Motor Vehicle

Over 1.2 million vehicles are registered in South Dakota, all of which are identified by a legal document called a vehicle title. As vehicles are bought and sold, the title becomes the legal documentation of each change in ownership. Both the buyer and the seller must follow specific procedures to ensure the title is correctly transferred from one owner to the next.

Motor vehicle titling and registration is handled through your local county treasurer’s office. An Motor Vehicle or Boat Title & Registration Application must be signed by the record owner(s) or by an authorized agent for the record owner(s). In addition to the title, when selling a vehicle the party selling the vehicle should provide to the purchaser a Bill of Sale.

If you have questions in regards to your driver's license, please contact the Driver's License Office which is a division of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Quick Navigation

Online Services

The Motor Vehicle Division provides and maintains your motor vehicle records. Our online services allow you to:

Review and renew your vehicle registration/decals and license plates.

Purchase new license plates

Opt-in for email renewal and general notifications

Find out the estimated renewal cost of your vehicles

Report the sale of a vehicle

Print a seller's permit

Get Started

Laws & Regulations

South Dakota laws and regulations regarding vehicle ownership.

Driver’s Privacy and Protection Act

A written form must be submitted to the South Dakota Motor Vehicles Division before motor vehicle records can be released.

Request Form

Contact

We strive to make our services as convenient as possible and encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns.