South Dakota Driver Education

PIERRE, S.D. - Gov. Mike Rounds and the 2004 South Dakota Legislature passed two bills altering the hours and with whom young people can be out driving at night, but Public Safety Secretary Tom Dravland wants to remind all South Dakotans that these laws do not take effect until July 1, 2004.

"We want to remind all South Dakotans that holders of restricted minor's permits and instruction permits must still follow the current laws," said Dravland.

Beginning July 1, 2004, holders of a restricted minor's permit may operate a motor vehicle from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. if the motor vehicle is being operated with the permission of the holder's parent or guardian (SB 83).

Prior to July 1, 2004, holders of restricted minor's permits can drive alone from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Also beginning July 1, 2004, holders of an instruction permit may operate a motor vehicle from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. if accompanied in the passenger seat by a person holding a valid operator's license, who is at least 18 years old and has had at least one year of driving experience. The applicant may drive from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. if the applicant's parent or guardian is occupying a seat beside the applicant (HB 1117).

Prior to July 1, 2004, holders of instruction permits are allowed to drive anytime when accompanied in the passenger seat by a person holding a valid operator's license who is at least 18 years of age and has one year of driving experience.