How to get a South Dakota Driver's License
Find out how to get a new SD driver's license, replace your out-of-state license and requirements for international drivers with this South Dakota DMV guide.
The Rules
Under SD DMV guidelines, you must be at least 16 years of age to apply for a regular South Dakota Drivers License.
All applicants need to be familiar with the South Dakota Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
First Time Drivers
If this is your first driver's license, you will need to apply for an South Dakota learners permit which requires you to pass a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques in addition to vision test.
Once you receive a valid learners permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test to receive an SC drivers license.
Applicants under 18 must have held a learners permit for 180 days before taking the road skills test.
New SD Residents
If you are a new resident, you may use a valid driver's license from your former state for up to 90 days. However, you must convert to a South Dakota driver's license before the end of the 90-day period.
The written exam and road skills tests are not required to change a valid out-of-state license to a SD driver's license, however you will need to pass a vision exam.
If your driver's license from your home state has expired, you may be required to pass the knowledge and road tests.
International Drivers
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will be required to present a valid Naturalization and Immigration record authorizing your presence in the United States. If you are not a U.S. citizen you will be issued a license for the duration of your legal stay based on immigration documents provided at license issuance not to exceed 5 years.
Paperwork
Before you head to the South Dakota DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your Class 1 driver's license will be valid for 5 years. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
Driver's License Resources
South Dakota Driver's Manual |
