Knowledge Test Class A #1
Class A Driving Test | South Dakota 2025 #1 Page 2 of 7
Train for FREE online with our South Dakota class A license test. The official exam test consists of several obligatory parts, with all of them checking your knowledge of different blocks of road rules. If you need to obtain a SD CDL class A permit in 2025, practice as much as possible. Free sample tests published on our website will help you check and improve your knowledge and boost your grades. Please bear in mind that CDL class A requirements may vary from state to state.
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8 . What is Gross Combination Weight?
Gross Combination Weight (GCW) is the total weight of a powered unit, its trailer(s), and the cargo being carried.
9 . A cargo cover that flaps while you are driving:
Can attract birds.
If cargo is covered, the cover should not flap in the wind in transit. The cover could tear loose, uncovering the cargo while potentially blocking your view or the view of others.
10 . When performing a pre-trip inspection and looking into the fifth wheel gap, you should:
When inspecting a tractor/trailer coupling, look into the fifth wheel gap and make sure the locking jaws are fully closed around the kingpin.
11 . If a vehicle has a vehicle inspection report, the driver:
Should not conduct a pre-trip inspection and rely only on the report.
For the first step of a vehicle inspection, you should review the last inspection report on your vehicle, if there is one. The carrier should have repaired any problems noted on the report.
12 . When driving at highway speeds, you should watch the road about ____ ahead of your vehicle.
Stay aware of upcoming obstacles and hazards by consistently watching the road at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle. When traveling at highway speeds, this is equivalent to about a quarter of a mile.
13 . If braking at a speed of 55 mph while driving on dry pavement, the brake lag can add ____ to your vehicle's total stopping distance.
10 feet
The total stopping distance for vehicles equipped with air brakes is made up of four factors: perception distance, reaction distance, brake lag distance, and braking distance. When braking at a speed of 55 mph while driving on dry pavement, the brake lag can add around 32 feet to a vehicle's total stopping distance.
14 . Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS):
Are illegal in some states.
ABS is equipped in addition to a vehicle's normal braking system and it neither increases nor decreases the vehicle's braking capability. ABS activates during hard applications of the brake pedal in order to prevent wheels from locking up.
2025 South Dakota | Frequently Asked Questions
To secure a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota, you need to pass a knowledge test on bus safety regulations. Also, you must pass a skills test in a bus similar to the one you'll be driving. You will need to have a valid South Dakota CDL and meet all physical and age requirements. Training programs are available to help prepare for these tests.
To obtain a CDL Bus License in South Dakota, you need to have a valid South Dakota driver's license, be at least 21 years old, and pass both a written knowledge test and a skills test. You must also complete a physical examination by a DOT-approved medical examiner. Training programs are available to help you prepare for the tests.
Yes, specific training is necessary for a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota. Applicants must complete a CDL training course focused on bus driving. This includes learning about vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. After the training, you'll need to pass written and skills tests to obtain the endorsement.
CDL Bus Licenses fall into three main classifications: Class A, Class B, and Class C. A Class A CDL is for vehicles over 26,001 lbs. with trailers over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL is for vehicles over 26,001 lbs. with trailers less than 10,000 lbs. A Class C CDL is for vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in South Dakota. The vehicle used for the test must match the class and type of vehicle you plan to drive with your CDL. This means it must be a commercial bus of the appropriate size and passenger capacity.
During the CDL Bus driving test, you'll be evaluated on specific skills including pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You may be required to demonstrate maneuvers like turning, merging, backing up, and parking. Also, you'll be tested on handling railroad crossings and emergency situations. Safe loading/unloading procedures for passengers are also assessed.
Yes, there are additional medical prerequisites for a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota. Applicants must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination every 24 months. This exam checks vision, hearing, blood pressure, and evaluates overall physical ability to ensure the driver can safely operate a commercial vehicle. Some conditions may disqualify a person from obtaining a CDL.
No, it is not permissible to transport passengers without a valid CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota. Driving a commercial vehicle that carries 16 or more passengers, including the driver, requires a CDL with a Passenger (P) endorsement. Operating such vehicle without the proper license and endorsement can result in significant fines and penalties.
In South Dakota, the CDL Bus endorsement can be added to your existing license. You don't need to apply for a new license. However, you must pass the Passenger Transport Test and a skills test in a passenger vehicle. After passing these tests and paying the necessary fees, the endorsement will be added to your CDL.
Yes, there are restrictions for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota. Drivers must maintain a clean driving record, pass regular physical examinations, and comply with drug and alcohol testing. They are also subject to hours-of-service regulations, which limit the number of consecutive hours they can drive without rest breaks. Violations can result in loss of CDL privileges.