In order to get the instruction permit and eventually the South Dakota drivers license, everyone regardless of age must pass a written test on traffic laws and signs. Most people fail this test on their first try.

Pass the first time when you learn the rules of the road with DriversEd.com and prepare for the instruction permit test with our South Dakota DPS practice permit tests. Our online practice permit tests can be purchased separately or are free when you purchase our online South Dakota drivers education course.

Apply for the instruction permit at a DPS office near you.

In order to be eligible for the instruction permit, you must:

• An instruction permit holder is entitled to drive during the hours of 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. if the motor vehicle is operated under the direction of a licensed adult. During the hours of 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. the permit holder must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is occupying a seat beside the driver.
• 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 they successfully complete an approved drivers education) 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.

Under 16:
If you are under 16 and you take a Dept. of Education-approved drivers education course, you will only have to practice driving for 90 days before you apply for the restricted minors permit. If you do not take a DPS approved course, you must hold the instruction permit and practice driving under supervision for 180 days. Note: Online drivers education courses do not qualify you for this reduction in permit holding time.

DriversEd.com can help make the supervised driving period less stressful. Our Behind-the-Wheel Training Guide teaches important concepts and guides parents step-by-step through the process of teaching their teen to drive. It also comes with a FREE Passenger Side Rear-View Mirror which allows you to see exactly what your teen sees when behind the wheel.

16 and Older:
If you are 16 or older, there is no drivers education requirement at all in South Dakota. However, it’s always a good idea for new drivers to take a South Dakota drivers education course. With quality drivers education, you can:

Schedule an appointment for the driving test at your local DPS office.

In order to be eligible for the South Dakota drivers license, you must:

• You may drive without supervision from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. with parent of guardian's permission.
• You may drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. if the seat next to the permit holder is occupied by the minor's parent or guardian.
• Upon turning 18, your restricted minors permit will convert to an operators license.