How to get a South Dakota Motorcycle License
- South Dakota Motorcycle License Guidelines
- How to Prepare for the Written Exam
- Required ID and Paperwork
South Dakota DMV Motorcycle License Rules
Ready to take your motorcycle on the open road? We'll walk you through the steps to get your South Dakota motorcycle license with an extra emphasis on safe driving.
You'll need to be familiar with the South Dakota Driver's Manual. Think you know the material?
Take our Motorcycle License practice test now and test your knowledge here first!
First Time Motorcycle Riders
Under South Dakota DPS guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.
To obtain a Motorcycle License, you must be at least 16 years of age and pass the vision, knowledge (car/truck and motorcycle) tests, and motorcycle driving test.
If a minor is at least 16 years of age, but under 18 years of age, they must complete the requirements of the Instruction Permit and not have been convicted of a traffic violation during the past six months prior to obtaining the Motorcycle Operator's License.
The license is valid for 5 years or on the same date as the expiration date on the valid documents authorizing the applicant's presence in the United States, whichever occurs first.
Prepare for the Motorcycle License Written Test
The South Dakota DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques. If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least until the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.
All motorcyclists are encouraged to study for this written test so you don't take a chance on standing in line at the DMV Office only to go home empty-handed. Test your motorcycle safety and driving knowledge and take our South Dakota motorcycle practice test today!
Required Paperwork
Before you head to the South Dakota DMV Office, make sure you have the following required documents to get your motorcycle license. Examples include:
- Birth certificate issued in any state
- Drivers license or instruction permit issued in another state
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military ID card (active duty, retired, reserve)
- South Dakota ID card
- Social Security Number, if issued,
- Documents from a court of record
- Marriage certificate
- Parental Consent Form if under 18
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, a Class M endorsement will be added to your driver's license. Remember... the safe operation of a motorcycle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the operator, the machine, and the environment.
