Basic Driving — South Carolina Driver's License Practice Test

This South Carolina Driver's License Basic Driving practice set has 16 practice questions based on the official exam materials, each with an instant explanation. You need 80% on the real South Carolina Driver's License knowledge test to pass.

Sample questions

Three questions from the Basic Driving bank with the correct answer and an explanation. The practice quiz above draws 16 questions at random from the same bank.

1. What is the proper procedure for starting the engine?

   • Right foot on the brake, check the gear selector is in park, turn the ignition or push the start button, then check gauges and dashboard indicator lights — Correct answer
   • Press the accelerator first, then turn the key with the gear selector in drive
   • Start the engine while holding the parking brake release
   • Turn the ignition with both feet off the pedals and the gear selector in neutral on a hill

   Explanation: Place your right foot on the brake pedal, check that the gear selector lever is in park, turn the ignition switch to the on position (or push and release the engine start button), then check the gauges and any dashboard indicator lights that need attention.

   Handbook: Basic Driving — Starting the Engine

2. Before moving the vehicle forward, what should you do?

   • Check the path ahead and for traffic to the sides, behind, and in blind spots by looking over your shoulder, signal, then accelerate gradually with the heel on the floor — Correct answer
   • Accelerate quickly to merge before other vehicles arrive
   • Rely only on the rearview mirror — shoulder checks are unnecessary
   • Signal after the vehicle is already moving

   Explanation: Shift to drive, look in front to ensure the path is safe, check for traffic or obstacles on the sides, behind, and in any blind spots by looking over your shoulder, signal, and then accelerate gradually and smoothly with the heel of your foot on the floor.

   Handbook: Basic Driving — Moving the Vehicle

3. What is the proper way to stop the vehicle?

   • Check mirrors for traffic behind, move your foot from the accelerator to the brake, and press with steady pressure until stopped — Correct answer
   • Stamp on the brake pedal hard at the last moment
   • Shift into park first, then brake
   • Use the parking brake for all normal stops

   Explanation: Check your mirrors for traffic at the rear of your vehicle, move your foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal, and press with steady pressure until the vehicle comes to a stop.

   Handbook: Basic Driving — Stopping the Vehicle