The Ultimate South Carolina Road Test Checklist: Be Prepared, Not Surprised

The day of your South Carolina road test is the final practical step toward earning your driver's license. While it's normal to feel some nerves, the best way to ensure success is to be thoroughly prepared. Arriving at the SCDMV office knowing your vehicle is compliant and your paperwork is in order allows you to focus solely on demonstrating your safe driving skills.

This ultimate checklist is designed to guide you through your preparations, covering the required documents, the essential condition of your test vehicle, and the key maneuvers you'll be expected to perform.

Part 1: Your Vehicle Requirements Checklist

Before the skills test begins, the SCDMV examiner will conduct a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle. If the car you bring fails this inspection, you will not be allowed to take the test and will have to reschedule. A few days before your test, go through this list carefully with the vehicle you plan to use.

Valid Registration and Insurance: You must have the original, current SC vehicle registration card and a valid insurance card for the vehicle you are testing in.
Valid License Plate: The license plate must be securely mounted and have a current registration sticker.
Brakes: The brakes must be in good working order. The examiner will check the brake lights.
Brake Lights: All brake lights must function correctly when the pedal is pressed.
Turn Signals: Both front and rear turn signals (left and right) must be operational. The examiner will have you demonstrate them.
Headlights and Taillights: Ensure all lights are working.
Horn: The horn must be audible. The examiner will ask you to sound it.
Tires: Tires must have adequate tread and be properly inflated. Bald or obviously damaged tires are grounds for rejection.
Windshield: The windshield must be free of any large cracks, chips, or stickers that obstruct the driver's view.
Windows: The driver's side window must be able to roll down so you can use hand signals if necessary.
Doors: The driver and front passenger doors must open and close properly from both the inside and the outside.
Seatbelts: The seatbelts for both the driver and the front passenger (examiner) must be accessible and in good working order.
Mirrors: The vehicle must have functional side and rearview mirrors.
No Warning Lights: The dashboard must be free of any illuminated warning lights (e.g., "Check Engine," "ABS," "Airbag," "Tire Pressure"). These will result in an automatic rejection.
Clean and Clear: The passenger seat and floor area must be reasonably clean and free of clutter or loose items that could pose a hazard.

Part 2: Your Personal Document Checklist

Forgetting a single document is one of the most common reasons for a canceled test. Gather these items the day before your appointment.

Your Valid Beginner's Permit: You must present your original, valid South Carolina beginner's permit.
A Licensed Supervising Driver: You are still a permit holder and must be accompanied to the DMV by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old with at least one year of driving experience.
Valid Driver's License of Your Supervising Driver: The person accompanying you must present their valid driver's license.
For Teen Drivers (Under 17), Also Bring:
- Driver's Education Certificate: Your certificate of completion from a state-approved driver's education course.
- PDLA Form (Parental Consent): The "Parent-Led Driver's License Affidavit" certifying that you have completed the required 40 hours of supervised practice, including 10 at night. This must be signed by your parent or guardian.
Appointment Confirmation: It is a good idea to have a copy of your road test appointment confirmation.
Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the license fee after you pass the test.

Part 3: The Driving Skills Checklist

The SCDMV road test evaluates your ability to safely control a vehicle in a variety of common situations. The examiner will not try to trick you, but they will be scoring you on these specific skills:

Starting and Stopping: Smoothly accelerating and braking.
Turns: Making proper right and left turns, using your signal correctly, and turning into the proper lane.
Backing Up: Being able to control the vehicle while backing up for a distance of about 50 feet.
Turnabout (Three-Point Turn): Safely and efficiently turning the vehicle around in a narrow space. This is a critical maneuver on the SC test.
Approaching Intersections: Scanning for hazards and obeying all traffic signs and signals. Coming to a full stop at stop signs is mandatory.
Lane Usage: Keeping the vehicle centered in your lane.
Following Distance: Maintaining a safe "two-second" distance from the vehicle ahead.
Passing: Knowing when it is safe and legal to pass.
Yielding Right-of-Way: Correctly yielding to other vehicles, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles.
Parallel Parking: You will be required to parallel park. Practice this maneuver until you are comfortable with it.
Quick Stops: You may be asked to make a quick, safe stop.
Overall Observation: The examiner is constantly evaluating your awareness. This means checking mirrors, scanning ahead, and looking over your shoulder for lane changes.

By methodically using this checklist to prepare your vehicle, your documents, and your skills, you can walk into your road test with the confidence you need to succeed. Good luck!