South Dakota DPS Exam Simulator
A full-length mock exam: South Dakota does not publish a question count; we use 30 questions at its 80% pass mark. New questions every attempt.
How this simulator works
- Knowledge test: 30 questions, 24 correct to pass.
- No time limit, like the real test. Take your time.
- You won’t see whether you were right until the end, just like at the South Dakota test. Then you can review every answer with its explanation.
- Questions are drawn fresh from the full South Dakota bank each time.
How the real South Dakota knowledge test works
South Dakota does not publish a question count; we use 30 questions at its 80% pass mark. This simulator follows the same structure, gives no feedback until you finish, and draws a new set of questions from the full South Dakota bank every time.
Aim to pass the simulator two or three times in a row, on different days, before you book your test.
Sample questions from this test
What is the youngest age at which you can get a South Dakota Instruction Permit?
- A 15
- B 13
- C 16
- D 14
Show answer
D. 14
In South Dakota you can get an Instruction Permit at 14 by passing the vision and knowledge tests. A parent or guardian must consent for anyone under 18, and the permit only allows driving with a qualified adult beside you.
How many points in any 12 consecutive months can lead to a South Dakota license suspension?
- A 10 points
- B 15 points
- C 22 points
- D 12 points
Show answer
B. 15 points
A driver who collects 15 points in any 12 consecutive months, or 22 points in any 24 consecutive months, is subject to suspension. A hearing is available on request before the suspension.
For a South Dakota driver 21 or older, what blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is evidence of driving under the influence?
- A 0.02% or more
- B 0.10% or more
- C 0.05% or more
- D 0.08% or more
Show answer
D. 0.08% or more
A BAC of 0.08% or more is evidence that an adult was driving under the influence. You can still be convicted of impaired driving below 0.08%, because impairment starts with the first drink.
As a South Dakota Instruction Permit holder, which phone use is allowed while you drive on a public road?
- A Hands-free calls only
- B None; you may not use any type of wireless communication device
- C Calls to a parent or guardian only
- D Texting only while stopped at a red light
Show answer
B. None; you may not use any type of wireless communication device
Instruction Permit holders may not use any type of wireless communication device while driving on public roads. New drivers need all of their attention for the driving task, so even hands-free use is off-limits.
Under South Dakota's seat belt law, who must wear a seat belt in a passenger vehicle?
- A The driver, every front-seat passenger, and anyone under 18
- B Everyone in the vehicle, of any age, in any seat
- C Only drivers and passengers under 18
- D Only the driver
Show answer
A. The driver, every front-seat passenger, and anyone under 18
South Dakota requires all operators, front-seat passengers and children under 18 to wear proper restraints while the vehicle is moving. Adults in the back seat are not covered by the law, but the manual urges everyone to buckle up.