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Driver's Permit Knowledge Test (U.S.)

Defensive driving: practice questions

Our Driver's Permit bank has 4 questions on this topic. Here are 3 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.

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Question 1

When is it safe to back up?

  1. Quickly to save time
  2. Without looking
  3. After checking behind the vehicle and while looking back as you move slowly
  4. Using only the backup camera
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C. After checking behind the vehicle and while looking back as you move slowly — Children and objects may be hidden behind the car.

Question 2

How far ahead should you scan the road while driving?

  1. At least 10 to 15 seconds ahead
  2. Only to the vehicle directly in front of you
  3. As far as your hood ornament
  4. About 2 seconds ahead
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A. At least 10 to 15 seconds ahead — State handbooks advise looking 10 to 15 seconds ahead (California says at least 10 seconds); in town that's about a block.

Question 3

What is a good way to reduce blind-spot crashes?

  1. Change lanes quickly
  2. Use the horn
  3. Rely on the rear-view mirror only
  4. Adjust mirrors correctly and turn your head to check before changing lanes
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D. Adjust mirrors correctly and turn your head to check before changing lanes — Mirrors alone cannot show every blind spot.

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