In South Dakota you get an instruction permit from age 14 by passing a vision test and the knowledge test at a Driver Licensing exam station, unless driver education waives it.
The test
- A knowledge test from the South Dakota Driver License Manual.
- Book an appointment at dps.sd.gov or by phone: every test visit to an exam station needs one.
- A driver's education certificate from an approved course within the last year waives the knowledge test.
- The free South Dakota mock tests on PassDriveTest use 25 questions at 80%. Check the current format with DPS.
A study plan that works
- Read the South Dakota Driver License Manual (free on the DPS website).
- Learn the signs on the South Dakota road signs tab.
- Take full mock tests and review every wrong answer.
- Aim for 90% or more on several different mock tests.
Instruction permit rules
- From 14, with a parent's or guardian's consent in person or on a notarized Parental Consent Form.
- Hold the permit 275 days, or 180 days with an approved driver education course, before the next stage.
- Log supervised driving; DPS guidance lists 50 hours, including 10 in bad weather and 10 after dark, for permits issued from July 2020. Confirm with DPS.
Take a free South Dakota mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.