How to Get Your South Dakota Instruction Permit

Step by step

1. Gather your documents

   Bring originals: photocopies are refused. A parent's proof of address works for a minor if that parent comes with you and is named on it.

   • Proof of your birth date, identity and legal status in the U.S., such as a certified birth certificate (not a hospital one) or a U.S. passport
   • Proof of your Social Security number, such as your Social Security card or a W-2
   • Two documents showing your South Dakota address, less than a year old

   (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 5–6)

2. Get a parent's consent

   If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must give consent on every application. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 5)

3. Pass the vision and knowledge tests

   Your photo is taken, then you pass the vision test and the knowledge test on the rules of the road and safe driving. If you fail the vision test, an eye doctor's statement lets you continue. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 8, 10)

4. Pay the fee

   There is a fee for the permit. It covers three tries at a test within six months. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 7)

Fees and the full list of accepted documents change from time to time, so check them on the South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS), Driver Licensing Program website before you go.

Rules while you have an Instruction Permit

• Drive only with a parent, guardian or other licensed adult with at least one year of driving experience sitting next to you. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 8)
• Under 18: hold the permit 275 days in a row (180 after an approved driver education course) and log 50 supervised hours, 10 in bad weather and 10 after dark. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 8)
• Don't use a phone or any other wireless device while driving. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 8)
• Wear your seat belt: it is required for every driver aged 14 to 17 and for every front-seat rider. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 25–27)
• A ticket or a broken permit rule before you turn 16 suspends the permit for 30 days; a second one for 180 days or until your 16th birthday, whichever is longer. (South Dakota Driver License Manual, p. 13)