Driver’s License

Manual

DISCLAIMER:
The manual has been created using materials from the AAMVA
Model Driver’s License Manual with permission from AAMVA.
The state motor vehicle laws mentioned in this book are not
reproduced in their entirety and the wording is not identical.
Due to possible legislative changes in federal and state law
and SCDMV Policy, the information in this manual may not
always be current. The SCDMV will make every effort to
incorporate any changes as soon as possible.

For more information, please visit the SCDMV website at

www.scdmvonline.com
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1 THE DRIVER’S LICENSE
About This Manual ...................................................................1
Types of Driver’s Licenses and Driver’s Permits .....................1
Licensing Requirements ..........................................................4
Graduated Driver's License Program ......................................7
Required Non-Commercial License Tests .............................10
Out-of-State License or Driving on an Existing License ........13
Driver's License Renewal ......................................................15
Loss of Driving Privileges ......................................................18
SECTION 2 STATE LAWS AND RULES OF THE ROAD
State Laws ...............................................................................1
State Rules of the Road ..........................................................2
SECTION 3 BE IN SHAPE TO DRIVE
Vision .......................................................................................1
Fatigue .....................................................................................3
Driver Distractions ...................................................................4
Aggressive Driving ...................................................................4
Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving ...........................................5
Emotions ..................................................................................9
Driving Tips for Older Drivers ..................................................9
SECTION 4 BEFORE YOU DRIVE
Inspecting Your Vehicle..........................................................1
Adjusting Seat and Mirrors ......................................................3
Using Safety Belts ...................................................................5
Air Bags ...................................................................................6
Child Passenger Safety Laws.................................................7
Secure Your Load...................................................................8
What Are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Safety Features…………………………………………………...9
SECTION 5 BASIC DRIVING
Starting the Engine ..................................................................1
Moving the Vehicle ..................................................................1
Stopping the Vehicle ................................................................1

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 Steering ...................................................................................2
Backing Up ..............................................................................5
SECTION 6 RULES OF THE ROAD
Yielding Right-of-Way ..............................................................1
Traffic Control Devices ............................................................2
Traffic Signals ..........................................................................2
Traffic Signs .............................................................................4
Pavement Markings ...............................................................12
Other Lane Controls ..............................................................14
SECTION 7 GENERAL DRIVING
Turning and Turnabouts ..........................................................1
Intersections ............................................................................4
Roundabouts and Traffic Circles .............................................7
Rules for School Buses ...........................................................8
Parking ...................................................................................10
Changing Lanes.....................................................................14
Entering a Multi-lane Highway ...............................................14
Exiting a Roadway .................................................................15
Passing ..................................................................................15
Zipper Merge (Late Merge) ....................................................17
SECTION 8 SAFE DRIVING TIPS
Visual Search...........................................................................1
Speed Management ................................................................2
Stopping Distance....................................................................5
Space Management ................................................................5
Communicating ........................................................................8
SECTION 9 EMERGENCY SITUATIONS AND
AVOIDING COLLISIONS
Emergencies and Avoiding Collisions .....................................1
Vehicle Malfunctions ................................................................3
Emergency Contact Information ..............................................6
SECTION 10 SHARING THE ROAD
Pedestrians ..............................................................................1
Bicyclists ..................................................................................2

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iii
 Motorcyclists ............................................................................5
Interacting with Commercial Vehicles .....................................7
Emergency Vehicles ..............................................................11
What to Do and Expect When Stopped by Law Enforcement
...............................................................................................12
Move-Over Law .....................................................................14
Slow-Moving Vehicles ...........................................................15
SECTION 11 SPECIAL DRIVING SITUATIONS
Night Driving ............................................................................1
Work Zones .............................................................................3
Rural Road Driving ..................................................................5
Winter Driving Techiniques ......................................................6
Safe Trailering…………………………………………………….8
SECTION 12 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Practice Beginer’s Permit Knowledge Test .............................1
Sample Knowledge Test Questions ........................................1

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iv
Section 1 This Section Covers
The • About This Manual
• Types of Driver’s Licenses and
Driver’s Driver’s Permits
License • Licensing Requirements
• Graduated Driver’s License
Program
• Required Non-Commercial
License Tests
• Out-of-State License or Driving
on an Existing License
• Driver’s License Renewal
• Loss of Driving Privileges
About This Manual
Driving is one of the most risky activities you may
choose to do during your lifetime. This manual is your
guide to good driving. It explains the rules of the road
and what the law expects of you when operating a
vehicle. Its purpose is to help you learn traffic control
devices, signs, pavement markings, and proper
behavior, which you must know before driving on the
highway.

Types of Driver’s Licenses and Driver’s

Permits
South Carolina (SC) issues licenses as proof that you
passed an examination and are qualified to operate a
particular type of vehicle. The gross vehicle weight
rating (GVWR) or gross vehicle weight (GVW)
determines which class of license you will need.

Non-Commercial Licenses
• Class D: Allows you to drive non-commercial
passenger vehicles, such as cars and trucks,
which do not exceed 26,000 pounds GVW. With
a Class D driver’s license, you may also operate
a moped or three-wheel vehicle (excluding a
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 two-wheel motorcycle with a detachable
sidecar).
• Class E: Allows you to operate non-
commercial, single unit vehicles that exceed
26,000 pounds GVW. Examples of Class E
vehicles include trucks and motor homes. With
a Class E driver’s license, you may also operate
a moped or three-wheel vehicle (excluding a
two-wheel motorcycle with a detachable
sidecar). Reference SC’s Large Non-
Commercial and Recreational Vehicles Driver’s
Manual for specific information to get this type
of license.
• Class F: Allows you to drive non-commercial,
combination vehicles that exceed 26,000
pounds GVW. Examples of Class F vehicles
include trucks and motor homes with a towed
trailer or vehicle. With a Class F driver’s license,
you may also operate a moped or three-wheel
vehicle (excluding a two-wheel motorcycle with
a detachable sidecar). Reference SC’s Large
Non-Commercial and Recreational Vehicles
Driver’s Manual for specific information to get
this type of license.
• Class G: Allows you to operate a moped. If you
have a valid driver’s license or permit in any of
the other four classifications, you are not
required to obtain a license to drive a moped.
(Minimum age 15). You are only required to
pass the vision and knowledge test to get a
moped license. Reference SC’s Motorcycle and
Moped Operator’s Manual for specific
information to get this type of license.
• Class M: Allows you to operate a two-wheel
motorcycle, a two-wheel motorcycle with a
detachable sidecar, or a three-wheel vehicle.

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 Reference SC’s Motorcycle and Moped
Operator’s Manual for specific information to get
this type of license.

Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs)

• Class A: Any combination of vehicles with a
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of
26,001 or more pounds provided the GVWR of
the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000
pounds.
• Class B: Any single vehicle with a GVWR of
26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle
towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds
GVWR.
• Class C: Any single vehicle or combination of
vehicles that does not meet the definitions of
Class A or B, but is designed to transport 16 or
more passengers, including the driver, or is
placarded for hazardous materials.
Reference SC’s Commercial Driver License Manual
for specific information to get a Class A, B, or C
license.

Each qualified driver will have only one driver’s license,

endorsed for one or more of the classifications. It is
illegal to have more than one valid driver’s license. If
you drive a motorcycle and another type of vehicle,
your license should be endorsed for two classifications
after your completion of driving tests for both types of
vehicles.

When driving you must have a valid driver’s license,

vehicle registration, and valid insurance card in your
possession for the class of vehicle you are operating.
If you do not, you will be subject to a fine.

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Licensing Requirements
Documentation
United States Citizens
If you are a US citizen applying for a first-time
beginner’s permit, driver’s license, or identification
card, you must provide to any branch office original
documents showing proof of your US citizenship,
identity, date and place of birth, social security number,
and SC address. Reference the US Citizen’s Checklist
(SCDMV form MV-93) for a complete list of required
documents.
International Customers
If you are not a US citizen, you may apply for an SC
beginner’s permit, driver’s license, or identification card
at one of the branch offices that processes applications
for international customers. Reference the
International Customers’ Checklist (SCDMV form MV-
94) for a complete list of required documents. Forms
and locations can be found on SCDMV’s website at
www.scdmvonline.com

Beginner’s Permit
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.
• You must pass the vision and knowledge test.
• You may drive from 6 a.m. to midnight if a
licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and
has at least one year of driving experience is in
the front seat with you.
• You may drive after midnight but a licensed
individual listed in SC Code §56-1-100(A) (1-7)
must supervise you.
• You must hold your beginner’s permit for at least
180 days, regardless of your age, before you
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 may apply for any type of license. You may
apply on the 181st day or anytime thereafter.
• If you are 15 or 16, you must practice driving for
at least 40 hours, including ten hours of night
driving with one of the individuals listed below:
1) Your father
2) Your mother
3) Your legal guardian
4) An individual who has custody, care, and
control of you
5) A person with written approval by the
Department of Social Services. You must
provide SCDMV with a copy of
approval.
6) A person who has been standing in loco
parentis (in the place of a parent) for a
continuous period of not less than sixty
days.
7) A responsible adult who is willing to
assume the obligation imposed under SC
Code §56-1-110 and who has written
permission, from a person listed in items
1 – 6 above, signed and verified before a
person authorized to administer oaths
(notary). You must provide SCDMV with
a copy of the notarized permission.
SC Code §56-1-100 and -110

First-Time Driver’s License

If you are 17 or older and applying for your first driver’s
license you must hold a beginner’s permit for more than
180 days before attempting to take the skills test for full
driving privileges.

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If you are 15 or 16 and applying for your first driver’s
license, all of the following must be true:
• You have held your beginner’s permit for more
than 180 days.
• You completed a driver’s education course
(eight hours in the classroom and six hours
driving).
• You are enrolled in school (not suspended or
expelled), and you have satisfactory school
attendance.
• You have practiced driving for at least 40 hours,
including ten hours of night driving with one of
the individuals listed below:
1) Your father
2) Your mother
3) Your legal guardian
4) An individual who has custody, care, and
control of you
5) A person with written approval by the
Department of Social Services. You must
provide SCDMV with a copy of
approval.
6) A person who has been standing in loco
parentis (in the place of a parent) for a
continuous period of not less than sixty
days.
7) A responsible adult who is willing to
assume the obligation imposed under SC
Code §56-1-110 and who has written
permission, from a person listed in items
1 – 6 above, signed and verified before a
person authorized to administer oaths
(notary). You must provide SCDMV with
a copy of the notarized permission.
SC Code §56-1-100 and -110

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 • You must complete the Certification of School
Attendance, Driver’s Education and Driving
Practice (SCDMV form PDLA). You will receive
the PDLA form from your driver’s education
program once you successfully complete the
course.

Graduated Driver’s License Program

The graduated driver’s license program is for
individuals 15 to 17 years of age. It allows you the
opportunity to develop your driving skills. It restricts
nighttime and unsupervised driving at first, but these
restrictions are lifted over time.

Conditional License for a 15-year-old

If you are at least 15 ½, but less than 16, and have met
the requirements listed in this section, you are eligible
for a conditional license. You must pass the vision
and skills test to receive this license. You will earn full
driving privileges once you have held your conditional
license for one year with no traffic offenses and no at-
fault in any collisions.
These are the nighttime and unsupervised driving
restrictions of a conditional license:
• You cannot have more than two passengers
under 21 in the vehicle with you unless you are
with a licensed adult who is at least 21. The only
exception is if you are transporting family
members or students to and from school.
• You may drive alone from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (8 p.m.
during daylight savings time).
• You may drive with a licensed driver, who is at
least 21, from 6 p.m. (8 p.m. during daylight
savings time) to midnight.

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 • You may drive after midnight to 6 a.m. but you
must be supervised by any licensed individual
listed in SC Code §56-1-100(A) (1-7).
If you are under 17 and receive six or more points on
your record before you have held your license for one
year, your license will be suspended for six months.

Special Restricted License for a 16-year-old

If you are 16, but less than 17, have met the
requirements listed in this section, and have passed
your vision and skills test, or if you are 16 and have a
conditional license, you are eligible for a special
restricted license.
These are the nighttime and unsupervised driving
restrictions of a special restricted license.
• You cannot have more than two passengers
under 21 in the vehicle with you unless you are
with a licensed adult who is at least 21. The only
exception is if you are transporting family
members or students to and from school.
• You may drive alone from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (8 p.m.
during daylight savings time).
• You may drive with a licensed driver, who is at
least 21, from 6 p.m. (8 p.m. during daylight
savings time) to midnight.
• You may drive after midnight to 6 a.m. but you
must be supervised by any licensed individual
listed in SC Code §56-1-100(A)(1-7).
If you are under 17 and receive six or more points on
your record before you have held your license for one
year, your license will be suspended for six months.

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Special Restricted License with a Waiver for a 16-
year-old
If you are 16 and have a special restricted or
conditional license, you may be eligible for a special
restricted license with a waiver. The special restricted
license with a waiver allows you to drive by yourself
until midnight if you work or participate in certain
extracurricular activities. The waiver will not allow you
to drive after midnight.
To get a special restricted license with a waiver, you
must visit an SCDMV branch and do all of the
following:
• Complete the Application for a Beginner’s
Permit, Driver's License, or Identification Card
(SCDMV Form 447-NC)
• Have the Consent for Minor (SCDMV Form 447-
CM) completed by a qualified adult in the
presence of an SCDMV employee or agent.
• Bring a letter from your school, church, work, or
extracurricular activity that says why you need
this waiver
• Bring a letter from your parent or legal guardian
that says your parent or legal guardian is
allowing you to have the waiver and why you
need this waiver
• Pass the vision test
• Pay $25 for a new license that has the waiver
added to it

Regular Driver’s License

You will earn full driving privileges at 17, or after
keeping your conditional or special restricted license
for one year, if you received no traffic offenses and
were not at-fault in any collisions. You do not have to
visit an SCDMV branch to receive full driving privileges.

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You will receive a sleeve in the mail from the SCDMV
that is to be wrapped around your license. You must
keep your license in this sleeve to take advantage of
your full driving privileges. For more information,
reference SCDMV’s brochure Ready for the Road?
(DMVB-35) which is available on the department’s
website at www.scdmvonline.com.

Required Non-Commercial License Tests

Where to Take Tests
You must take a vision, knowledge, and skills test when
you apply for an original driver's license or upgrade to
a different class. You may take vision and knowledge
tests at any SCDMV branch. Manuals or other testing
aids cannot be used while you take the knowledge test.
You will fail the test if you do any of the following:
• Leave the test room/area before the test is
completed
• Talk to anyone
• Take anything into the test area that may assist
you with answers to the questions on the test.
Written material or electronic devices of any kind
are not allowed in the knowledge test area.
Examples of electronic devices are a cell phone,
laptop, and tablet reader (such as an iPad or
Kindle).
There are also One Stop Driver Training and Testing
Programs (also known as third-party testers) available
if you are applying for a first-time regular (class D)
beginner’s permit, driver’s license, or motorcycle (class
M) license. The SCDMV partners with people,
corporations, and governmental subdivisions to
administer training and testing on behalf of the
SCDMV. The driver training schools that participate in
this program have SCDMV-authorized testers who can
administer the knowledge and/or skills tests instead of
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you having to take the tests at an SCDMV branch
office. You can find a list of these third-party testers
that participate in the One Stop Driver Training
Programs on SCDMV’s website at
www.scdmvonline.com.
NOTICE: Be prepared because you could be randomly
selected by the SCDMV to pass the skills test again
before you are issued a driver’s license (SC Code §56-
1-15).
The first test for every type of license includes a vision,
knowledge, and skills test, except for a moped license.
The SCDMV does not require a skills test for a moped
license.

Taking the Skills Test

Careful study of the South Carolina Driver’s Manual will
increase your driving confidence and broaden your
knowledge of traffic rules and regulations. Your
examiner realizes that a driving test will probably be an
unusual experience for you and that you might become
nervous or uneasy. If you do become apprehensive,
please know that your examiner has accompanied
many other people who have felt as you may feel and
that he or she is riding with you only to make sure that
you can control your vehicle and observe the rules of
the road. Your examiner will not try to trick you in
any way. Thousands of people pass this test annually
and become licensed SC drivers. If they can do it, so
can you. Just relax and do the best you can.

