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Renewing Your License in South Dakota
Determine the Status of Your License
You must have a valid license to drive, so it's necessary to know exactly when your license expires. Fortunately, you can renew it up to 180 days before the expiration date. (The limit is 30 days for those younger than 21.)
You must also demonstrate proof of financial responsibility to drive a vehicle. Having auto liability insurance is the simplest way to accomplish this. If you're looking for a provider, or just want to find the cheapest rates, visit our Insurance Center.
Valid License
Licenses are valid for five years, and must be renewed in person at an exam station. (If you're a commercial driver, see our Renewing Your CDL for information regarding your situation.) There are a few exceptions to this, though, and they're outlined in our Renew By Mail section below.
If you're unsure about your license status, you can always obtain a copy of your driving record.
Expired License
While it's against the law to drive with an expired license, you have 30 days after it expires to renew without having to take at least the written test again. If you renew within that period, you'll just follow the same renewal procedures as those with current licenses. To check on your license status, you can buy a copy of your driving record.
Suspended License
Suspended license issues are complex. It's helpful to know exactly what's going on with your license, and having a current driving record is a good way to stay on top of things. Also, since your insurance rates are likely to rise, it's smart to use our Insurance Center to find the most affordable rates available.
Visit our Suspended License section for details on the reinstatement process and the fees involved.
Lost License
If you need to get a duplicate license, you should consult our Replacing a Lost License page for instructions.
Check Your Renewal Notice
Some drivers receive a renewal reminder notice in the mail. However, you don't need to bring this notice with you when you go to the exam station to renew, and even if you didn't receive the notice, you're still expected to renew on time.
Renew Online
You can't renew your license online, so you'll have to accomplish this task in person.
Renew by Mail
Active members of the military, their dependents, Peace Corp members, and missionaries who are temporarily living outside the state may renew their license by mail by following the state's instructions.
Renew in Person
After arriving at the exam station, do the following to renew your license:
- Present one identity document. This may include:
- ―Certified U.S. birth certificate issued by state or county (hospital birth certificates not accepted)
- ―Valid, unexpired passport
- ―Certificate of Citizenship
- ―Certificate of Naturalization
- ―Valid, unexpired permanent resident card
- ―Valid, unexpired employment authorization document
- ―Foreign passport with valid, unexpired U.S. Visa with I-94
- Provide proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable proof includes:
- ―Social Security card
- ― W-2 Form
- ― SSA 1099 Form
- ― Non-SSA 1099 Form
- ―A pay stub with your name and Social Security number
- Two documents proving your current residential address. Acceptable documents include:
- ―Credit card statement
- ―Rent receipt
- ―Utility bill
- ―Mortgage document
- ―Tax document
- ―Bank statement
- ―Phone bill
- ―Pay stub
- ―Transcript or report card from a recognized school
- ―Homeowners or renters insurance policy
- Pass the vision test.
- Pay the $20 fee.
NOTE: Call (605) 773-3541 if you're unable to provide proof of residency. Post office box addresses are only accepted in rural areas without assigned streets or 911 addresses.
Update Your Driving Skills
Keeping your driving skills and knowledge sharp is essential to being a safe driver. Completing a traffic school course is an easy way to do this, and doing so may even lower your insurance premiums. Ask your insurance provider for more information, or look through our Insurance Center to find carriers that offer the discount.
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