
Once you have that driver’s license in hand, amazing road trips enter the realm of possibilities. Passing the South Dakota road test means you open the door to explore some of the country’s most beautiful sights and usual attractions. Get ready to cross things like visiting Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park off your bucket list. On a more practical level, passing the driving test simply gives you the freedom to get to work, school, or friends’ homes without relying on a parent or older friend or sibling.
To help you unlock this door to independence, we’ve put together this guide that will provide everything you need to know, including prerequisites, skill and vehicle requirements, and tips for maneuvers you’ll be tested on.
Before signing up for the road test, you may need to complete some preliminary requirements, depending on your age.
In the state of South Dakota, teenagers must reach their 14th birthday in order to begin the state’s graduated licensing program. Here are the steps:
Adult drivers who do not hold a valid driver’s license from South Dakota or another state will need to pass a road test with a score of 80 percent or higher in addition to:
If you’ve completed all the above requirements, then you can schedule an appointment to visit a South Dakota driver exam station.
You’ll want your car to be in good shape before you head over to take your road test, as drivers with a faulty car may be rejected from taking the test. Getting to know your car, understanding basic maintenance, and how you can recognize potential hazards is always a smart idea.
These are a few good tips to keep your vehicle safe and reliable anytime you’re driving:
According to the South Dakota Department of Revenue (DOR), “Drivers must furnish their own vehicles for road tests, and pets or passengers are not allowed in the vehicle.”
You can expect to be tested on general driving skills, such as:
Your test performance will be evaluated on a point-based system to determine whether you are deemed a safe driver. In South Dakota, you’ll need to score an 80 percent or higher to pass the road test. Any major violations of traffic rules such as breaking the speed limit or causing an accident will result in an automatic failure. If you fail, be sure to listen to the tester’s suggestions for skills to practice, and try again.
That’s everything you need to know about passing the South Dakota driving test. We hope this guide has helped you out, and that you now feel comfortable with the steps moving forward. If you need any help studying for your upcoming exams, then Zutobi is the perfect study guide with online practice tests, a summarized handbook, and practical driving tips that will help you immensely during the actual road exam.
550+ exam-like questions
All you need to ace your test
Perfect for first-timers, renewals and senior citizens
Country
Ace your DMV test, guaranteed