South Dakota Learner's Permit Information, DMV Study Guide

(Excerpts from the South Dakota driver’s manual)

How To Obtain a South Dakota Instruction Permit

To obtain an Instruction Permit, you must be at least 14 years of age and pass the vision and knowledge test. The permit is valid for one year or on the same date as the expiration date on the valid documents authorizing the applicant’s presence in the United States, whichever occurs first. Minors at least 14 years of age, but less than 18 years of age, must hold the valid permit continuously for 180 days (90 days if successful completion [score of 80% or better on both written and driving portions of driver education] of an approved Department of Education driver education course) prior to upgrade of permit to a Restricted Minor’s Permit or Operator’s License. If under 18 years of age and the Instruction Permit expires, a minor would be required to obtain another Instruction Permit for either the 90 or 180 day requirement.

Restrictions: During the hours of 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. a licensed driver 18 years of age or older with at least one year’s driving experience must be present in the seat next to the person holding the Instruction Permit. Between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. the permit holder must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian.

Note: If you are under 18 years of age, and your Instruction Permit expires, you will be required to re-test and hold the new Instruction Permit for another 180 days (or 90-days with successful completion of a state-approved driver education course) before upgrading to a restricted/operator license.

How To Obtain a South Dakota Restricted Minor’s Permit

To obtain a Restricted Minor’s Permit, you must be at least 14 years of age, complete the requirements of the Instruction Permit, pass the driving test and not have been convicted of a traffic violation during the past six months prior to obtaining the Restricted Minor’s Permit. An individual up to age 18 years of age may hold a Restricted Minor’s Permit. The permit is valid for 5 years or until the same date as the expiration date on the valid documents authorizing the applicant’s presence in the United States, whichever occurs first.

Fees

The cost for an instructional permit is $8.00. Cash or check only, no credit or debit cards.