South Dakota DPS Knowledge Test & Permit Practice – 2026
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#1. When you see a truck preparing for a right turn ahead, you should:
Truck drivers must make wide turns in order for the rear of the truck can clear corners and curbs. It is very important to pay close attention when a large vehicle uses turn signals. Do not pass a truck until it has completed turning as sometimes it uses space from other lanes to clear corners.
#2. When you approach a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing warning lights on an interstate, you must:
If you are on a road with two or more lanes of traffic going the same direction and you approach an emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle that is stopped with lights flashing, you must change lanes, so you do not drive next to the stopped vehicle.
If making a lane change is unsafe or you are on a road with one lane in each direction, you must reduce your speed by at least 5 miles per hour under the posted speed limit and give the emergency vehicle as much room as safely possible.
#3. You should adjust your seat and mirrors:
When getting into your car, make certain the seat is adjusted properly for your comfort and safety. Adjust your mirrors. Always fasten your safety belt and shoulder harness if you have one. Make sure they are both firm and comfortable to you. The head restraint on newer cars is an important safety addition. It should be in a correct position so that in the event someone runs into your vehicle from the rear your chances of a neck injury are cut down considerably.
#4. What does this road sign mean?
The sign warns of a roundabout or traffic circle ahead.
#5. What is the best advice for a driver who has been drinking alcohol?
The best advice is not to drive a vehicle of any kind if you have consumed alcohol or other drugs. Never get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or using other impairing drugs.
#6. After moving to South Dakota, new residents must register their vehicles within:
You have 90 days to register a vehicle brought in from another state. The registration certificate must be carried in the vehicle at all times.
#7. Green, brown, or blue road signs are:
Guide signs are square or rectangular and are green, brown, or blue. They give information on intersecting roads, help direct you to cities and towns, and show points of interest along the highway. Guide signs can also help you find hospitals, service stations, restaurants, and hotels.
#8. When you are fatigued, you:
When you are tired, you cannot drive as safely as when you are rested. You do not see as well, and you are not as alert as when you are rested. It takes you more time to make decisions and you do not always make good decisions. You can be more irritable and can get upset more easily.
Stop and rest. Never drive if you are sleepy.
#9. This is an example of:
This is an example of a U.S. route sign.
U.S. Route signs consists of black numerals on a white shield surrounded by a black background without a border.
#10. Where is a U-turn generally illegal?
Do not make a U-turn:
- At any intersection where a police officer is controlling traffic unless the officer instructs you to make a U-turn.
- Mid-block on any street in a business district or mid-block on a through (main) highway that is in a residential district.
- At any place where signs prohibit such turns.
- Upon a curve or upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade on any undivided highway where the vehicle cannot be seen by the driver of any other vehicle with 500 feet approaching from any direction.
- At any place where a U-turn cannot be made safely or without interfering with other traffic.
#11. When you park on a hill headed downhill, and there is no curb, you should turn your front wheels:
Parking on a hill:
- Check for traffic in the mirrors and blind spots. Signal right and pull over as far to the right as possible and stop. Slow as you are moving out of traffic.
- Turn the wheels sharply to the left if there is a curb and facing uphill.
- Turn the wheels sharply to the right if there is no curb or if facing downhill.
- Set the emergency brake and place the vehicle in park. If the vehicle has a manual transmission, shift it into reverse if parking downhill or into the lowest gear if parking uphill.
#12. When you see a motorcycle's turn signal flashing you should:
Do not assume a motorcycle is turning when you see its turn signal flashing. Motorcycle turn signals may not self-cancel and the motorcyclist may have forgotten to turn them off. Wait to be sure the rider is going to turn before you proceed.
#13. What should you do when following a motorcycle on gravel roads?
There are certain situations when you need more space in front of your vehicle. Increase your following distance when following motorcycles or bicyclists. If the cycle should fall, you need extra distance to avoid hitting the rider. The chances of a fall are greatest on wet toads, icy roads, gravel roads, metal surfaces such as bridges, gratings, or railroad tracks.
#14. You have a green light at an intersection, and a blind pedestrian prepares to cross. Who should have the right-of-way?
Blind pedestrians have special protection under the law. You must always yield the right-of-way to persons who are visually impaired. When a pedestrian is crossing a street guided by a dog or carrying a white cane, you must come to a complete stop.
#15. The driver ahead signals:
Right turn – left arm extended, with elbow bent upward, at about a 90-degree angle.
#16. Which pavement marking separates traffic traveling in opposite directions?
Yellow lines mark the center of a road used for two-way traffic. Broken yellow lines indicate that passing is permitted.
#17. If you have mechanical trouble and must stop beside the road, you can show others you need assistance by doing what?
If the vehicle breaks down on the highway, make sure that other roadway users can see the disabled vehicle
- Get the vehicle off the road and away from traffic.
- Turn on the emergency flashers to show the vehicle is disabled.
- Try to warn other roadway users that the vehicle is there.
