Midwest · Instruction Permit
How to get your learner’s permit in South Dakota
South Dakota issues instruction permits at 14 — tied for the youngest in the nation — and shortens the required holding period for teens who complete an approved driver education course.
South Dakota permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 14 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Instruction Permit |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours, including 10 at night and 10 in inclement weather |
| Minimum holding period | 275 days (or 180 days with completed driver education) |
| Issuing agency | South Dakota Department of Public Safety — Driver Licensing (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in South Dakota?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 14
- Practice hours
- 50 hours
- Waiting time
- 275 days
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 49/100. Easiest in the Midwest: Nebraska (#3) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Wyoming makes you hold the permit for just 10 days — the next-shortest wait is 12× longer. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your South Dakota permit date · ⚔️ Compare South Dakota with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in South Dakota
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 14 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official South Dakota driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the South Dakota Department of Public Safety — Driver Licensing site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and South Dakota’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of South Dakota residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official South Dakota Department of Public Safety — Driver Licensing page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. South Dakota requires 50 hours, including 10 at night and 10 in inclement weather. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In South Dakota, that's 275 days (or 180 days with completed driver education). Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Good to know in South Dakota
- South Dakota’s 50-hour log is unusual in requiring 10 hours in inclement weather in addition to 10 at night. A parent or guardian signs a Supervised Driving Statement when upgrading to the restricted minor’s permit.
South Dakota learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in South Dakota?
The minimum age is 14. South Dakota calls this credential the Instruction Permit.
How many supervised driving hours does South Dakota require?
South Dakota requires 50 hours, including 10 at night and 10 in inclement weather. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in South Dakota?
The minimum holding period is 275 days (or 180 days with completed driver education) before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in South Dakota?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is South Dakota an easy state to get licensed in?
South Dakota ranks #11 of 50 on our Ease Score (49/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.