Booking Your South Dakota Driving Test: A 2025 Guide to Scheduling Your Appointment

You've passed your knowledge test, studied the manual, and logged hours of practice behind the wheel. The final step toward earning your South Dakota driver's license is scheduling and passing the driving test. In South Dakota, you must schedule this test in advance; walk-in appointments for driving tests are generally not available.

This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to book your driving test appointment using the South Dakota Department of Public Safety's (DPS) online system, ensuring you can secure your spot without any hassle.

Before You Schedule: Key Eligibility Requirements

Before you can book your road test, you must meet several key requirements, especially if you are under 18.

• Valid Instruction Permit: You must have a valid, unexpired South Dakota Instruction Permit.
• Permit Holding Period (for teens):
  • If you have completed a state-approved driver education course, you must have held your permit for at least 90 days.
  • If you have not completed driver's ed, you must have held your permit for at least 180 days.
• Clean Driving Record (for teens): You must not have any traffic convictions during your permit-holding period.
• Parental Consent (for teens): Your parent or guardian must provide consent for you to take the test and be issued a license.

The Primary Method: Scheduling Your Test Online

The most efficient and required way to schedule your driving test is through the official SD DPS online scheduling portal. This system is available 24/7 and allows you to view all available appointments across the state.

Step-by-Step Guide to Online Scheduling:

1. Visit the SD DPS Website: Navigate to the official South Dakota Department of Public Safety website. Look for the Driver Licensing Program section and find the link for "Schedule an Appointment."

2. Select Your Location: The system will prompt you to choose a driver exam station. You can select the location that is most convenient for you. It's often recommended to choose a station in an area where you have practiced driving.

3. Choose the Service: You will be presented with a list of appointment types. Be sure to select the option for a "Driving Test" or "Road Test" for a standard operator's license.

4. Enter Your Information: The system will need to verify your eligibility. You will be prompted to enter personal details such as:

   • Your full name
   • Your date of birth
   • Your Instruction Permit number

5. Select an Available Date and Time: The portal will display a calendar showing all available dates and times for the location you selected.

   • Plan Ahead! Driving test appointments are in high demand, especially during peak seasons like summer and school breaks. Slots can be booked weeks or even months in advance. Do not wait until your permit is about to expire to start looking for an appointment. It is crucial to book your test as early as you are eligible.

6. Confirm Your Appointment: Before you finalize, the system will show you a summary of your appointment details: location, date, and time. Double-check that all the information is correct.

7. Save Your Confirmation: Once you confirm, you should receive a confirmation email. Print this out or save it to your phone. This confirmation is important proof of your appointment and may contain a link to cancel or reschedule if your plans change.

Finding a Test Location: Exam Stations and Mobile Units

South Dakota has permanent driver exam stations in its larger cities. For more rural areas, the state operates mobile exam units that visit different towns on a set schedule. The online scheduling system will show you appointments for both permanent and mobile locations. Be sure to check the schedule for mobile units if one is more convenient for you.

What if I Need to Cancel or Reschedule?

If you cannot make your scheduled appointment, it is essential that you cancel or reschedule it through the online portal. Use the link provided in your confirmation email or log back into the scheduling system.

Canceling your appointment (preferably 24-48 hours in advance) is courteous and opens up the time slot for another person who is waiting. If you fail to show up for your appointment without canceling, you may be temporarily blocked from scheduling a new test.

By planning, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, and using the online scheduling tool effectively, you can easily secure your road test appointment and take that final, exciting step toward freedom on the open road.