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How to Get Your South Dakota Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with South Dakota DPS directly.

Standard Path (No Driver's Ed)

  1. Apply for an instruction permit at 14

    Apply at a DPS office with parent or guardian consent. Pass the 25-question knowledge test (80%, 20 correct) and a vision screening.

    • Birth certificate or equivalent
    • Proof of Social Security number and residency
    • Parent or guardian signature

  2. Drive only with a qualifying supervisor

    A supervisor must be a licensed driver at least 18 years old.

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving

    Complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours in inclement weather and 10 hours after dark.

  4. Hold the permit for 275 days

    Hold the instruction permit for 275 days before advancing to the Restricted Minor's Permit.

  5. Pass the road test and receive a Restricted Minor's Permit

    Once eligible, pass the road test at a DPS office to receive a Restricted Minor's Permit.

  6. Follow Restricted Minor's Permit terms

    No driving outside 6 a.m.-10 p.m. except for school, religious services, or work; no non-family passengers for the first 6 months, then one allowed; no wireless communication device use of any kind.

  7. Reach a full license at 16

    Once the Restricted Minor's Permit has been held at least 6 months with no traffic convictions, and the holder turns 16, a full unrestricted license becomes available.

Driver's Ed Path (Shorter Hold)

  1. Complete an approved driver's education course

    Completing an approved driver's ed course reduces the instruction permit hold period from 275 days to 180 days.

    • Driver's education completion certificate

  2. Apply for an instruction permit at 14

    Apply at a DPS office. Pass the same 25-question knowledge test (80%, 20 correct) and a vision screening.

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving and hold the permit 180 days

    Complete the same 50-hour supervised driving requirement (10 inclement weather, 10 night) as the standard path, but with a shorter 180-day hold.

  4. Pass the road test and follow Restricted Minor's Permit terms

    The same curfew, passenger, and cell phone restrictions apply regardless of which path an applicant used to qualify.

Notes

  • South Dakota licenses are issued statewide by the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
  • At 14, South Dakota's minimum instruction permit age is one of the youngest in the country, and a full license is possible as early as 16.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process with the official South Dakota DPS website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-24