How do I get a REAL ID in South Dakota?
Reviewed 2026-09-29 · Source: South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Driver Licensing
Ava's answer
Get a federally compliant (gold star) South Dakota driver license or ID card by bringing original documents to a state driver exam station. Confirm current requirements with SD DPS before you go.
- Fill out the application: Complete the South Dakota Driver License and ID Card Application (English or Spanish). It needs an original signature and date — electronic, digital or stamped signatures are not accepted. Applicants under 18 need a parent or guardian present to sign.
- Gather proof of lawful status: New applicants, non-U.S. citizens and transfers from another state bring one: a state-certified U.S. birth certificate (no photocopies or hospital certificates), a valid U.S. passport or passport card, a Certificate of Citizenship/Naturalization, a Permanent Resident Card, an Employment Authorization Card, or a foreign passport with a U.S. visa/I-94.
- Bring proof of any name changes: If your name differs from your lawful-status document, bring original certified proof of each change: a government-issued marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- Bring proof of your Social Security number: If your current license has no gold star, bring your Social Security card or a W-2, Form 1099 or pay stub showing your full number. Originals only.
- Bring two proofs of your South Dakota address: Two documents with your name and physical address, such as a utility bill, pay stub, rent receipt, phone bill, bank statement, mortgage document, insurance policy, tax document or vehicle registration. If you use a PO Box, the other document must show your physical address.
- Visit an exam station and pay: Schedule an appointment or walk in during open hours. The fee is $38 for a license or ID card. If you already have a gold-star card, you may be able to renew online or by mail up to 180 days early.
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Documents to bring
Fees
| Driver license or non-driver ID card (new or renewal) | $38 |
| Duplicate / replacement | $20 |
| Card payment processingWhichever is greater; charged online and for card payments at the exam station. | $2.00 or 2.95% |
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Source
Obtain a South Dakota Driver License or ID Card — Required Documents · South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Driver Licensing · reviewed 2026-09-29
Limitations: Originals or certified copies only — no photocopies. SD DPS decides what it accepts. Military, veteran, full-time traveler and CDL applicants have extra requirements listed on the agency page.
DMV.ai is independent and not a government agency. It does not file applications or collect government fees. Confirm current requirements with the official agency. Report an issue
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