South Dakota Permit for International Students: F-1/M-1 Visa Holders Need a State Permit, $38 Fee

International students on F-1 or M-1 visas who live in South Dakota for more than 90 days must obtain a South Dakota driver's license - even with a valid foreign driver's license. Tourists visiting temporarily can drive on their foreign license for up to 90 days. Foreign learner's permits are not recognized for driving in South Dakota. Call (605) 773-6883 before your appointment to confirm the exact document checklist for your visa type.

Requirements for F-1 and M-1 International Students in South Dakota

F-1 and M-1 visa holders who live in South Dakota for more than 90 days must obtain a state driver license. Bring your passport, I-20, I-94, SSN card or SSA-L676 letter, and two SD residency proofs.

• [YES] Visa and Status Documents:Valid passport, I-20 form, I-94 record - all originals, verified against the online I-94 database at i94.cbp.dhs.govbefore your appointment
• Social Security Number:Original SSN card, or a printed Form SSA-L676 rejection letter from the SSA if you are ineligible for an SSN
• Proof of Residency:Two documents showing your South Dakota physical address - utility bill, dorm contract, bank statement - all less than one year old

An F-1 student in Brookings was rejected because their SEVIS record was not in active status. Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) to verify and update your SEVIS record before visiting the exam station - a SEVIS status problem adds two or more weeks to the process.

Driving with a Foreign License or Foreign Permit in South Dakota

Foreign driver licenses are valid for tourists in South Dakota for up to 90 days. Foreign instruction permits are not recognized - apply for a South Dakota permit to practice legally.

Application Process for International Students at South Dakota DPS

Verify your I-94 record is active at i94.cbp.dhs.gov before your appointment. Visit any exam station, pass vision screening and the 25-question knowledge test, and pay the $38 fee.

1. Download and complete the Driver License/ID Card Applicationat home
2. Verify your I-94 record is active at i94.cbp.dhs.govbefore your appointment date
3. Gather original passport, I-20, I-94, SSN card or SSA-L676 letter, and two South Dakota residency proofs
4. Visit a Driver Exam Station - Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Brookings, or your nearest location
5. Pass vision screening and the 25-question knowledge test (80% required)
6. Pay the $38 fee

For the full South Dakota permit process for non-citizen applicants, document requirements, and exam station locations, see the South Dakota Learner's Permit guide on shoro.ai.