Whether you’re getting ready to take your learner’s permit written test for the first time, studying to get a motorcycle endorsement so you can ride your new bike, or preparing for your CDL exam to drive a commercial vehicle, we’ve gathered a wealth of resources and knowledge to help you obtain your driving credentials.
Learner's Permit practice tests
Motorcycle Endorsement practice tests
CDL practice tests
Road Signs and Signals practice tests
Check out our frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a driver’s license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Buy a driver’s license renewal test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Read our driving safety articles
Driver licensing FAQ
Schedule a renewal appointment
Renew online
Driver license office locations and hours
Identification requirements
Driver license forms & applications
License and permit fees
Take one of our free learner’s permit practice tests
Check out our new & teen driver frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a learner’s permit test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Buy a driver’s license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Check rates or buy car insurance
Teen driving home page
Knowledge & road test information
Schedule a road test
Take one of our free driver’s license practice tests
Check out our new-to-state frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a new-to-state driver’s license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Check rates or buy car insurance
Take one of our free motorcycle license practice tests
Check out our motorcycle license frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a motorcycle license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
New-to-state motorcycle insurance
Take one of our free CDL practice tests
Buy a CDL test paid cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Check rates or buy CDL insurance
CDL third party testers
All Drivers
If you’re renewing a license that has been expired for longer than a year, or if you’re applying for reinstatement after a suspension, you may have to retake the written exam in order to obtain your license.Free Practice Tests
Driver's License practice testsLearner's Permit practice tests
Motorcycle Endorsement practice tests
CDL practice tests
Road Signs and Signals practice tests
Resources for all drivers
Read the official South Dakota driver’s manualCheck out our frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a driver’s license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Buy a driver’s license renewal test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Read our driving safety articles
South Dakota DPS quick links for all drivers
South Dakota DPS home pageDriver licensing FAQ
Schedule a renewal appointment
Renew online
Driver license office locations and hours
Identification requirements
Driver license forms & applications
License and permit fees
New & Teen Drivers
In order to apply for an Operator’s License in South Dakota, you must be at least 16 years of age and pass a vision screening, knowledge exam, and driving test. Persons under the age of 18 must also have held an Instruction Permit for at least 180 days (90 if you have completed an approved Department of Education driver education course) before they can apply for an Operator’s Permit. A Restricted Minor’s Permit may be obtained by persons age 14-18 after holding an Instruction Permit for 180 days (or 90 days, after passing a driver education course) and passing the vision screening, knowledge exam, and driving test. Persons age 14 or older may obtain an Instruction Permit after passing a vision exam and knowledge test.Resources for new & teen drivers
Read the official South Dakota driver’s manualTake one of our free learner’s permit practice tests
Check out our new & teen driver frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a learner’s permit test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Buy a driver’s license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Check rates or buy car insurance
South Dakota DPS quick links for new & teen drivers
South Dakota driver license informationTeen driving home page
Knowledge & road test information
Schedule a road test
New-to-State Drivers
New South Dakota residents are required to obtain a South Dakota license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state. No testing is required if you surrender a valid, out-of-state license.Resources for new-to-state drivers
Read the official South Dakota driver’s manualTake one of our free driver’s license practice tests
Check out our new-to-state frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a new-to-state driver’s license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Check rates or buy car insurance
South Dakota DPS quick links for new-to-state drivers
New resident informationMotorcycles
In order to apply for a Motorcycle Operator’s License in South Dakota, you must be at least 16 years of age and pass a vision screening, knowledge exam (car/truck and motorcycle), and driving test. Persons under the age of 18 must also have held a Motorcycle Instruction Permit for at least 180 days (90 if you have completed an approved Department of Education driver education course) before they can apply for a Motorcycle Operator’s Permit. A Motorcycle Restricted Minor’s Permit may be obtained by persons age 14-18 after holding a Motorcycle Instruction Permit for 180 days (or 90 days, after passing a driver education course) and passing the vision screening, knowledge exam (car/truck and motorcycle), and driving test. Persons age 14 or older may obtain a Motorcycle Instruction Permit after passing a vision exam and knowledge test (car/truck and motorcycle).Resources for motorcyclists
Read the official South Dakota motorcycle manualTake one of our free motorcycle license practice tests
Check out our motorcycle license frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Buy a motorcycle license test cheat sheet: basic or advanced
New-to-state motorcycle insurance
CDL
You must have a valid Commercial Driver License (CDL) or Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) to drive a commercial motor vehicle in South Dakota. You must be at least 21 years of age and pass a knowledge exam and a skills test to be issued a CDL. You must be at least 18 years of age and pass a knowledge exam to be issued a CLP.Resources for CDL
Read the official South Dakota CDL manualTake one of our free CDL practice tests
Buy a CDL test paid cheat sheet: basic or advanced
Check rates or buy CDL insurance
South Dakota DPS quick links for CDL
CDL informationCDL third party testers
If you need to take care of other DPS business, you may be able to avoid the trip all together. Make sure to check out our guide to online services to see if you can complete your transaction without ever leaving home. How to Schedule an Appointment in South Dakota. You can schedule your DPS appointment: Online. Do you have an SD Driver's License, Permit, or ID Card and know the number? Yes No.If a required car/motorcycle permit is not held at the time a drive test is scheduled the test is subject to cancellation.
