Vehicles - Automobiles
Motor vehicles are distinguished mainly by their intended function and physical characteristics.
Two-wheeled motorcycles
- Engine larger than 50 cc
- Speeds over 45 km/h
- Individual transport & leisure
Motorcycles with sidecar
- Extra wheel via a sidecar
- More passenger/cargo space
- Keeps motorcycle controls
Three-wheeled vehicles
- Symmetrical three-wheel layout
- Car stability + motorcycle handling
Motor quadricycles
- Four wheels
- Max unladen 450 kg (passenger) / 600 kg (goods)
- Urban & industrial use
Passenger cars ("Turismo")
- Private passenger transport
- Up to 9 people incl. driver
- Compact cars to luxury sedans
Derived from passenger cars
- Modified for goods transport
- One row of seats + cargo space
- Keeps the tourism body
Buses & coaches
- Carry more than 9 passengers
- Buses: within cities
- Coaches: long-distance
Mixed-use vehicles
- Carry passengers or goods
- Good for small business & family
Trucks
- Built to transport goods
- Separate cab and cargo area
Vans & panel vans
- Commercial use
- Cabin integrated with cargo area
Tractor units
- Specialised to haul semi-trailers
- Key to freight & logistics
1.5Vehicle Combinations
Some vehicles operate joined to others. These need additional driving skill - especially for stability and braking distances.
Road Trains
- A motor vehicle connected to one or more trailers.
Articulated Vehicles
- A motor vehicle pulling a semi-trailer, allowing better manoeuvrability.
1.6Special Motor Vehicles
Purpose-built vehicles for farming, public service, construction, and leisure.
Agricultural tractors
- Used mainly in farming
- Tow heavy machinery & trailers
Self-propelled service machines
- Street sweepers, snow plows
- Built for maintenance tasks
Self-propelled construction machine
- Two or more axles
- Performs construction / heavy work
Quad - ATV
- Traction system, four+ wheels, handlebar
- Speed limited by features/use
Construction backhoe
- At least two axles
- Moves, tows or pushes work equipment
Tourist train
- Tractor unit with trailers
- Carries passengers for sightseeing
- Limited top speed; specific restrictions
1.7Vehicle Mass & Weight Terms
Understanding weight is essential for safe operation. Respecting these limits protects road safety and vehicle longevity.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Tare Weight (Unladen Mass) | Weight of the vehicle with essential fluids but no passengers or cargo. |
| Tare Weight in motion | Tare weight plus the weight of the driver. |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Total weight of the vehicle fully loaded. |
| Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) | Legal limit for total mass while in use. |
| Max. Authorised Mass of the combination | Highest total weight a loaded vehicle may have when travelling on public roads. |
| Axle Load | Weight supported by a single axle. |
| Weight per axle | Amount of weight a single axle transmits to the ground through its wheels. |
1.8Final Notes for New Drivers
Knowing vehicle types is more than exam preparation - it is vital for:
Choosing the right licencePick the correct category for the vehicles you intend to drive.
Understanding behaviourKnow how different vehicles behave under different conditions.
Road awarenessStrengthen defensive driving and overall awareness.
Knowledge builds confidence, and confidence builds safe drivers.
Ready to test your knowledge?
Practice questions covering everything in Chapter 1 - Vehicle Types.