Test at a Glance
South Dakota Knowledge Test Quick Facts
Questions
25
Passing Score
80%
Test Fee
$8 (permit fee)
Time Limit
No time limit
Min. Age
14
Difficulty
Moderate
Online Test?
No — in person only
Based On
2026 South Dakota Driver's Manual
The South Dakota DPS knowledge test has 25 multiple-choice questions. You need 80% (20 of 25) to pass. Study the official South Dakota driver's manual and practice with PermitPop.
What's on the Test
Topics on the South Dakota Permit Test
Road Signs & Signals
~25%South Dakota traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings.
Traffic Laws & Right-of-Way
~30%South Dakota traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and school bus regulations.
Safe Driving Practices
~25%Following distances, lane changes, highway driving, and South Dakota-specific conditions.
Impaired Driving & Penalties
~10%South Dakota DUI/DWI laws, zero-tolerance for under 21, and penalties.
Special Situations
~10%Emergency vehicles, railroad crossings, work zones, and South Dakota-specific situations.
How to Get Your Permit
Step-by-Step: South Dakota Learner's Permit in 2026
Meet the age requirement
You must be at least 14 years old to apply for a learner's permit in South Dakota.
Gather your documents
Bring proof of identity, Social Security card, and parent/guardian consent if under 18.
Complete any required courses
Check with the DPS for driver's ed requirements in South Dakota.
Pass the knowledge test
25 questions, 80% to pass (20 correct). Fee: $8 (permit fee).
Pass the vision screening
Standard vision screening at the DPS office.
Get your permit
Once you pass, your learner's permit allows supervised driving with a licensed adult.
South Dakota GDL (Graduated Driver License) Rules
Holding Period
6 months
Supervised Hours
50 hours (10 at night)
Nighttime Restriction
10 PM - 6 AM
Passenger Restriction
Varies by period
Cell Phone Rule
No texting while driving
Tips & Common Mistakes
How to Pass the South Dakota Permit Test on Your First Try
Study the South Dakota driver's manual
The official manual is the primary source for all test questions.
Focus on road signs
About 25% of the test covers signs and signals. Know all regulatory, warning, and guide signs.
Know your state-specific rules
Every state has unique laws. Study South Dakota's specific traffic rules and penalties.
Practice with realistic questions
PermitPop's South Dakota-specific questions match the real test format.
Don't rush
There's no time limit. Read each question carefully and watch for tricky wording.
Most Commonly Missed Topics in South Dakota
- 1Right-of-way rules at intersections
- 2Speed limits in school and work zones
- 3South Dakota-specific traffic laws and penalties
FAQ
South Dakota Permit Test FAQ
How many questions are on the South Dakota permit test?+
How much does the South Dakota permit test cost?+
How old do you have to be to get a permit in South Dakota?+
Can I take the South Dakota permit test online?+
Is the South Dakota permit test hard?+
PermitPop is not affiliated with the South Dakota DPS. Test information is based on the 2026 South Dakota Driver's Manual and is updated regularly. Always verify current requirements with your state's official DMV website.