You may hear a skills test called a “skills test” or a

“driving test”. You need to take a skills test if you do not
hold a valid driver’s license. You must provide a vehicle
for the test. The vehicle must be safe and have all of
the following in working condition:
• Headlights & Brakes • Mirrors
• Windshield wipers • Speedometer
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 • Safety belts • Defroster
• Turn signals • Horn
The vehicle must have a valid license plate, registration
card, and insurance card. The skills test must be
postponed if the vehicle is not safe. You will
automatically fail the skills test if you do not use
your seat belt.
You should bring all of the following items to your
test:
• Old license or beginner’s permit (if you have
one)
• A licensed driver
• Vehicle liability insurance information from a
company licensed to do business in SC
An SCDMV employee will test you. You and the
employee are the only people allowed in or around the
vehicle. Your test includes all of the following:
• Vision test: If you wear corrective lenses
(glasses or contact lenses), bring them, or
wear them.
• Knowledge test of traffic laws, road signs, and
driving safety rules
• Driving test, if required.
During the skills test, you could be required to:
• Turn on your headlights, windshield wipers,
and turn signals (including four-way flashers)
• Test your brake lights
• Make lane changes, right and left turns
• Identify road signs
• Parallel park
• 100 feet straight line backing
• Park on a hill
• Reverse two-point turnabout
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 • Forward two-point turnabout
• Three point turnabout
• Interstate driving

Failing the Skills Test

If you fail the skills test on your first attempt, you must
wait two business days before you can be re-tested,
regardless of age or driving experience.

If you fail the skills test on your second attempt, you

must wait seven calendar days before you can be re-
tested regardless of age or driving experience.
If you fail the skills test on your third attempt or more,
you must wait 30 calendar days before you can be re-
tested regardless of age or driving experience.

Out-of-State License or Driving on an

Existing License
Moving to South Carolina
If you have a valid driver's license or identification (ID)
card from another state and permanently move to SC,
you must apply for an SC license or ID within ninety
days of moving to SC. You must turn in your out-of-
state license or ID in order to receive a new one in SC.
If your out-of-state license is expired for more than nine
months, you must pass the knowledge, skills, and
vision tests before you can get an SC license.

Temporary Resident
If you are moving to SC temporarily, whether a military
member, student, or other, you are not required to get
an SC driver's license for yourself or your dependents.
However, you must have a valid out-of-state license to
drive in SC.

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Moving from South Carolina
If you move out of SC, you must turn in your SC driver’s
license or ID card to your new state of residency when
issued a new license or ID. Your new state will notify
the SCDMV that you turned in your SC driver’s license
or ID card, and your SC license or ID will be cancelled.
If you are registering a vehicle in a state other than SC,
you must transfer your vehicle's liability insurance to
that state as well. Before you cancel your SC
insurance, turn in your SC license plate to the SCDMV.
If you do not return your plate before you cancel your
SC insurance, you could owe up to $400 in fees.

Visiting South Carolina

If you are a permanent resident of another state, you
can use your valid out-of-state driver’s license to drive
in SC.
For example, if you are visiting this state from New
York, you may drive in this state with your valid out-of-
state New York license.

International Visitors
If you are visiting from a non-English speaking country,
you are strongly advised to get an International Driving
Permit from your home country. An International
Driving Permit serves as a language translation to be
used with your valid driver's license. It is not an actual
license but it translates your foreign language license
into English. It allows law enforcement officers to read
your license.

SC waives the requirement for knowledge and skills

testing for an individual who is applying for a first-time
SC driver’s license and has an out-of-country driving
credential from a country that has a formal reciprocity

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agreement with SC and has not been expired for more
than nine months.

Driver’s License Renewal

You must pass a vision test to renew your driver’s
license. Free vision screenings are offered at all
SCDMV branches. However, the SCDMV may accept
a Certificate of Vision Examination from a licensed
eye care professional if dated with the past 12
months. Eye care professionals licensed in SC must
submit the Certificate of Vision Examination through
SCDMV’s online portal.
Renew my Driver's License Online
If you are a US citizen, you may choose to renew your
driver's license online for an eight-year license. If you
are not a US citizen, you cannot renew your driver's
license online.
You must meet all of the following requirements to
renew your driver’s license online:
• You are a US citizen.
• You have a regular (Class D, E, F, G, M, or any
combination of these) license.
• You do not have a commercial driver’s license.
• Your license is not expired for more than 9
months.
• Your social security number and the name
associated with it matches what is on file with
the Social Security Administration.
• You have not received more than five points on
your record in the last two years.
• Your license is not suspended or subject to be
suspended.

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 • You did not renew your license by mail or online
during the last renewal period.
• You are not a Convicted Violent Offender in the
SCDMV system.
• You do not currently have a conditional or
special restricted license.
• You must have an SC-licensed eye care
professional electronically submit a Certificate
of Vision Examination, dated within the past 12
months, through SCDMV’s online portal.
To renew your Driver’s License online at
www.scdmvonline.com, you must provide identifying
information to log in. At the end of the process, you
must pay for your new license with a valid credit card.

The SCDMV will use your current photograph and

signature and will mail your new license to the address
on file. It will take seven to ten business days to receive
your renewed license in the mail.

Renew my Driver's License by Mail

If you are a US citizen, you may choose to renew your
driver’s license through the mail for an eight-year
license. If you are not a US citizen, you cannot renew
your driver's license by mail.
You must meet all of the same requirements listed
above for online renewals and you must complete the
Application for a Beginner’s Permit, Driver’s License,
or Identification Card (SCDMV Form 447-NC). Include
the Certificate of Vision Examination receipt number if
performed by an SC-licensed eye care professional. If
performed by an out-of-state licensed eye care
professional, include the Certificate of Vision
Examination with the renewal application.

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Mail your completed application and a check or money
order for $25 (do not mail cash) made out to the
SCDMV, to:
SCDMV Alternative Media
PO Box 1498
Blythewood, SC 29016-0035
Mail your application and payment at least three weeks
before your expiration date. If you renew by mail, the
SCDMV will use the same photograph and signature
on your current license.

Renew my Driver's License in Person

You must do all of the following to renew at a branch:
• Pass a vision test in the branch office, or the
SCDMV may accept a Certificate of Vision
Examination from a licensed eye care
professional if dated within the past 12 months.
Eye care professionals licensed in SC must
submit the Certificate of Vision Examination
through SCDMV’s online portal.
• Eye care professionals who are licensed out of
state must complete the Certificate of Vision
Examination (SCDMV Form 412-NC).
• Provide the company name of your vehicle
insurance
• Pay $25 for the license
You must pass a knowledge test if you have received
more than five points against your driving record in the
last two years.
Renewing an Expired Driver’s License
Do not drive with an expired driver's license. If your
license has been expired for nine months or less, you
may renew it at an SCDMV branch without testing.

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If your driver’s license is expired for more than nine
months, you must visit an SCDMV branch, pass a
vision, knowledge, and a skills test, provide current
proof of address, and any proof of identity documents
that may not be on file.

Loss of Driving Privileges

How the Point System Works
You may earn points against your SC driver's license
when you violate traffic laws, which include violations
committed outside of the state.
Certain traffic violations are assigned points. If you are
convicted of a traffic violation in SC or in any other
state, that information will be sent to the SCDMV
and be posted to your record.

You may receive points on your driving record if you do

any of the following:
• Break the traffic law in this state or any state
• Receive a military court-martial traffic
conviction
Your record contains all the convictions you have
received from traffic violations and the number of
points charged against you under the point system.
Points are reduced by half after one year from the
violation date on the ticket. For example, if you
received four points on your record for a traffic violation
in June, the points would be reduced to two points in
June of the next year.
If you are 15 or 16, the SCDMV will send you a letter
to drive more carefully when you receive two points
and/or four points on your driving record. If you
continue to break the law or if you already have
additional convictions, the department has not yet
received, you could lose your driving privileges.
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If you are 17 or older and have six or more points on
your driving record, the SCDMV will send you a letter
to drive more carefully. If your point total reaches 12 or
more, your license will be suspended.

Driver's License Suspension for Excessive Points

If you hold a beginner’s permit, conditional or special
restricted driver’s license and you accumulate six or
more points, your driving privileges will be suspended
for having excessive points. If you are suspended for
having excessive points, completing the National
Safety Defensive Drive Course, or its equivalent, will
not reinstate the suspension.
The points that resulted in an excessive point’s
suspension can also be used in a point system
suspension.
Certain violations, such as driving under the influence,
require mandatory license suspensions and are not
under the point system.

Defensive Driving Course

If you have points, you may have them reduced if you
complete the National Safety Council’s Defensive
Driving Course or an equivalent. Some defensive
driving courses are offered at SCDMV-certified driving
schools. To find schools that offer this course, search
for ones that are certified for four-point reduction.
• The course cannot be completed online.
• The course must be taken in SC.
• The course must be eight hours of classroom
training.
• The course must be taken after the date of
violation(s).
• A reduction in points may only be made one time
in a three-year period.
The Driver’s License 1-19
 • If you take a defensive driving course because
your license is in danger of being suspended,
you must complete the course before the
suspension begins. Once the suspension
begins, the point reduction will not cancel or
reduce the suspension.

License Reinstatement
There are many different types of suspensions. If you
have specific questions, you may email the SCDMV by
completing the online form at
scdmvonline.com/Contact-Us, call 803-896-5000, or
visit any SCDMV branch office.

Reinstatement Fees
If you have a SC driver's license and owe
reinstatement fees, you may pay them online.

Payment Plan
If you owe reinstatement fees, you may be eligible for
the payment plan. You must qualify for participation
and follow all payment plan rules. There is a minimum
amount of reinstatement fees that you must owe in
order to qualify for a payment plan. To determine
whether or not you qualify for a payment plan you may
visit the SCDMV webpage entitled “Verify Payment
Plan Eligibility” at www.scdmvonline.com. If you need
more information, you may email the SCDMV by
completing the online form at
scdmvonline.com/Contact-Us, call 803-896-5000, or
visit any SCDMV branch office.

Provisional Driver's License

If your driving privileges are suspended for first offense
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving with an
Unlawful Alcohol Concentration (DUAC), you may be
eligible for a six-month provisional driver's license as
The Driver’s License 1-20
long as you meet all of the following requirements,
based on when the violation happened:
• You must have or have had a valid SC driver's
license or be exempt.
• You must have met all requirements for prior
suspensions, revocations, and cancellations.
• If the DUI or DUAC violation was on October
1, 2014 or later, you must have had a BAC of
0.14 percent or less.
• You must have no other suspensions after
the DUI or DUAC suspension except for the
following, as long as they are from the same
DUI or DUAC violation: implied
consent, implied consent under 21, BAC of
0.02 percent or greater, BAC of 0.15 percent or
greater, or alcohol violation.
• You must be enrolled in the Alcohol and Drug
Safety Action Program (ADSAP).
• You must pay $100 for a provisional license.

Route Restricted Driver's License

If you are not a US citizen, you are not eligible for this
license unless you have permanent resident alien
status.
If you receive a route-restricted license, you may drive
a non-commercial vehicle while driving:
• To and from your place of employment,
education, or residence
• To and from an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action
Program (ADSAP)
• To and from a court-ordered drug program
You must keep a copy of the approved route with you
while driving.

The Driver’s License 1-21

Your route-restricted license is valid for the length of
the suspension.

You may only receive one route-restricted license in

your lifetime for the following suspensions:
• Accident Judgment
• Alcohol Violation
• Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .15
• Controlled Substance
• Failure to Stop for a Blue Light
• False Insurance Certification
• Implied Consent
• Misrepresentation of Identity
If you have been suspended for not paying child
support or driving under suspension (1st or 2nd
offense within five years), you may be eligible for
more than one route restricted license in your lifetime.
If approved, a route restricted license costs $100.
To apply for a route-restricted license, complete the
Application for a Route Restricted Driver's License
Application (SCDMV form DL-127) and mail it to this
address below:
SCDMV Driver Records
PO Box 1498
Blythewood, SC 29016-0028
Temporary Alcohol License
You may be eligible for a Temporary Alcohol license
(TAL) if you have one of the following suspensions and
have filed for an administrative hearing within 30 days:
• Implied Consent
• Implied Consent under 21
• Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.15
percent
• BAC of 0.02 percent or more under 21

The Driver’s License 1-22

While the results of your hearing are pending, you may
receive a TAL for $100. You will be able to use your
TAL until the SCDMV receives the results of the
hearing.
If your suspension is sustained, you should return the
TAL to an SCDMV branch.

If your suspension is rescinded or overturned, you

must return the TAL before you are able to apply for
your regular license.

The Driver’s License 1-23

The Driver’s License 1-24
Section 2 This Section Covers
State Laws and • State Laws

Rules of the Road • State Rules of the Road

State Laws
This section highlights a few state laws of interest to
drivers. It does not address every law.

Selective Service
You must complete the Supplement for SC Credential
Selective Service Requirements (SCDMV form 447-
SEL) if you are a male US citizen or an immigrant who
is less than twenty-six years of age when applying for
a beginner’s permit, driver’s license, or identification
card. The SCDMV is required to send your name,
address, date of birth, sex, Social Security number,
and date of application to the US Selective Service
when you reach the age of 18 unless you physically
surrender your beginner’s permit, driver’s license, or
identification card before your 18th birthday.
SC Code §56-1-125

Organ Donation
You may register to be an organ/tissue donor when
you apply for or renew your SC driver’s license,
beginner’s permit, or identification card. If you choose
to register, your identity information will be added to the
SC Donor Registry and a red heart will be added to
your license, beginner's permit, or identification
card. When you choose to be an organ or tissue donor,
you are entering into a legally binding agreement as
outlined under the SC Uniform Anatomical Gift Act.

If you choose to be an organ donor before your 18th

birthday, your parent or legal guardian shall make the
final decision regarding donation. If you change your
State Laws and Rules of the Road 2-1
decision about being an organ donor in the future or
wish to update your information on the registry, visit the
website for Donate Life SC at www.donatelifesc.org.
SC Code §44-43-320

Littering is Against the Law

It is against the law to throw trash along the streets and
highways. Offenders can be arrested and fined. You
can be fined for litter law violations and also be directed
to pick up litter along the roadsides under supervision
of the court.
Please take pride in SC and its beauty by not littering
the highways.
An idea is to keep a litter container in your vehicle at all
times. Paper cups, candy wrappers, bottles, and other
litter can be placed in this container. Then, when the
container is filled, you may dispose of it in a trash can
or another appropriate litter receptacle. Cigarettes
and cigarette butts are considered litter and should
be kept inside your vehicle until they can be
disposed of properly.
SC Code §16-11-700

State Rules of the Road

This section highlights a few, but not all, rules of the
road.

Golf Carts
You must be at least 16 years old and have a valid
driver’s license to drive a golf cart. A golf cart must
have an SCDMV-issued permit/registration decal
affixed to it. You may operate a golf cart during the day
as follows:
• within four miles of the address on the
registration certificate

State Laws and Rules of the Road 2-2

 • within four miles of the gate of a gated
community
• only on secondary streets and highways with
posted speed limits of thirty-five miles an hour
or less.
SC Code §56-2-105

Commercial Motor Vehicles

Reference SCDMV’s Commercial Driver’s License
Manual for information on this topic.

Large Non-Commercial Vehicles

Reference SCDMV’s Large Non-Commercial &
Recreational Vehicles Driver’s Manual.

Mopeds
Reference SCDMV’s Motorcycle & Moped Operator’s
Manual for information on this topic.

Motorcycles
Reference SCDMV’s Motorcycle & Moped Operator’s
Manual for information on this topic.

Recreational Vehicles
Reference SCDMV’s Large Non-Commercial &
Recreational Vehicles Driver’s Manual.

