Choose an answer to see straight away whether it is right, and why. Read the rule first if you need to.
When may you use the horn?
Use the horn only when you apprehend danger, or where a sign requires it. Needless, continuous or repeated honking is an offence (₹1,000; ₹2,000 for a repeat).
Driving Regulations 2017, Reg. 23; MV Act s.194F
Answer B. Use the horn only when you apprehend danger, or where a sign requires it. Needless, continuous or repeated honking is an offence (₹1,000; ₹2,000 for a repeat).
During which hours is the horn prohibited in residential areas, except in an emergency?
Under the Noise Pollution Rules, no horn may be used in silence zones or at night (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) in residential areas, except in a public emergency.
Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, r.5A
Answer D. Under the Noise Pollution Rules, no horn may be used in silence zones or at night (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) in residential areas, except in a public emergency.
What is the fine for using the horn needlessly or continuously (first offence)?
Section 194F sets ₹1,000 for a first offence and ₹2,000 for a repeat offence.
MV Act s.194F
Answer A. Section 194F sets ₹1,000 for a first offence and ₹2,000 for a repeat offence.
A silence zone can be declared around which places?
An area of at least 100 metres around hospitals, educational institutions and courts may be declared a silence zone. No horn may be used there except in a public emergency.
Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000
Answer B. An area of at least 100 metres around hospitals, educational institutions and courts may be declared a silence zone. No horn may be used there except in a public emergency.
Which of these horns may an ordinary private car be fitted with?
Air horns and multi-tone horns producing harsh or alarming sounds are prohibited. Sirens are only for authorised emergency vehicles.
Driving Regulations 2017, Reg. 23; CMVR Rule 119
Answer B. Air horns and multi-tone horns producing harsh or alarming sounds are prohibited. Sirens are only for authorised emergency vehicles.
On a blind hill bend you see a mandatory 'sound horn' sign. What must you do?
Regulation 23 requires you to sound the horn where a mandatory sign directs it.
Driving Regulations 2017, Reg. 23
Answer C. Regulation 23 requires you to sound the horn where a mandatory sign directs it.
Cattle are standing on the road ahead. What should you do?
Honking or revving frightens animals into unpredictable moves. Slow down, give them room, and stop if a herd is crossing.
Driving Regulations 2017, Regs. 23 and 25
Answer D. Honking or revving frightens animals into unpredictable moves. Slow down, give them room, and stop if a herd is crossing.
The light turns green and the car ahead does not move immediately. What should you do?
Using the horn to hurry other drivers is needless honking, which is an offence. Give the driver a moment.
Answer C. Using the horn to hurry other drivers is needless honking, which is an offence. Give the driver a moment.
Which vehicles may use sirens and flashing red or blue lights?
Only authorised emergency vehicles may use sirens. In 2025 the Supreme Court also directed action against unauthorised hooters and strobe lights.
CMVR Rule 119(3)
Answer B. Only authorised emergency vehicles may use sirens. In 2025 the Supreme Court also directed action against unauthorised hooters and strobe lights.
You feel you need to honk to get past cyclists on a narrow road. What does this usually mean?
The horn is a warning, not a right of way. If you need it to get past, slow down and wait until you can pass safely.
Answer D. The horn is a warning, not a right of way. If you need it to get past, slow down and wait until you can pass safely.
What does this sign mean?
Do not use the horn in this area. Such signs are often placed near hospitals, schools and courts.
Answer A. Do not use the horn in this area. Such signs are often placed near hospitals, schools and courts.