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To obtain a CDL, you will be required to pass a vehicle inspection test. The vehicle inspection test, formerly known as pre-trip, is a skills test to see if you identify which features and equipment on the test vehicle should be inspected before driving. During the test, you will be asked to do an inspection of your vehicle. You will be expected to show your knowledge of the inspection process and you will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. During the CDL inspection test, DMV does not allow the use of testing aids, other than the vehicle inspection guide in the South Carolina CDL Manual. To prepare for the test, study the following sections of the CDL manual: Driving Safely and the Vehicle Inspection Test. If you do not pass the CDL inspection test, the other skills tests will be postponed.
1. Which of the following is not part of the air brake system?
Air filter
Air compressor
Air storage tanks
Alcohol evaporator
2. The "Start Engine and Inspect inside of the Cab" step of the 7-step inspection method involves each of the following, EXCEPT:
check the condition of the controls.
starting the engine, then listening for unusual noises.
checking the air pressure gauge.
checking engine oil level.
3. If you find anything unsafe during the pre-trip inspection, you are required to:
inform your motor carrier after the trip.
get it fixed before driving.
drive cautiously until it is fixed.
write it in your inspection report.
4. Name some exhaust system parts.
Pitman arm, hydraulic fluid reservoir and tie rod
Mufflers, mounting brackets and vertical stacks
Drag link, spindle and gear box
Main spring, axle and font axle hanger
5. What should be clean with no obstructions, illegal stickers, or damages to the glass?
The lighting indicators.
The headlights.
The windshield.
None of the above.
6. During the vehicle inspection, when approaching the vehicle you should:
check that the vehicle is parked properly.
look under the vehicle for fresh oil, fuel leaks or coolant.
check that the vehicle is clear.
check that the parking brakes are not set.
7. When taking the road test, if asked to make a turn you should:
check for traffic in all directions.
use turn signals.
slow down before making the turn.
All of the above.
8. What should you do to test your hydraulic brakes for leaks?
Pump the brake pedal three times, then apply pressure for 9 seconds.
Hold the brake pedal down for five seconds, then pump it three times.
Pump the brake pedal five times, then apply pressure for three seconds.
Pump the brake pedal three times, then apply pressure to the pedal and hold for five seconds.
9. Pre-trip inspections:
should not be done when a vehicle inspection report is available.
should always be done in the same order.
should not be done unless the vehicle has problems that could cause a breakdown.
are optional when the driver is familiar with the vehicle.
10. Checking the engine compartment during the seven-step inspection does NOT include checking:
the engine oil temperature.
the engine oil level.
the power steering fluid level.
the battery fluid level.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the age requirements of the graduated driver's license program to obtain a class D driver's license in South Carolina:
  • For a beginner's permit, you must be at least 15 years old.
  • For a conditional driver’s license, you must be at least 15 but less than 16 years old and have held your permit for at least 180 days.
  • For a special restricted driver’s license, you need to be at least 16 but less than 17 years old. Additionally, you must have held your beginner’s permit for at least 180 days or have a conditional license.
  • For a regular driver’s license, you must have held a conditional or special restricted license for at least one year, or you must be at least 17 years old and have held a beginner’s permit for 180 days.

To take the DMV written test in South Carolina, you can visit a South Carolina DMV branch without appointment. It's important to note that permit tests are typically offered at specific hours, so contact the office you've chosen to find out when you have to go.
Make sure you've got all you need when you go to the DMV office. You must bring:
  • Proof of South Carolina residency (such as school or employment records, utility bills, bank statements, etc.). For a REAL ID permit, you'll need to present two proofs of residency.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship/identity, name, and date of birth.
  • Proof of Social Security Number.
If you're under 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian must sign the Consent for Minor at the DMV office, unless you are an emancipated minor or married.

To prepare for the DMV written test, read the South Carolina Driver's Handbook. Pay attention to road signs, parallel parking, turning, passing a vehicle, yielding the right of way, etc. Test your knowledge with our practice tests or sign up for Premium, which offers extra resources to get ready for your exam.

New drivers in South Carolina face specific restrictions. If you have a beginner's permit, you can drive:
  • From 6 a.m. to midnight with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old with one year or more of driving experience, seated near you.
  • From midnight to 6 a.m., with any driver listed on your Consent for Minor form, seated beside you.

If you have a conditional or special restricted license:
  • You can transport a maximum of two passengers under 21, unless accompanied by a licensed adult who is at least 21 (except for siblings).
  • You can drive alone from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (8 p.m. during daylight savings time).
  • You can drive between 6 p.m. (8 p.m. during daylight savings time) and midnight if accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21.
  • You can drive from midnight to 6 a.m. with a parent/guardian.

A beginner's permit remains valid for a period of twelve months. You have the option to renew it for another year if you're eligible. The renewal process can be completed online and you are required to pay a fee. However, if the permit has been expired for more than nine months, you'll need to retake the DMV test.

SC CDL Inspection Test

Number of questions: 20
Correct answers to pass:16
Passing score:80%
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