How many questions are on the written test?
There are 25 questions on the test.
How many questions must you get right?
You must answer at least 20 questions correctly in order to pass.
If you fail when can you retake the test?
You can retake the test again in 1 day.
How many times can you retake the test?
There is no limit on the number of times you can retake the written test.
Who has to take the written test? Teens of what ages?
Anyone who is getting their driver’s license for the first time must pass the written test. Teens can take the test if they are at least 16 years old. If they’re under 18 years of age, they must complete all the requirements for an instruction permit and will also need parental consent.
Are you required to take the written test when renewing, and if so every time you renew or just sometimes? What are the conditions if just sometimes?
You do not have to retake the written test when you renew your license unless it has been expired for more than 30 days.
If you’re new to state are you required to take the written test?
If you hold a valid driver’s license from another state then you are not required to take either part (written or on-road) of the driver’s examination.
Who has to take the behind the wheel / on-road driving test?
Anyone who is getting their driver’s license for the first time must pass both the written and driving tests. Additionally, you will also be required to re-pass both tests if your driver’s license has expired and you want to renew it.
How old must you be to take the written test?
You must be at least 14 years old and have completed the requirements for a motorcycle instruction permit before you can take the test. If you are under 18 years of age you must also have parental consent.
How many questions are on the test?
There are 25 questions on the test.
How many must you get correct to pass?
You must answer at least 20 questions correctly in order to pass.
What are the permit restrictions for motorcycles?
You cannot drive during hours of darkness or carry any passengers, and must be accompanied at all times by a licensed adult motorcyclist who is also riding on a motorcycle.
Do you need to take an on-road motorcycle driving test?
Yes, you are required to pass a practical on-road motorcycle skill test in order to get your motorcycle license.
Are there any other state specific age requirements or restrictions for motorcycles?
Minors under the age of 18 are required to hold a motorcycle instruction permit for at least 6 months before they qualify for a minor’s restricted permit, or 3 months if they complete a state-approved driver’s education course, or 1 month if they complete a national motorcycle safety course.
![South dakota drivers license office sioux falls South dakota drivers license office sioux falls](/uploads/1/2/6/3/126370231/893324543.jpg)
![South Dakota Drivers License Exam Station Sioux Falls South Dakota Drivers License Exam Station Sioux Falls](/uploads/1/2/6/3/126370231/898018830.png)
What is the helmet law is this state?
Any operator or passenger of a motorcycle who is under 18 is required to wear a protective helmet meeting state-approved safety standards at all times while operating or riding on the motorcycle.
Is there such a test in the state?
Currently, the State of South Dakota does not require its citizens to obtain a license to operate boats or other watercraft.
Featured ResourceAre You Overpaying for Car Insurance?
Renew Your Driver's License in South Dakota
Renewing your South Dakota driver's license (also called an operator's license) before it expires is necessary if you'd like to continue driving legally in the state.
You must also carry adequate car insurance, such as liabilityinsurance in South Dakota. Visit our Insurance Center to get a car insurance policy that meets SD requirements, and start paying a lower auto insurance rate.
