LicenseCompass

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) License in South Dakota

Quick Answer

To obtain a CDL in South Dakota, you must be 18+ (intrastate) or 21+ (interstate), pass knowledge and skills tests, hold a DOT medical card, and complete ELDT. CDL requirements are federally standardized through FMCSA. Contact the South Dakota DPS for specific fees.

Exam
CDL Knowledge + Skills Tests
Timeline
2-6 weeks

Requirements

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) license in South Dakota

gold
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Licensing Agency

South Dakota Department of Public Safety

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Salary in South Dakota

Entry Level

$44,210

Median

$56,880

Experienced

$80,600

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Commercial Drivers License (CDL) in South Dakota.

  1. 1

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  2. 2

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 2-6 weeks.

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Licensing in South Dakota: What to Know

South Dakota COS data provides the generic CDL description but without the FMCSA website link, and all structured fields show N/A. CDL requirements are federally standardized through FMCSA. ELDT required since February 2022. Must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate. DOT medical card required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) license in South Dakota?
The process typically takes 2-6 weeks, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) license in South Dakota?
You need to pass the CDL Knowledge + Skills Tests. N/A

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.