SOUTHDAKOTALICENSEPLATE.COM IS A PRIVATELY OWNED WEBSITE AND IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH, ENDORSED BY, OR OPERATED BY ANY STATE OR GOVERNMENT AGENCY.

South Dakota License Plate Search
  1. Home/
  2. License Plate Laws in South Dakota
  • About
  • Types of Plates
  • Custom Plates
  • Specialty Plates
  • License Plate Laws
  • License Plate Lookup
  • Temporary Tags
  • Driver's License
  • Renewal
  • Vehicle Information
  • Vehicle Registration
  • FAQ

    • License Plate Laws in South Dakota

    Quick Facts

    • Plates required: Rear plate only (most vehicles, incl. motorcycles & trailers).
    • Keep visible: Clean, unobstructed, level, securely fastened.
    • Lighted at night: Rear plate lamp must work.
    • Renewal timing: Due each year on your birthday (no grace period).

    Display & Placement Rules

    • Mount the plate horizontally on the rear at the manufacturer’s mounting area.
    • Use proper hardware; the plate should not rattle or swing.
    • Frames are OK if they don’t cover any numbers/letters, “South Dakota,” stickers, or reflective surface.
    • No covers that are tinted, reflective, or photo-blocking.

    Keep It Readable

    • Remove snow, mud, or dirt that hides characters.
    • Make sure bike racks, cargo carriers, trailer hitches, or accessories don’t block the plate.
    • Replace a burned-out plate light promptly.

    Registration & Renewal

    • Your registration expires on your birthday each year.
    • Renew online, by mail, or in person at your county treasurer.
    • Late renewals may incur a 10% penalty and you can be cited for expired registration.
    • Update your address within 30 days so renewal notices reach you.

    Temporary Plates & Permits

    • Dealer temps (typically up to 45 days) cover you while title/registration is processed.
    • For private-party purchases, request a temporary permit at your county treasurer before driving regularly.
    • Temps must be displayed and remain valid/unexpired while in use.

    Special Situations

    • Antique/collector vehicles may qualify for special plates and limited-use rules.
    • Disability plates/placards grant parking privileges—placards hang only while parked.
    • Commercial/farm vehicles may require additional markings or plate types.

    Violations & Penalties

    • Expired registration: citation, fines, and late penalties.
    • Obscured/illegible plate: citation (even if registration is current).
    • Improper display/transfer: citation; plates are assigned to a specific VIN unless formally transferred.
    • Fake/altered plates: criminal charges, fines, possible impoundment.

    Replacing or Transferring Plates

    • Lost/stolen: file a police report (recommended) and request replacements at your county treasurer.
    • Damaged/illegible: replace promptly—driving with unreadable plates can be cited.
    • Sold your car? You can transfer your plates to another vehicle under the same owner.

    For forms, fees, and the most current rules, contact your county treasurer or visit the South Dakota Motor Vehicle Division website. Staying current on registration and keeping your plate clean, visible, and properly mounted will keep you compliant—and ticket-free.