When to Renew Your SD Driver's License
The South Dakota Department of Public Safety will mail or e-mail you a renewal notice before your SD driver's license expires. However, you should still be aware of when you need to renew.
Your South Dakota driver's license will expire every 5 years on your birthday. You can renew it up to 180 days before the expiration date.
Your requirements may differ based on the status and validity of your license, outlined further below.
If you've already renewed you driver's license, you can check the status of its processing by contacting the SD DPS.
Valid Driver Licenses
Your SD driver's license is valid for 5 years and expires on your birthday. However, if you're turning 21 years old, your license will expire 30 days after your birthday.
Even if your SD driver's license is valid, it's still a good idea to find out what's on your driving record in South Dakota. Visit our page about South Dakota driving records for more information.
Expired Driver's License
Do NOT drive on an expired South Dakota driver license.
If your South Dakota driver license is expired the SD DPS will require you to take a knowledge test.
If an officer issues you a traffic ticket while driving on an expired SD driver license, you should read about traffic tickets in South Dakota and South Dakota driving records.
Suspended Driver's License
If you have a suspended driver's license in South Dakota, the SD DPS requires you to surrender it before your reinstatement date can be established. You cannot renew your suspended SD driver's license until it is reinstated.
Your reinstatement fee in South Dakota will range from $50 to $200. For more information, visit our Suspended License in South Dakota page.
DMV.ORG TIP: Get a lower insurance rate!
Did you know you could lower your insurance rates if you take a SD defensive driving course?
Click HERE to learn more!
Lost or Stolen Driver's License
If you've lost your South Dakota driver's license, you may still be able to renew it if you know your driver's license number.
Do not drive without a valid driver's license. Read our page about replacing a lost license in South Dakota to find out how to apply for a duplicate SD driver's license.
Renew Your South Dakota Driver's License
You may renew your license online, by mail or in person depending on how you last renewed or if you have any changes to your information.
You may not renew online or by mail if you:
- You have not applied in person in the last 10 years.
- You are required to take a driving test.
- You want to change your name.
- You wish to change your license class, CDL class or endorsements.
- Your status has been updated with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.)
- You wear bioptic lenses.
Online Driver's License Renewal
To renew your South Dakota driver license online, youmust have:
- A federally compliant SD driver's license.
- A vision test statement dated no more than 6 months if you are 65 years old or older.
- Proof of your South Dakota residency on file with the SD DPS (no more than 1 year old).
- If you do not have the documents on file you can upload, email, fax (605) 773-3018, or mail 2 documents to prove your residential/physical address. Military members and their dependents can use their out-of-state residential address or APO/FPO address.
If you meet the requirements above, you can renew your SD driver's license online every 10 years.
To renew online, visit the South Dakota DPS online renewal website. You'll need to provide:
- Your SD driver's license number.
- Your date of birth.
- The last 4 digits of your Social Security number.
- Payment for the $28 renewal fee and the $2 or 2.95% (whichever is greater) administrative fee.
- Must be made by VISA or MasterCard credit/debit card.
By Mail Driver's License Renewal
You may renew by mail if you:
- Are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Your driver's license is unexpired and a federally compliant license with a gold star in the upper right corner.
If you meet these quailification you will need to:
- Complete a license application form. (Don't forget to sign and date the bottom of the form.)
- A self-addressed, stamped envelope to mail your renewed license.
- Include 2 documents proving your residential address. Active military members and their dependents may use 2 documents with their out-of-state residential address or APO/EPO address.
- These documents can be no more than 1 year old and must be in your name.
- Proof of military status (if applicable).
- A vision statement dated no more than 6 months is required If you’re 65 years old or older.
Along with the completed application and residency documents please include the fee for your license renewal:
- Class 1, 2 or 3: $28.
- Class A, B or C: $33. Hazmat endorsement cannot be renewed by mail.
Make your checks payable to “Department of Public Safety” and mail to:
Driver Licensing Program
118 West Capitol Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501
118 West Capitol Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501
In-Person Driver's License Renewal
Before renewing your SD driver's license in person, you can schedule an appointment at the following exam stations:
- Aberdeen.
- Rapid City.