- Place emergency flares about 200 to 300 feet behind the vehicle
#18. If there is a stop line before a crosswalk, you must:
When required to stop because of a sign or signal, you must stop behind the stop line, crosswalk, stop sign, or traffic signal. If there is a stop line before the crosswalk, the stop line must be obeyed first.
#19. Before entering another roadway, you see this sign. What does it mean?
Added lane. Two roadways come together ahead with a new lane added. You do not have to merge (form one line), but watch for traffic in the new lane.
#20. When you are following another vehicle at night, at what distance must you dim your lights?
Dim the high beams whenever you come within 500 feet (about a one block distance) of an oncoming vehicle. Use the low beams when you are closer than 500 feet behind another vehicle or when in heavy traffic.
#21. When driving at night in construction areas with no oncoming traffic, you should turn on:
Use your high beams whenever there are no oncoming vehicles. High beams let you see twice as far as low beams. It is important to use high beams on unfamiliar roads, in construction areas or where there may be people along the side of the road.
Dim your lights when necessary. Do not use high beams in fog or when it is snowing or raining hard.
#22. If the engine shuts off while you are driving:
If the engine shuts off while you are driving:
- Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Be aware that the steering wheel may be difficult to turn, but it is still able to be turned.
- Look for an escape path. Do not brake hard. Instead, brake with steady pressure on the pedal, slow down, and then pull off the roadway.
- Stop and try to restart the engine. If unsuccessful, raise the hood and turn on the emergency flashers. Call for help.
#23. A flashing yellow traffic signal at an intersection means:
A flashing YELLOW traffic light means slow down and proceed with caution.
#24. A sign with this shape means:
Triangle shape is used for yield signs. This sign means you should reduce speed and yield right of way. If needed, stop the same as you would for a stop sign.
Signs often use symbols or pictures rather than words. Each type of sign has a special color and shape to help you easily recognize the sign at a glance.
#25. A Crossbuck sign at a railroad crossing means:
When you approach a railroad crossing, you should slow down, look, and listen for a train or railroad vehicle, and be prepared to stop if a train is approaching. The white, X-shaped sign with Railroad Crossing printed on it is located at all highway-railroad grade crossings. The crossbuck sign has the same meaning as a yield sign. When a train or railroad vehicle is approaching the intersection, you must stop behind the stop line or before the intersection until the intersection is clear.
| This South Dakota DMV Practice Test | |
|---|---|
| Number of questions on each test: | 25 |
| Question pool: | 500+ |
| Type of test: | Random multiple-choice |
| South Dakota DMV Written Knowledge Test | |
|---|---|
| Number of questions on exam: | 25 questions |
| Passing score: | 80 percent |
| Correct answers to pass: | 20 |
| Allotted time to complete test: | No limit |
| Wait time before retest: | 1 day |
South Dakota Practice Tests
This South Dakota knowledge test has 25 random questions, just like the actual SD knowledge examination. You must correctly answer 20 questions to pass the test, meaning you must reach a passing score of 80 percent.
After each question, there is instant feedback to let you know whether your answer is correct. When you miss a question, there is also a brief explanation based on the information in your Driver’s License Manual.
You will find answers to all exam questions in the South Dakota Driver’s License Manual, so make sure you read it.
You can get a hard copy from any DPS location or download a PDF version online .
Each practice test has random questions (just like the real knowledge test). It pulls questions from an extensive database with several hundred questions, making every test slightly different. You will see new questions every time you start over.
You can repeat the practice test until you feel ready for the real South Dakota DPS test.
Please note that this is a practice test, not an actual examination that qualifies for a test certificate. South Dakota does not offer knowledge testing from the comfort of your home.
You should also know that Driversprep.com is not affiliated with South Dakota DPS or any Government Entity.
After reading the Driver’s License Manual, you should take practice tests to verify how much you’ve learned. Most likely, you will miss some questions when you start practicing. Read the short comment and look up information in the manual. If you need more clarification on the answers and why they are correct, find someone to discuss rules and safe driving techniques with. It will help you learn much faster.
An essential key to success is to read all questions and choices carefully. Try not to add your information or read anything into a question that isn’t there.
Another common mistake is to try to memorize questions and answers. It is a risky study tactic and no guarantee of passing the real exam.
You must truly know and understand the information in the Driver’s License Manual to pass the real permit examination.
What You Must Know About the Real South Dakota Knowledge Test
Your first step towards a South Dakota driver’s license contains two tests:
A vision screening
A written knowledge test (on a computer)
If you need glasses/lenses for your vision screening, remember to bring them. If you fail the vision screening, you will not be allowed to take any other tests.
The passing score on the South Dakota permit test is 80%. You need 20 correct answers to pass. If you fail the written test, you must wait at least one day before you can try again. There is no new fee the second time your try, but after three attempts, you must pay a new fee.
A parent or legal guardian must accompany minors when they visit a Driver Licensing office.
Languages
The written test is available in English only.
Driver Education Course
If you have passed an approved South Dakota driver education course with at least an 80% score, you don’t have to take an additional knowledge test at a driver exam office.
