Do all passengers have to wear a safety belt?
Yes. Whether in the front or back seat, all passengers in Massachusetts must wear a safety belt.
Is it legal to text and drive?
No. Drivers in Massachusetts are not allowed to text while driving.
Is it legal to text and use a cell phone?
Yes. Drivers over the age of 18 are allowed to carry on conversations on a cell phone while driving. Driver under the age of 18 may only use a cell phone while driving in case of an emergency.
What is a safe distance to maintain when driving behind other vehicles?
Drivers should allow for at least a distance of at least two seconds when following other vehicles.
How fast can a moped be driven?
Moped operators cannot go faster than 25 miles per hour.
How fast can a scooter be driven?
A scooter may not be driven at speeds in excess of 20 miles per hour.
How fast can drivers go in a school zone?
Drivers must not exceed 20 miles per hour when passing by a school.
What does a flashing yellow light mean?
Flashing yellow lights indicate motorists are approaching a dangerous intersection and should slow down before proceeding.
What does a green traffic light mean?
Green traffic lights mean drivers may proceed through an intersection. However, drivers must yield to pedestrians or other vehicles in the intersection.
Is it legal to pass a vehicle that is stopping or slowing for a pedestrian?
No. Drivers must stay behind any vehicle that is yielding to a pedestrian.
What does a red traffic sign indicate?
Red traffic signs indicate drivers must stop or are prohibited from certain actions, such as making a u-turn.
What does a yellow traffic sign indicate?
Yellow traffic signs offer various warnings for drivers, such as cautioning that they are entering a school zone.
Is it legal to change lanes in an intersection?
No. Drivers are not allowed to change lanes in an intersection.
How far in advance should drivers signal when exiting a highway?
Drivers should signal their intent to exit a highway at least 500 feet in advance.
How far in advance should drivers signal a turn not in a highway?
Drivers should signal their intent to make a turn at least 100 feet in advance.
If two vehicles arrive at an intersection at the same time, who has the right of way?
The driver on the left should yield to the vehicle on the right.
Is it legal to exceed the speed limit when passing another vehicle?
No. Drivers must obey the speed limit when passing. If a passing maneuver cannot be completed without exceeding the speed limit, it should not be executed.
Are drivers required to lock their vehicles when passing?
Yes. It is not legal to leave an unattended, parked vehicle unlocked in Massachusetts.
How close can a vehicle be legally parked near an intersection?
Drivers can park no closer than 20 feet to an intersection.