Question 1

Eye Protection

Accepted Answer

In South Dakota, all motorcycle riders must wear protective eyewear.

Question 2

Helmet Law

Accepted Answer

Helmets are not required by law for riders over 18 in South Dakota, but are highly recommended for safety.

Question 3

Minimum Age for Motorcycle License

Accepted Answer

In South Dakota, the minimum age to obtain a motorcycle license is 14.

Question 4

Motorcycle Endorsement

Accepted Answer

A mark added to a standard driver's license to indicate the holder is certified to operate a motorcycle.

Question 5

Class 1 Motorcycle

Accepted Answer

A motorcycle with a displacement of 50 cc or less, top speed of 30 mph.

Question 6

Class 2 Motorcycle

Accepted Answer

A motorcycle with a displacement of 51 cc or more and a full-sized motorcycle.

Question 7

Lane Splitting

Accepted Answer

It's illegal in South Dakota to ride between lanes of traffic or to overtake vehicles in the same lane.

Question 8

T-CLOCS

Accepted Answer

Acronym for Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, and Stand; pre-ride inspection checklist.

Question 9

Three-Second Rule

Accepted Answer

A following distance strategy recommending that a motorcycle should stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front.

Question 10

Defensive Driving

Accepted Answer

Driving to save lives, time, and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others.

Question 11

Motorcycle Hand Signals

Accepted Answer

Signals used to communicate with other drivers when turn signals are not adequate or are non-functional.

Question 12

Countersteering

Accepted Answer

The technique used to initiate a turn for a motorcycle, pushing the handlebar in the direction opposite to the desired turn.

Question 13

Downshifting

Accepted Answer

Shifting from a higher gear to a lower one.

Question 14

Group Riding

Accepted Answer

A form of motorcycle riding where riders travel in formation, often in groups of two or more.

Question 15

Staggered Formation

Accepted Answer

A group riding formation where motorcycles are offset and not directly next to each other.

Question 16

Turn Signals

Accepted Answer

Must be used at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes.

Question 17

Two-Point Turns

Accepted Answer

Three types: U-Turns, Three-point turns and 180-degree turn.

Question 18

Motorcycle Braking

Accepted Answer

Front brake provides most stopping power, rear brake assists with stability.

Question 19

Safe Passing

Accepted Answer

Always check blind spots, signal, and do not pass in a no-passing zone.

Question 20

Roadway Hazards

Accepted Answer

Includes things like potholes, oil slicks, puddles, debris, railroad tracks, and gravel.

Question 21

Riding in Windy Conditions

Accepted Answer

Lean into the wind to counteract the force.

Question 22

Riding Over Obstacles

Accepted Answer

Approach at an angle, rise slightly off seat, and allow motorcycle to bounce.

Question 23

Riding on Slippery Surfaces

Accepted Answer

Reduce speed, avoid sudden maneuvers, and increase following distance.

Question 24

Riding at Night

Accepted Answer

Increase following distance, use high beam (unless following or meeting a vehicle), and beware of animals.

Question 25

Alcohol and Riding

Accepted Answer

Significantly impairs ability to safely operate a motorcycle.

Question 26

Right-of-Way

Accepted Answer

Following the same right-of-way rules as other vehicles on the road.

Question 27

Merging Traffic

Accepted Answer

Signal and check blind spots before merging.

Question 28

Emergency Vehicles

Accepted Answer

Pull over to the right edge of the road and stop when an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens or lights on.

Question 29

Double Yellow Lines

Accepted Answer

It's illegal to cross these except to turn left.

Question 30

Tailgating

Accepted Answer

Following too closely to the vehicle in front of you, it's illegal and dangerous.

Question 31

Blind Spots

Accepted Answer

Areas around your motorcycle where you cannot see other vehicles.

Question 32

Road Sign Shapes

Accepted Answer

Rectangular signs typically give directions or information; diamond signs warn of hazards.

