South Dakota Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means anticipating potential hazards and making safe, informed decisions on the road. It’s about being prepared for the unexpected actions of other drivers, pedestrians, and road con…

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On the South Dakota driving test, defensive driving questions are part of the 25-question exam. South Dakota requires a score of 80% (20 correct answers) to pass.

Key defensive driving techniques include maintaining a safe following distance (the 3-second rule), scanning the road ahead, checking mirrors regularly, and always having an escape route. At highway speeds, increase your following distance to 4 or more seconds.

This category also covers how to handle aggressive drivers, avoid road rage situations, and make safe lane changes. The DMV test will challenge your understanding of space management and hazard anticipation.

Key Topics

Following distance (3-second rule)
Scanning and mirror checks
Space management
Hazard anticipation
Handling aggressive drivers
Special driving situations

Road Rules & Speed Limits50 SafetyPro Defensive DrivingPro Distractions & ImpairmentPro Road Signs33 General Knowledge25 Vehicle Safety & EquipmentPro Traffic Signals23 Turns & IntersectionsPro Sharing the RoadPro Adverse WeatherPro Passing & Lane ChangesPro Right of WayPro