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Model Town Board for the NTSA Driving Exam Key Questions & Answers: Everything You Need to Know

model town board

The Model Town Board is an essential part of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) driving exam. It is designed to simulate real-life traffic situations found in major towns across Kenya and East Africa. As a simplified representation of a road network, it provides drivers with an opportunity to learn the basics of traffic rules, road signs, and how to navigate various road types, including one-way roads, roundabouts, pedestrian crossings, and parking zones.

For those preparing for the NTSA driving exam, understanding the Model Town Board is critical. This guide will explore the key features of the Model Town Board, its components, and how you can master the most common questions to help you pass your driving exam.


What is the Model Town Board?

The Model Town Board serves as a teaching tool, offering a visual representation of road networks, traffic control mechanisms, and signage typically found in Kenyan towns. It plays a vital role in helping learners comprehend how roads are laid out, the various traffic flow regulations, and road safety measures.

The key features of the Model Town Board include:

  1. One-Way Traffic Road
  2. Two-Way Traffic Road
  3. Roundabout
  4. Parking Zones
  5. Yellow Kerb
  6. Pedestrian Crossing
  7. Stop Sign
  8. Give Way Sign
  9. Exit from Main Road
  10. Exit from Controlled Parking Zone
  11. Road Markings

Key Components of the Model Town Board

A. One-Way Traffic Road (Dual Carriage Way)

  • Definition: A one-way road is a street where traffic flows in only one direction. This is typically seen in busy urban areas and highways.
  • Key Features:
    • White continuous line: No overtaking or lane changing allowed.
    • White broken line: Overtaking or lane changing is allowed if the road is clear.
    • Yellow Kerb: Marks the boundary where parking or stopping is prohibited.
    • Central Reserve: A physical or painted barrier separating two one-way roads.
  • Example Question: On a one-way road with a continuous white line, what is the correct procedure if you want to change lanes?
    • Answer: You must not change lanes as the continuous white line prohibits lane changes.

B. Two-Way Traffic Road (Single Carriageway)

  • Definition: A two-way road allows traffic to move in opposite directions.
  • Key Features:
    • Yellow continuous line: No overtaking allowed.
    • Yellow broken line: Overtaking is allowed if the road is clear.
    • Pedestrian Crossing: A designated area for pedestrians to cross, marked by road markings and sometimes traffic lights.
  • Example Question: When approaching a two-way road with a yellow continuous line in the center, what should you do?
    • Answer: Stick to your lane and avoid overtaking.

C. Roundabout

  • Definition: A roundabout is a circular intersection where multiple roads meet. It helps manage traffic flow without the need for traffic lights.
  • Rules:
    • Vehicles must go around the central island in a clockwise direction.
    • Lane discipline is critical: Do not change lanes or overtake.
    • Keep left unless overtaking.
    • No stopping or parking inside the roundabout.
  • Example Question: What is the correct procedure when approaching a roundabout?
    • Answer: Approach in the correct lane, yield to traffic already in the roundabout, and enter when safe.

D. Parking Zones

There are two main types of parking zones in the Model Town Board: Angle Parking and Flush Parking.

  1. Angle Parking: Cars park diagonally to the road. It is often found in urban areas.
    • Rules:
      • Strictly for small vehicles (e.g., saloon cars).
      • Park in forward gear, exit by reversing.
  2. Flush Parking: Vehicles park parallel to the curb.
    • Rules:
      • All vehicles except heavy ones like tractors can park.
      • Park by reversing, exit by moving forward.
  • Example Question: When using flush parking, what is the correct way to park and exit?
    • Answer: Park by reversing into the spot, and exit by driving forward.

E. Stop Sign

A Stop Sign is used at intersections or junctions to control traffic. It is a red, eight-sided sign, instructing vehicles to stop, check for oncoming traffic, and proceed only when the way is clear.

  • Rules:
    • Stop fully at the line.
    • Look both ways (left, right, and left again) before proceeding.
  • Example Question: At a stop sign, what should you do?
    • Answer: Stop, check both directions, and only proceed when it is safe.

F. Give Way (Yield) Sign

The Give Way sign is a red, downward-pointing triangle, indicating that a driver must slow down or stop to allow other vehicles to pass.

  • Rules:
    • Slow down, and yield to traffic coming from other directions.
    • Proceed only if the road is clear and safe.
  • Example Question: What should you do when you approach a Give Way sign?
    • Answer: Slow down or stop if necessary and proceed when safe.

Common Mistakes in the Model Town Board

Even experienced drivers can make mistakes while navigating the Model Town Board, especially during the NTSA driving exam. Here are some common errors:

  1. Wrong Lane Choices at Roundabouts: Approaching a roundabout in the incorrect lane, or leaving the roundabout in the wrong lane, can lead to confusion and fail the exam.
  2. Failing to Observe Traffic Lights: Ignoring or misinterpreting traffic signals, especially when approaching roundabouts, can result in penalties.
  3. Improper Parking: Parking in controlled zones or not adhering to the designated parking rules can lead to deductions.
  4. Overtaking in Prohibited Zones: Attempting to overtake on roads where overtaking is not allowed can be a costly mistake.

How to Prepare for the NTSA Driving Exam: Key Tips

  1. Study the Traffic Act and Highway Code: Familiarize yourself with the Traffic Act and the Highway Code, as these documents lay the foundation for safe road use.
  2. Practice Model Town Board Questions: Regularly practice questions related to the Model Town Board. This will improve your understanding of road signage, traffic flow, and lane discipline.
  3. Understand Road Markings: Pay attention to the various road markings (arrows, delta marks, etc.) as they play a significant role in your driving exam.
  4. Take Practical Driving Lessons: Take as many practical lessons as you can, focusing on navigating roundabouts, understanding one-way and two-way roads, and parking correctly.

Pass Your NTSA Driving Exam with Confidence

Mastering the Model Town Board and understanding its key components are vital steps in acing the NTSA driving exam. By familiarizing yourself with the road types, traffic signs, and rules, you can significantly improve your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt.

Ready to take your driving skills to the next level? Join a certified driving school today and start practicing for the NTSA exam. Don’t forget to review the Model Town Board and brush up on your traffic rules—your journey to becoming a qualified driver starts now!


The Model Town Board is more than just a visual aid—it’s an essential learning tool that prepares aspiring drivers for the complexities of real-world road networks. By following this guide and practicing consistently, you’ll be well on your way to passing the NTSA driving exam and becoming a confident, road-wise driver in Kenya.