Where to go for a South Dakota driver's license in Sioux Falls

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in Sioux Falls is located at 118 West Capitol Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104. This is the main location where you can explore for a new driver's license, renew an existing one, or take your written and driving tests. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on state holidays.

You do not need an appointment to visit, but wait times vary depending on the day and time. Mornings and early afternoons tend to be less crowded than late afternoon. If you want to check current wait times before you go, you can call the Sioux Falls DMV office at (605) 773-6883.

There is also a satellite office at the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office, 300 North Main Avenue, Sioux Falls, but it handles limited services — mainly renewals and ID cards. For a new driver's license or your first test, the main DMV office on Capitol Avenue is where you need to go.

Key Takeaways

  • The main DMV office in Sioux Falls is at 118 West Capitol Avenue and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • You will need a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address to explore.
  • If you are a new driver, you must pass a written test and a driving test; the written test can be taken the same day you explore.
  • A standard South Dakota driver's license costs $24.50 and is valid for eight years.
  • You can renew your license by mail or online if you are not changing your address or photo, which is faster than visiting in person.

What documents you need to bring

South Dakota requires proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. For identity, bring your original birth certificate, U.S. passport, or a certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy is not accepted — the document must be an original or certified copy.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. The address document must be dated within the last 60 days.

If you are under 18, you will also need written consent from a parent or guardian, signed in front of a DMV employee. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Steps to take your written test and driving test

When you arrive at the DMV office, tell the staff member at the counter that you are explore for a new driver's license. They will give you a form to fill out (Form 2-1, the process for a Driver's License or Instruction Permit). Bring the completed form and all your documents to the counter.

A staff member will review your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. You can then take the written test the same day. The written test covers South Dakota traffic laws and road signs. You have 40 minutes to answer 40 questions, and you must get at least 28 correct to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages.

After you pass the written test, you will receive an instruction permit that allows you to drive with a licensed adult. You must hold this permit for at least 14 days before you can take the driving test. When you are ready, you schedule your driving test appointment at the DMV office. The driving test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving practices.

Cost and how long your license is valid

A standard South Dakota driver's license costs $24.50 and is valid for eight years. If you are under 21, your license is valid for four years. The fee is the same whether you are a new driver or renewing.

If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal building access and domestic air travel), the cost is the same — $24.50. The REAL ID designation appears on your license, and you must bring the same documents as for a standard license.

Payment is accepted in cash, check, or debit card at the DMV office. Credit cards are not accepted.

Renewing your license by mail or online instead of visiting in person

If your license is not expired and you are not changing your address or photo, you can renew by mail or online without visiting the DMV office. Online renewal is faster and costs $24.50. You can renew online at the South Dakota DMV website (dps.sd.gov). You will need your current driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the DMV website or request one by calling (605) 773-6883. Mail the completed form, your current license, and a check or money order for $24.50 to the address on the form. Processing takes about two weeks after the DMV receives your process.

If you are renewing and your address or name has changed, you must visit the DMV office in person. The same applies if your license is expired by more than one year.

What to do if you have an out-of-state license

If you are moving to South Dakota from another state and have a valid driver's license, you can exchange it for a South Dakota license. You do not have to take the written or driving test if your out-of-state license is still valid. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of your South Dakota address, and your Social Security card or proof of your Social Security number to the DMV office.

The DMV will take your out-of-state license and issue a South Dakota license with the same expiration date as your previous license. The fee is still $24.50. If your out-of-state license is expired, you will have to take the written and driving tests as if you were a new driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online from home?

No. The written test must be taken in person at the DMV office in Sioux Falls. You cannot take it remotely or at a testing center outside the DMV.

How long does the whole process take from start to finish?

If you are a new driver, the process takes at least 14 days because you must hold an instruction permit for 14 days before taking the driving test. The written test can be taken the same day you explore. The driving test appointment depends on availability, which varies by season.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or on another visit to the DMV office. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You have unlimited attempts, but you must pass before you can schedule a driving test.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?

You do not have to bring your Social Security card specifically. A W-2, 1099, tax return, or other document showing your Social Security number is accepted. The DMV just needs to verify your number.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must be present in person to explore for and receive your driver's license. The DMV takes your photo and verifies your identity at the time of process, so a representative cannot do this on your behalf.