South Dakota Driving Laws: A Complete Guide

Minimum Driving Age

• Instruction Permit: Available at 14 years old after passing vision and knowledge tests.
  
  
• Restricted Minor’s Permit: Eligible at 14½ years old, after holding the instruction permit for at least 180 days (or 90 days if a driver’s education course is completed) and passing a driving test.
  
  
• Operator’s License: Available at 16 years old, after meeting all prior requirements.

Graduated Driver Licensing

Learner’s Permit Rules

• Supervision: Permit holders must be accompanied by a licensed driver aged 18 or older with at least one year of driving experience, seated in the front passenger seat.
  
  
• Holding Period: Must hold the instruction permit for at least 180 days, or 90 days if a driver’s education course is completed, before applying for a restricted minor’s permit.
  
  
• Practice Hours: While specific hour requirements are not mandated, completion of a driver’s education course is encouraged to gain practical experience.

South Dakota Legislature

License Types

• Instruction Permit: For practicing with a licensed adult.
  
  
• Restricted Minor’s Permit: Allows unsupervised driving from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; outside these hours, a licensed adult must accompany the driver.
  
  
• Operator’s License: Full driving privileges granted at 16 years old.
  
  
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Required for operating commercial vehicles.
  
  
• Motorcycle License: Required for operating motorcycles; applicants must pass a motorcycle knowledge test and skills test.

Required Documents for Driving

To apply for a permit or license in South Dakota, applicants must provide:

• Proof of Identity: Such as a certified birth certificate or valid passport.
  
  
• Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card or approved document.
  
  
• Proof of South Dakota Residency: Two documents, such as utility bills, lease agreements, or school transcripts.
  
  
• Parental Consent: Required if under 18; parent or guardian must accompany the applicant or provide a notarized signature on the application.

Seatbelt and Car Seat Laws

• Children under 5 years and under 40 pounds: Must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system.
  
  
• Children aged 5 to 17: Must wear a seatbelt in any seating position.
  
  
• Adults (18 and over): Required to wear seatbelts in the front seat.
  
  
• Penalties: Violations may result in fines up to $25.

Cell Phone and Distracted Driving Rules

• Handheld Device Use: Prohibited while driving. Drivers may not hold a phone to talk, text, email, or use apps.
  
  
• Hands-Free Use: Permitted through in-car systems or accessories like Bluetooth.
  
  
• Penalties:
  
  
  • First offense: Fine of $178.50
    
    
  • Subsequent offenses: May result in higher fines and points on the driver’s license