South Dakota · DUI · Checked October 2026

DUI License Suspension in South Dakota: Hearing Deadline and Hardship License

DUI License Suspension in South Dakota: What Are the Rules?

How South Dakota suspends your license after a DUI arrest, and how to get driving privileges back.

Refused test
1 year, for drivers under 21 arrested under SDCL 32-23-21 who refuse chemical analysis; a hearing must be requested within 120 days of arrest
Hardship license
Court-ordered limited driving permit (work permit)

Suspension if You Refuse a Test in South Dakota

1 year, for drivers under 21 arrested under SDCL 32-23-21 who refuse chemical analysis; a hearing must be requested within 120 days of arrestS.D. Codified Laws §§ 32-23-11, 32-23-18, 32-23-19

Official source: suspension if you refuse a test (South Dakota)

Getting a Court-Ordered Limited Driving Permit (Work Permit) in South Dakota

The sentencing court may permit driving for employment, 24/7 sobriety testing, school, child care delivery or pickup, health appointments, court or probation appointments, and counseling, treatment or aftercare, on proof of financial responsibility. For a second or later offense the person must first complete a court-approved chemical dependency program. Permits for drivers with a prior DUI in 10 years or a BAC of 0.17 or more require total abstinence and 24/7 sobriety program participation.

Official source: getting a court-ordered limited driving permit (work permit) (South Dakota)

More on DUI Law in South Dakota

See the full overview of DUI laws in South Dakota and read about hardship licenses in every state.

This page summarizes South Dakota law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in South Dakota can advise on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Get a Hardship License in South Dakota?

The sentencing court may permit driving for employment, 24/7 sobriety testing, school, child care delivery or pickup, health appointments, court or probation appointments, and counseling, treatment or aftercare, on proof of financial responsibility. For a second or later offense the person must first complete a court-approved chemical dependency program. Permits for drivers with a prior DUI in 10 years or a BAC of 0.17 or more require total abstinence and 24/7 sobriety program participation.

Sources

  1. License suspension and hearing: S.D. Codified Laws §§ 32-23-11, 32-23-18, 32-23-19
  2. Hardship license

dui.help is an independent guide, not a law firm or a government agency, and doesn't give legal advice. For advice on your case, talk to a lawyer licensed in your state; your state bar can refer you, and if you can't afford a lawyer, ask the court about a public defender.