South Dakota
Motorcycle License
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If your driver license has been expired for more than 30 days,
you must schedule an appointment to visit a driver exam station, as
you will be required to take and pass the operator's knowledge test
and the motorcycle written knowledge test.
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Motorcycle Instruction Permits
To learn to operate your motorcycle, you may apply for an instruction permit by completing the vision test and a written knowledge test. The permit is valid for one year and allows for operation between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. You must be accompanied by a licensed motorcycle operator on a separate motorcycle who is at least 18 years old and has one year of riding experience. No permit holder may carry a passenger on a motorcycle.
Applying for a South Dakota Motorcycle License
To get a motorcycle license, make sure you have the required documents and training:
- A completed license application form (in English or in Spanish). Electronic, digital, or stamped signature are not allowed on the application.
- Your South Dakota Driver’s License or ID card if you have one; otherwise you will need to bring the required identity documents
- Two documents proving your residential address. Documents must show your name and be less than one year old, such as a bill, rental or lease agreement, or vehicle registration.
- Parent or guardian mail is acceptable for use by minor under the age of 18.
You must also pass a vision test, a knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher, and a motorcycle driving test. Please wear appropriate safety gear for your test including a helmet, boots and leathers. The pavement must be dry to conduct a driving test.
Please schedule an appointment to visit a South Dakota Driver Exam Station to complete these tests.
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Motorcycle Rider Education
To prepare for the knowledge test, download the South Dakota Motorcycle Operator Manual in English or in Spanish. You can also sign up for motorcycle safety classes to help you prepare for and pass your test. The South Dakota Safety Council offers classes from April through October and will also administer the license test as the final step of the course. Click here to visit the South Dakota Safey Council for information about motorcycle rider safety classes.
Motorcycle License FAQs
No, but you must possess a valid operator’s license or restricted minor’s permit. A moped is defined as a motor-driven cycle equipped with two or three wheels, with an engine no larger than 50cc and not requiring clutching or shifting by the operator.
All motorcycle and moped operators and passengers younger than 18 years of age must wear a helmet. Learn more about motorcycle safety.
Resource Library
Motorcycle License Documents
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