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    • Steps so you can ace the South Dakota DMV driver's licence for Cars

    Steps so you can ace the South Dakota DMV driver's licence for Cars

    Step 1
    Read the SD driver’s handbook carefully. Master the rules, drive smart and confidently!
    Read the Handbook
    Step 2
    Know the road signs from South Dakota. Recognize them quickly, and drive with confidence!
    Learn Road Signs
    Step 3
    Go through all the exam questions for CARS, build your skills to pass easily!
    Practice Questions
    Step 4
    Prepare for your DMV SD driving test for cars by taking real exam-style practice tests. Learn the questions and answers, so you feel confident at the knowledge test!
    Solve DMV Practice Tests
    Step 5
    When you think you're ready for the knowledge test, you're not. Ace these DMV tests that include the hardest questions and then you'll know more than 90% of drivers.
    Master the knowledge exam
    Step 6
    Don't stop at driving tests. Learn some tips and tricks so that your knowledge test and car road test doesn't take you by surprise and you would be prepared for anything.
    Q&A before the practice test
    Psychological Preparation
    Q&A before the road test
    Beware during the road test
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    FAQ for future drivers from South Dakota

    1. How old do you have to be to get a CAR driver's licence in South Dakota?

    Here’s how the process works for getting a driver’s license:

    1. Instruction Permit: At 14 years old, you can get an instruction permit. This allows you to drive with a licensed adult (over 18) in the front seat. You’ll need to pass a vision and knowledge test first.
    2. Restricted Minor’s Permit: At 14 and a half, after holding the instruction permit for 180 days (or 90 days with a driver education course), you can apply for a restricted minor’s permit. With this, you can drive alone between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Outside of those hours, you need a licensed adult with you.
    3. Full Driver’s License: At 16 years old, you’re eligible for a full, unrestricted driver’s license, as long as you’ve held a restricted permit for at least six months without any violations.

    This system gradually gives young drivers more independence while ensuring they have enough practice on the road.

    2. What documents do you need to apply for a CAR driver's licence in South Dakota?

    To apply for a driver's license, you'll need specific documents based on the type of license you're seeking. Here's a quick breakdown:

    Standard Driver's License (Class 1)

    1. Proof of Identity: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or certificate of naturalization.
    2. Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with your full SSN.
    3. Proof of South Dakota Residency: Two documents like a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your SD address.
    4. Proof of Lawful Status: For non-citizens, valid immigration documents such as a green card or visa.

    REAL ID Driver's License

    1. Proof of Identity: U.S. passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.
    2. Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with SSN.
    3. Proof of South Dakota Residency: Two documents with your SD address, such as a utility bill or bank statement.
    4. Proof of Lawful Status: Valid immigration documents for non-U.S. citizens.

    Exceptions

    • New Residents: If you're new here, you need to transfer your out-of-state license within 90 days and provide the same documents listed above.
    • Military Members: Active-duty military personnel and their families may qualify for certain extensions or waivers.
    • Undocumented Immigrants: South Dakota does not issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants.

    Make sure all documents are original or certified copies. It's always a good idea to double-check with the South Dakota DMV for the latest requirements before applying.

    3. What should i do if i don't pass the practical driving exam from the first try?

    If you fail the driving test, you must wait 7 days before retaking it. There’s no specific cap on how many attempts you can make, but it’s best to work on the areas where you struggled to increase your chances of passing.

    4. What are the restrictions for new drivers in South Dakota?

    New drivers with a restricted minor’s permit face a few important rules:

    • Curfew: You can’t drive unsupervised between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., unless you’re driving to or from work, school, or a school event.
    • Supervised driving: Outside of those hours, you need to have a licensed adult (at least 18 years old) with you.
    • Passenger limits: You can only have one passenger under 18 who isn’t a family member unless you’re supervised by an adult.

    These restrictions help keep new drivers safe as they gain more experience on the road!

    5. How long is an South Dakota driver's licence valid for?

    A standard driver's license is valid for 5 years. If you're 65 or older, your license is valid for 5 years as well, but you may be eligible for a shorter renewal period.

    To renew your license, you can do so online, by mail, or in person. If you renew in person, you'll need to pass a vision test. If your license has been expired for more than 1 year, you may need to take a written and/or road test. Be sure to check the South Dakota DMV website for any updates on the renewal process or requirements.

    6. Can I drive a CAR in South Dakota with a foreign license?

    Yes, you can drive with a foreign driver's license as long as you're visiting. If your license is not in English, it's recommended to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) to avoid any confusion. However, if you become a resident, you’ll need to get a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days.