State Laws and Rules of the Road 2-3

State Laws and Rules of the Road 2-4
Section 3 This Section Covers
Be in Shape • Vision
Fatigue
to Drive •
• Driver Distractions
• Aggressive Driving
• Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving
• Emotions
• Driving Tips for Older Drivers

Driving is one of the most risky activities you may

choose to do during your lifetime. Your ability to drive
safely depends on good health and making correct
decisions.
Vision
Good vision is important for safe driving. If you cannot
see clearly, you will have difficulty identifying traffic and
roadway conditions, spotting potential trouble, and
responding to problems in a timely manner.

Because seeing well is so important to safe driving, it

is best if you have your eyes checked regularly by a
licensed eye care professional. If you are required to
wear corrective lenses:
• Always wear them when driving.
• Avoid using dark or tinted corrective lenses at
night, even if you think they help with glare.
These types of lenses reduce the light you need
to see clearly.
• If you use bioptic telescopic lenses to operate a
motor vehicle, you must submit vision screening
documentation (Low Vision Acuity Screening for
Non-Commercial Beginner Permits or Driver’s
Licenses (SCDMV form 412-LV) to SCDMV’s
Driver Improvement unit every year.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-1

You may be required either to pass an eye test in a
branch office with a mechanical device (orthorater)
designed to test your ability to read from a distance or
you can have a licensed eye care professional test
your vision. A licensed eye care professional must test
your vision if you fail SCDMV’s test or choose not to be
tested in the branch office. If your licensed eye care
professional is licensed in the state of South Carolina,
they must electronically submit a Certificate of Vision
Examination through the SCDMV’s online portal.
Licensed Eye care professionals licensed out of state
must complete the appropriate SCDMV vision
screening form Certificate of Vision Examination for
Non-Commercial Beginner Permits or Driver’s
Licenses (SCDMV Form 412-NC). A vision screening
is required for non-commercial drivers under these
conditions:
• The first time you apply for an SC beginner’s
permit or driver’s license.
• If you want to have a corrective lens restriction
code “A” removed from your license.
• When renewing your driver’s license or
beginner’s permit beginning October 1, 2020.
• If you are surrendering an out-of-state license to
get a SC license.

The minimum vision standards do not require a greater

degree of vision than 20/40 corrected in one eye. A
restriction will be added to your beginner’s permit or
driver’s license if your vision is corrected to meet the
minimum standards with the use of corrective lenses
(glasses or contact lenses). It is unlawful for you to
drive a motor vehicle without the use of corrective
lenses if they are required to meet the minimum
standards.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-2

If your vision improves to the extent that corrective
lenses are no longer necessary you must provide a
certificate of vision examination from a licensed eye
care professional showing the new vision readings.
You must then have your license renewed to have the
restriction removed.

Fatigue
Fatigue is physical or mental tiredness that can be
caused by physical or mental strain, repetitive tasks,
illness, or lack of sleep. Fatigue can affect your vision
and increase the time to make decisions. Avoid driving
if you are tired or fatigued. You do not want to fall
asleep when you are driving.

Here are some tips for before you take a trip:

• Get adequate sleep—most people need 7 to 9
hours per day to maintain proper alertness
throughout their awake hours.
• Plan to stop about every 100 miles or 2 hours
during long trips.
• Arrange for a travel companion—someone to
watch your driving.
• Check the labels of your medications and be
aware if they cause drowsiness.
• Do not use alcohol and other drugs before or
when driving.

Ways to Avoid Fatigue

• If you start feeling tired stop driving and pull off
at the next exit or rest area to take a 15 to 20
minute nap or find a place to sleep for the night.
• Try not to drive late at night.
• The best way to avoid fatigue is to get plenty of
rest.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-3

Driver Distractions
A distraction is anything that takes your attention away
from driving. Distracted driving can cause collisions,
resulting in injury, death, or property damage. Taking
your eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel
presents obvious
driving risks. Mental
activities that take
your mind away from
driving are just as
dangerous.
When driving:
• Do not use cell
phones. It is unlawful in SC to use a wireless
electronic communication device while
operating a motor vehicle if it requires the use
of either hand.
SC Code §56-5-3890
• Avoid arguments and stressful or emotional
conversations with passengers.
• Avoid eating while driving.
• Be sure children are properly and safely buckled
up.
• Properly secure pets in a pet carrier or portable
kennel.

You must pay attention to the task of driving. You are

responsible for operating your vehicle in a safe
manner.

Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving occurs when an individual
intentionally commits an action that endangers other
persons or property.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-4

Some behaviors typically associated with aggressive
driving include speeding, following too closely, unsafe
lane changes, improperly (or not) signaling, and failing
to obey traffic control devices (stop signs, yield signs,
traffic signals, railroad grade cross signals, etc.).

Concentrate on your driving. Be patient and courteous

to other road users.

Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving

Alcohol and other impairing drugs are involved in
approximately 40% of all traffic collisions in which
someone is killed each year. If you drink alcohol or use
other impairing drugs and drive, even a little, your
chances of being in a collision are much greater than if
you did not drink any alcohol or use any other drugs.

If You are Under 21

If you are under the age of 21, it is illegal to purchase,
possess, or drink alcoholic beverages. Alcohol and
other impairing drugs affect a person’s ability to
perceive his or her surroundings, react to emergencies,
and skillfully operate a motor vehicle. For new drivers
learning complex skills, the effects of alcohol and other
impairing drugs is greater. All states have “zero
tolerance” laws (no alcohol in the circulatory system) or
similar laws for drivers under the age of 21.

Effects of Alcohol and Other Impairing Drugs

Alcohol and other impairing drugs reduces your:
• Judgment: Judgment is a brain-centered
activity that stores all of your experiences and
knowledge so it can be used quickly when you
face a new problem.
• Vision: The most important sense you use in
driving is vision. Alcohol blurs your vision, slows

Be in Shape to Drive 3-5

 your ability to focus, causes double vision, and
reduces the ability to judge distance, speed, and
the movement of other vehicles. Vision is
impacted at 0.02 percent blood alcohol content
(BAC) for all drivers.
• Color distinction: Alcohol reduces your ability
to distinguish colors.
• Reaction time: Alcohol slows your ability to
process information and respond to the task of
driving.
The best advice is not to drive a vehicle of any kind if
you have consumed alcohol or other drugs. Impairment
starts with the first drink. Even one drink of alcohol can
affect a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle. With
one or more drinks in the bloodstream, a person could
be arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or
other drugs. Never let a friend or relative drive if he or
she has been drinking.

Alcohol and the Law

BAC (blood alcohol concentration) is the percentage of
alcohol in relation to the amount of blood in your body.
If you are arrested for drinking and driving, the
penalties are severe. If you are convicted of DUI or
DUAC, have a BAC of 0.15 percent or more, or refuse
implied consent testing, your driver’s license and
driving privileges may be suspended. Under the law,
you can still be convicted for driving impaired even if
you have a BAC of only 0.05 or a lower BAC in
combination with drugs, including prescription and
over-the-counter medications.

If you are under 21 years of age and register a BAC of

0.02 percent or greater, your privilege to drive will be
suspended immediately for at least three months. If
you refuse to take the test(s) for intoxicants, you will

Be in Shape to Drive 3-6

immediately lose your driving privileges for at least six
months.

An alcohol concentration test

measures how much alcohol
is in your system and is usually
determined by a breath or
blood, or urine test. You are
required to take breath, blood,
and urine tests if asked by a
police officer due to SC’s
implied consent law. SC’s
implied consent law is based
on the principle that when you
get your driver’s license, you have implicitly consented
to a lawfully- requested test to determine the alcohol
content of your blood, breath, or urine if suspected of
impaired driving. You can lose your driver’s license or
driving privileges if you refuse to take a breath, blood,
or urine test.
Although implied consent laws vary by state, the law
applies to the state where you were arrested, not the
state where you got your license.

Other Impairing Drugs and Driving

Besides alcohol, many other drugs can affect your
ability to drive safely. These drugs can have effects
similar to, or worse than, those of alcohol. This is true
of many prescription drugs and many of the drugs you
can buy over the counter without a prescription.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-7

Over-the-Counter Drugs
Over-the-counter drugs taken for headaches, colds,
allergies, or those to calm nerves can make you drowsy
and affect your driving. Pep pills, “uppers,” and diet pills
can make you feel nervous, dizzy, unable to
concentrate, and may affect your vision. Check the
label on the product before you take an over-the-
counter drug for warnings about its effect. If you are not
sure if it is safe to take the drug and drive, ask your
doctor or pharmacist about any known side effects.

Prescription Drugs
Some prescription drugs can impact your driving and
can affect your reflexes, judgment, vision, and
alertness in ways similar to alcohol. Many prescription
drugs have an impact on driving safely. Check the label
on the prescription and packaging before you take a
drug for warnings about its effect. If you are not sure if
it is safe to take the drug and drive, ask your doctor or
pharmacist about any known side effects.

Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs can impact your driving and may affect
your reflexes, judgment, vision, and alertness in ways
similar to alcohol. If you are convicted in SC of driving
while under the influence of drugs, your conviction will
be treated like as a DUI or DUAC conviction.

Combining Alcohol and Other Impairing Drugs

Never drink alcohol while you are taking other drugs,
including prescription or over-the-counter drugs. These
drugs could multiply the effects of alcohol or have
additional effects of their own. No one is able to drink
alcohol or use other impairing drugs and still operate a
vehicle safely.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-8

Emotions
Emotions can increase your risk of driving safely by
interfering with your ability to think, creating a lack of
attention, and interrupting your ability to process
information. You may not be able to drive well when
you are experiencing extreme levels of any emotion.
There are ways of dealing with your emotions:
• If you are angry or worried, it is best to give
yourself time to “cool off”. A short walk or nap
may help. It is best to stay off the road until your
symptoms have passed.
• Give yourself extra time for your driving trip.
Leave several minutes early.
• Have someone else drive.

Driving Tips for Older Drivers

The aging process can affect our driving ability. These
are some problems that may face an older driver in
traffic:
• As age progresses, hearing and eyesight are
often less keen.
• Judgment may be slower. It may take longer to
recognize traffic situations and to make the
necessary decisions.
• Physical dexterity may be weakened. Older
people may not have the same ability to act with
speed in an emergency as they used to have.
• The older driver may not realize that new rules
and regulations are being continually
introduced.
Here’s a chance to check your own driving. These are
common causes of trouble among older drivers. If two
Be in Shape to Drive 3-9
or three of the points apply to you, it may be time to
modify your driving habits or give up driving entirely.
Don’t risk hurting yourself or others. Talk with a doctor
about any concerns you have about your health and
driving. Your doctor may determine that your driving
skills should be assessed by a SCDMV examiner or
another medical professional training in driving
evaluations.
• You need two or three tries when parking your
vehicle parallel to the curb in a parking space.
• You encountered difficulty distinguishing
between objects, such as a hydrant and a small
child, when driving.
• The glare from headlights of approaching
vehicles cause prolonged discomfort to your
eyes at night.
• You have trouble maintaining the pace of other
vehicles or they seem to be passing you all the
time.
• It takes you quite a long time to get going again
after the light has turned green.
• You are getting an increasing number of minor
scrapes (such as from your garage door) or
dents on your vehicle.
• You miss STOP signs, highway signs, and other
traffic indicators.
• You find yourself becoming confused when
unexpected or unfamiliar things happen while
you are driving.
• You have trouble making out objects that are a
few feet away.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-10

 • When a vehicle is approaching you on the road,
you have trouble judging how far away it is at a
given moment.
• When you are looking straight ahead in the
driver’s seat, you have difficulty seeing the sides
of the road.

Be in Shape to Drive 3-11

Section 4 This Section Covers
Before You • Inspecting Your Vehicle
Adjusting Seat and Mirrors
Drive •
• Using Safety Belts
• Air Bags
• Child Passenger Safety Laws
• Secure Your Load
• What Are Advanced Driver
Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Safety Features

Inspecting Your Vehicle

When it comes to road safety, you can’t control other

drivers or road conditions, but you can control the
proper maintenance of your vehicle and tires.

Collisions due to tire maintenance are preventable and

simple steps can save lives. Driving on under-inflated
or over-inflated tires or on tires with low tread can lead
to safety issues on the road.

Check Tire Pressure with a Pressure Gauge

Monthly
• Buy a tire pressure gauge if you don’t have one
already.
• Open your vehicle door. On the inside
doorframe, you should see a sticker. Make a
note of what the PSI number is on the sticker.

Before You Drive 4-1

 PSI means Pounds per Square Inch which is the
measurement for tire pressure.
• Remove the cap
from the valve
stem and press
the air pressure
gauge evenly onto
the valve stem to
get an accurate
reading (make sure you check when they are
cold).
• Compare the number on the gauge with the
number you wrote down. If the number on your
gauge is higher than the number on the
doorframe, let air out of your tires. If the number
on your gauge is lower than the number on the
doorframe, inflate your tires until the numbers
match.

Check Tread Depth with a Penny

• Hold a penny with Lincoln’s
body between your thumb and
forefinger.
• Place the penny with Lincoln’s head going first
into the deepest-looking groove.
• Can you see all of his head? If yes, your tires
are
too

Before You Drive 4-2

 worn—don’t drive on them. Make sure to get
them replaced.

Adjusting Seat and Mirrors

You should sit upright
with your back against
the seat and feet on the
floor. Improper seating
positions, such as
slouching, can result in
reduced effectiveness
of the vehicle’s restraint
system. Adjust your seat and mirrors before you start
to drive. This enables you to see clearly and have full
control of the vehicle’s foot pedals and steering wheel.
This also allows appropriate space for airbag
deployment.
• Your foot should be able to pivot smoothly from
brake to accelerator while your heel stays on the
floor.
• The top of the steering wheel should be no
higher than the top of your shoulders.
• There should be at least 10 inches between
your chest and the steering wheel. Do not move
the seat so far forward that you cannot easily
steer and do not recline the seat.
• Head restraints are designed to prevent
whiplash. Adjust head restraints so the head
restraint contacts the back of your head and not
below the level of your ears.

Adjusting Your Mirrors

The rearview mirror (the interior mirror on the
windshield) is the primary mirror to view the rear. Adjust
Before You Drive 4-3
your rearview mirror so that it frames the rear window.
You should be able to see traffic flow to the rear of the
vehicle with the rearview mirror. If you have a day/night
mirror, make sure it is set for the time of day you are
driving.

Adjust outside mirrors to reduce blind spots (areas

where your view is obstructed) and to provide
maximum visibility to the sides and rear of the vehicle.
To reduce blind spots, you are encouraged to use the
following method for adjusting your outside mirrors.
Enhanced Mirror Settings

Before You Drive 4-4

 • To set the left side mirror, the driver must rest
his or her head against the closed window on
the left and adjust the mirror so the rear edge of
the vehicle barely shows.
• To set the right side mirror, the driver should
lean to the right so his or her head is directly
below the rearview mirror or above the center
console. The mirror should be adjusted so that
the edge of the right side of your vehicle can
barely be seen.
• The driver will not see the left and right sides of
the vehicle when glancing in the outside mirrors;
however, this adjustment adds 12 to 16 degrees
of additional viewing area to each side of the
vehicle.

Using Safety Belts

Always fasten your safety belt and make sure all your
passengers are using safety belts or child restraints.
Studies have shown that if you are in a collision while
using safety belts, your chances of injury or death are
greatly reduced. Safety belts keep you from being
thrown from the vehicle and helps the driver keep
control of the vehicle.

Before You Drive 4-5

South Carolina has a
primary safety belt
enforcement law. Under
the primary law, a law
enforcement officer has
the authority to stop a
driver if the officer has a
clear and unobstructed
view of a driver or occupant of a motor vehicle not
wearing a safety belt or not secured in a child restraint
system.

It is important to wear the safety belt correctly.

