Renewing Your South Dakota License in 2025: Online and In-Person Guide

Every driver in South Dakota must periodically renew their license to legally stay on the road. The South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS) has made this process more convenient than ever, with an efficient online renewal system for many drivers, as well as traditional in-person services at driver exam stations.

This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your South Dakota driver's license in 2025, from renewal timelines and REAL ID requirements to fees and what to do if your license is already expired.

When to Renew Your SD License

A standard South Dakota driver's license is valid for five years and expires on your birthday. The DPS gives you a generous window to renew: you can apply for renewal up to 180 days (about six months) before your license's expiration date. While the state may send a courtesy reminder, it is your responsibility as a driver to know your expiration date and renew on time.

What if My License Has Already Expired?

Driving with an expired license is illegal. If your license has been expired for less than 30 days, you can still renew it following the standard procedures. However, if your license has been expired for more than 30 days, you will be required to re-apply as a new driver, which includes retaking and passing both the knowledge test and the vision test.

Option 1: Renewing Your License Online

For most South Dakotans, renewing online is the quickest and easiest method. It saves you a trip to a driver exam station and can be completed from the comfort of your home.

Are You Eligible for Online Renewal?

You can generally renew your Class D driver's license online if:

• You are a U.S. citizen.
• Your last renewal was completed in person. (You cannot renew online two times in a row).
• You are between the ages of 18 and 69.
• You do not need to change your name or other critical information.
• Your license is not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
• You have a REAL ID-compliant license. If you have a standard license without the gold star, you must visit an exam station in person to upgrade.

How to Renew Online:

1. Visit the SD DPS Website: Navigate to the official South Dakota DPS Driver Licensing Program page and find the link for "Renew my License."
2. Enter Your Information: You will need to provide your current driver's license number, date of birth, and potentially the last four digits of your Social Security number to begin.
3. Confirm Your Details: The system will display the information the DPS has on file for you. You must confirm that all details, including your mailing and residential addresses, are correct.
4. Pay the Fee: Use a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
5. Print Your Temporary License: Once your payment is processed, you will be able to download and print a temporary license that is valid for 60 days. Your new, permanent license card will be mailed to your address on file.

Option 2: Renewing Your License In Person

If you are not eligible for online renewal—for example, if you need to get your first REAL ID, change your name, or are 70 or older—you must visit a driver exam station in person. It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online to reduce your wait time.

The Vision Test Requirement

A key part of the in-person renewal process is the vision test. All drivers renewing their license in person must pass a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contact lenses to drive, be sure to bring them and wear them for the test.

What to Bring for an In-Person Renewal:

• Your current South Dakota Driver's License.
• REAL ID Documents (if applicable): If you are applying for your first REAL ID, you must bring the full set of original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of residency. Refer to our complete REAL ID Document Checklist for details.
• Proof of Address (if you have moved): If your address has changed since your last renewal, you must bring two acceptable documents proving your new residency.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee. As of early 2024, the fee for a five-year renewal is $28. Exam stations typically accept checks, money orders, and may accept credit/debit cards. It's best to check with your specific location.

The In-Person Process:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Use the DPS website to schedule a renewal appointment.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the South Dakota Driver License/ID Card Application form.
3. Pass the Vision Test: You must pass the vision screening administered by the DPS employee.
4. Get a New Photo: A new photograph will be taken for your updated license.
5. Pay the Fee: Pay the renewal fee.
6. Receive Your Temporary Card: You will be given a temporary paper license to use for driving until your permanent card arrives in the mail.

By choosing the right renewal method for your situation and arriving prepared, you can ensure your license stays current with minimal hassle.