How to Get a South Dakota CDL

Getting a South Dakota CDL means passing the General Knowledge test at a state exam station, holding a Commercial Learner Permit for at least 14 days, completing federal ELDT, and passing a three-part skills test at an approved third-party testing site.

1. Confirm you are at least 18 for intrastate or 21 for interstate driving or HAZMAT.
2. Get a DOT physical and a Medical Examineru0027s Certificate from a provider on the FMCSA National Registry.
3. Self-certify your driving category with the South Dakota Driver Licensing Program.
4. Study the official South Dakota CDL Manual.
5. Visit a South Dakota driver exam station to take the vision screening and knowledge tests.
6. Pass the 50-question General Knowledge test with at least 80%.
7. Pay the $33 CDL application fee plus $15 per endorsement knowledge test.
8. Receive your Commercial Learner Permit (valid for 1 year) and hold it for at least 14 days.
9. Complete federal Entry-Level Driver Training with a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
10. Schedule the skills test with a third-party tester (at least two business days in advance).
11. Pass the three-part skills test (pre-trip, basic control, road) and receive your South Dakota CDL.

Sources: South Dakota DPS - Commercial Driver License hub South Dakota DPS - CDL Manual page South Dakota CDL Manual PDF South Dakota DPS - Driveru0027s License Fees