• A shoulder harness is
worn across the
shoulder and chest
with minimal, if any,
slack. Do not wear
the shoulder harness
under the arm or
behind the back.
Wearing the harness the wrong way could result
in serious internal injuries in a collision.
• Adjust the lap belt so it is snug and lies low
across your hips after fastening. Otherwise, in a
collision, you could slide out of the belt, resulting
in possible injury or death.
Safety belts should be worn even if the vehicle is
equipped with air bags.

Air Bags
Air bags are supplemental restraints and are designed
to work best in combination with safety belts. In a
collision, air bags and safety belts reduce the chance
that your head and upper body will strike some part of
the vehicle’s interior. Safety belts help to properly

Before You Drive 4-6

position your body to maximize the air bag’s benefits
and help restrain you during collisions. It is extremely
important that safety belts are always worn, even in air
bag-equipped vehicles.
Read your vehicle owner’s manual for specific
information about the air bags in your vehicle.

Child Passenger Safety Laws

If using a child safety seat, you must install it properly
in your vehicle and use it correctly. You must never
place a rear-facing child safety seat in front of an air
bag.
• Children age seven and younger must sit in a
car seat in the back seat of the vehicle to avoid
injury from an air bag in the event of a collision.
• Read your vehicle owner’s manual and child
restraint directions for more specific information
on the child restraint system in your vehicle.
• If you would like to view the law regarding child
passenger safety you may visit the Buckle Up,
South Carolina website at:
https://scdps.sc.gov/buckleupsc
SC Code §56-5-6410

Forward-
Rear-Facing
Facing Booster Seat Seat Belt
Car Seat
Car Seat
An infant A child at least Children at A child at least
under age two age two or a least age four age 8 or at
must be child under age who have least 57 inches
secured in a two who has outgrown their tall may be
rear-facing car outgrown the forward-facing restrained by an

Before You Drive 4-7

 seat in a rear manufacturer’s car seat must adult safety belt
seat of the height or weight be secured by a if the child can
vehicle until limits for a rear- booster seat in be secured
the child facing car seat a rear seat of properly by an
exceeds the must be the vehicle until adult safety
height or secured in a the child can seat belt.
weight limit forward-facing meet the height
allowed by the car seat in a and fit
manufacturer rear seat of the requirements
of the car seat. vehicle until the for an adult
child exceeds safety seat belt.
the height or Lap and
weight shoulder belts
requirements of must be used to
the forward- secure this car
facing car seat. seat.

Secure Your Load

Driving with an unsecured load (property being
transported) is both against the law and extremely
dangerous. A driver who fails to properly secure their
load is guilty of a misdemeanor and may face a fine
and the cost to have the substance of their load
cleaned up. A load must be securely fastened and is
only considered secure when nothing can slide, shift,
fall, or sift onto the roadway or become airborne.
To secure a load in or on your vehicle or trailer:
• Tie it down with rope, netting, or straps directly
to your vehicle or trailer.
• Consider covering the entire load with a sturdy
tarp or netting.
• Do not overload your vehicle or trailer.
• Always double check your load to make sure it
is secure.
• Remember that animals should also be properly
secured.
Before you drive, ask yourself these questions:

Before You Drive 4-8

 • Is there any chance of debris or cargo falling or
blowing out or off of my vehicle?
• Is the load secured at the back, sides, and top?
• What would happen to the load if I had to brake
suddenly, hit a bump, or another vehicle hit me?
• Would I feel safe if I were driving behind my
vehicle?

What Are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

(ADAS) Safety Features
Many newer vehicles on the road today have driver
assistance safety features designed to save lives and
prevent injuries, if used properly. Some of the driver
assist safety features sense and monitor conditions;
identify present and potential dangers; and may help
you avoid a potential crash. These safety features may
provide alerts, such as sounds or vibration or may take
control of the vehicle, such as adjusting the braking or
steering. Safety features include, but are not limited to:
blind spot warning, back up camera, forward collision
warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping
assistance, and active parking assist.
When taking your driving test,
you will not be allowed to use
certain safety features, such
as parking assist and cruise
control.
Safety features are meant
to assist you in the driving
task, they are not there to
drive the vehicle.
You must remain engaged and focused on the driving
task at all times. It is your responsibility to be aware of
Before You Drive 4-9
everything around you by performing head checks and
using mirrors and cameras to observe traffic and other
roadway users. You are responsible for the safe
operation of your vehicle at all times. Do not rely on
safety features alone. It is important to follow the tips
below when driving vehicles equipped with safety
features:
• It is your responsibility to always stay focused
when driving.
• Read your Vehicle Owner’s Manual to learn how
your vehicle’s safety features operate.
• Know the limitations of your vehicle’s safety
features.
• Be aware that safety features may not work
properly in certain conditions such as rain, snow,
ice, fog, hills, and curves.
• Always keep vehicle sensors clean and damage
free.
• Always keep software technology up to date (if
applicable) and follow your vehicle
manufacturer’s recommendations.
ADAS safety features provide many benefits and have
great potential to assist drivers in reducing crashes,
injuries, and fatalities when used properly.

For Additional Information:

https://mycardoeswhat.org/
www.trafficsafetyeducationfoundation.org
www.nhtsa.org

Before You Drive 4-10

Section 5 This Section Covers
Basic Driving • Starting the Engine
• Moving the Vehicle
• Stopping the Vehicle
• Steering
• Backing Up
Starting the Engine
Check the vehicle
owner’s manual for how
to start a vehicle. To
start the engine, place
your right foot on the
brake pedal and check
the gear selector lever
for park. Place the key
in the ignition and turn the ignition switch to the on
position. If the vehicle has an engine start button, push
and release it. Once the engine is started, check the
gauges and if there are any indicator lights on the
dashboard that need attention (fuel level, oil level,
ABS, air bags, etc.).

Moving the Vehicle

Move the gear selector lever to “D” (drive). Look in front
of the vehicle to ensure the path moving forward is safe
and check for any traffic or obstacles on the sides,
behind, or in any blind spots (by looking over your
shoulder). Signal and if safe; move your foot to the
accelerator and press gently. Accelerate gradually and
smoothly with the top of your foot on the pedal and the
heel of your foot on the floor.

Stopping the Vehicle

Check your mirrors for traffic at the rear of your vehicle.
Move your foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal.

Basic Driving 5-1

Press with steady pressure until your vehicle comes to
a stop.

Steering
A steering wheel is turned in the direction you want the
vehicle to move, whether moving forward or in reverse.
Place both hands on the outside of the steering wheel
on opposite sides. Your grip on the steering wheel
should be firm but gentle. Use your fingers to grip the
steering wheel instead of the palms of your hands and
keep your thumbs up along the face of the steering
wheel. Never turn the wheel while gripping it from the
inside of the rim.

The proper grip on the steering wheel of a vehicle is

extremely important. Think of the steering wheel as the
face of a clock. Place your left hand at the 7 to 9 o’clock
position and your right hand at the 3 to 5 o’clock
position. Your grip should be firm but not too tight. Both
of your hands should remain on the steering wheel at
all times except when one hand is performing some
other necessary function of driving such as shifting
gears, turning on the windshield wipers, or giving hand
signals for turning, slowing or stopping.

It takes practice to get a “feel” of the vehicle you are

handling. When you are first learning to handle your car
or truck choose lightly traveled rural roads, when
possible. After you feel you can steer the vehicle
accurately, making the tiny adjustments that are
constantly necessary in steering, then you will be ready
to practice other driving techniques such as turning and
parking.

Hand-to-Hand Steering
Use hand-to-hand steering, commonly called push/pull
steering, when turning the wheel during normal driving

Basic Driving 5-2

activity going forward above 10-15 mph. When using
hand-to-hand steering your left hand grasps the wheel
between 7 and 8 o’clock and your right hand grasps the
wheel between 4 and 5 o’clock. Depending on the
direction of the turn, your right or left hand pushes the
wheel up and the opposite hand slides up, grasps the
wheel and pulls down to continue the turn. While the
pulling hand moves down, the hand that initially pushed
up slides back toward its original position to make
adjustments as needed.
The driver should use the area
on the wheel between 11 and 8
o’clock with the left hand and the
area on the wheel between 1 and
8 o’clock with the right hand
regardless of the direction of the
turn. Simply reverse the hand-to-
hand process to bring the vehicle
into your intended path.
With your left hand positioned in
the area between 7 and 9 o’clock
and your right hand positioned in
the area between 3 and 5 o’clock
there tends to be less muscle
stress; therefore, less steering to
cause any weaving in a lane.
With your arms next to your
body, it is more natural to keep
both of your hands on the wheel
at all times. Since your hands
and arms never cross over the
steering wheel, there is less
chance of injury to your face,
hands, and arms in the event of
a frontal crash when a vehicle is equipped with a
driver’s side air bag. This is the preferred method of
Basic Driving 5-3
steering, 2 and 10 o’clock is not recommended
because it can be dangerous in vehicles equipped with
airbags.

Hand-Over-Hand Steering
Use hand-over-hand steering
when turning the wheel at low
speeds, such as at an
intersection or when parking the
vehicle. When using hand-over-
hand steering, your left hand
grasps the steering wheel
between 8 and 9 o’clock and
your right hand grasps the wheel
between 3 and 4 o’clock.
Depending on the direction of
the turn, use the right top third of
the steering wheel to move the
wheel to the right and use the left
top third of the wheel to move the
wheel to the left. This process is
repeated as necessary. Simply
reverse the hand-over-hand
process to bring the vehicle into
your intended path.

One Hand Steering

Use one hand steering only
when backing up or operating vehicle controls (wipers,
flashers, lights, etc.) that require a temporary reach
from the steering wheel. The placement of one hand
on the steering wheel at all times is critical to vehicle
balance, steering reversals, and to avoid potential
injury. When the driver is required to reach for an
operating control, it is important to keep the other hand
in the normal vehicle operating position of 8-9 o’clock
or 3-4 o’clock, depending on the steering wheel design.
This maintains vehicle stability, reduces steering
Basic Driving 5-4
reversals, and allows for additional steering efforts as
needed. The only time that 12 o’clock is recommended
is when backing a vehicle to the left or right and the
driver has to turn in the seat in order to see the path of
travel to the rear.

Backing Up
Follow these steps to back a vehicle up safely:
• Check behind the vehicle before you get in it.
Children and small objects cannot be seen from
the driver’s seat.
• Place your foot on the brake and shift to reverse.
• Grasp the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock
position with your left hand.
• Place your right arm on the back of the
passenger seat to the right and look directly
through the rear window.

• Occasionally check your mirrors when backing

up but keep in mind that these mirrors do not
show the area immediately behind your vehicle.
If your vehicle is equipped with a rearview
camera, occasionally check it while backing up.
• Accelerate gently and smoothly, keeping your
speed slow. Your vehicle is much harder to
steer while you are backing up.

Basic Driving 5-5

 • Steer slightly in the direction the rear of the
vehicle should move. If backing up while turning,
make quick checks to the front and sides.
• Continue looking to the rear until coming to a
complete stop.

Basic Driving 5-6

Section 6 This Section Covers
Rules of the • Yielding Right-of-Way
Road • Traffic Control Devices
• Traffic Signals
• Traffic Signs
• Pavement Markings
• Other Lane Controls
Yielding Right-of-Way
Yielding right-of-way rules provide drivers with
guidance for situations when other drivers or
pedestrians are present. These rules determine which
driver should yield the right-of-way and the sequence
for entering and driving through an intersection or other
driving scenarios.

Although yielding right-of-way rules provide a guide to

determine who should yield the right-of-way, no one
should assume he or she automatically has the right-
of-way. The situation and circumstances at each
intersection must always be considered.
You should yield the right-of-way to:
• pedestrians,
bicyclists,
and other
drivers who
are still in
the
intersection;
• the driver who
is at or arrives
before you at
the
intersection
(see First Car
Rule image);
Rules of the Road 6-1
 • drivers in the opposing traffic lane when you are
making a left turn;
• the driver on
your right at a
four-way
intersection
controlled by
stop signs if
both of you
arrive at the
intersection at
the same time
(see Same
Time Rule
image);
• drivers on a
public highway if you are entering the highway
from a driveway or a private road; and
• drivers already on a limited access or interstate
highway if you are on the entrance or
acceleration ramp.

Traffic Control Devices

Traffic control devices include traffic signals, signs,
pavement markings, and directions provided by law
enforcement, highway personnel, and school crossing
guards.

Traffic Signals
Traffic signals are lights that tell you when or where you
should stop and go. Traffic lights are usually at
intersections and illuminate red, yellow, and green from
the top to the bottom, when on the same traffic device.
There are some intersections, and other locations,
where there are lights of only one color (green, yellow,
or red). In some metropolitan areas traffic lights are
Rules of the Road 6-2
horizontal instead of vertical, and the red light is on the
left, the yellow light is in the middle, and the green light
is on the right.

GREEN Traffic Light—This means you may go

through the intersection if it is clear to do so, with
caution.
YELLOW Traffic Light—A yellow caution light follows
the green signal and is a warning that the signal is
about to change to the red stop signal. Therefore, you
should stop your vehicle and wait for the next green
light. If you are already in the intersection, clear the
intersection as quickly as possible. You must observe
and allow for errors made by other drivers - side, front
and rear – when you are approaching a yellow light.
RED Traffic Light—This means stop before entering
the intersection. You must wait behind the stop line,
crosswalk, or intersection until the traffic light turns
green. An exception to this rule permits traffic facing a
red signal to turn right except where a sign prohibits a
right turn on red. When turning on red you must stop
before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the
turn and yield right-of-way to pedestrians who are
lawfully within and adjacent to the crosswalk and to
other traffic lawfully using the intersection.
Flashing YELLOW Traffic Light—This means slow
down and proceed with caution. You should be
prepared to stop for any traffic flow that may be
entering the intersection.
Flashing RED Traffic Light—This means you must
stop behind a stop line, crosswalk, or intersection
Rules of the Road 6-3
before entering and use the same procedure as you
would at a stop sign, by coming to a complete stop.
Look both ways before entering the intersection and
yield right-of-way, if applicable.

Traffic Signs
Traffic signs tell you about traffic rules, hazards,
roadway location, roadway directions, and the location
of roadway services. The shape, color, symbols, and
words on these signs give clues to the type of
information they provide. This section highlights a few
signs of interest to drivers. It does not address every
sign.

Warning Signs—These signs tell a driver of possible

danger that might be ahead, such as warning you to
slow down and be prepared to stop or notifying you of
a hazard or special situation on the roadway that is
ahead. These signs are usually yellow with black
lettering or symbols and are typically diamond shaped.
Some warning signs may be fluorescent yellow, such
as school zones, school crossings, and pedestrian
crossings. Some common warning signs are shown
below.
Cross Road Ahead Side Road Ahead T-Intersection Ahead

Y-Intersection Ahead Curvy Road Ahead Right Curve

Rules of the Road 6-4

 Divided Highway Divided Highway Lane Ends
Begins Ends

Merging Traffic Added Lane Traffic Signal Ahead

Advisory Speed
Stop Sign Ahead Sharp Curve Ahead
Around Curve

Share the Road with

School Crossing Pedestrian Crossing
Bicycles

Bicycle Crossing Slippery When Wet

Rules of the Road 6-5

Railroad Crossing Warning Signs—Many railroad
crossings have signs or signals to caution you about
highway-railroad grade crossings. Some common
railroad crossing warning signs and signals are shown
below.
• A round yellow warning sign with an “X” symbol
and black “RR” letters is placed along the road
before a highway-railroad grade
crossing. The sign cautions you
to slow down, look, and listen for
a train or railroad vehicle, and be
prepared to stop if a train is
approaching.
• A white, X-shaped sign with “Railroad Crossing”
printed on it is located at the highway-railroad
grade crossing. When a train or
railroad vehicle is approaching
the intersection, you must stop
behind the stop line or before the
intersection until the intersection
is clear.
• At highway-railroad grade crossings with more
than one train track, the number of tracks will be
posted. These signs warn you
that there is more than one
track and there may be more
than one train or railroad
vehicle crossing. Not all
highway-railroad grade
crossings with more than one train track will
have these signs, so it is important to check
for more than one track, train, or railroad
vehicle at each highway-railroad grade
crossing.
Rules of the Road 6-6
Not all railroad grade crossings have lights.
When you need to cross railroad tracks, look both ways
and cross the tracks quickly, without stopping. If a train
is crossing the highway, you must wait to cross a
highway-railroad grade crossing until the train is well
down the track or railroad devices (such as lights and
gates) indicate it is safe to cross. If you are
approaching railroad tracks and you need to stop for
traffic or a signal, stop at the stop line before the
railroad tracks. If your vehicle ever gets stuck on a
track, contact the emergency phone number listed on
the blue sign and provide the crossing information.

