DGT exam English glossary
The DGT theory exam in English is translated almost literally from Spanish. These are the phrases that most often confuse English-speaking drivers — with what each one actually means.
The confusing-wording glossary
| Official DGT English | Plain-English meaning |
|---|---|
| “Change of direction” | Change lanes (NOT turning) |
| “Preferential way” | Priority road |
| “Interurban road” | Road outside a city/town |
| “Cyclomotor” | Moped / scooter |
| “Platform” | Road surface / carriageway |
| “Immobilize the vehicle” | Stop the car |
| “Slow march” / “slow speed” | Slow-moving traffic |
| “Authorized to circulate” | Allowed to drive |
| “Via” | Road / route |
| “Tow vehicle” | Vehicle towing a trailer |
| “Effect an overtaking” | Overtake a vehicle |
| “Concessional road” | Toll road |
| “Mixed traffic” | Road shared by different vehicle types |
| “Signposted road” | Road with priority signs |
| “Lack of visibility” | Poor visibility conditions |
| “Intermediate lane” | Middle lane |
| “Reserve lane” | Lane reserved for specific vehicles |
| “Hard shoulder” | Emergency lane / shoulder |
| “Carriageway” | Main road surface |
| “Circulation” | Traffic / driving |
The phrases people ask about most
What does “change of direction” mean on the DGT exam?
It means changing lanes — moving sideways into another lane — not making a turn. It's one of the most commonly misread phrases on the test.
What is a “preferential way”?
A priority road — a road where you have right of way over traffic joining it.
What does “cyclomotor” mean?
A moped or scooter — a small low-powered two-wheeler, not a bicycle.
What is an “interurban road”?
Any road outside a built-up town or city — the opposite of an urban (in-town) road.
See these phrases in real practice questions — with a plain-English rewrite on every one.
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