Driver's License in South Dakota

A South Dakota driver’s license is your legal permission to drive and a primary form of ID. Below is a clear guide to requirements, steps, testing, renewals, and special cases so you can get (or keep) your license without surprises.

Eligibility & Residency

• Residency: New residents must obtain an SD license within 90 days.
• Graduated Licensing (minors):
  • 14+: Instruction Permit (supervised driving).
  • After 180 days with permit (and requirements met): Restricted Minor’s Permit.
  • 16+: Full Operator’s License (after meeting prior steps).
• CDL: 18+ for intrastate; 21+ for interstate (federal rule).

Documents You’ll Need (REAL ID compliant)

• Identity (one): Certified birth certificate, valid/expired U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization/Citizenship, Permanent Resident Card, or EAD (as applicable).
• Social Security: SSN card, W-2/SSA-1099, or pay stub showing full SSN (or SSA letter of ineligibility if applicable).
• Residency (two): Utility bill, lease/mortgage, bank statement, SD vehicle reg, pay stub, etc., showing your SD address.

Vision, Knowledge & Road Tests

• Vision: 20/40 or better in at least one eye (with correction if needed) and ~105° peripheral field. If correction is required, your license will carry a lenses restriction.
• Knowledge Test: Multiple-choice on signs, laws, safe driving, right-of-way, DUI rules, sharing the road.
• Road Test: Demonstrate control (starts/stops, turning, lane use, parking), legal compliance, scanning and signaling. Use a properly insured/registered vehicle in safe working order.

Special License Types

• Motorcycle (M): Separate knowledge & skills tests (safety course may waive skills).
• CDL: Medical exam, class/endorsement knowledge tests, and skills test in a representative vehicle.

Application: What to Expect

1. Prepare: Gather REAL-ID docs; study the SD Driver License Manual; take practice tests.
2. Schedule/Visit: Some offices take appointments; arrive early with documents and payment.
3. At the office: Check-in, document verification, photo capture, vision screening.
4. Testing: Take knowledge test (permit or license). If needed, schedule and take road test.
5. Issuance: Get your license on site or a temporary paper license while the card is mailed.

Renewals

• Validity: Typically 5 years; expires on your birthday.
• When: Renew up to 1 year early without losing time.
• How: Online (if eligible), by mail (if eligible), or in person (always allowed). Vision screening may be required for in-person renewals.
• Fees: Vary by license type/term (standard renewals commonly ~$20–$40).
• If expired: You can face citations; long lapses may require retesting.

Name/Address Changes

Bring legal proof for name changes (marriage certificate, court order, etc.). Update your address so DPS mail (and law enforcement records) remain accurate.

Medical & Senior Considerations

• Medical conditions may require physician documentation and could add restrictions (e.g., daytime-only).
• Older drivers may have additional screening at renewal to ensure continued safe operation.

Tips for Passing on the First Try

• Read the manual twice; use practice tests until you consistently score 90%+.
• Practice road skills in varied conditions; consider a lesson with a professional instructor.
• For the road test, drive normally: full stops, proper gaps, mirrors every 5–8 seconds, signal early, scan.

Keep your license current, carry it whenever you drive, and follow SD traffic laws. If you have unique circumstances, your local driver licensing office can clarify documents, eligibility, and scheduling.