South Dakota Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License, Endorsements, Permits, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of 4/28/2021. For the most up-to-date information, please visit https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/motor-vehicle/.
Operating a Motorcycle in South Dakota
In order to operate a motorcycle in the state of South Dakota you must:
- Meet the state’s minimum age requirement
- Obtain a South Dakota motorcycle license (you also need to obtain a motorcycle instruction permit)
- Register your motorcycle with the state of South Dakota
- Obtain insurance coverage that meets South Dakota state requirements
The minimum age requirement to operate a motorcycle in South Dakota is 16 years old. For specific motorcycle licensing requirements and restrictions by age group, click here.
Getting a South Dakota Motorcycle License
According to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, in addition to meeting the requirements necessary to obtain a regular driver’s license, individuals must apply for a motorcycle license to operate a motorcycle.
Find out how to obtain a South Dakota Motorcycle License here.
Motorcycle Education & Training in South Dakota
Motorcyclists should sign up for a motorcycle safety course. In South Dakota, it is not mandatory to complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain a South Dakota motorcycle license. To find a South Dakota Safety Council approved Motorcycle School, click here. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) website contains operator safety information.
South Dakota Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
If you’re riding a motorcycle, you will have many of the same requirements regarding registration, licensing and insurance as automobile drivers have in South Dakota. For information about South Dakota insurance requirements, visit https://dlr.sd.gov/.
By now, you should have a good idea about how to proceed in obtaining a South Dakota motorcycle license. If you are a new resident in South Dakota, or you are a new rider and you’re shopping for motorcycle insurance, click here to get a quote in minutes.
Disclaimer: The materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should review the links within this article, or contact the relevant state agency, for complete and current information.
The SD DOR requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in South Dakota, make sure your coverage meets the state’s requirements.
To make sure you have the right coverage at the right price, come see what Rider can do for you.
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