South Carolina Class A CDL Practice Test (SC) 8

4.9 out of 5 (45 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
If you're gearing up for your Class A CDL in South Carolina, our eighth DMV practice test is exactly what you need. This isn't just any CDL practice test; it's a comprehensive tool that'll guide you through the nuances of driving large vehicles. With 50 SC permit test questions and answers, covering everything from pre-trip vehicle inspection to handling steep downgrades, it's as thorough as it gets. And the best part? You need to nail only 40 to pass. But don't stop there; our South Carolina CDL practice test is designed for repeated use to help solidify your knowledge. Now, we know that studying for the CDL isn't one-size-fits-all. That's why our DMV practice tests are customizable. Struggling with gear shifting or vehicle control? Focus your sessions there. You can retake this SC class A CDL practice test as many times as you need, and at your convenience, to build confidence in your weaker areas. This adaptability is what sets our permit practice test apart. Forget about those shady 'DMV test cheat sheets' you might have heard about. They're not just legally dubious; they don't guarantee success. Our CDL practice tests are the real deal. They're legal, effective, and have helped countless aspiring drivers in South Carolina. We believe in proper preparation, and our DMV practice tests reflect that. With visual aids, such as images of road signs and traffic scenarios, we cater to all kinds of learners, making sure you're not just prepared, but thoroughly so. Each sample DMV question on our South Carolina CDL practice test has been meticulously crafted and reviewed by professional driving instructors. These aren't just random online permit test questions; they're the product of decades of experience and knowledge from instructors who've helped thousands get their licenses. They understand what you need to know and how you need to know it. With our SC DMV CDL practice test, you're not just studying; you're learning from the best!
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Sample South Carolina CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

A hazardous-materials package is visibly leaking before it is loaded. What should the driver do?

  1. A Accept it only with dispatcher authorization
  2. B Load it carefully and check it during the trip
  3. C Carry it only on local streets
  4. D Refuse the package

Correct answer: D – Refuse the package

The South Carolina CDL manual directs drivers to refuse leaking hazardous-materials packages and shipments. Federal hazardous-materials regulations require packages to prevent an identifiable release under conditions normally incident to transportation. A visibly leaking package should not be accepted for the trip.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 9.2.3, “The Driver”, 49 CFR § 173.24(b)(1) – General Requirements for Packagings and Packages

Question 2

Stab braking is not the normal braking method for a vehicle equipped with:

  1. A Air brakes
  2. B Hazardous-materials cargo
  3. C A trailer
  4. D Working antilock brakes

Correct answer: D – Working antilock brakes

Stab braking consists of fully applying the brakes, releasing them when the wheels lock, and reapplying them once the wheels roll again. Working ABS senses impending wheel lock and adjusts brake pressure to help maintain control. The manual directs drivers of ABS-equipped vehicles to brake normally rather than intentionally creating a lock-and-release cycle.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 2.17.2, “How to Stop Quickly and Safely”, Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 2.18.1, “How Antilock Braking Systems Work”, Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 2.18.6, “Braking with ABS”

Question 3

When should you select a low range in an automatic transmission to increase engine braking?

  1. A Before beginning a downgrade
  2. B Before beginning an upgrade
  3. C After entering a curve
  4. D After leaving a curve

Correct answer: A – Before beginning a downgrade

A low range limits the automatic transmission’s ability to shift into higher gears and provides greater engine braking on a downgrade. Select the appropriate low range before starting down the grade. Waiting until speed has built up may prevent a successful shift and can result in loss of engine-braking effect.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 2.3.3, “Automatic Transmissions”, Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 2.16.2, “Select the Right Gear before Starting Down the Grade”

Question 4

Containerized freight is generally used when a shipment:

  1. A Is exempt from hazardous-materials requirements
  2. B May exceed normal axle-weight limits
  3. C Travels part of its journey by rail or ship
  4. D Does not need to be secured to the vehicle

Correct answer: C – Travels part of its journey by rail or ship

The South Carolina CDL manual explains that containerized freight generally travels part of its journey by rail or ship, with truck delivery at the beginning or end. Containers are not automatically exempt from weight or hazardous-materials rules. They must also be properly secured, whether attached to a special frame or carried on a flatbed.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 3.3.5, “Sealed and Containerized Loads”

Question 5

What is the recommended way to hold a commercial vehicle’s steering wheel?

  1. A Firmly with both hands
  2. B Firmly with only the dominant hand
  3. C Loosely with both hands
  4. D Loosely with only the dominant hand

Correct answer: A – Firmly with both hands

Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands positioned on opposite sides of the wheel. A curb, pothole, or other road impact can pull the wheel sharply. A firm two-handed grip helps the driver maintain directional control when that happens.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 2.2.2, “Steering”

Question 6

Whenever possible, a CMV driver should back and turn toward the driver’s side.

  1. A TRUE
  2. B FALSE

Correct answer: A – TRUE

The statement is true. The South Carolina CDL manual recommends backing toward the driver’s side whenever possible because the driver can see the vehicle’s rear more clearly through the side window and mirrors. The driver should still back slowly, use both mirrors, and use a helper when one is available.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2025 CDL Testing System — § 2.2.4, “Backing Safely”

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