Which situation requires headlights under South Dakota's ordinary lighting rule?
Correct answer: It is after sunset, or light is insufficient to discern a person 200 feet ahead.
The statute requires lighting from sunset to sunrise and when insufficient light prevents discerning a person 200 feet ahead. Do not import another state's different visibility distance.
Source: Current South Dakota Codified Laws §32-17-4. Reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
How should you check the inflation pressure for an ordinary car?
Correct answer: Use a gauge on cold tires and compare with the vehicle's recommended pressure on the door jamb or in its manual.
The handbook calls for a gauge and the vehicle's recommended cold pressure. Appearance and the tire's maximum marking are not substitutes.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 23: Check Tire Pressure with a Pressure Gauge Monthly. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
The brake pedal goes to the floor and the brakes seem abnormal before a planned trip. What should you do?
Correct answer: Have the braking system checked rather than begin the trip in an unsafe vehicle.
The manual treats unusual noise, smell or a pedal going to the floor as reasons to have a mechanic check the brakes. Do not normalize an unsafe condition.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 23: Vehicle Maintenance — braking system. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
Why should you never leave a car engine running in a closed garage?
Correct answer: Exhaust gases can cause fatal poisoning.
Exhaust gases can be deadly, and some leaks are not audible. A closed garage is not a safe place to idle an engine.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 24: Vehicle Maintenance — exhaust system. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
Before driving after frost or snow, how much of the glass should you clear?
Correct answer: All windows needed for a clear view, not merely a small opening in the windshield.
The handbook says to clear snow, ice and frost from all windows. Side and rear visibility matter as well as the forward view.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 24: Windshield & Windows. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
Your car has airbags. What does that change about wearing the seat belt?
Correct answer: Nothing about the need to buckle up; airbags supplement belts.
Airbags and belts are designed to work together. The belt helps hold the occupant in position and continues providing restraint beyond the initial impact.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 26: Air Bags. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
How should a head restraint be adjusted according to the handbook?
Correct answer: To support the back of the head, not below ear level.
The head restraint is intended to reduce whiplash. A low setting behind the shoulders does not provide the intended head support.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 25: Adjusting Your Seat. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
Before carrying loose items in a pickup bed or on a vehicle, what should you do?
Correct answer: Secure the load so it cannot slide, fall or become airborne.
The manual emphasizes preventing material from falling or blowing into the roadway. Speed or weight alone does not secure a load.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 28: Securing Your Load. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
Before getting into a car to back out of a driveway, what is especially important?
Correct answer: Check behind the car for children and objects hidden from the driver's seat.
Small children and objects may be invisible from the seat or mirrors. Inspect the area first and keep checking while backing slowly.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 30: Backing Up. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
While the vehicle is moving, why must you avoid turning the ignition to LOCK?
Correct answer: It can lock the steering and prevent control of direction.
The manual warns that the locking position can lock the steering. Do not use it while the vehicle is still moving.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 29: Steering Wheel Locking Device. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
What dimming distances does the South Dakota manual recommend for an oncoming vehicle and a vehicle ahead?
Correct answer: Use low beams within 500 feet of either.
This is the manual's driving guidance: dim within 500 feet for oncoming traffic and use low beams when closer than 500 feet behind another vehicle. Avoid glare even sooner when needed.
Source: South Dakota Driver License Manual, current catalog-linked edition, REVISED 11/2024; printed/physical page 55: Use headlights — high/low beams. Text reviewed September 29, 2026. ↗
