Arkansas permit test: vehicle controls and equipment
Operating controls and the speedometer, and the equipment checked before the skills test: seats, mirrors, brakes, lights, wipers, tires and exhaust. 10 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.
Rules to remember8 key vehicle controls and equipment rulesShow the rules
- Adjust the lap belt so it fits across your upper thighs, not your abdomen, so it spreads crash force to the pelvic area. (p. 55, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
- Set the inside mirror to frame the whole back window while you sit normally, so a glance with your eyes is enough. (p. 94, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
- Signs of brake trouble include a noise from underneath when braking, a foul smell during heavy braking, and little braking action. (p. 95, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
- Mirrors do not show objects in blind spots. (p. 95, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
- Replace wiper blades every six months to a year, or as soon as you notice your view getting worse. (p. 95, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
- Fumes from exhaust can cause death in a very short time. (p. 96, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
- Recommended tire pressure is for cold tires, meaning tires not driven on for at least three hours. (p. 96, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
- If you can see the top of Lincoln's head in the penny test, the tread is worn and you are ready for new tires. (p. 96, Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, Volume 1 - Edition 10 (VOLUME 1 - EDITION 10, October 2026) (opens the handbook))
Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.
Sample vehicle controls and equipment questions
1.Where should the lower (lap) part of your seat belt sit?
- ALoosely below your knees
- BAcross your upper thighs
- CAcross your stomach
- DAcross your lower ribs
Show the answer
✓ B. Across your upper thighs
Adjust the lap belt so it fits across your upper thighs, not your abdomen, so it spreads crash force to the pelvic area.
2.When should tires generally be replaced because of worn tread?
- AOnly when a tire goes flat
- BWhen tread is worn to 1/2 inch
- CWhen tread is worn to 1/16 inch
- DWhen tread is worn to 1/4 inch
Show the answer
✓ C. When tread is worn to 1/16 inch
Tread below 1/16 inch can no longer grip safely, especially on wet or icy roads, so the tires should be replaced.
3.You want an accurate tire pressure reading. When should you check it?
- ARight after a long highway drive
- BWhile the engine is still running
- COnly on a hot summer afternoon
- DAfter the tires sit unused for 3 hours
Show the answer
✓ D. After the tires sit unused for 3 hours
Recommended tire pressure is for cold tires, meaning tires not driven on for at least three hours. Driving warms tires and raises pressure.
4.Why should you never let your engine idle in a closed garage?
- AIt wears out the battery
- BIt overheats the tires
- CExhaust fumes can kill in a short time
- DIt drains the windshield fluid
Show the answer
✓ C. Exhaust fumes can kill in a short time
Fumes from exhaust can cause death in a very short time. Never let the engine idle in a garage or closed area without an open window.