South Dakota Tests

Welcome to the South Dakota tests page, with resources on tests and testing services in South Dakota in such areas as academic tests, professional licensing exams and driving tests.

Academic Tests

South Dakota State Test of Educational Progress (Dakota STEP) - The  Dakota STEP is used to measure student progress. As required by No Child Left Behind, all students must be tested for progress in reading and math in grades 3-8 and 11, and for science progress in grades 5, 8 and 11.

South Dakota GED  - The South Dakota GED program allows adults who did not finish high school to get an equivalent diploma. The five tests in the program include social studies, reading, science, math and writing. Most of the questions on the five tests are multiple choice. Candidates can retake a failed test until they pass.

Professional Tests

South Dakota Massage Therapist Exam and Licensing - Find information on how to become a licensed massage therapist in South Dakota. 

South Dakota Plumbing Exams and Licensure - Find information on testing and licensing requirements to become a plumber in South Dakota.

South Dakota Real Estate Brokers Tests and Lilcensing - Real estate brokers and broker associates must take their licensing examination in either Sioux Falls or Rapid City. The Commission has contracted with AMP to deliver the computerized, multiple choice test. Every applicant has to pass the test before applying for their license.

South Dakota Abstractors Exams and Licensing - All would-be abstractors in the state of South Dakota must first sit for the five-hour licensure exam administered by the Abstractor's Examining Board. It consists of five sections: descriptions, instruments, rules and regulations, miscellaneous topics, and title insurance. A passing score is 80 percent or higher.

Driver's Tests

South Dakota Driving Tests - All those who apply for a driver's license in South Dakota must pass a vision test to prove they can see well enough to drive, a knowledge test that covers rules of the road and safe driving, and a driving skills test. Teen drivers are issued a restricted license.

South Dakota Commerical Driving Tests - South Dakota CDL applicants can schedule their CDL skills tests once they have a CDL instruction permit. The latter is obtained after an applicant passes a medical exam, a general knowledge written test, and a written test for each endorsement he or she is seeking. Some stations schedule the skills test online.

South Dakota Motorcycle Tests - Anyone with a regular operator's license can apply for a Motorcycle Instruction Permit. They must hold the permit for 180 days (30 if they take a motorcycle safety course) before they can take the vision test, the written test and the motorcycle driving test to qualify for a full license.