Work Zone Signs—These are generally diamond- or

rectangular-shaped and orange with black letters or
symbols. These construction, maintenance, or
emergency operation signs alert you to work zones
ahead and warn you that people are working on or near
the roadway. These warnings include workers ahead,
a reduced speed zone, detours, slow-moving
construction equipment, and poor or suddenly
changing road surfaces.
Rules of the Road 6-7
 Road Construction
Flagger Ahead Workers Ahead
Ahead

One Lane Road

Detour
Ahead

In work zones, traffic may be controlled by a person

with a sign or flag to tell you which direction to travel or
to slow down or stop. You must follow their instructions.

Barriers such as
drums, cones, and
tubes (panels), are
used to keep traffic
out of hazardous
work zones. Along
with signs and
road markings,
they help guide you safely through a work zone.
Barriers may be used to keep drivers from entering
closed roads or other areas where it is dangerous to
drive. Temporary traffic signals may be used in work
zones. You may see a warning sign showing a symbol
of a traffic signal. Stop at the white line, if it is present.

Rules of the Road 6-8

Barrel Cone Tube Barrier Road Closed

Give construction workers a “brake.” Reduce your

speed in work zones and be prepared to stop suddenly.
Do not tailgate in work zones. If you endanger a
highway worker you may be fined and have points
assessed against your driving record.
SC Code §56-5-1535
Regulatory Signs—These signs are square or
rectangular or have a special shape and are white with
black, red, or green letters or symbols. These signs tell
you about specific laws that you must obey, such as
rules for traffic direction, lane use, turning, speed,
parking, and other special situations. Some regulatory
signs have a red circle with a red slash over a symbol,
which prohibit certain actions.
Common types of regulatory signs are:
No Left Turn No Right Turn No U-Turn

Straight or
Straight Left Turn Only
Turn Right

Rules of the Road 6-9

 Speed Limit Signs—These black
and white signs indicate the
maximum legal speed allowed in
ideal conditions.
Stop Sign—A stop sign has eight
sides and is red with white letters.
You must stop behind the stop line
or crosswalk, if one is present. If a
stop line is not present, then stop at
the point nearest the intersection
where you (the driver) can see in
both directions without entering the
cross traffic lane. Look for crossing
vehicles and pedestrians in all
directions and yield the right-of-way.
Yield Sign—A yield sign is a red and
white downward-pointing triangle
with red letters. It means you must
slow down and allow traffic that has
the right-of-way to cross before
entering.
Shared Center Lane Left Turn
Only—This sign tells you where a
lane is reserved for the use of left
turning vehicles from either
direction and is not to be used for
through traffic or passing other
vehicles.
One-Way Street—These signs tell
you that traffic flows only in the
direction of the arrow. Do not turn in
the opposite direction of the arrow.
Never drive the wrong way on a one-
way street.

Rules of the Road 6-10

Guide Signs—These signs are square or rectangular
and are green, brown, or blue. They give information
on intersecting roads, help direct you to cities and
towns, and show points of interest along the highway.
Guide signs can also help you find hospitals, service
stations, restaurants, and hotels.

Route Number Signs—The shape and color of route

number signs indicate the type of roadway: interstate,
US, state, city, county, or local road. When planning a
trip, use a road map or GPS device to determine the
route. During the trip, follow the route signs to prevent
getting lost in an unfamiliar area.
Interstate Route US Route State Route

Secondary System Road Marker

This sign is a marker used to designate a state
secondary system route. The first number after the
letter “S” is the number of the county the road is in and
the last number is the road number.

There is a separate set of secondary road numbers for

each county. You will find only a few of the more
important secondary road numbers on a state primary
Rules of the Road 6-11
system map because there are too many secondary
roads to show. However, they are all shown on county
maps, which may be purchased by mail from the
central office of the Department of Transportation.

Secondary system roads are local roads built to serve

traffic in both rural and urban areas. In rural areas they
are not intended as through routes and should not
normally be used by drivers who are not familiar with
the area.
Evacuation Route Sign— In the event of a hurricane,
a mandatory evacuation may be declared for the
coastal areas of SC. This sign indicates the road or
highway is used as an evacuation route in this type of
emergency

Pavement Markings
Pavement markings are lines, arrows, words, or
symbols painted on the roadway to give directions or
warnings. They are used to divide lanes, tell you when
you may pass other vehicles or change lanes, tell you
which lanes to use for turns, define pedestrian
walkways, and show where you must stop for signs or
traffic signals.

Rules of the Road 6-12

Yellow Lane Markings

Two-direction roadway—
Two-direction roadway—
passing permitted when
passing permitted
dashed line is on your side

Two-direction roadway—
passing prohibited in both
directions

Rules of the Road 6-13

White Lane Markings

One-direction roadway—
passing permitted

Other Lane Controls

Shared Center Left Turn Lane

Reversible Lanes

Rules of the Road 6-14

Crosswalks and Stop Lines
Crosswalks define the area where pedestrians may
cross the roadway. When required to stop because of
a sign or signal you must stop behind the stop line or
crosswalk, but if there are neither, then you must stop
at the point nearest the intersection where you can see
in both directions without entering the cross traffic in
front of you. You must yield to pedestrians entering or
in a crosswalk. Not all crosswalks are marked. Be alert
for pedestrians when crossing intersections. If
crosswalks are not apparent, then you must stop
before entering the intersection. If there is a stop line
before the crosswalk, the stop line must be obeyed
first.

Three Common Types of Crosswalk Markings

Rules of the Road 6-15

Rules of the Road 6-16
Section 7 This Section Covers
General • Turning and Turnabouts
Driving • Intersections
• Roundabouts and Traffic Circles
• Rules for School Buses
• Parking
• Changing Lanes
• Entering a Multi-lane Highway
• Exiting a Roadway
• Passing
• Zipper Merge
Turning and Turnabouts
When turning, you should:
• Search all corners for traffic controls,
pedestrians, other vehicles, and signal your
intentions.
• Enter and maintain in the lane that is closest to
the direction you want to turn.
• Look through the turn to the farthest point
possible along the intended path.
• Accelerate smoothly to appropriate speed,
make sure your turn signal is cancelled, and be
aware of
traffic to
the rear.
Right turns
• Avoid
swinging
wide to the
left before
making the
turn.

General Driving 7-1

 • Always turn right from the right-most portion of
your lane.
Left turns
• When making a left turn, yield to oncoming
traffic.
• Always turn left from the left-most portion of your
lane.
Multiple lanes turning
• Identify
and enter
the lane
from which
you will
turn.
• Stay in
that lane
until the
turn is
completed.

Two-Point Turnabout—In this type of turn, a street,

alley, or driveway is used to reverse the direction you
are traveling when it is not practical or possible to drive
around a block.
• Reverse Two-Point Turnabout—Signal your
intention to turn right; stop and
check traffic to the sides and
rear of the vehicle. Move back
until the rear bumper of the
vehicle reaches the near edge of
the driveway. While backing
slowly, steer rapidly all the way
to the right. As the vehicle
centers in the driveway,
straighten the wheels and stop.

General Driving 7-2

 Shift to drive and check in both directions; if
clear, signal and turn left into the proper lane
and accelerate as appropriate.
• Forward Two-Point Turnabout—Check your
mirrors and signal your intention to turn left.
Move close to the center of the road and turn
into the driveway or alley as near as possible
to the left side. Stop as the rear of the vehicle
clears the curb or edge of the driveway. Check
in all directions for traffic,
signal a right turn, and shift to
reverse. When the path is
clear, move slowly back while
turning the steering wheel
quickly all the way to the right.
As the vehicle centers in the
nearest lane, straighten the
wheels, stop, shift to drive,
cancel the right signal, and
move forward.
Three-Point Turnabout—Use this type of turnabout
only when the road or street is too narrow to make a U-
turn and you cannot go around the block. This type of
turn should only be used on a two-lane roadway that is
not busy. It is better to circle an entire city block if the
street is busy.
The three-point turn must be performed without hitting
the curb, driving off the road surface, or using a side
street or driveway. To perform a three-point turnabout:
1. Check the mirrors and activate your right turn
signal to communicate your intention to pull to
the right edge of the road. Stop on the right edge
of the road.
2. Activate your left turn signal, check traffic, and
check blind spot by looking over your left
shoulder. When traffic is clear, turn hard left to
General Driving 7-3
 the other side of the road and stop when you
have reached the other side.
3. Place the vehicle in reverse, check traffic, and
check blind spots on both sides by looking over
your shoulders. Do not depend on your rearview
mirror alone. When traffic is clear, turn hard right
to the other side of the road and stop.
4. Place the vehicle in drive, and check traffic and
blind spots. When traffic is clear, turn hard left
and drive forward into the right lane of traffic
heading in the new direction. Check traffic and
make sure your turn signal has cancelled.
Continue driving straight in the new direction.

Intersections
At all intersections, reduce your speed and search for:
• traffic control devices,
• oncoming and cross traffic,
• pedestrians and bicyclists,
• the roadway condition, and
• areas of limited visibility.
Do not rely on other road users to obey traffic control
signals or signs. You can only control your own driving,

General Driving 7-4

but not the driving of others. Some road users may not
yield the right-of-way. Be prepared to avoid a collision.

Before moving again after you have stopped at an

intersection, take extra time to check for crossing traffic
and bicyclists. You should always look left, then
right, and left again before entering the
intersection. At a traffic signal when the light turns
green, avoid immediately moving into the intersection.
Take time to make sure your path of travel is clear and
there is no crossing traffic. You need a large enough
gap to get your vehicle across the roadway or to turn
into the appropriate lane and accelerate to an
appropriate speed.

Never assume another driver will share space with

your vehicle or give your vehicle any additional space.
Do not turn into a lane just because an approaching
vehicle has a turn signal active. The driver with an
active turn signal may plan to turn after they go past
your vehicle or may have forgotten to turn the signal off
from a prior turn.
Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI)
The primary difference between a DDI and a
conventional interchange is the design of the
directional crossovers on either side of the
interchange. This eliminates the need for left-turning
vehicles to cross the paths of approaching through
vehicles. By shifting cross street traffic to the left side
of the street between the signalized crossover
intersections, vehicles on the crossroad making a left
turn on to or off of ramps do not conflict with vehicles
approaching from other directions. The DDI design
has shown to improve the operations of turning
movements to and from the interstate and to
significantly reduce the number of vehicle-to-vehicle
conflict points compared to a conventional diamond
General Driving 7-5
interchange. The DDI also reduces the severity of
conflicts.

Restricted Crossing U-turn (RCUT)

The RCUT intersection differs from a conventional
intersection by eliminating the left-turn and through
movements from cross street approaches. To
accommodate these movements, the RCUT
intersection requires drivers to turn right onto the main
road and then make a u-turn maneuver at a one-way
median opening (shown as the red movement in this
figure). RCUTs may be controlled by a traffic signal,
stop sign, merge- or yield-sign. RCUT intersections
reduce potential conflict points and increase safety.

General Driving 7-6

Roundabouts and Traffic Circles
A roundabout, also known as a traffic circle, is a circular
intersection with design features that promote safe and
efficient traffic flow. Vehicles travel counterclockwise
around a raised center island with entering traffic
yielding the right-of-way to circulating traffic. When
using roundabouts or traffic circles:
• Slow down to enter the roundabout or traffic
circle. A sign, like the one shown, warns of a
roundabout or traffic circle.
• Yield to the traffic in the
roundabout or circle.
• Enter a roundabout or traffic
circle in a counterclockwise
direction.
• Proceed to the appropriate
exit, signal intent, and exit.

General Driving 7-7

Safety Comparison Between Traditional
Intersections and Roundabouts
Traditional
Roundabouts
Intersections

Potential vehicle conflict point

Roundabouts are safer than traditional intersections

because they eliminate head-on and high-speed right
angle collisions.

Rules for School Buses

You must stop for the entire time a school bus is
stopped or preparing to stop with its red or amber lights
flashing or its stop arm extended. After the school bus’s
red and/or amber lights have stopped flashing and the
stop arm is no longer visible, proceed slowly, watching
for children. Law requires these actions whether you
are meeting the school bus or traveling behind it under
the following conditions:

General Driving 7-8

 • On any two-lane highway
• On any four-lane or multi-lane highway only
when traveling behind a school bus
• When attempting to pass a school bus that has
red or amber signals flashing

You are required to stop for a stopped school bus

when driving on a two-lane road.

You do not have to stop around a school bus in the

following circumstances:
1) When the school bus is in a passenger loading
zone completely off the main travel lanes and
when pedestrians are not allowed to cross the
roadway.

General Driving 7-9

 2) A driver of a
vehicle does not
have to stop
upon meeting a
stopped school
bus when
traveling in the
opposite
direction on a
multi-lane
highway or
multi-lane
private road. A
multi-lane
highway or
multi-lane
private road is
defined as a highway or private road that
consists of four lanes, having at least two traffic
lanes in each direction.
You must always stop on any highway when you are
behind the bus. When you have stopped, you must not
proceed until the school bus moves or the red lights are
no longer flashing. SC Code §56-5-2760
Parking
You are responsible for making sure that your vehicle
is not an obstruction when it is parked. Vehicles
displaying a disability license plate or placard may park
in designated spaces for people with disabilities, but
only if that vehicle is driven by or transporting the
person with the disability whose name is on the license
plate registration or placard registration certificate.
• Always park in a designated parking area.
• When parking along the roadway, park your
vehicle as far away from the flow of traffic as

General Driving 7-10

 possible. Do not park more than 18 inches from
the curb or edge of pavement.
No-Parking Zones—There are many
areas where parking is not allowed.
Check for signs or painted curbs that
may prohibit or limit parking. Some
parking restrictions are indicated by
colored curb markings.
Perpendicular and Angle Parking
Entering a Perpendicular or Angle Parking Space
1) Identify the
space in which
you will park
and check
traffic.
Angle Parking
2) Signal your
intentions.
3) Move forward
slowly, turning
the steering
wheel left or
right as
appropriate,
until the vehicle Perpendicular Parking
reaches the middle
of the space.
4) Center the vehicle in the space.
5) Move to the front of the parking space, stop,
and secure the vehicle.
Exiting a Perpendicular or Angle Parking Space
1) Check for traffic in all directions.
2) Continue to check traffic and move straight
back until your front bumper clears the vehicle
parked beside you.

General Driving 7-11

 3) Then turn the steering wheel sharply in the
direction that the rear of your vehicle should
move.
4) When the vehicle clears the parking area
space, stop and shift to drive.
5) Accelerate smoothly, steering as needed to
straighten wheels.
Parallel Parking
Entering a Parallel Parking Space
1) Identify the space where you will park, check
traffic, and signal.
2) When traffic is clear, shift to reverse and look to
the rear in the direction the vehicle will be
moving.
3) Back slowly while turning the steering wheel
rapidly in the appropriate direction. Continue
backing up until your front bumper is in line with
the rear bumper of the vehicle you are parking
behind.
4) Back up slowly while turning the steering wheel
rapidly to center the vehicle into the space.

5) Stop before touching the bumper of the vehicle

to the rear. Shift to drive and adjust the vehicle
in the parking space. Do not park more than 18
inches from the curb or edge of pavement.

