South Carolina Permit Practice Test

Correct answer: Reduce your judgment and slow your reaction time

Alcohol and other impairing drugs reduce your judgment, vision, ability to distinguish colors, and reaction time. For new drivers learning complex skills, the effects are even greater.

Correct answer: Non-commercial passenger vehicles, such as cars and trucks, that do not exceed 26,000 pounds GVW

A Class D license lets you drive non-commercial passenger vehicles — cars and trucks — that do not exceed 26,000 pounds GVW. It also lets you operate a moped or three-wheel vehicle, but not a two-wheel motorcycle.

Correct answer: Once a month

Check your tire pressure with a gauge monthly, and check when the tires are cold. Compare the reading to the PSI number on the sticker inside the driver’s doorframe, then add or release air to match.

Correct answer: Braking, steering, or accelerating

All drivers have the responsibility to prevent collisions. Your three options to avoid a collision or reduce its impact are braking, steering, or accelerating.

Correct answer: Still in the intersection ahead of you

You should yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who are still in the intersection, even if you have a green light or otherwise have the right-of-way.

Correct answer: Always wear them when driving

If corrective lenses are required, always wear them when driving. It is unlawful to drive without them if they are needed to meet the minimum vision standards.

Correct answer: Its red or amber lights flashing or its stop arm extended

Stop the entire time a school bus is stopped or preparing to stop with its red or amber lights flashing or its stop arm extended. Once the lights stop and the arm is withdrawn, proceed slowly and watch for children.

Correct answer: You may go through the intersection if it is clear to do so, with caution

A green light means you may go through the intersection if it is clear to do so, with caution. You must still yield to any traffic or pedestrians already in the intersection.

Correct answer: At what is occurring 20 to 30 seconds in front of your vehicle

Ideally, you should try to look at what is occurring 20 to 30 seconds in front of your vehicle. Looking well down your path lets you see conditions early and plan your driving movements.

Correct answer: The lane closest to the direction you want to turn

When turning, search all corners for traffic controls, pedestrians, and vehicles, signal your intentions, and enter and maintain the lane that is closest to the direction you want to turn.

Correct answer: With the first drink

Impairment starts with the first drink. Even one drink can affect your ability to operate a motor vehicle, and with one or more drinks in your bloodstream you could be arrested for driving under the influence.

Correct answer: 15 years old

If you have never had a driver's license, you must start with a beginner's permit. You must be at least 15 years old and pass the vision and knowledge tests.

Correct answer: See all of Lincoln’s head above the tread

Place a penny into the deepest groove with Lincoln’s head going in first. If you can see all of his head, the tread is too worn — do not drive on the tires and have them replaced.

Correct answer: Press hard on the brake pedal and keep constant pressure

With ABS, press on the brake pedal as hard as you can and keep applying constant pressure. Do not pump the brakes — that deactivates ABS. You may feel the pedal vibrate, which is normal.

Correct answer: The driver who is at, or arrives before you at, the intersection

You should yield to the driver who is at, or arrives before you at, the intersection. This is often called the First Car Rule.

Correct answer: 7 to 9 hours

Most people need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per day to stay alert. Fatigue affects your vision and slows your decisions, so avoid driving when you are tired.

Correct answer: Yes — you must stop whether meeting or following it on a two-lane road

On any two-lane highway you must stop whether you are meeting the bus or traveling behind it when its red or amber lights are flashing or its stop arm is out.

Correct answer: The signal is about to turn red; stop if you can do so safely

A yellow caution light warns that the signal is about to change to red. You should stop and wait for the next green light; if you are already in the intersection, clear it as quickly as possible.

Correct answer: Keep your eyes moving and searching, avoiding staring at any one thing

Develop a searching pattern and use it every time you drive. Avoid staring at any one thing; keep your eyes moving and searching for possible problems.

Correct answer: The right-most portion of your lane, avoiding swinging wide to the left first

Always turn right from the right-most portion of your lane, and avoid swinging wide to the left before making the turn.