South Dakota permit test FAQ 2026: how many questions, pass mark, cost

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety does not publish the number of questions; the test is commonly reported as 25 questions with 20 correct (80%) to pass, and our practice tests use that format.

You need 80% to pass, per the South Dakota Department of Public Safety. Our practice tests mark 20 of 25 (80%), the commonly reported format.

You need 20 of 25 (80%) to pass, so in the commonly reported 25-question format you can get at most 5 wrong. The best preparation is to study the official South Dakota Driver License Manual (revised 11/2024) and take practice tests until you pass them comfortably.

$38 — Instruction permit, per the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Yes. This site has 2 free South Dakota knowledge test practice tests for 2026, each with 25 questions and the commonly reported pass mark of 20 of 25 (80%), plus a free road-sign quiz.

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety does not publish a time limit for the South Dakota knowledge test.

DPS testing page and manual: 'If you fail any of the tests, you may not re-test before the next working day.' Cheating: 'you will not be allowed to re-test the following day, you will be required to wait a minimum of two weeks before being allowed to test again' (manual). 'You are allowed three opportunities to test for each fee paid within a six-month period' (DPS testing page); manual: 'After 3 failures in a 6-month period, the fee will need to be repaid.' Teen pamphlet: 'The knowledge test will be waived if you present a driver's ed certificate proving you passed an approved driver education course (or approved equivalent out-of-state course) within the last year.' Instruction permit valid five years; under-18s hold it 275 days (180 with driver education) before the Restricted Minor's Permit.

The minimum age is 14, per the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Teen page: 'To be eligible to get your instruction permit, you must be 14 years of age'; documents 'include a certified copy of the applicant's birth certificate, applicant's original social security card, and two pieces of mail proving the applicant's physical address'. Teen pamphlet: 'Your parent or guardian must sign giving consent, either in person at a driver exam station or by completing a Parental Consent Form (notarized)'; the mail 'can be in your name or your parent's name'; hospital birth certificates are not accepted. Manual: 'DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS (photocopies are not acceptable)'; parent/guardian consent 'if under the age of 18 (required for every application completed)'; completed application form. Vision test at the exam station. The knowledge test is waived with an approved driver education certificate from the last year.

The official South Dakota Driver License Manual (revised 11/2024). You can read it on the official site.