Getting a South Dakota Driver's License or State ID as an International Student

How do I apply for a driver's license?

Drivers Licence

1. Proof of Identity and Residence Documents needed for Driver's Licence (for application, etc. see webpages)
   1. Proof of Identity
      1. Unexpired foreign passport with your US visa and your form I-94. We recommend also bringing
      2. Unexpired SEVIS I-20 (if F-1 student) or DS-2019 (if J-1 student)
      3. Unexpired EAD (Employment Authorization Document) card for those on OPT
   2. At least two documents proving your local, residential/physical local (Vermillion) address. These documents must show your FULL name, your local address and be less than one-year old.
      1. Example documents listed on the South Dakota driver licensing web page include:
         1. Utility bill, pay stub, rent receipt, phone bill, bank statement, vehicle registration and/or renter’s insurance policy.
         2. No photo copies and no handwritten mail/addresses.
      2. Other acceptable documents could include:
         1. tuition payment receipt; bank account info or letter from bank.
         2. If you are new to campus and the area, you may need a letter from your International Student Advisor that includes your local address
2. Setting up an Appointment to get a License
   1. Go to South Dakota Department of Public Safety Site
   2. Scroll down to Schedule an Appointment
   3. Click click here to use our online scheduling tool!
   4. Set up an appointment
3. Where is Driver Licensing Located?
   1. Vermillion’s local driver licensing office is located at Hallmark Square (11 East Cherry St)
   2. They have limited hours: Thursdays from 7 AM to 4 PM
   3. Other locations are listed on the webpage

If you need further assistance, please contact the Gallagher International Center