Remember to bring the driver’s education certificate to the driver exam station and pass the vision screening.
Is the South Dakota Permit Test Difficult?
South Dakota does not publish failure rates, but experts estimate that about one out of three fail their first attempt on the test.
Who Must Take the South Dakota Test?
All new drivers
If you are a first-time applicant, you must always pass all tests.
If you are under 18 years, you must follow the three-step program under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) law, which includes the first Instruction Permit, the Restricted Minor’s Permit, and the full unrestricted South Dakota Driver’s License.
Drivers with an expired license
If you let your South Dakota Driver’s License expire more than 30 days, the examiner will ask you to retake the knowledge test.
Drivers with a revoked license
If the department has revoked your driving privilege, you must pass all applicable tests, including a new application fee and a reinstatement fee.
Suppose the department has suspended your driving privilege. In that case, you don’t have to take any new tests for the department to reinstate your privilege – unless the license expires for more than 30 days during the suspension period.
Drivers with a license from another country
A foreign driver’s license holder who moves to South Dakota must pass the same tests as first-time applicants. Exemptions exist for holders of a valid license from Canada or Germany.
When you hold a valid driver’s license in another state or territory and move to South Dakota, no testing (except vision screening) is necessary to get a South Dakota driver’s license.
What is on the Official South Dakota Written Test?
The DPS designs written tests to test your:
“…ability to read and understand highway signs regulating, warning, and directing traffic, the knowledge of the traffic laws of this state.”
You should expect a few questions about the road signs described in the South Dakota Driver’s License Manual. Remember to learn how colors and shapes convey information.
You will also see questions about traffic signals and pavement markings. Know when you can cross yellow center lines and when you cannot.
There is also a clear focus on how to safely share our highways with pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and commercial vehicles such as tractor-trailers and large trucks.
Specific South Dakota traffic laws include the consequences of impaired driving and the purpose of the South Dakota point system.
Many questions in the question pool also deal with everyday driving situations, such as right-of-way rules at intersections and what to do in case of accidents and vehicle failure.
Remember, you will find everything you need to know for your test in the Driver’s License Manual.
South Dakota Permit and License FAQ
What documents do I need to apply for a South Dakota permit or driver license?
If you are a US citizen, you should bring an original or certified birth certificate, social security card, and two documents proving your South Dakota address. If you are a minor, proof of address can be provided by the parent who comes to the driver's license exam station with you.
If you are a non-citizen, you need an unexpired permanent resident card or unexpired U.S. Visa with an unexpired I-94, social security card, and two documents proving your South Dakota address.
Do I need my parents approval when I apply for an instruction permit?
If you are under 18 years, you must have approval of a parent/legal guardian, and the parent/legal guardian must accompany you when apply for the permit.
A parent or guardian who signed for you to get your permit can at any time request to have your permit or license canceled.
Can I practice driving with any adult driver?
When you hold an instruction permit and practice driving, you must be supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 18 years old and have at least one year driving experience. The supervising driver must always sit in a front seat beside you.
Can I practice driving at night when I have an instruction permit?
The Instruction Permit allows you to practice from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. if you you are supervised by a driver who is not a licensed parent or guardian.
From 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., you must have a parent or legal guardian seated beside you.
When can I change my Instruction Permit to a Restricted Minor’s Permit?
The holding period for the Instruction permit is 180 days if you have satisfactorily completed a state-approved driver education program. This means that you must 14 years and 180 days old before you can apply for the Restricted Minor's Permit.
If you haven't completed a driver education course, this holding period is extended to 275 days and the minimum age for applying becomes 14 years and 275 days.
During these periods you must have a minimum of 50 hours of parent/guardian supervised driving (10 hours at nightand 10 hours in inclement weather) to upgrade to a Restricted Permit.
You cannot have had any traffic convictions within the last six months when you apply.
Can I drive alone with a South Dakota Minor's Permit?
Yes, the minor's permit allows you, with your parent's or guardian's permission, to drive unsupervised during daytime (between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
If you want to drive at night, a parent or legal guardian must occupy a seat beside you.
When you are 16 years old, you can apply for a full operator's license with full driving privileges and no restrictions.
What if I get a traffic ticket when I have an Instruction Permit?
Your Instruction Permit or Restricted Minor’s Permit will be suspended for 30 days if you are under 16 years old and are convicted of a traffic violation or of violating the restrictions of your permit.
If you are convicted a second time, the suspension period is 90 days or until you turn 16, whichever is longer.
When can I get a full and unrestricted driver's license?
You must be at least 16 years of age and have met the requirements of an Instruction Permit (see above) to get your full SD Driver's License.
You must have held a Restricted Permit for a minimum of six months.
If you have achieved at least an 80% grade in a state-approved driver education course within the last year, no road skills test is necessary.
Final Note
We have designed all tests to challenge your knowledge of the rules of the road and safe driving practices. When you use our practice tests as a study guide, you can prepare for and pass the South Dakota DPS knowledge test without problems.