Question 33

Traffic Signals

Accepted Answer

Red means stop, yellow means prepare to stop, green means go.

Question 34

Four-Way Stop

Accepted Answer

The first vehicle at the intersection goes first; if two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the left yields to the vehicle on the right.

Question 35

Riding in a Group

Accepted Answer

Keep a safe distance between motorcycles, ride in a staggered formation.

Question 36

Head Checks

Accepted Answer

Turning your head to check your blind spots before changing lanes.

Question 37

Intersections

Accepted Answer

Most motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur at intersections; approach with caution.

Question 38

Highway Riding

Accepted Answer

Merge safely, keep left unless passing, maintain an adequate following distance.

Question 39

Limited Access Highways

Accepted Answer

Motorcycles are prohibited from some limited access highways; check local regulations.

Question 40

Animals on Road

Accepted Answer

Slow down and prepare to stop if an animal is in your path.

Question 41

Passenger Carrying

Accepted Answer

The passenger should mount the motorcycle after the engine starts, sit as far forward without crowding the driver, and keep feet on the footrests at all times.

Question 42

Loads

Accepted Answer

Secure loads to the motorcycle and avoid blocking your view or unbalancing the motorcycle.

Question 43

Rain Gear

Accepted Answer

Wear to stay dry and comfortable during rainy rides.

Question 44

Clothing

Accepted Answer

Dress in layers to adjust to changing conditions; wear bright, reflective clothing to improve visibility.

Question 45

Boots

Accepted Answer

Wear over-the-ankle boots to protect feet and ankles.

Question 46

Gloves

Accepted Answer

Protect hands and improve grip with full-fingered gloves.

Question 47

Face Shields

Accepted Answer

Protect eyes from wind, dust, insects, and road debris; required unless motorcycle has a windshield.

Question 48

Hearing Protection

Accepted Answer

Reduces wind noise and can help prevent hearing damage.

Question 49

Special Equipment for Long Trips

Accepted Answer

Consider a tank bag, saddlebags, or a tail bag.

Question 50

Motorcycle Inspection

Accepted Answer

Regular inspection of tires, brakes, headlights, signals, oil and other fluids is essential for safety.

Question 51

Scheduled Maintenance

Accepted Answer

Regular maintenance according to the manufacturer's schedule can help prevent breakdowns and accidents.

Question 52

Owner's Manual

Accepted Answer

Provides essential information about your motorcycle and should be read thoroughly.

Question 53

Crash Scene Safety

Accepted Answer

Protect the area, notify authorities, and provide aid.

Question 54

Accident Reporting

Accepted Answer

In South Dakota, any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $1000 must be reported.

Question 55

Riding Experience

Accepted Answer

Your risk of accident decreases with riding experience; consider a motorcycle safety course.

Question 56

Mufflers

Accepted Answer

Required on all motorcycles in South Dakota to reduce noise.

Question 57

Equipment Modifications

Accepted Answer

Some modifications are illegal; check local regulations.

Question 58

Temporary Instruction Permit

Accepted Answer

Available to riders aged 14 or older to learn and practice driving under the supervision of an adult licensed motorcycle operator.

Question 59

Motorcycle Safety Education Program

Accepted Answer

Offers classes for new riders and experienced riders seeking to improve their skills.

Question 60

Motorcycle Noise Restrictions

Accepted Answer

Certain limits apply on public streets, especially between the hours of 10 PM and 7 AM.

Question 61

Footrests and Handlebars

Accepted Answer

In South Dakota, handlebars must not be higher than shoulder level when seated, and the bike must have footrests if carrying a passenger.

Question 62

Exhaust Systems

Accepted Answer

Must not emit excessive fumes or smoke.

Question 63

Sidecars

Accepted Answer

Must be securely attached; passengers in sidecars must wear a seatbelt.

Question 64

Motorcycle Size

Accepted Answer

It's illegal to ride a motorcycle that is too large to be handled safely.

South Dakota Motorcycle License Flashcards