General Driving 7-12

Exiting a Parallel Parking Space
1) Check traffic in all directions, place your foot on
the brake, shift to reverse, and back up as much
as possible to the vehicle parked behind you.
2) Signal and use your mirrors and look over your
shoulder to check traffic. Shift to drive and move
forward slowly, steering into the lane.
3) Make sure the front bumper of the vehicle will
clear the vehicle ahead; if not, reverse and
correct steering.
4) Move forward into the appropriate lane of traffic
when the door of the vehicle clears the rear
bumper of the vehicle parked ahead of you.
Parking on Hills
When parking on hills, you should do the following:
1) Headed downhill, with or without curb: turn
wheels to the right (except when parking left on
a one way- street).
2) Headed uphill, with curb: turn wheels to the
center of the street with the back of the front tire
against the curb.
3) Headed uphill, without a curb: turn wheels to the
right so that the vehicle will roll off the road if the
brakes fail.
In each case, the parking brakes should be set, the
vehicle placed in the proper gear or park and the
engine turned off. For a manual transmission, the car
should be set in first or reverse. When leaving a parking
space, signal, use your mirrors and look over your
shoulder to check traffic. Yield right of way.

General Driving 7-13

 A. Downhill with or without a curve, turn wheels toward curb.
B. Uphill with curb, turn wheels away from curb.
C. Uphill without curb, turn wheels to the right.

Changing Lanes
When changing lanes:
• Check your mirrors.
• Check your “blind spots,” or areas around your
vehicle that cannot be seen by other vehicles.
This is done by turning your head and looking
over your shoulder in the direction you plan to
move.
• Identify a gap in traffic, signal, and look again in
the direction of the lane change. Adjust speed
and steer into lane.

Entering a Multi-lane Highway

Use the acceleration lane to reach the speed of other
vehicles before pulling onto the roadway. This is the
lane that runs alongside the main roadway. Identify a
gap in traffic and merge with the traffic flow. Cancel
your turn signal.

General Driving 7-14

Exiting a Roadway
It is important to know where you are exiting the
roadway.
• Plan to move to the lane closest to your existing
point early to avoid a quick lane change.
• Maintain your vehicle speed as long as you are
on the main roadway.
• Signal your intention, move to the deceleration
lane, check for the posted speed, and adjust
your speed accordingly. The deceleration lane
is to the right of the roadway and before you
reach the ramp.

Passing
On multi-lane roads, the left-most lane is to be used for
passing slower vehicles. Never pass on the shoulder,
whether it is paved or not. The shoulder is a hard
surface on the right side of the roadway that is to be
used as an emergency stopping lane and not for
through traffic.
When passing another vehicle, pass the vehicle as
quickly and safely as possible. The longer your vehicle
stays alongside the other vehicle, the longer you are in
danger of being in the blind spot of the other vehicle
moving toward your lane.
To pass:
• Check for oncoming traffic.
• Check your mirrors and over your shoulder
for following or passing vehicles.

General Driving 7-15

 • When it is safe to pass, signal your intentions
100 feet or more before passing.
• Steer smoothly into the passing lane.
• Maintain or adjust speed as necessary.
• Continue to pass until the complete front of the
passed vehicle is visible in your rearview mirror.
• Signal your intention to return to the lane. Check
traffic over your shoulder for following or
passing vehicles.
• Steer smoothly into the lane, maintaining or
adjusting speed as appropriate.

When being passed:

• Stay in your
lane.
• Maintain a
constant speed
to allow the
driver to pass
you.
• Be on guard so
that you may
protect yourself from any other driver’s
potentially unsafe actions.
Do not attempt to pass when an oncoming vehicle is
approaching, when your view is blocked by a curve or
a hill, while at intersections, or before a highway-
railroad crossing or bridge.
Slow down when passing a bicyclist, allow as much
space as possible between your vehicle and the
bicyclist and consider the bicyclist’s speed when you
pass.
General Driving 7-16
Zipper Merge (Late Merge)
The Zipper Merge is a new driving strategy that
requires a change in the way of thinking of drivers who
were taught to merge early when noticing that a lane
will end. Merging early can lead to unexpected and
dangerous lane switching, collisions, and road rage.

Zipper merging reduces these dangers by using both

lanes until reaching the merge area. When you see a
“lane closed ahead” sign and traffic is backing up,
stay in your current lane of traffic until you reach the
point of merge. Then take turns with the other drivers
to, safely and smoothly, ease into the open lane of
traffic. When traffic is
heavy and slow, it is
much safer for drivers
to remain in their
current traffic lane until
the point where drivers
can take turns merging
into the open lane of
traffic.

Law does not require the Zipper Merge to be used, but

it is a best practice especially when a lane is closed in
a construction zone. The Zipper Merge benefits drivers
by:
• Reducing the difference in speeds between two
lanes. Changing lanes when traffic is traveling
at approximately the same speed is easier and
safer.
• Reducing the overall length of traffic backup by
as much as 40%.
• Reducing congestion on the interstate.
• Creating a sense of fairness and equity that all
lanes are moving at the same rate.
• Reducing incidents of road rage.
General Driving 7-17
When not to use the zipper merge
When traffic is moving at highway speeds and there
are no backups, it makes sense to move sooner to the
lane that will remain open. The bottom line is to merge
when it is safe to do so.

General Driving 7-18

Section 8 This Section Covers
Safe Driving Tips • Visual Search
• Speed Management
• Stopping Distance
• Space Management
• Communicating

Driving requires skills you can only gain through

practice and experience. The following section offers
driving tips you can practice to help you become a safer
and more skillful driver.

Visual Search
You must know what is happening around your vehicle
before you start a vehicle and while driving. You must
look ahead, to the sides, and behind the vehicle. You
should develop a searching pattern and use it every
time you drive.
Searching helps you see situations that could cause a
problem and gives you time to change your actions
such as speed or roadway position. Avoid staring at
any one thing. Keep your eyes moving and searching
for possible problems.
Look ahead. Looking well down your planned path of
travel will help you see the road, other road users, and
traffic conditions which allows you time to adjust and
plan your driving movements. This additional time will
allow you to make better decisions and possibly avoid
being forced to use
emergency braking and
steering. Ideally, you
should try to look at
what is occurring 20 to
30 seconds in front of
your vehicle.

Safe Driving Tips 8-1

How far you look down the road depends on where you
are driving. In cities and urban areas, you may not be
able to see as far as when you are driving on a
highway. Avoid getting into situations that could limit
how far you can see such as following too close to a
larger vehicle. Adjust your speed and road position so
you can best see.
Look to the sides. It is important to search the sides of
your vehicle to see if other roadway users are about to
cross your travel path.
Look to the rear. It is also important to be aware of
traffic behind your vehicle, especially when changing
lanes, slowing down or stopping, or entering an
intersection. Use your mirrors to check this traffic.

Speed Management
Driving safely means adjusting your vehicle speed for
roadway and traffic conditions, providing an adequate
following distance, and obeying the appropriate speed
limits.
Adjusting To Roadway Conditions
Curves—Always reduce speed before entering a
curve to a safe speed (a speed that allows you to apply
slight and constant acceleration through the curve).
Reduce speed more when traction is poor, when
following other vehicles, and when you cannot see the
end of the curve. Hard braking after entry to a curve
could cause the vehicle tires to lose traction.

Safe Driving Tips 8-2

Slippery roads—Reduce speed at the first sign of rain,
snow, sleet, or ice. When the roadway is slippery tires
do not grip as well. It will take longer to stop and will be
harder to turn without skidding. Always reduce your
speed if the road is wet or covered with snow or ice.
Hydroplaning—Hydroplaning occurs when the
steering tires ride on a layer of water on top of the road
surface, similar to the action of water skis. The best
way to avoid traction loss from hydroplaning is to slow
down when driving in the rain or on a road that is wet
with pooled water or water puddles.

Safe Driving Tips 8-3

Flooded roadways—If you see a flooded roadway or
barricades blocking a flooded roadway, find another
route to get to your destination. Flooding can occur when
rivers and streams overflow their banks, when dams or
levees break, when there is run-off from deep snow or
any time there is heavy rainfall. Floodwaters can be
found on roads, bridges, and low areas. Flash floods can
come rapidly and unexpectedly. They can occur within a
few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall.
• Do not drive through
flooded areas. If you see a
flooded roadway ahead,
turn around and find
another route to get to your
destination.
• Be cautious, especially at
night, when the visibility is
limited.
• Remember, six inches of water will reach the
bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of
control or possible stalling. Two feet of moving
water can carry away most vehicles, including
sport utility vehicles and pick-up trucks.
• Even if the water appears shallow enough to
cross, do not attempt to cross a flooded road.
Water can hide dips and other unseen hazards.
Floodwaters can also damage roadways by
washing away the underlying road surface.
• If there is no other route, proceed to higher
ground and wait for the water to subside.

Safe Driving Tips 8-4

Stopping Distance
Total stopping distance is the distance your vehicle
travels, in ideal conditions, from the time you realize
you must stop until your vehicle actually stops. Several
things may affect your stopping distance:
• Speed—The faster you are traveling, the more
time and distance is needed to stop.
• Your perception time—This is the time and
distance it takes you to recognize you must
stop. The average perception time for an alert
driver is ¾ second to 1 second.
• Your reaction time—This is the time and
distance it takes for you to react by moving your
foot from the gas pedal and beginning to apply
the brakes. The average driver has a reaction
time of ¾ second to 1 second.
• Braking distance—This is the time and distance
it takes for your brakes to slow and stop your
vehicle. At 50 mph on dry pavement with good
brakes, it can take about 158 feet.

Space Management
Providing an Adequate Following Distance
You will share the road with different type of vehicles
(cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc.). You will need time and
space to adjust and react to these other road users.
The more space you allow between your vehicle and
other roadway users, the more time you have to react.
This space is usually referred to as a space cushion.
Always try to maintain a safe space cushion around
your vehicle.
Space in Front
Following a vehicle in front of you too closely limits your
vision of the road and does not allow you enough time
to react to avoid a collision. You should always try to
Safe Driving Tips 8-5
keep a minimum following distance of 4 seconds
between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.
To determine your following distance:
1) Watch when the rear of the vehicle ahead
passes a sign, pole, or any other stationary
point.
2) Count the seconds it takes you to reach the
same sign, pole, or any other stationary
point (“One thousand one, one thousand
two, one thousand three, one thousand
four”).
3) You are following too closely if you pass the
stationary point before counting to “one
thousand four”.
4) Reduce speed and then count again at
another stationary point to check the new
following distance. Repeat until you are
following no closer than 4 seconds.
To check your accuracy in maintaining a minimum
following distance of 4 seconds you may guess how
many seconds away you are from an object and then
count the seconds it takes to reach the object.

There are certain situations when you need more

space in front of your vehicle. Increase your following
distance:
• On slippery roads
Safe Driving Tips 8-6
 • At night, in fog, or in inclement weather
• When following vehicles required to stop at
railroad crossings, such as transit buses, school
buses, or vehicles carrying hazardous materials
• When following large vehicles such as trucks,
buses, recreational vehicles, and vehicles
pulling a trailer

Space to the Side

A space cushion on the sides of your vehicle allows
you to move right or left.
• Avoid driving next to other vehicles for long
periods of time. You may be in their blind spot
and this reduces the space you may need to
avoid a collision.
• Avoid crowding the centerline marking. Try to
keep as much space as possible between you
and oncoming traffic.
• Make space for vehicles entering a multiple-lane
or limited access roadway by moving over a
lane or adjusting your speed.

Safe Driving Tips 8-7

 • Give extra space to pedestrians, especially
children, the elderly, and bicyclists.
• When a passing vehicle is a tractor trailer, leave
a little more space by moving to the outside
portion of your lane space away from the tractor
trailer as it passes.
Space Behind Affects Your Following Distance
It is not always easy to maintain a safe following
distance behind your vehicle. However, you can help
keep the driver in the vehicle behind you at a safe
distance by keeping a steady speed, signaling in
advance, and keeping more space to the front of your
vehicle before you reduce speed or turn.

Communicating
It is important that you let other roadway users know
where you are and what you plan to do.
Letting Others Know You Are There
It is your responsibility to make your vehicle is visible
to other roadway users.
Use headlights—Turning on your headlights helps
other roadway users see you.
This is especially important:
• On rainy, snowy, or foggy days; use your
low-beam lights and slow down
• When it begins to get dark or when driving
away from a rising or setting sun
Using your horn—Your vehicle’s horn, if used
properly, can get the attention of other road users.
A light tap on the horn should be all that is needed
under normal circumstances. You may want to give
your horn a light tap when:

Safe Driving Tips 8-8

 • Pedestrians or bicyclists appear to be
moving into your lane of travel
• Passing a driver who starts to turn into your
lane
• A driver is not paying attention or may have
trouble seeing you
Not using your horn—You should only use your
horn when you need to communicate with other
road users. Using your horn inappropriately could
scare or anger another road user. You should not
use your horn when near blind pedestrians.
Signaling Your Movements
Using the appropriate turn signal before changing
direction or slowing your vehicle informs and warns
other roadway users.

Signal before changing direction—An

appropriate signal gives other roadway users time
to react to your vehicle movements. It is state law
that you must use a turn signal 100 feet or more
before changing lanes, turning left or right, or
when merging into traffic. Make sure you cancel
your signals once your action is completed to
avoid confusing other drivers.

Safe Driving Tips 8-9

 Signal when reducing speeds—Brake lights let
other roadway users know that the vehicle in front
is slowing down. Signal before reducing speed
when:
• Turning off a roadway that does not have
separate turning or exiting lanes
• Parking or turning before an intersection

Safe Driving Tips 8-10

Section 9 This Section Covers
Emergency • Emergencies and Avoiding
Collisions
Situations and
• Vehicle Malfunctions
Avoiding • Emergency Contact
Collisions Information

Emergencies and Avoiding Collisions

Most drivers will eventually find themselves in an
emergency situation. As careful as you are, there are
situations that could cause a problem for you. If you are
prepared, you may be able to prevent any serious
outcomes. All drivers have the responsibility to do all
they can to prevent collisions. You have three options
to avoid a collision or to reduce its impact. These
options are braking, steering, or accelerating.
Braking
The first reaction for most drivers to avoid a collision is
to stop the vehicle. Most new vehicles are equipped
with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The ABS will
allow you to stop your vehicle without skidding and
keep steering control. Be sure to read the vehicle
owner’s manual on how to use the ABS. The ABS
system will allow you to stop without skidding. The
general guidelines for using ABS are:
• Press on the brake pedal as hard as you can
and keep applying constant pressure. Do not
pump the brakes because this will deactivate
ABS.
• ABS will work only if you keep the pressure on
the brake pedal. You may feel the pedal vibrate
and you may hear a clicking noise. This is
normal.

Emergency Situations and Avoiding Collisions 9-1

 • You can still steer you vehicle while ABS is
activated.

If your vehicle is not equipped with ABS, refer to your

vehicle owner’s manual for proper braking procedure.
Steering
You may be able to avoid a collision by quickly steering
around a problem. This is sometimes referred to as
swerving. To quickly steer around a problem:
• Make sure you have a good grip with both hands
on the steering wheel.
• Steer in the direction you want to go but try to
avoid other traffic.
• When you have cleared the problem, steer in
the opposite direction to straighten out your
vehicle, gain control, and adjust to an
appropriate driving speed.
Accelerating
It may be necessary to accelerate to avoid a collision.
This may happen when another vehicle is about to hit
you from behind or the side.
Dealing with Skids
Skids are caused when you are traveling too fast for
the road conditions, when you stop suddenly, or when
the tires can no longer grip the roadway. When you
begin to skid, you have little control of your vehicle. If
your vehicle begins to skid:
• Release pressure from the brake or
accelerator.
• Look where you want to go and steer the
vehicle in the direction you want to go.

