Texas Car / Permit practice question · Speed & Space Management
In good conditions at speeds above 30 mph, what is the smallest gap you should keep behind the vehicle in front?
Answer choices
- One second
- Two seconds
- Eight seconds
- Four seconds— Correct answer
Why this is the answer
At speeds above 30 mph, keep a four-second gap between your car and the one ahead when road conditions are good. A two-second gap is the minimum only at 30 mph or less. The handbook calls four seconds the best habit for a new or less experienced driver, and you should allow more time in poor conditions.
Source: Texas Driver Handbook — Following Distance
Content reviewed against official driver handbooks · August 12, 2026
More Speed & Space Management questions
- How does driving at a higher speed affect the distance needed to stop your vehicle?
- A minimum speed limit is posted on the highway you are using. This means that:
- The total distance your vehicle needs to stop is made up of:
- Unless a different limit is posted, how fast may you drive in an alley in Texas?
- Even when you are within the posted speed limit, Texas law says you must: