Two, three or four seconds behind
A free practice question for the Virginia permit test, with the answer explained.
Independent practice site. We're not the DMV and aren't connected to any government agency.
On a dry road at 40 mph, how far behind the car ahead should you stay?
The rule
On dry roads, follow at least 2 seconds behind under 35 mph, 3 seconds at 35-45 mph and 4 seconds at 46-70 mph. Count from when the car ahead passes a fixed point.
Virginia's following rule depends on speed: 2 seconds under 35 mph, 3 seconds at 35 to 45 mph, and 4 seconds at 46 to 70 mph.
From the Virginia Driver's Manual, section 3, page 19. This question is our own wording of that rule. The handbook and the DMV have the final word.
Often mixed up with
People confuse these rules with this one. Each has its own practice question.
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