Emergency Situations and Avoiding Collisions 9-2

Uneven Surface Drop-Offs
Uneven surface drop-offs can cause serious collisions if
you react improperly. Avoid panic steering which means
when someone tries to return to the pavement as soon as
the vehicle wheels leave the pavement. If your vehicle
leaves the paved road surface due to an uneven surface
drop-off, slow down gradually when safe to do so, and
steer gently back onto the pavement. The key to safely
driving off the road and safely returning involves
gradually moving off and back on the road. The turning
of the steering wheel should be slight. This reduces the
chance of erratic vehicle behavior when your tires
encounter an uneven or unpaved shoulder.

Vehicle Malfunctions
There is always a chance of a vehicle problem while
driving. It is important to follow the recommended
maintenance schedule listed in the vehicle owner’s
manual. The following preventive maintenance
measures greatly reduces the chance that your vehicle
will have a problem.
Brake Failure
It is important to check all of your warning lights,
including the brake light, to be sure your vehicle is
working correctly. A brake warning light will tell you if
your brakes are not working properly. Do not drive if
you see this warning light. In the event your brakes stop
working while driving:
• Use the parking brake. Pull on the parking brake
handle in the center console or push the parking
brake foot pedal slowly so you will not lock the
rear wheels and cause a skid. Be ready to
release the parking brake if the vehicle does
start to skid.

Emergency Situations and Avoiding Collisions 9-3

 • If the parking brake does not work, turn off the
engine and look for a safe place to slow to a
stop. Make sure the vehicle is off the roadway.
Do not continue to drive the vehicle without
working brakes.
Tire Blowout
A tire blowout is a rapid deflation of air from a tire. If a
front tire blows out, the vehicle will pull sharply in the
direction of the blowout. If a rear tire blows out, the
vehicle will wobble, shake, and pull some in the
direction of the blowout. If a tire blows out or suddenly
goes flat:
1) Grip the steering wheel firmly and keep the
vehicle going straight.
2) Slow down gradually. Take your foot off the
accelerator pedal.
3) Do not brake. Allow the vehicle to slow by itself
or brake gently if necessary.
4) Do not stop on the road if at all possible. Pull
off the road in a safe place and turn on
emergency flashers.
5) Have the tire changed and replaced.
Power Failure
If the engine shuts off while you are driving:
1) Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Be
aware that the steering wheel may be difficult
to turn, but it is still able to be turned.
2) Look for an escape path. Do not brake hard;
instead, brake with steady pressure on the
pedal, slow down, and then pull off the
roadway.

Emergency Situations and Avoiding Collisions 9-4

 3) Stop and try to restart the engine; if
unsuccessful, raise the hood and turn on the
emergency flashers. Call for help.
Stuck Accelerator
If your vehicle is accelerating out of control, you should:
1) Turn off the engine.
2) Shift to neutral and search for an escape path.
3) Steer smoothly, brake gently, and pull off the
roadway.
4) Have the pedal repaired at a service center
before driving again.
Vehicle Breakdown
If your vehicle breaks down on the highway, you should
make sure that other roadway users can see your
disabled vehicle. All too often, collisions occur because
a driver did not see a disabled vehicle until it was too
late to stop.
If available, use your cell phone or other device to notify
authorities that your vehicle or another vehicle has
broken down. If you are having vehicle trouble and
have to stop:
• Get your vehicle off the road and away from
traffic, if possible.
• Turn on your emergency flashers to show your
vehicle is disabled.
• Try to warn other roadway users that your
vehicle is there. If you have emergency flares,
place them about 200 to 300 feet behind the
vehicle, giving other drivers some time to
change lanes if necessary.

Emergency Situations and Avoiding Collisions 9-5

Emergency Contact Information
If you hold a beginner's permit, driver's license, or
identification card, please enter your emergency
contact information on your SCDMV record through
SCDMV’s website at www.scdmvonline.com. If you are
ever in a collision or have a medical emergency, SC
law enforcement officers will then have access to your
emergency contact information and may provide it to
medical personnel.

Emergency Situations and Avoiding Collisions 9-6

Section 10 This Section Covers
Sharing the • Pedestrians
Bicyclists
Road •
• Motorcyclists
• Interacting with Commercial
Vehicles
• Emergency Vehicles
• What to Do and Expect When
Stopped by Law Enforcement
• Move-Over Law
• Slow-Moving Vehicles
Remember to be courteous and communicate your
presence and intentions to others on the roadway to
avoid collisions.

Pedestrians
Pedestrians are difficult to see and it is difficult to
determine their intentions. As a driver:
• Always be prepared to yield to
pedestrians even if they are not in a
crosswalk.
• You must yield when a pedestrian
is in a crosswalk, even if it is
unmarked, including mid-block
crosswalks marked by warning
signs and pavement markings.
• You must always yield the right-of-
way to persons who are visually
impaired. When a pedestrian is
crossing a street guided by a dog or carrying a
white cane, you must come to a complete stop.
• You must yield the right-of-way to all
pedestrians in the intersection even if the traffic
light is green.

Sharing the Road 10-1

 • When making a right turn on red, you must be
prepared to yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians.
• When driving next to parked or stopped
vehicles, pedestrians can walk out between
these vehicles. Slow down and do not pass until
you are sure there are no pedestrians crossing
in front of it.
• Check for pedestrians in your path before
backing up, especially in parking lots or places
where there are many pedestrians.
• Be careful in playground
and residential areas
where children could run
out from between parked
vehicles. It is a good idea
to drive slower than the
speed limit in these areas and
be prepared to stop quickly.
• In a school zone when lights are
flashing or children are present,
you must obey a slower speed
limit. At a school crossing where
there is traffic patrol, stop and
yield if you are signaled to do so.

Bicyclists
Bicycles are considered vehicles when
on roadways. Bicyclists are required and expected to
follow the same rules of the road as motorized vehicles.
As a motorist, you should know that a bicyclist has the
same rights, privileges, and responsibilities as you.
Respect for each other will aid in the smooth flow of
traffic.

Sharing the Road 10-2

Bicyclists may not be easily seen in traffic. You must to
be alert for bicyclists and be extra careful when
approaching them. Just as motorists have different
levels of skills, bicyclists also have varying levels of
skills. A skillful bicyclist rides predictably and holds a
steady line. An unskillful bicyclist may swerve
unpredictably, ignore traffic signs and signals, and ride
without a light at night. If you see an unskillful bicyclist,
be ready for any sudden movements.
As a driver:
• Yield to bicyclists in intersections as you would
for pedestrians and other vehicles.
• Yield right-of-way when a bicycle path or bike
lane intersects a road. Do not stop, park, or drive
on a designated bicycle path or lane unless you
are entering or leaving an alley or driveway,
performing official duties, directed by a police
officer, or if an emergency situation exists.
• Allow as much space
as possible and slow
down when
approaching or
passing a bicyclist.
You should slow down
and let the cyclist clear
the intersection before
making your turn.
• Avoid slowing down or stopping quickly. A motor
vehicle’s brakes are more powerful than a
bicycle’s and you could cause a collision.
• Avoid sounding your horn close to bicyclists
unless there is a chance of a collision. Sounding
your horn to alert your presence may startle
bicyclists and cause them to steer into your path
resulting in a collision.

Sharing the Road 10-3

 • Watch carefully for bicyclists entering your lane.
Be especially careful if you see children riding
bikes on the sidewalk. They may come onto the
road.
• Avoid turning sharply in front of a bicyclist and
do not force a bicyclist off the road.
• Although bicyclists are required to ride in the
direction of traffic, you should look for them
riding anywhere on the roadway.
• Be particularly careful around bicyclists when
the roadway is wet or covered with sand or
gravel. These conditions affect bicycles much
more than vehicles.
• Cooperate with bicyclists. They are required to
use hand signals, as shown, when turning and
stopping. However, keep in mind that bicyclists
may not know how to use hand signals or may
be unable to signal if road or traffic conditions
require them to keep both hands on the
handlebars. Look for other clues of a bicyclist's
intent, such as turning his or her head or looking
over his or her shoulder before changing lane
positions.

Stop Left Turn

Sharing the Road 10-4

 Right Turn (either of these two options)

• When parked on the street, check to the sides

and rear of the vehicle for bicyclists before you
open your vehicle door.
• You should check for bicyclists in your path
before backing up. Be especially cautious near
schools or residential areas where bicyclists are
more likely to be present.

Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists have the same
rights and responsibilities as
other drivers. However, it
may be more difficult to see
them. There are special
situations and conditions
drivers need to be aware of
so the road can be safely
shared with motorcyclists:
• Allow a motorcyclist a
full lane width. Do not
share the lane. The
motorcycle needs
space for the
motorcyclist to react
to other traffic.
Sharing the Road 10-5
 • Motorcycles are small and therefore more
difficult to see. Be aware that motorcycles can
be part of the traffic mix. Always check your
mirrors and blind spots for them.

• Before turning left, be alert for motorcycles by

looking carefully to the front and sides of your
vehicle.

Sharing the Road 10-6

 • Do not assume a motorcycle is turning when
you see its turn signal flashing. Motorcycle turn
signals may not self-cancel and the motorcyclist
may have forgotten to turn them off. Wait to be
sure the rider is going to turn before you
proceed.
• When following a motorcyclist allow for a
minimum 4 second following distance or more in
wet conditions or you may not have enough time
or space to avoid a collision. Motorcycle riders
may suddenly need to change speed or adjust
lane position to avoid hazards such as potholes,
gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement
seams, railroad crossings, and grooved
pavement, which can be deadly to a
motorcyclist.
• Keep in mind that scooters and mopeds travel
at much slower speeds than motorcycles.

Interacting with Commercial Vehicles

More than 250,000 collisions occur between cars and
commercial vehicles each year. Many of these
collisions could be avoided by keeping these points in
mind:
• Commercial vehicles are generally larger
vehicles and less easily maneuverable than
cars.
• These vehicles have much larger blind spots
than cars.
• They have longer stopping and accelerating
distances and need more room to turn.

Sharing the Road 10-7

The No Zone
The no zone is the area
around commercial vehicles
such as large trucks or
buses where vehicles
disappear from the commercial driver’s view into blind
spots. These blind spots are located on the sides, rear,
and front of commercial vehicles.
• Side No Zones—Large trucks and buses have
big no zones on both sides. They are much
larger than a regular vehicle’s blind spots.
Trucks have a larger blind spot on their right side
starting behind the cab and extending up to the
length of the truck. If you cannot see the
driver’s face in the side view mirror, he or
she cannot see you. Avoid driving alongside a
large vehicle for any longer than required under
all circumstances. If the driver of a large vehicle
needs to swerve or change lanes, the chances
of a collision are greatly increased.

Sharing the Road 10-8

 • Front No Zones—Because of a large vehicle’s
size and weight, they take longer to stop than
cars. A loaded truck with good tires and properly
adjusted brakes, under ideal conditions,
traveling at 55 mph, requires a minimum of 335
feet before coming to a complete stop, or
greater than 1½ times the stopping distance of
a car. Therefore, it is essential not to enter a
roadway in front of a large vehicle or change
lanes in front of a large vehicle. When passing a
large vehicle, look for the whole front of the
vehicle in your rear-view mirror before pulling in
front and be sure to maintain your speed.

• Rear No Zones—Unlike cars, large vehicles

have huge blind spots directly behind them that
extend up to 200 feet. If you are too close, the
large vehicle cannot see your vehicle, and you
cannot see what is ahead of you. If the large
vehicle brakes or stops suddenly, you have no
place to go and could run into the large vehicle.
To prevent this, pay close attention when
following a large vehicle. Avoid following the
vehicle too closely and position your vehicle so
Sharing the Road 10-9
 the driver can see it in his or her side mirrors.
When traveling up or down steep hills, large
vehicles must drive slowly, approximately 35
mph, and therefore use the right lane. Avoid
driving in the right lane, if possible, when
traveling up or down hills, as well as near truck
weigh stations, where large vehicles will be
attempting to re-enter
faster moving traffic.
By avoiding the right
lane in these areas,
you will reduce the
possibility of a collision
with a large vehicle.

Turning
Pay close attention to large vehicles turn signals and
give them plenty of room to maneuver. When a truck or
bus needs to make a right turn, the driver will
sometimes swing the vehicle wide to the left to safely
turn right and clear the corner of a curb or other
obstruction. Sometimes space from other lanes is used
to clear corners. If you try to get in between the truck
or bus and the curb,
you will be squeezed
in-between the vehicle
and could suffer a
serious collision. To
avoid a collision, do
not turn until the truck
or bus has completed
its turn.

Sharing the Road 10-10

Keep in mind:
• When you meet a truck coming from the
opposite direction, keep as far as possible to the
right side of the roadway to avoid a side-swept
collision and to reduce the wind turbulence
between the two vehicles, which pushes the
vehicles apart.
• Many collisions with large vehicles occur at
intersections because motorists are unable to
judge accurately the speed of a truck
approaching before making a left turn. When in
doubt about the speed of an oncoming truck or
bus, do not turn left in its path. The truck or bus
may be going faster than you think, and it takes
longer for a truck or bus to stop.
• Many intersections are marked with stop lines to
show where you must come to a complete stop.
These stop lines help to set you farther back at
an intersection to give larger vehicles more
turning space. Always stop behind stop lines.
• Do not cut off a large vehicle in traffic or on the
highway to reach an exit or turn or to beat a truck
into a single-lane construction zone. The few
seconds that might be saved are not worth a life.

Emergency Vehicles
Emergency vehicles are equipped with sirens, flashing
lights, and special horns to help them move more
efficiently through traffic.

Sharing the Road 10-11

As a driver, you must yield right-of-way to an
emergency vehicle when the flashing lights and siren
are on by pulling over to the edge of the road so the
emergency vehicle(s) may more easily pass. Avoid
blocking intersections, roadways, or driveways
whenever possible
What to Do and Expect When Stopped by
Law Enforcement
A law enforcement officer conducts a traffic stop
because she or he observes a traffic violation or is
conducting a police investigation. Being stopped by a
law enforcement officer can be a stressful experience,
but knowing what to do during the stop will help ensure
your safety, the safety of other motorists, and the safety
of the officer.
When you see emergency lights behind you, stay calm,
activate your turn signal, and pull to the side of the
roadway as soon and safely as possible. Turn off the
ignition and radio, turn on your hazard flashers, and
stay in your vehicle unless the officer directs you to exit.
Keep your hands on the steering wheel so they can be
easily seen. Ask your passengers to remain calm.
Everyone should keep his or her seatbelt fastened and
stay in the vehicle while keeping his or her hands in
plain view as well. Give the officer your full attention.
Cell phones and mobile devices should not be used by
you or any of your passengers at this time. Do not
make sudden movements or search for your driver’s
license or vehicle documents. Wait for the officer to
give you instructions.
If you have one or more weapon in the vehicle, inform
the officer of all weapons upon first contact. Concealed
weapons permit (CWP) holders should follow CWP
procedures.
Sharing the Road 10-12
If it is nighttime, the officer may direct a spotlight at your
vehicle once stopped. To assist with visibility, turn on
your interior lights as soon as you stop to help the
officer see inside your vehicle.
Roll down the window so that you and the officer can
communicate. The officer will usually explain why he or
she stopped you and may ask questions about your
trip. If the officer is driving an unmarked vehicle or is
not in uniform, ask to see his or her law enforcement
credentials. Follow all instructions the officer gives you
or your passengers. The officer may ask to see your
driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle
registration. If the documents are out of your reach, tell
the officer where they are and ask if you may reach for
them. If you have questions, politely ask for
clarification. If the officer asks you to exit the vehicle,
stay safely away from traffic and keep your hands in
plain view.
When the officer completes his or her interaction with
you, the officer may issue a warning or a traffic ticket,
which may include a fine. The officer will typically
explain whatever action is being taken. If you have
questions, respectfully ask the officer to clarify. If you
disagree with the officer’s decision to issue a traffic
ticket, do not prolong the contact by arguing with the
officer. If you wish to contest the ticket, you will have
the opportunity to explain your point in court. Your
acceptance of a traffic ticket document is not
considered an admission of guilt. In SC it is not a
requirement that a driver sign a traffic ticket. However,
in another state the refusal to sign a traffic ticket may
result in your arrest based on the laws of the state in
which the traffic ticket is being issued.

