See ahead and to both sides
The driver must have a full, clear view of the roadway ahead and to the right and left while the vehicle is in use. The old manual has a missing negative in this paragraph; the intended rule prohibits operation with an obstructed view. Do not fill the view with goods, stickers, passengers or an unsecured object.
Rear-view mirrors must provide a clear reflection of traffic behind in clear weather. The manual states an exception for tractors. Even with mirrors, a vehicle may have blind areas: use the appropriate observation before moving or changing direction rather than assuming everything is visible in one mirror.
Outside and inside mirrors
A motor car, minibus, bus or goods vehicle requires an exterior mirror on the driver’s side and an interior rear-view mirror. If the interior mirror cannot provide the required rear view because of the vehicle’s construction or load, an additional exterior mirror on the opposite side must provide the alternative view.
Adjust mirrors from the normal driving position before setting off. Recheck after another driver uses the vehicle or a load changes the view. An extra mirror does not permit the front or side view to be blocked.
Windscreen safety and transparency
The windscreen must give sufficient visibility for safe driving and be made of the required safety glass. The manual gives a minimum visible-light transmission through the windscreen of 70%. A tint or film must not reduce the whole windscreen below the applicable requirement.
Keep the glass clean and treat damage or an obstruction in the viewing area as a safety concern. A driver cannot see through glare, dirt or a fogged screen merely because the glass material is approved.
Wipe the area that matters
A light or heavy vehicle with a windscreen must have at least one wiper that continuously, evenly and adequately wipes the outside area directly in front of the driver. A moving arm with a perished blade does not meet the functional purpose. Check the usable swept area before entering rain.
Worked situation
A van’s new load blocks the inside mirror. The driver cannot simply ignore rearward observation. Check the required exterior mirrors, including the opposite-side mirror needed for the alternative rear view, and ensure the load is secure and does not obstruct the front or side views.
Additional motorcycle and heavy-vehicle mirrors
Motorcycles, motor tricycles and motor quadrucycles require mirrors on both sides of their handlebars. A minibus, bus or goods vehicle above 3,500 kg GVM first registered on or after 1 January 1987 requires exterior mirrors on both sides. The generic interior/exterior description in the learner manual must not be used to omit these class-specific mirrors.