SCDMV adds hand signals to written driver tests

By Kaye Collins

In South Carolina, hand signals are legally accepted substitutes for mechanical turn signals and must be displayed from the left side of the vehicle. It is necessary to indicate your intentions at least 100 feet prior to making a turn or changing lanes.

The three official hand signals in South Carolina are, Left Turn: extend your left arm straight out horizontally from the driver’s side window. Right Turn: extend your left arm out the window and bend it upward at a 90-degree angle, with your hand pointing to the sky. Stop or Slow Down: extend your left arm out the window and bend it downward, with your palm facing backward toward the rear.

If your vehicle is designed or loaded such that a hand signal cannot be seen from both the front and rear, you are required to utilize signal lamps or a mechanical signaling device.

Cyclists can also utilize these signals; however, they have the extra choice of indicating a right turn by extending their right arm outward.

This is included in the written examination at the SCDMV so that all drivers are aware of and know when to utilize hand signals.