- Sioux Falls.
- Watertown.
Schedule your renewal appointment either online or bycalling (605) 773-6883.
To renew your South Dakota driver license in person, visit your local SD DPS office.
If you already have a federally compliant SD driver's license (showing a gold star in the upper right-hand corner), you will need:
- Your SD driver's license.
- 2 documents to prove your SD residency.
- A completed Vision Statement (no more than 6 months old.)
- If your form is not current, you must take a vision test at the SD DPS.
- Payment for the $28 renewal fee. See the Fees to Renew Your SD Driver's License section below.
If your SD driver's license doesn't have a gold star in the top right-hand corner, you will also need the following in addition to the above:
- 1 document proving your identity, dateofbirth, and lawful U.S.presence, such as a:
- Certified U.S. birth certificate (hospital-issued certifications are not accepted).
- Valid U.S. passport.
- Certificate of Naturalization.
- 1 document proving your Social Security number, such as your:
- Social Security card.
- W-2 form.
- SSA 1099 or Non-SSA 1099 forms.
- 2 documents proving your SD residency (no more than 1 year old), such as a:
- Utility bill.
- Credit card statement.
- Pay stub.
If you can't prove your SD address, find out if you are exempt by:
- Calling (605) 773-6883 or (605) 773-6883.
OR - Visiting the South Dakota DPS website.
Documents must be originals. Photocopies will not be accepted. For a complete list of accepted documents, visit the SD DPS website.
Renewal for Non-U.S. Citizens
If you are a non-citizen, you must also show valid U.S. citizenship and immigration documents, such as:
- Valid permanent resident card.
- Valid employment authorization document.
- Foreign passport and U.S. visa with your I-94.
If you have trouble obtaining the identification documents above, contact the the South Dakota DPS to see if you can apply for an extension or temporary permit.
Military Member Driver's License Renewal
Notice for Military Members Stationed in Germany
If you are currently stationed in Germany, please be aware that some states require you to have a valid U.S. driver's license in addition to your USAREUR license. Read our article for more information.
If you have a federally compliant SD driver's license (shows a gold star in the top right-hand corner), you can renew online or by mail while serving outside of South Dakota if you are:
- An active-duty military member stationed out of state.
- A spouse or dependent of an active-duty military member currently out of state.
- Serving in the Peace Corps.
OR - Serving as an overseas missionary.
Military service members and dependents may provide EITHER 2 documents proving your APO addressOR 2 documents proving your out-of-state address. All other out-of-state personnel will need to provide 2 documents proving South Dakota residency.
Online Renewal
To renew online, follow the instructions in the online renewal portal and make sure to include the required appropriate proofs of residency.
Renewal by Mail
To renew your SD driver's license by mail, you must provide:
- A completed South Dakota Driver License / I.D. Card Application.
- A completed Vision Statement (no more than 6 months old.)
- Proof of Active military status.
- The required proofs of residency (see above).
- Payment for the $28 renewal fee. See the Fees to Renew Your SD Driver's License section below.
NOTE: All documents must be certified photocopies. The South Dakota DPS provides a complete list of accepted documents.
Mail the above to:
Driver Licensing Program
118 West Capitol Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501
118 West Capitol Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501
Out-of-State South Dakota Residents
If you're a South Dakota resident temporarily out of state, you can extend your regular SD driver's license if you can't renew it online or by mail.
Contact the South Dakota DPS to see if you're eligible for a temporary driver's license extension.
If you're out of state due to military obligations or you're serving in the Peace Corps or as an overseas missionary, see the Military Member Driver's License Renewal section above.
Fees to Renew Your SD Driver's License
It will cost you $28 to renew your South Dakota driver's license for 5 years.
Accepted Payment Methods
At the SD DPS offices, you can pay by:
- Cash.
- Personal check payable to the “Department of Public Safety.'
- Money order.
NOTE: Credit and debit cards are NOT accepted.
For South Dakota online transactions, you can pay with:
- VISA credit/debit card.
- MasterCard credit/debit card.
For mail-in transactions, payment must be made by check payable to the “Department of Public Safety.'
Contact your South Dakota DPS office to find out exactly which payment methods are acceptable when renewing your SD driver's license.