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Class A: You must obtain a Class A, with air-brakes, South Dakota Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before you begin any driver training with Mitchell Technical College. The CLP is valid for one year. For complete South Dakota requirements, see the South Dakota Department of Public Safety: Commercial Driver’s License – SD DPS.

Class B: You must obtain a Class B, with air-brakes, South Dakota Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before you begin any driver training with Mitchell Technical College. The CLP is valid for one year.

You will need a copy of the South Dakota CDL Manual to study for the knowledge tests required to obtain a CLP. The manual is available at any SD Driver’s License testing location and online: South Dakota CDL Manual.

Requirements to Obtain the CLP:

• You must have a valid South Dakota driver’s license.
• You must be 18 years of age or older.
• You must owe less than $1,000 in child support in South Dakota.
• You must hold a valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate* (see requirement below).
• You must pass the knowledge tests outlined below.

Knowledge Tests

Study the following chapters before testing. You must test in all three areas for a Class A CLP:

• General Knowledge – 50 questions – SD CDL Manual, Chapters 1, 2, 3
• Air Brakes – 25 questions – SD CDL Manual, Chapter 5
• Combination Vehicle – 20 questions – SD CDL Manual, Chapter 6 (not required for Class B CLP)

Practice Resources

Reading the chapters above and completing practice exams will help you prepare for CLP testing:

• CDL Prep App by Jeffrey Diaz (for smartphones)
• Crist CDL – South Dakota practice tests

What to Bring to your CLP Appointment

Before visiting a Driver’s License testing office, review the South Dakota DPS list of required identification and residency documents so you arrive with everything you need (such as proof of identity, your Social Security number, and proof of South Dakota residency): Required Driver’s Licensing Documents – SD DPS.

Take the CLP Exam

Take the CLP exam at any South Dakota Driver’s License testing office (locations). The exam may be retaken if you do not pass. Current testing fees are available from SD Driver Licensing.

Once you hold a CLP, you may operate a commercial motor vehicle only when accompanied by the holder of a valid CDL who is at least 21 years of age, is licensed for the type of vehicle being driven, and occupies the seat beside you for the purpose of giving instruction.

*New: DOT Medical Certification Requirement – Effective July 1, 2026

Effective July 1, 2026, South Dakota will no longer exempt intrastate CDL holders from the physical qualification requirements of 49 CFR 391.11. Most Commercial Driver’s License and Commercial Learner’s Permit holders must obtain and maintain a valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (medical card). Plan to complete your DOT physical before applying for your CLP.

The examination must be performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry, who will submit the results electronically to the South Dakota Driver Licensing Program.

• FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners
• South Dakota Driver Licensing – Commercial Driver’s License

Review the Mitchell Technical College CDL Training Agreement. You may also contact Mitchell Technical College to request a copy by email or postal mail. The agreement outlines program expectations, the required deposit, and estimated training costs. Total cost is determined by the number of training hours required and is detailed in the agreement.

Complete these Tasks:

1. Return the signed training agreement to Mitchell Tech along with a copy of your CLP (permit) and your ELDT theory course completion certificate.
2. Schedule your training dates and times – contact Kendra Russell at 605.995.7309 to make arrangements. Training is scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis upon receipt of the completed agreement and deposit, and at the availability of our instructors.
3. Pay the required deposit to reserve your training times. See the training agreement for payment instructions.

Note: There is a 14-day waiting period after you receive your permit before you may take the 3rd party driving exam.

Training consists of three parts. (See the SD CDL Manual for details on 3rd party testing and the skills tested.)

1. Pre-Trip Inspection – SD CDL Manual, Chapter 11. Training is conducted using Mitchell Tech’s training trucks and trailers. Pre-trip inspection videos and checklists are provided upon course registration.
2. Basic Vehicle Control – SD CDL Manual, Chapter 12.
3. On-Road Driving – SD CDL Manual, Chapter 13. Your trainer will help you develop the skills needed to perform the driving maneuvers required to pass the 3rd party CDL test.

Once you demonstrate competency in all three areas, your Mitchell Technical College CDL instructor will assist you in scheduling your 3rd party test, including use of the MTC vehicle. Drive tests must be scheduled at least two business days in advance, and you must have held your CLP for at least 14 days. After you pass the 3rd party exam and settle any remaining charges with Mitchell Tech, you will be issued your South Dakota CDL.

Note: Third party testing fee is included.