The Sioux Falls Driver License Exam Station Location and Hours

South Dakota's Sioux Falls driver license exam station is run by the Department of Public Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles. The station is located at 118 West Capitol Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104. This is the only full-service exam location in Sioux Falls where you can take both the written knowledge test and the driving skills test.

Hours vary by season and staffing. The station is typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, but you should call ahead at (605) 773-6883 to confirm current hours before you go, since they may close for lunch or adjust schedules. The DMV website for South Dakota also lists current hours online.

Arrive early on the day of your test. The station does not take reservations for the driving exam, so you may wait if other test-takers are ahead of you. Bring all required documents with you — going home to retrieve something means starting over another day.

Key Takeaways

  • The Sioux Falls exam station is at 118 West Capitol Avenue and is the only location in the city where you can take both written and driving tests.
  • You must call (605) 773-6883 to confirm hours before you go, because they close for lunch and may adjust schedules seasonally.
  • The station does not take reservations, so arrive early and bring all required documents in one trip.
  • You will need to pass the written test before you can schedule or take the driving test on the same day.
  • Bring your own vehicle for the driving test, and it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Before you go to the exam station, gather your documents. You will need proof of identity, proof of South Dakota residency, and your Social Security number. Acceptable identity documents include a passport, a birth certificate with a photo ID, or a military ID. If you are under 18, you will also need a signed parental consent form.

Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Your name must match on your identity document and residency proof. Bring the originals — photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the legal document that shows the change.

If you are renewing or replacing a license, bring your current or expired license. If you are a new resident of South Dakota, bring your out-of-state license if you have one. The staff at the station can tell you over the phone whether your specific documents will work, so call if you are unsure.

The Written Knowledge Test at the Exam Station

The written test covers South Dakota traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You will answer multiple-choice questions on a computer at the station. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit, so if you fail, you must return on another day to try again.

The test is offered in English and in several other languages. If you need the test in a language other than English, call ahead to make sure that language is available on the day you plan to test. You are allowed to use a dictionary or interpreter if English is not your first language, but you must request this before the test begins.

You cannot use your phone, notes, or any other materials during the test. The station provides scratch paper if you need it. Results are available when ready after you finish, and you will know right away whether you passed.

The Driving Skills Test and Vehicle Requirements

If you pass the written test, you can take the driving test the same day if an examiner is available. If not, you will need to return on another day. The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. The examiner will ask you to perform tasks like parking, turning, and stopping at different speeds.

You must bring your own vehicle for the test. The vehicle must be registered in South Dakota, have current insurance, and be in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn before the test begins. If anything is not working, you will not be allowed to test that day. The vehicle must also have a valid inspection sticker if South Dakota requires one at the time you test.

You need a licensed adult (at least 18 years old) to sit in the front passenger seat during the test if you are under 18. If you are 18 or older, you test alone with the examiner. Bring your proof of insurance and vehicle registration with you.

Preparing for Your Test Before You Go

Study the South Dakota Driver's Manual before you visit the exam station. The manual is free and available online on the South Dakota DMV website, or you can pick up a printed copy at the exam station itself. The written test questions come directly from this manual, so reading it is the best way to prepare.

Practice the driving skills you will be tested on: smooth acceleration and braking, turning at different speeds, parking in tight spaces, and responding to traffic signals. If you are a new driver, practice with a licensed adult in your vehicle before you go to the exam station. Many people fail the driving test on their first try, so extra practice reduces your chances of having to return.

Get a good night's sleep before your test day and eat breakfast. Arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have time to park and gather your documents. Bring water and avoid caffeine if it makes you nervous. The examiners are trained to be fair, and they expect some nervousness — staying calm helps you focus on the road.

Fees and What Happens After You Pass

The written test costs money, and the driving test costs money. Exact fees change and vary depending on the type of license you are getting. Call the station at (605) 773-6883 to ask the current fee before you go. Payment is usually cash or card, but confirm which methods they accept when you call.

If you pass both tests, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. Do not lose the temporary license — it is valid for driving until the permanent one arrives. If you fail either test, you can return to test again, but you will pay the fee each time.

Once you have your license, renew it before the expiration date shown on the card. South Dakota licenses are valid for different lengths of time depending on your age and the type of license. The DMV will send you a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail instead of going to the station?

No. South Dakota requires you to take the written test in person at a DMV exam station. The Sioux Falls station is the only location in the city. If you cannot get to Sioux Falls, other exam stations exist in other South Dakota cities, but you must test at an official DMV location.

What if I fail the driving test — how soon can I test again?

You can return to test again as soon as the next business day. There is no waiting period between attempts in South Dakota. You will pay the test fee each time you test. Many people pass on their second or third attempt, so do not get discouraged.

Do I need an appointment for the driving test?

No. The Sioux Falls station does not take reservations for the driving test. You must show up during business hours and wait your turn. Arriving early in the morning usually means a shorter wait than arriving in the afternoon.

What if my vehicle fails the safety check before the driving test?

You cannot test that day. You will need to fix the problem and return another day with a vehicle that passes the safety check. Common failures are broken lights, worn brakes, or missing wipers. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order before you go.

Can someone else take the test for me or help me during the test?

No. You must take both the written and driving tests yourself. No one can help you or take the test in your place. The tests are designed to make sure you know how to drive safely on South Dakota roads.