Practice Driving in South Dakota

The more time spent behind the wheel while holding your instruction permit the better your chances of passing the road test. Practice smart by knowing your restrictions.

A) Know Your Learner's Permit Restrictions

• You may only drive between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. while accompanied in the front seat by a licensed driver 18 or older with at least one year of driving experience

• You may only drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. while accompanied by a parent or legal guardian

• You must have your permit in your possession while driving

B) Get On the Road

Practice, practice, practice. Even though South Dakota does not require accumulating a specific number of supervised driving hours, it's in your best interest to get as much behind-the-wheel time as possible. Drive in all conditions, practicing passing, turning at intersections, parallel parking, negotiating three-point turns, maintaining proper speed in curves and backing. Make somewhere between 40 and 50 hours of practice time as your goal. And even though you won't be tested after daylight, take advantage of your licensed supervisor's experience by learning nighttime defensive driving techniques.

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