South Dakota driving questions, answered
What a new driver in South Dakota asks, answered in two or three sentences from South Dakota’s own manual, code, court schedule or licensing pages, and kept only after every figure in it was found in the source it cites. How the answers are made
What happens if I get pulled over and I don't have my license on me?
You have to show your license when an officer asks for it. South Dakota law says you must carry it whenever you drive. Not having it on you is a petty offense.
Sources: South Dakota driver’s manual p. 9 · SDCL § 32-12-39 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught texting while driving?
Texting while driving is banned in South Dakota, and South Dakota law makes it a Class 2 misdemeanor. The fine is $178.50, and you can pay it without going to court.
Sources: South Dakota driver’s manual p. 19 · SDCL § 32-26-47.1 · FY27 FINE AND BOND SCHEDULE FOR USE BY CLERK MAGISTRATES · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I'm driving past my curfew with a provisional license?
A second violation conviction suspends your permit or license for 180 days or until you turn 16, whichever is longer.
Sources: South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Driver Licensing Program — SOUTH DAKOTA TEEN DRIVER GRADUATED LICENSING (Effective 7/1/2025) · as of 11 Oct 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
How many friends can I have in the car when I first get my license?
Under South Dakota law, for your first 6 months on a restricted minor's permit, you can only carry immediate family or people from your household. After that, you can have no more than 1 passenger under 18 who isn't family or from your household.
Sources: SDCL § 32-12-12.5 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
If I fail my driving test, how soon can I take it again?
You can retake it the next working day at the earliest. If you failed for something serious, like running a stop sign, excessive speeding or failing to yield, you must wait 30 days.
Sources: South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Driver Licensing Program — South Dakota Driver License Testing Information · as of 11 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How long do I have to hold my permit before I can take the road test?
You must hold your instruction permit for 275 days before moving up to a restricted minor's permit. If you pass an approved driver's ed course, it's only 180 days.
Sources: South Dakota driver’s manual p. 8 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What car insurance do I need to drive?
You need liability insurance on the car, called an owner's policy of liability insurance. The car's owner must keep it in force at all times.
Sources: South Dakota driver’s manual p. 13 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
What happens if I crash my parents' car?
If you're in a crash, you must stop. South Dakota law says your parents' policy covers you if you drive their car with permission. If a court orders you to pay for damages and you don't, you can lose your license.
Sources: South Dakota driver’s manual pp. 12, 59 · SDCL § 32-35-70 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How far from a fire hydrant do I have to park?
South Dakota law says you can't park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
Sources: SDCL § 32-30-6 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Can I use my phone at a red light?
No. With an instruction permit or restricted minor's permit, you can't use any wireless device while driving on public roads.
Sources: South Dakota driver’s manual p. 8 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How much is the fine for speeding in a school zone?
South Dakota law says speeding past a school during recess or when kids are arriving or leaving is a Class 2 misdemeanor. The limit there is 15 mph.
Sources: SDCL § 32-25-14 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught driving alone on my permit?
On an instruction permit, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 18, with 1 year of experience, sitting beside you. South Dakota law says if you're convicted of breaking your permit's conditions, your permit is suspended for 30 days.
Sources: SDCL § 32-12-11 · SDCL § 32-12-15.1 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Any question about South Dakota driving law can be asked in the box, not only these: each answer comes from South Dakota’s own manual or code, cited. Ask a question