The issue date on a South Dakota driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Department of Public Safety issues licenses valid for 5 years for most adult drivers. Here is where to find ISS and what every field on your South Dakota license means.

Where to find the issue date on a South Dakota driver's license

On the current South Dakota license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when Department of Public Safety issued your current card. Renewing your license resets the ISS date on the new card while your license number stays the same.

Date fields on a South Dakota driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. South Dakota driver's licenses are valid for 5 years for most adult drivers.

What does DD mean on a South Dakota driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for each physical card. It changes every time a new card is issued, even if your license number stays the same. Banks, car rental agencies, and identity systems use the DD to confirm the card has not been altered.

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Restrictions on a South Dakota driver's license

The restrictions field on South Dakota licenses is labeled RSTR or Restrictions. Common restriction codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required while driving
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No highway or expressway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only
• F — Outside mirror required on driver's side

South Dakota REAL ID

South Dakota offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID South Dakota license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel and certain federal facilities. To get a South Dakota REAL ID, visit a South Dakota license office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your South Dakota address.

How to renew a South Dakota driver's license

South Dakota Department of Public Safety offers online renewal at dps.sd.gov for eligible drivers who do not need a new photo. In-person renewal is required for first-time REAL ID, new photos, and CDL transactions.

How to find your original South Dakota licensing date

The ISS date on your card shows when your current card was issued, not your original licensing date. To find your original date, request a copy of your South Dakota driving record through the Department of Public Safety website or in person at a South Dakota license office.