Sharing the Road 10-13

If you believe the officer acted inappropriately, report it
to the officer’s agency in a timely manner. The name of
the officer and law enforcement agency will be on the
ticket, or you may ask the officer to provide this
information.
The enforcement of traffic laws is an effective tool in
changing unsafe driving behavior and reducing
collisions. If you receive a warning or a ticket for a
traffic violation, its purpose is to deter illegal and/or
unsafe behavior. Good communication from all
involved parties can make a traffic stop a safe
experience for all.

If the officer believes a crime has been committed, he

or she can search your vehicle without a court-issued
warrant as long as the officer has probable cause. Do
not make threatening motions or statements to an
officer. Keep your emotions under control. Never
attempt to interfere with the arrest of others who may
be with you. Do not resist arrest for any reason.

Never try to run from law enforcement. It is very

dangerous, and many deadly collisions occur from
police chases. The consequences of running from law
enforcement are more severe than any initial traffic
citation.

Move-Over Law
The incidents are increasing of law enforcement
officers, emergency medical services, fire department
personnel, and tow truck operators being struck while
performing duties on the road. To lessen this problem,
SC and most other states, have enacted move-over
laws, which require drivers to slow down and change
lanes when approaching emergency vehicles.

Sharing the Road 10-14

 Signs such as the one above are
posted on roadways in states
that have such laws.

When you approach a stopped authorized emergency

vehicle, proceed with caution. Slow down and yield the
right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane away
from the authorized emergency vehicle, if safety and
traffic conditions permit. If a lane change is unsafe,
slow down and proceed with caution while maintaining
a safe speed for traffic conditions.

Slow-Moving Vehicles
Be alert for slow-moving vehicles, especially in rural
areas. A fluorescent or reflective orange and red
triangle displayed on the rear of a vehicle drawn by
animals or are farm or construction equipment means

Sharing the Road 10-15

the vehicle is traveling less than 25 mph. Use caution
when approaching a slow-moving vehicle, and be sure
it is safe before you pass.
• Farm machinery—Watch for tractors,
combines, and other farm equipment moving
across roads and traveling on state highways in
rural areas. Pass with caution and remember
that the operator of farm machinery most likely
cannot hear approaching vehicles due to the
noise level of the machinery.
• Animal-drawn vehicles and horseback
riders—In some rural areas, you may be
sharing the road with animal-drawn vehicles and
horseback riders. They have the same rights to
use the road as a motor vehicle and must also
follow the same rules of the road. They are
subject to heavy damage and injury to their
occupants if hit by a vehicle. Pass with caution
and do not use your horn or “rev” your vehicle’s
engine because this may scare the animal and
cause a collision. To avoid other possible
collisions, be sure to anticipate left turns made
by animal-drawn vehicles into
fields and driveways. Warning
signs may be posted in areas
where you are likely to find
animal-drawn vehicles and
horseback riders, so be alert.

Sharing the Road 10-16

Section 11 This Section Covers
Special Driving • Night Driving
Work Zones
Situations •
• Rural Road Driving
• Winter Driving
Techniques
• Safe Trailering
Night Driving
Driving at night is more difficult and hazardous than
daytime driving. The distance you can see in front is
limited by light provided by your headlights. Here are
some things you can do that will help when you are
driving at night:
• Use your high
beams whenever
there are no
oncoming vehicles.
High beams let you
see twice as far as
low beams.
• Dim your high beams
when you are 500
feet or more away
from any oncoming
vehicle. If a vehicle
comes toward you
with its high beams
on, glance toward the
right side of the road to keep from being
distracted or momentarily blinded by the
vehicle’s headlights.

Special Driving Situations 11-1

 • Use your low beams
when following
another vehicle that
is less than 200 feet
in front of you.
• In fog, rain, or snow,
use your low beams.
Light from your high
beams may cause glare and make it more
difficult to see ahead. Some vehicles have fog
lights that can be used in fog, snow or rain.
• Avoid looking directly into oncoming headlights.
Keep your eyes searching the road in front of
your vehicle.
• Try to search well ahead of your headlight
beams, looking for dark shapes on the roadway.
• Glance occasionally to the right and left to
determine the location of the edge of the
pavement and any possible hazards that may
come from the sides.
• Do not wear sunglasses or colored lenses when
driving at night or on overcast days. Tinted or
colored lenses reduce your vision.
• Increase your following distance by adding at
least one additional second for night driving
conditions and at least two additional seconds
for driving on unfamiliar roadways at night.

Special Driving Situations 11-2

Work Zones
A work zone is an area where roadwork takes place
and may involve a lane closure, a detour, and moving
equipment.
Work zones have become increasingly dangerous
places for both workers and drivers. Approximately
40,000 people per year are injured as a result of motor
vehicle collisions in work zones.
When approaching a work zone,
watch for signs, cones,
barrels, large vehicles,
and workers. Work zone
signs have orange
backgrounds and black

letters or symbols. Always

reduce your speed in a work
zone, even if there are no
workers. The narrower
lanes and rough pavement
can create hazardous
conditions. If you endanger a highway worker you
may be fined and have points assessed against your
driving record. SC Code §56-5-1535.

Special Driving Situations 11-3

As a driver in a work zone, you should:
• Reduce your speed, increase your following
distance, watch the traffic around you, and be
prepared to stop.
• Use extreme caution when driving through a
work zone at night whether workers are
present or not.
• Adjust your
lane position to
allow space for
workers and
construction
vehicles.
• Observe the
posted work
zone signs
until you see
“End Road
Work.”
• Expect delays,
plan for them,
and leave
earlier to reach
your
destination.
• When
possible, use
alternate routes and avoid work zones.

Special Driving Situations 11-4

Rural Road Driving
Driving on rural roads can be dangerous. Stay alert,
watch for warning signs, and obey the speed limit.
Some road conditions and driving hazards are unique
to rural roads. It is important to understand the different
road conditions you may experience on rural roads:
• Gravel or dirt—Traction can be reduced on
gravel or dirt roads. You should reduce your
speed, increase your following distance, and
realize you may skid when trying to stop your
vehicle.
• Narrow roads—Rural roads are generally
narrower and may have ditches or drop-offs
instead of shoulders. You should reduce your
speed, center your vehicle in your lane, and
watch for oncoming traffic that may attempt to
share your lane.
• Narrow and single-lane bridges—Be aware of
warning signs identifying narrow or single-lane
bridges. Take turns crossing a bridge; generally,
the first driver to the bridge has the right-of-way.
• Open bridge gratings or steel bridges—
These can reduce your traction. Reduce your
speed, increase your following distance, and
maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel.
• Areas of reduced vision—Blind corners (street
corners you cannot see around) created by
wooded areas, crops growing in fields, and
steep hills can limit how far you can see. In this
type of area always reduce your speed and be
prepared to stop.

Special Driving Situations 11-5

 • Uncontrolled intersections—Some
intersections on rural roads are not controlled by
yield or stop signs. These intersections can be
very dangerous if they are not approached with
caution. When approaching an uncontrolled
rural intersection, slow down and be prepared to
stop for crossing or oncoming traffic.

Winter Driving Techniques

South Carolina generally does not have extreme
winters but occasionally gets some snow and ice.
Winter weather conditions call for a different kind of
driving than other weather conditions such as slower
speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering, and
slower braking.

Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses, and

infrequently traveled roadways because they tend to
freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the
conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady
areas or on exposed roadways like bridges. Be aware
that road conditions are constantly changing.

If you must drive, it is recommended that you use tire

chains or special snow tires on your vehicle. Also:
• Keep your windshield and windows clear.
• Use the defroster because it improves driver
visibility, especially during cold weather.
Activate the fan and place your hand on the
dashboard to ensure it is working properly.
• Load extra weight into the trunk of your car.
This will help give your car traction (rear wheel
Special Driving Situations 11-6
 drive). Keep a full tank of gasoline to prevent
condensation within your gas tank, which may
freeze. This will reduce further problems.
• When possible, travel in the tracks where other
vehicles have gone before.
• Test road conditions carefully. Applying the
brakes gently is best for slowing down or
stopping.
• Avoid using cruise control in winter driving
conditions.
• Allow additional distance between your vehicle
and others when there is snow or ice. (Ice
patches may occur on bridges even when there
is no ice on the roads.)
• Approach intersections with caution.
• Generally avoid hills, but if necessary, drive
slowly and keep a steady pace and a good
distance of space between you and the vehicle
ahead. If you stop on a hill, it is extremely
difficult, if not impossible, to get going again.
• If your vehicle gets stuck in the snow, do not
spin your wheels. This will only dig the vehicle
in deeper.
o Turn your wheels from side to side a few
times to push snow out of the way.
o Use a light touch on the gas, to ease your
car out.
o Use a shovel to clear snow away from the
wheels and the underside of the car.
Special Driving Situations 11-7
 o Pour sand, cat litter, gravel, or salt in the
path of the wheels to help get traction. You
can also try using cardboard, newspaper,
or brush under your wheels.
• If your vehicle starts to skid, take your foot off
the accelerator and steer in the direction you
want the front of the vehicle to go.
o If you have ABS, do not pump the brakes.
Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You
will feel the brakes pulse, which is normal.
o If you have standard brakes, pump them
gently.
• Do not abandon your vehicle in the roadway, if
possible.

Safe Trailering
Towing a Trailer

Many people are surprised at the extent of trailer

towing. Trailers are towed billions of miles every year.
Mobility, increased leisure time, popularity of do-it-
yourself projects and cost consciousness have created
a need which can be best satisfied by vehicles towing
trailers. Thus, even though towing a trailer may be an
occasional practice for individuals, it is a common
occurrence everyday across the nation.

Special Driving Situations 11-8

The Most Important Part…You
Your judgment and common sense are key to a safe
trailering experience. Driver error is a contributing
factor in the large majority of crashes involving
vehicle-trailer combinations. It is vital that you make
sure to hook up, load, and operate the vehicle-trailer
combination properly.

Connecting a Trailer
The connection or hookup is an important step that
must be done carefully each time you tow a trailer.
Learn the proper hook up for your vehicle and trailer
combination. Know how to correctly attach the coupler
to the hitch-ball, connect the safety chains, and plug in
the lights. When you begin to hook up a trailer, don’t
pause or stop to do something else, always finish the
process first. Before leaving, check the connection to
be sure the coupler and hitch-ball are properly
connected. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with
clean, undamaged mirrors on both sides as dirty or
Special Driving Situations 11-9
inadequate side mirrors restrict what you can see
behind you.

Loading a Trailer
Trailers must be loaded heavier in the front. Loading
heavier items in the front of the trailer reduces the
possibility of sway. Failure to load the trailer heavier in
the front is a leading cause of vehicle-trailer mishaps.
Sixty percent of the cargo weight of a trailer should
go in the front (nearest the towing vehicle) and 40
percent in the back.

If the trailer begins to sway or whip, steer straight and

reduce speed gradually; do not apply the brakes.
Never increase speed. Stop as soon as you can safely

Special Driving Situations 11-10

get completely off the roadway. Check the cargo first
to be sure the trailer is loaded heavier in front. Reload
if necessary. Keep heavy items on the floor of the
trailer, not packed on top of other items. Pack your
cargo tightly, and secure any partial loads with tie-
downs or straps and packing material. Do not overload
the trailer. Exceeding the trailer manufacturer’s
maximum gross weight can lead to damage or failure
of the trailer’s components.

Safe Driving With a Trailer

Safe trailering simply involves adopting a good
compensatory attitude. Even the most experienced
drivers will compensate for the peculiarities of the
vehicle they are driving. Trailering is no different. No
matter how much experience people have, they cannot
change the vehicle they are operating to fit their driving
habits, but instead must change their driving to fit the
vehicle. The mind must be adjusted to accept a slower
pace of travel. Drive more slowly when towing. The
maximum recommended speed for most vehicle-trailer
combinations is 55 mph. Driving slower also saves fuel
and reduces your chances of losing control. Never
exceed the posted speed limit. If driving conditions
worsen, you must reduce speed even more. When
going down a grade, slow down BEFORE starting
down the hill.

A vehicle-trailer combination requires more distance to

stop. Allow extra space between your vehicle and the
vehicle ahead of you when towing. When driving in
rain, snow, or fog, allow even more space. When
towing, your vehicle will require more time and distance
to pass. Have plenty of clear highway ahead, and
Special Driving Situations 11-11
never pass on hills or curves. When making turns while
towing a trailer, remember that the trailer does not
follow directly behind the car. The trailer may require
extra room to safely turn.

When backing up a trailer, go slowly. Keep your hand

at the bottom of the steering wheel. To move the trailer
left, move your hand to the left. To move to the right,
move your hand to the right. If the trailer starts to
jackknife – STOP – and pull ahead to straighten out;
then start again.

“Pro” Driving Tips

• If you are unsure how to properly hookup, load,
or drive with a trailer, seek advice from a trailer
professional.
• Recognize you are no longer driving a vehicle
but a vehicle-trailer combination.
• Before driving and at each fuel stop,
walk around the vehicle-trailer
combination and recheck the hitch
and coupler tightness, safety chains
attachment, lights, and tire
pressures.
• If, while driving, you hear an
unusual noise or suspect trouble,
stop at a safe place off the
roadway to check on the
problem.
• If you are driving a long distance,
don’t attempt to drive “straight

Special Driving Situations 11-12

 through.” Plan a rest stop so you
can drive in daylight while rested
and alert.

Safe Trailering Checklist

 Load Heavier in Front
 Hitch Tight
 Chains Attached
 Lights Working
 Tire Pressures OK
 Reduce Speed
 Think Ahead
 Stop Often for Rest
 Inspect Often
 Load Secure
 Wear Your Seat Belt

Special Driving Situations 11-13

Special Driving Situations 11-14
Section 12 This Section Covers
Test Your • Practice Beginner’s Permit
Knowledge Test
Knowledge • Sample Knowledge Test
Questions

Practice Beginner's Permit Knowledge

Test
To practice for the beginner's
permit test, you may download
the free app to your smartphone.
Search for the app under “SC
DMV Driver Exam” with this logo.
The practice test offers a series of
randomly selected questions.
Each question is based on the
information found in in this manual.

Sample Knowledge Test Questions

Select the alternative (a, b or c) that best answers the
question.
1. Alcohol and other impairing drugs
a. reduce your judgment.
b. decrease your reaction time.
c. improve your ability to focus.
2. A yellow dashed line on your side of the roadway
only means
a. passing is prohibited on both sides.
b. passing is permitted on both sides.
c. passing is permitted on your side.
3. If you arrive at a four-way intersection controlled by
stop signs at the same time as another driver, you
should
a. continue through the intersection.
b. yield the right-of-way to the driver on your right.
c. let the driver on your left go first.
Test Your Knowledge 12-1
4. Which sign warns a divided highway begins?

a. b. c.
5. This road signs means
a. right curve.
b. curvy road ahead.
c. sharp curve ahead.
6. Regulatory signs are:
a. green.
b. yellow.
c. white.
7. If a pedestrian is crossing in the middle of the street,
not at a crosswalk (also known as jaywalking), even
if it is illegal, you
a. must stop for them.
b. do not have to stop for them.
c. should honk your horn at them.
8. Motorcycle operators have the right to
a. use a complete traffic lane.
b. share a traffic lane with a vehicle.
c. use the shoulder of a roadway.
9. When approaching or passing a bicyclist, you
should
a. slow down and allow as much space as
possible.
b. sound your horn to alert your presence.
c. speed up and quickly pass the bicyclist.
10. When driving at night use your high beams when
a. fog, rain, or snow is present.
b. following another vehicle.
c. there is no oncoming traffic approaching.
Correct Answers: 1. a; 2. c; 3. b; 4. a; 5. c; 6. c; 7. a; 8. a; 9. a; 10. c

Test Your Knowledge 12-2