Practice test 1 of 10 — South Dakota permit test

The correct answer to each question above, why it is right, and where it comes from. Try the test first.

1. Question 1: B. A railroad crossing ahead

   The letters RXR painted on the road warn of a railroad crossing ahead.

   Handbook: Chapter: Traffic signals and pavement markings — Pavement markings

2. Question 2: C. A series of curves

   The wavy arrow means a winding road with a series of curves. Keep your speed down until it straightens.

   Handbook: Chapter: Traffic signs — Warning signs

3. Question 3: B. Others may not expect it, and it can cause a crash

   Changing lanes in an intersection surprises other drivers and people crossing, so it often causes crashes.

   Handbook: Chapter: Turning, passing and lane use — Changing lanes

4. Question 4: C. 35%

   Front side windows may not reduce "the light transmittance to a level below 35%".

   Handbook: Before You Drive — Windshield & Windows

5. Question 5: A. On the outside edge of a sharp curve

   Chevron signs are placed on the outside of a sharp curve and point the way to steer.

   Handbook: Chapter: Traffic signs — Warning signs

6. Question 6: A. Let the cyclist pass, then turn

   Yield to the cyclist in the bike lane. Let them go by, then make your turn behind them.

   Handbook: Chapter: Sharing the road — Bicycles

7. Question 7: B. It is prohibited

   The manual says "Texting, reading texts, and social networking is prohibited by state law."

   Handbook: Be in Shape to Drive — Driver Distractions

8. Question 8: D. Drive slower than the posted speed

   The posted speed is the most you may drive in good conditions. In heavy rain you must drive slower than that to stay safe.

   Handbook: Chapter: Traffic signs — Regulatory signs

9. Question 9: D. Over your right shoulder through the rear window

   Turn and look over your right shoulder through the rear window, and check all around, not just your mirrors.

   Handbook: Chapter: Turning, passing and lane use — Backing

10. Question 10: A. Saves very little time and adds a lot of risk

    Speeding on most trips saves only a few minutes but raises the chance and harm of a crash.

    Handbook: Chapter: Speed and following distance — Basic speed rule

11. Question 11: C. On bridges and overpasses

    Bridges and overpasses lose heat from above and below, so ice forms on them first.

    Handbook: Chapter: Safe driving and hazards — Skids and slippery roads

12. Question 12: B. The first letter of your last name

    Renewals use a staggered system "based on the first letter in your last name".

    Handbook: The Driver’s License — Vehicle Registration and Titles

13. Question 13: A. 0.08 percent

    In nearly every state the limit for drivers 21 and over is 0.08 percent; a state may set it lower.

    Handbook: Chapter: Alcohol, drugs and penalties — Legal limits

14. Question 14: A. To speed up to match highway traffic

    Use the acceleration lane to get up to the speed of highway traffic so you can merge smoothly.

    Handbook: Chapter: Turning, passing and lane use — Highway driving

15. Question 15: A. The light is about to turn red

    A steady yellow light warns that the light is about to turn red. Stop if you can do so safely.

    Handbook: Chapter: Traffic signals and pavement markings — Traffic signals

16. Question 16: A. Ease off the gas and steer where you want to go

    In a skid, ease off the gas and steer gently where you want the car to go.

    Handbook: Chapter: Safe driving and hazards — Skids and slippery roads

17. Question 17: D. Signal, check your blind spot, and yield

    Signal, check your mirrors and blind spot, and yield to traffic before pulling out.

    Handbook: Chapter: Parking and stopping — Parallel parking

18. Question 18: C. Yes, if that speed is unsafe for conditions

    Yes. Under the basic speed rule you can be ticketed for driving at the limit when conditions make that speed unsafe.

    Handbook: Chapter: Speed and following distance — Basic speed rule

19. Question 19: A. Brake early and gently

    Brake early and gently to give the tailgater time to notice and slow down.

    Handbook: Chapter: Speed and following distance — Following distance

20. Question 20: C. Near schools, parks, and playgrounds

    Children near schools, parks and playgrounds may run into the road without looking.

    Handbook: Chapter: Sharing the road — Pedestrians

21. Question 21: D. 60 days

    The table lists "First Suspension 60 days", then 6 months, then 1 year for later ones.

    Handbook: The Driver’s License — South Dakota Point System

22. Question 22: B. You may be ticketed and charged rescue costs

    On a closed road "you could also be given a ticket and be held accountable" for rescue costs.

    Handbook: Special Driving Situations — Winter Driving Safety Tips

23. Question 23: A. 45 mph

    You must slow to "at least twenty miles per hour less than the posted speed limit", so 45 mph at most.

    Handbook: Attention — South Dakota Codified Law 32-31-6.1

24. Question 24: D. You may take more risks

    Strong feelings make you take more risks and pay less attention, so wait until you are calm before you drive.

    Handbook: Chapter: Safe driving and hazards — Defensive driving

25. Question 25: A. Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing

    Flashing red lights at a crossing mean a train is coming. Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing, even if you see no train.

    Handbook: Chapter: Traffic signals and pavement markings — Railroad crossing signals