What Is a REAL ID in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, a REAL ID is a federally compliant version of your driver’s license or state ID card. It is used to verify your identity for specific federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights or accessing certain government buildings. The card looks similar to a regular South Dakota license, but includes a gold star in the top right corner to show it meets federal security standards.
The South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues REAL IDs to residents who bring in the appropriate documentation. While the standard license remains valid for everyday use like driving and voting, a REAL ID ensures you’re covered in more secure or travel-related situations.
Why Get a REAL ID in South Dakota?
Although not mandatory, a REAL ID can make life more convenient. With one card, you’ll have access to both local and federal spaces that require verified identification. If you travel domestically or visit federal facilities—such as military bases or courthouses—having a REAL ID means you don’t need to carry a passport or extra documentation for these purposes.
For many South Dakotans, upgrading to a REAL ID during their next license renewal is an easy way to stay prepared and simplify identity verification down the road.
Documents Required to Apply
To get a REAL ID in South Dakota, you must visit a Driver Licensing location in person and present several specific documents. All must be originals or certified copies—photocopies or digital versions are not accepted.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Proof of Identity and Lawful Status
– Valid U.S. passport, or
– Certified U.S. birth certificate, or
– Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
Proof of Social Security Number
– Social Security card, or
– W-2 or 1099 form with full SSN
– Pay stub showing full SSN
Two Proofs of South Dakota Residency
– Utility bills
– Lease agreements or mortgage documents
– Bank statements
– Official government correspondence showing your name and current SD address
Name Change Documents (if applicable)
– Marriage certificate
– Divorce decree
– Court-issued name change document
If your name has changed since the issue of your birth certificate or passport, you’ll need to bring every document connecting the name change(s) to the present.
Where to Apply for a REAL ID in South Dakota
REAL IDs are available at Driver Licensing Offices located across the state. Full-service locations can be found in cities such as Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Watertown, and Pierre. Smaller towns may have part-time or mobile licensing units that rotate on a scheduled basis.
You can check the schedule and book an appointment through the South Dakota DPS website. Walk-ins are accepted in some locations, but appointments are highly encouraged to minimize your wait time and ensure the office can verify your documents on the spot.
Cost of a REAL ID in South Dakota
The cost of getting a REAL ID in South Dakota is the same as a standard driver’s license or identification card:
Driver’s license renewal (5 years): $28
Duplicate license with REAL ID upgrade: $15
Non-driver ID card: $28
If you apply for a REAL ID at the time of your regular license renewal, you only pay the standard renewal fee. If you choose to upgrade before your renewal date, you’ll be charged a duplicate fee.
Tips to Make the Process Smoother
Before heading to the licensing office, use the Document Checklist Tool on the South Dakota DPS website to make sure you’re bringing everything required. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra proof of residency document in case one is not accepted.
Double-check expiration dates and ensure all documents are legible. Make sure your name is consistent across all paperwork. If it's not, bring the legal name change documents that tie your identity together.
Arriving early and booking an appointment in advance can significantly speed up the process, especially in larger cities.
Do You Need a REAL ID?
No—getting a REAL ID in South Dakota is optional. If you don’t get one, you’ll receive a standard license marked “Not for Federal Identification.” This version is valid for driving, identification, and voting, but it cannot be used for boarding domestic flights or entering secure federal facilities.
If you choose not to get a REAL ID, you’ll need to carry a valid passport or another federally approved ID for those specific situations. That’s why many South Dakota residents choose the REAL ID for added convenience and coverage.
Conclusion
Getting a REAL ID in South Dakota is a simple and smart move for anyone who values preparedness and convenience. With just one trip to a licensing office and a few key documents, you’ll upgrade your ID to a version that works in more places and saves you from needing to carry extra identification.
Whether you travel often or simply want peace of mind, applying for a REAL ID now puts you one step ahead for when secure identification is needed.