Driver's Ed
Driver's Education Information
Driver's Ed Instructors
Mr. Jordan Solberg
South Dakota DMV Information
Driver's Education in South Dakota
Driver's education is offered through the South Dakota Department of Education (DOE) as part of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety's (DPS) graduated driver's licensing (GDL) process.
While not required in South Dakota, taking an approved driver's education course has several advantages:
It reduces the time you're required to hold a learner's permit before being eligible for a SD driver's license.
It allows you to bypass driver's license tests.
Of course, the big advantage of driver's education is getting the information and skills you need to be a responsible driver.
Please Note: Online Drivers Ed courses are not approved by the State of South Dakota, nor do they qualify for the purpose of reducing the number of days a minor must hold an instruction permit, nor do they qualify as a waiver for the knowledge or drive tests.
South Dakota Driver's Education Course Requirements
Taking Driver's Ed has several benefits as long as you pass both the classroom and driving sections of the class with a score of 80% or higher.
If you are applying for your South Dakota learner's permit, successful completion of driver's education will waive the required knowledge test.
If you are applying for your restricted minor permit:
You can apply after holding your learner's permit for 90 days (instead of 180 days).
Your DPS written and driving tests will be waived.
Driver's Ed Course Curriculum
In a SD driver's education course, you can expect to learn theories and skills to help you become a safe and responsible driver.
The classroom section of Driver's Ed usually covers topics such as:
Driving laws and regulations.
Road signs and traffic signals.
Moving violations and penalties.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Behind-the-wheel instruction teaches you the skills and techniques you need to operate a vehicle.