Custom License Plates in South Dakota
In South Dakota, custom (personalized/vanity) plates let you choose the exact letters and numbers on your tag—so your vehicle carries a message that’s memorable, meaningful, and uniquely yours.
What Makes a Plate “Custom”?
Custom plates replace the state’s random sequence with your chosen combination. Examples range from names (SARAH) to interests (GOLF4ME) to clever phrases (2FAST4U).
Custom vs. Specialty: Custom = you pick the characters. Specialty = a themed background (e.g., university, veteran, conservation). You can often combine both: a specialty design and your custom text.
Available Customization Options
- Length: Up to 7 characters (letters, numbers, and spaces). Spaces count toward the limit.
- Characters allowed: A–Z, 0–9, and spaces.
- Not allowed: Hyphens, periods, commas, apostrophes, symbols, or emojis.
- Tips: Use abbreviations (TCHER for Teacher), number swaps (GR8 for great), or initials.
- Minimum: At least 2 characters are required.
Content Rules (Read Before You Apply)
- No profanity, vulgarity, or disguised offensive wording.
- No discriminatory or hateful language.
- No misleading/government-style text (e.g., POLICE, FBI, GOV).
- No combinations already in use anywhere in the state.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Check availability: Use the SD Motor Vehicle online checker or call/visit your county treasurer to see if your choice is free. Try variations if it’s taken (spacing, number swaps, abbreviations).
- Complete the application: Provide your name, address, driver’s license, vehicle info (year/make/model/VIN), current plate, contact details, and requested combo.
- Pay fees: One-time $50 setup fee plus an annual $25 surcharge (on top of your normal registration).
- Submit online or in person: Apply via the SD Motor Vehicle site or at your county treasurer’s office.
- Processing & manufacturing: Allow roughly 3–5 weeks after approval; you’ll receive confirmation and then the plate by mail.
Fees at a Glance
| Fee | Amount | When Charged |
|---|---|---|
| Personalized setup (one-time) | $50 | When first ordering custom plates |
| Annual personalized surcharge | $25/year | With each renewal (in addition to standard registration) |
Receiving & Installing Your Plates
- South Dakota requires rear plate only; mount securely and keep it clean/visible.
- Frames are fine if they do not cover any characters, the state name, or decals.
- Remove old plates or return them if instructed by your county treasurer.
Renewals, Transfers & Changes
- Renewals: Due annually on your birthday (standard fee + $25 personalized surcharge). Keep renewing to retain your combo.
- Transfers: Moving the plate to a new vehicle? Bring the plate and new title to your county treasurer and pay any transfer fees.
- Lapse: If you stop renewing, your combination can be released to others.
If Your Application Is Denied
You’ll be notified with the reason (offensive, confusing, or unavailable). You can request reconsideration with a clear explanation, or choose a revised alternative that meets the rules.
Pro Tips
- Brainstorm multiple options before checking availability.
- Use spaces strategically for readability—but remember they count toward 7.
- Combine a specialty background with custom text if eligible for a design you love.
Ready to personalize your ride? Check availability, follow the application steps, and get a plate that says youevery time you’re on the road.