South Carolina Driver's Permit Practice Exam

When are you allowed to use your high beams?

1. In city limits

2. When driving behind another vehicle

3. On rural roads when no other vehicles are present

4. During the day only

The correct answer is: On rural roads when no other vehicles are present

Using high beams is appropriate on rural roads when no other vehicles are present because they are designed to provide better visibility over a longer distance compared to low beams. High beams illuminate the road ahead more brightly, which is especially useful in areas with little or no ambient light, such as rural roads, where there are fewer streetlights and fewer vehicles. In contrast, using high beams in city limits is discouraged due to the presence of streetlights and other light sources that provide sufficient illumination, as well as the risk of blinding oncoming traffic or other drivers. When driving behind another vehicle, high beams can create glare for the driver in front, reducing their ability to see and increasing the likelihood of a collision. During the day, the use of high beams is typically unnecessary, as natural daylight provides adequate visibility. High beams should be reserved for conditions where additional light is needed, such as at night on poorly lit roads when no other traffic is present.