South Dakota Class A CDL Practice Test (SD) 8

5 out of 5 (34 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
Are you gearing up to earn your Class A CDL in South Dakota? Our eighth CDL practice test is an essential tool in your preparation arsenal for 2026! This specific DMV practice test is designed with a focus on Class A CDL applicants, providing a comprehensive review of crucial topics. Featuring 50 permit test questions, it offers a realistic glimpse into the actual DMV test format, requiring a minimum score of 80% (40 correct answers) to pass. Our South Dakota DMV practice test encompasses a wide array of subjects integral to the Class A CDL test in 2026. From pre-trip vehicle inspection to mastering vehicle control, shifting gears, and handling challenging driving scenarios like steep downgrades and hills, this permit practice test has got you covered. It doesn't stop there; the general knowledge practice test also delves into critical aspects of road safety, including effective communication with fellow drivers, speed control, and the ever-important drug and alcohol awareness. Remember, while this South Dakota class A CDL practice test is a vital component of your study plan in 2026, it's not a substitute for mandatory driver's education or ELDT courses required in South Dakota. It acts as a supplemental tool, enhancing your understanding and retention of the material covered in your drivers ed course. By integrating these CDL practice tests into your study routine, you're taking an active step in reinforcing your knowledge and identifying areas that need more attention. Our South Dakota permit practice test boasts a format identical to that of the actual DMV written permit test, employing multiple-choice and true or false questions. This similarity in format is not just a coincidence; it's a deliberate design to aid in familiarizing you with the test-taking process, helping you develop strategies to efficiently pinpoint the correct answers. Every sample CDL question on this DMV practice test has been meticulously crafted and reviewed by professional driving instructors. These experts bring a wealth of experience and insights, having guided thousands to successfully obtain their CDLs. This ensures that the questions are not only relevant but also up to the standards expected in the actual written permit test. Take your first step towards acing your South Dakota Class A CDL test in 2026 with confidence and precision!
FREE CDL Practice Test App
Pass your South Dakota CDL General Knowledge test with the NextDoorDriving app. Real questions and answers—100% free and ad-free.
Download on the App Store

Sample South Dakota CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

Which procedure correctly checks a commercial vehicle’s hydraulic brakes for leaks?

  1. A While moving, pump twice and hold the pedal for 10 seconds
  2. B While moving, pump five times and hold the pedal for 3 seconds
  3. C While stopped, pump three times and hold firm pressure for 5 seconds
  4. D While stopped, pump five times and immediately release the pedal

Correct answer: C – While stopped, pump three times and hold firm pressure for 5 seconds

The procedure used in South Dakota’s CDL manual is performed with the vehicle stopped. Pump the brake pedal three times, apply firm pressure, and hold it for five seconds. The pedal should not move; movement may indicate a leak or another brake-system problem that must be repaired before driving.

Source: South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.1.5, “Step 7: Start the Engine and Check”

Question 2

Approximately how far ahead do low-beam headlights illuminate the roadway?

  1. A 100 feet
  2. B 150 feet
  3. C 200 feet
  4. D 250 feet

Correct answer: D – 250 feet

The South Dakota CDL manual estimates that low beams let a driver see about 250 feet ahead. At night, adjust your speed so the vehicle can stop within the illuminated distance. Driving faster than the headlights allow may leave insufficient distance to stop after a hazard becomes visible.

Source: South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.11.4, “Vehicle Factors”

Question 3

For cargo that can be inspected, which inspection schedule applies to a truck or truck-tractor driver?

  1. A Within 25 miles, then every 2 hours or 100 miles
  2. B Within 50 miles, then only at the end of the trip
  3. C Within 50 miles, then at a duty-status change or after 3 hours or 150 miles, whichever occurs first
  4. D Only before beginning the trip

Correct answer: C – Within 50 miles, then at a duty-status change or after 3 hours or 150 miles, whichever occurs first

Federal cargo-inspection rules require the first recheck within 50 miles after beginning the trip. The driver must inspect again whenever duty status changes or after three hours or 150 miles of driving, whichever occurs first, and make necessary securement adjustments. Limited exceptions apply when a sealed or impracticably loaded vehicle cannot be inspected.

Source: South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual — § 3.1, “Inspecting Cargo”, 49 CFR § 392.9(b)(2)–(4) – Inspection of cargo, cargo securement devices and systems

Question 4

What should you do when flashing red lights and a gate activate at a railroad crossing?

  1. A Accelerate if the train still appears distant
  2. B Cross if you do not hear a train horn
  3. C Drive around the gate after the train passes
  4. D Stop and wait until the gate rises and the lights stop flashing

Correct answer: D – Stop and wait until the gate rises and the lights stop flashing

Stop when the red lights begin flashing and before the gate lowers across your lane. Remain stopped until the gate has risen and the flashing lights have stopped, then proceed only when the tracks are clear and crossing is safe. Never attempt to race an approaching train to a crossing.

Source: South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.15.2, “Warning Signs and Devices”

Question 5

Which actions are appropriate when assisting an injured person at a crash scene?

  1. A Move a severely injured person only when fire or traffic creates immediate danger
  2. B Control heavy bleeding with direct pressure
  3. C Help keep the injured person warm
  4. D All of the above

Correct answer: D – All of the above

If a qualified responder is already helping, stay out of the way unless asked to assist. Otherwise, do not move a severely injured person unless fire or passing traffic makes movement necessary. Apply direct pressure to control heavy bleeding and help keep the person warm while waiting for emergency assistance.

Source: South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.20.3, “Care for the Injured”

Question 6

To keep a cargo vehicle’s center of gravity low, the heaviest cargo should be placed beneath lighter cargo.

  1. A TRUE
  2. B FALSE

Correct answer: A – TRUE

Heavy cargo placed high raises the vehicle’s center of gravity and increases rollover risk, particularly in curves or during sudden steering. Distribute cargo as low as possible, with the heaviest portions below the lighter portions. This arrangement improves stability compared with placing heavy items on top.

Source: South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual — § 3.2.3, “Don’t Be Top-heavy”

More South Dakota CDL Practice Tests
Other CDL Endorsements