U.S. STATE · LEARNER PERMIT
South Dakota Learner Permit Photo Requirements
Find out whether a learner permit carries a photo, where the photo is taken, and whether any part of applying can be done online.
Sources reviewed: October 19, 2026
Should you make a photo?
Do not prepare your own photo unless the agency or your transaction instructions specifically ask for one.
This page covers a learner (instruction) permit. It does not automatically apply to driver licenses, state ID cards, or every exception.
Issuing agency: South Dakota Department of Public Safety
Where the photo is taken
Yes. South Dakota law requires the instruction permit to carry a full facial digital photograph. You make an appointment and pass the knowledge and vision tests at a Driver Licensing exam station. South Dakota DPS says license photos are taken by an examiner at a Driver Licensing location; its permit handout does not say separately where the permit photo is taken.
Online steps and photo upload
You can get the application and make an exam-station appointment online, but the reviewed pages do not offer an online permit application or any way to upload your own photo.
Photo law and rules
SDCL 32-12-17.10 lists 'a full facial digital photograph' among the required contents of an instruction permit.