South Dakota Driving Schools

South Dakota allows teens to get a learner's permit at age 14, one of the youngest permit ages in the country. With all requirements met, a full license is possible at age 16.

Yes. South Dakota uniquely requires 10 hours of practice in adverse weather conditions, in addition to the standard 10 nighttime hours and 50 total supervised hours. No other state has this specific requirement.

South Dakota bundles a $15 written test fee into the permit application, making the total permit cost $43, which is higher than the $28 license itself. This unusual fee structure catches many applicants off guard.

Yes. South Dakota requires driver's education for teens under 18 and allows online courses through approved providers. Completing driver's ed is the pathway to the early permit age of 14.

South Dakota teen restricted license holders cannot drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Exceptions apply for work, school, and emergencies.

No non-family passengers are allowed during the first 6 months of the restricted license. After 6 months, 1 passenger under 18 is permitted. Family members are always exempt.

South Dakota teens can get a full unrestricted license at age 16 after completing all requirements and holding the restricted license with a clean record.

Yes. A 14-year-old with a South Dakota restricted license can drive alone during allowed hours, subject to the curfew and passenger limits. This is one of the youngest ages for solo driving in the country.

South Dakota's knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. The test also covers topics specific to rural and winter driving, which are common conditions in the state.

No. South Dakota does not have a specific cell phone ban for novice drivers beyond general distracted driving laws that apply to all drivers.