How to Book a CDL Permit Test Appointment at the Sioux Falls DMV

Book your CDL permit test appointment online or by phone at the South Dakota DMV

To take the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) permit test in Sioux Falls, you must schedule an appointment through the South Dakota DMV. You cannot walk in without one. The DMV offers appointments through its online system or by calling the Sioux Falls office directly. Most appointments are available within two to four weeks, though timing varies by season.

The Sioux Falls DMV location that handles CDL testing is at 118 West Capitol Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104. You can reach them at (605) 773-6883 during business hours. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on state holidays.

Key Takeaways

• Schedule your CDL permit test appointment online through the South Dakota DMV website or by calling (605) 773-6883.
• You must bring a valid ID, proof of South Dakota residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to the appointment.
• The CDL permit test covers general knowledge and air brake systems; you choose which endorsements you need when you book.
• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all required documents, as missing paperwork will result in a cancelled appointment.
• The permit is valid for 180 days, giving you time to complete your CDL training and road test before the permit expires.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or military ID. A driver's license from another state counts as your primary ID. You also need proof that you live in South Dakota — a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. The document must show your current address.

Have your Social Security number or ITIN ready. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation. The DMV will not test you without this. Bring your current South Dakota driver's license if you already have one, or your out-of-state license if you are new to the state.

How to schedule online or by phone

Visit the South Dakota DMV website and look for the appointment scheduling system. Select "Sioux Falls" as your location, then choose "CDL Permit Test" from the service menu. The system will show you available dates and times. Pick the slot that works for you and confirm. You will receive a confirmation number by email or text — save this.

If you prefer to call, dial (605) 773-6883 and tell the staff member you need a CDL permit test appointment. Have your calendar ready. They will give you available dates and times and confirm your appointment over the phone. Ask them to repeat your appointment date and time before you hang up.

What the CDL permit test covers

The test has two parts. The first is the general knowledge section, which covers vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and road rules specific to commercial vehicles. The second is the air brake systems section, which tests your understanding of how air brakes work and how to inspect them. You must pass both sections to receive your permit.

When you schedule your appointment, you will choose which endorsements you want to test for. Common endorsements include Hazmat (hazardous materials), Tanker, Doubles/Triples, and Passenger. You do not have to take all of them at once. Many drivers take the general knowledge and air brake tests first, then add endorsements later. Each endorsement requires a separate test.

Fees and what happens after you pass

The CDL permit test costs $20. Payment is due at the appointment. The DMV accepts cash and card. If you pass both sections, you will receive your CDL permit on the spot. This permit is valid for 180 days and allows you to drive a commercial vehicle with a licensed CDL driver in the seat next to you while you practice.

Your permit gives you time to complete a CDL training program and pass your road test before the permit expires. If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you will need to retake the written test and pay the fee again. Plan your training schedule so you finish the road test before the 180 days are up.

What to expect on test day

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment time. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they are easy to find. The staff will check your ID and residency proof, verify your Social Security number, and ask you to sign a form confirming the information is correct. This process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

You will then sit at a computer terminal to take the written test. The general knowledge section has 50 questions; you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. The air brake section has 25 questions; you must answer at least 20 correctly. You have time to review your answers before submitting. Most people finish in 30 to 45 minutes. If you pass, you walk out with your permit. If you do not pass, you can schedule a retest, usually within a few days.

If you fail the test or need to reschedule

If you do not pass, you can retake the test. There is no waiting period between attempts in South Dakota, but you must pay the $20 fee again for each retest. Schedule your next appointment as soon as you know you failed — slots fill up quickly, especially in summer months.

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, call (605) 773-6883 as soon as possible. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance usually do not result in a fee. If you miss your appointment without cancelling, you may lose your fee. Life happens — call and explain your situation. The staff can often work with you to find a new time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the CDL permit test the same day I schedule the appointment?

No. The DMV requires you to schedule in advance. Appointments are typically available within two to four weeks depending on how busy the office is. Book as soon as you know you are ready to test.

Do I need a current South Dakota driver's license before I take the CDL permit test?

No. You can take the CDL permit test with an out-of-state license or a valid ID like a passport. However, you will need to have or obtain a South Dakota driver's license before you can take your CDL road test.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) documentation instead. The DMV needs one or the other to issue your permit. Call ahead at (605) 773-6883 if you are unsure what documents count as proof of your ITIN.

How many times can I retake the CDL permit test?

South Dakota does not limit the number of retakes. You can test as many times as you need, but you pay the $20 fee each time. Most people pass on the second or third attempt if they study between tests.

What happens if my CDL permit expires before I pass the road test?

You will need to retake the written permit test and pay the fee again. The 180-day window is designed to give you enough time for training and the road test. If you are running short on time, contact the DMV about scheduling your road test sooner.