How to Get Your Driver's License Back After a South Dakota DUI Conviction

 

If your driver’s license has been suspended as a result of a DUI conviction in South Dakota, you should know the steps you need to take to get it reinstated. Having your driving privileges taken away can put a great deal of stress on all aspects of your life, affecting your ability to keep your employment, continue your schooling, and even run errands for around your home. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, you can consult a South Dakota DUI lawyer to work with you on your specific case.

 

Process for Driver’s License Reinstatement in South Dakota

 

For reinstatement after license suspension or revocation, you must go to an exam station and pay the reinstatement fee (between $50 and $200) as well as application fees. If your driver’s license was just suspended, you don’t need to take the test. However, if it was revoked, you need to take the vision, knowledge, and possible the driving test, depending on your situation. Additionally, you will need to show proof of financial responsibility through an SR22 insurance filing. In some cases, you may also be required to get an ignition interlock device installed on your car.

SR22 Insurance Filing

You will need to obtain proof of financial responsibility in order to get your driver’s license reinstated. In order to do this, you need to meet the minimum requirement for insurance coverage set by South Dakota for those convicted of a DUI. You can adjust your coverage if needed by calling your insurance company. Once you meet the requirements, they will send along an SR22 insurance filing for you.

Ignition Interlock Device Requirements

If you are ordered to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car, you will be required to pay for the installation as well as regular maintenance. The device is connected to your car’s engine and requires that you pass a breathalyzer test before it starts. It will also conduct tests as you drive, but instead of shutting the car down, it will sound an alarm until you pull over and stop the car. Any failed tests will be recorded by the machine, as well as any attempts to tamper with or disable it. This data can be used against you when it comes time to reinstate your driver’s license fully. You may face additional penalties, including another driver’s license suspension.

Restricted Driver’s License Eligibility

Some drivers are eligible for restricted driver’s licenses. If you are approved, you will be able to drive under limited circumstances, such as to and from work, school, or medical treatment. Call 800-952-3696 to find out if you are eligible. If you are approved, you can fill out the Application for South Dakota Restricted Permit and mail it to:

Driver Licensing
118 W Capitol Ave
Pierre SD 57501-2000

You will have to specify the dates and times that you are requesting to be able to drive, as well as the locations you will be driving to. You cannot have another means of transportation available to you and must be more than a mile away from your job or school.

For More Information about Driver’s License Reinstatement in South Dakota

Every case is a little different, and convictions involving very high blood alcohol content or a fatality can make the process of driver’s license reinstatement more complicated. Reinstatement isn’t automatic, so it can be important to get help from a qualified South Dakota DUI attorney.

You can also find more information on your specific case by contacting the South Dakota Motor Vehicles Division:

South Dakota Motor Vehicles Division
445 East Capitol Avenue
Pierre, SD 57501
Phone: (605) 773-3541
Fax: (605) 773-2550
E-Mail Address: motorv@state.sd.us