South Dakota
Motorcycle Test

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Motorcycle License

How To Get A South Dakota Motorcycle License

If you are interested in driving a motorcycle in South Dakota, you'll need to be equipped with all of the information you need to know about the state’s driving laws. The South Dakota MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) requires that all applicants of a Class 3 Motorcycle Operator’s License are at least 18 years of age and pass the vision, knowledge, and motorcycle driving tests. Those between the ages of 16-18 must also complete the requirements of the instruction permit and have no traffic violations during the past six months of applying. If you’re 14 years of age, you may obtain a Motorcycle Instruction Permit by passing the vision and knowledge tests.

If you are new to South Carolina and already have a motorcycle license from another state, which required you to take an on-cycle skills test, you won’t need to take the knowledge test or fulfill the instruction permit requirements. For further questions or concerns, contact your local MVD.

Another way you can earn your South Dakota motorcycle license is by taking a course through the South Dakota Safety Council. The state’s designated motorcycle training center will provide you with knowledge and experience on and off a motorcycle. The riding coaches will work with you one-on-one so you will be put into a safe environment.  Classes run from April through October and are for all skill and experience levels. The final step in the course will be for you to take the motorcycle license test.

Motorcycle Test

South Dakota Motorcycle License Test Tips

The knowledge test focuses on your understanding of the road rules and safe riding practices in South Dakota. It consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. You will need to answer at least 19 questions correct, which is reaching a score of 76% or higher. Take your time and read each question carefully. Everything from the knowledge test will be from the information that you read in the motorcycle operator manual, so be sure to review the information multiple times and take practice tests.

You will be required to take an on-cycle skills test at one of the 17 MVD locations in South Dakota. The instructor will be testing you on different exercises to perform. Some of the things you will be tested on is your ability to accelerate, brake and turn safely, your choice of paths and boundaries, and your quick turns or swerves. You can schedule your skills test by filling out the information on South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety page.

Additional Information

Information on the South Dakota Department of Public Safety

The SD-DPS is responsible for testing student drivers and licensing all drivers. To schedule your licensing examination or get more information contact them via:

Website:  https://dps.sd.gov/driver-licensing/motorcycle-license
Phone:  605.773.6883
Contact Form:  https://dps.sd.gov/contact

To schedule an appointment with the South Dakota DPS, please visit:
https://dps.sd.gov/driver-licensing/renew-and-duplicate/appointment-information

Additional South Dakota Motorcycle License Helpful Links

Please use the links below to learn more about helpful topics related to the South Dalkota motorcycle license test or other motorcycle license related topics.