How To Get a Car Title in South Dakota 2026
All motor vehicles operated within South Dakota must be titled through the South Dakota Department of Revenue. Any individual or entity claiming ownership of a vehicle subject to registration must obtain a certificate of title within 45 days of acquisition. The Department of Revenue's Motor Vehicle Division administers the titling program and maintains official ownership records for all titled vehicles throughout South Dakota.
Where to Apply for a South Dakota Certificate of Title
South Dakota processes vehicle title applications through a decentralized system of county-level officials. Authorized processing locations include:
- County Treasurer Offices – Each of South Dakota's 66 counties operates a motor vehicle division that accepts title applications and processes transactions for residents of that county
- Motor Vehicle Deputy Offices – Licensed deputy agents authorized to handle transactions on behalf of county treasurers in select locations
- Mail Submission – Applications may be sent directly to the county treasurer's office serving the applicant's county of residence
Required Documents for Title Application in South Dakota
Applicants seeking a South Dakota certificate of title must submit documentation that establishes legal ownership and satisfies statutory requirements set forth by the Motor Vehicle Division.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Previous Title or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin | Document must show proper assignment to applicant with all seller information completed | Out-of-state titles must be surrendered; electronic titles require lienholder release |
| Application for Motor Vehicle and Boat Title & Registration (Form 1001) | All sections must be completed with original signatures | Form available at county treasurer offices or through online resources |
| Proof of Insurance | Current South Dakota insurance verification | Must meet minimum liability coverage requirements under state law |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Specific circumstances may necessitate supplemental documentation:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Federal requirement for vehicles under 10 years old | Must be completed on title or separate disclosure form |
| Bill of Sale | Establishes transaction details and purchase price | Required when the previous title is unavailable or for tax calculation verification |
| Vehicle Identification Number Inspection | Verification of VIN for out-of-state transfers | Conducted by law enforcement or authorized personnel; required for first-time South Dakota titling |
| Lienholder Authorization | Release documentation from financial institution | Necessary when existing lien appears on surrendered title |
| Power of Attorney Documentation | Authorizes third-party to execute title transaction | Must contain notarization and specific grant of authority |
South Dakota Title Fees and Costs
The South Dakota Department of Revenue establishes fee schedules for title transactions that are uniform across all counties.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| New Certificate of Title | $10.00 |
| Title Transfer | $10.00 |
| Duplicate Title Issuance | $10.00 |
| Lien Notation Addition | $10.00 |
| Lien Release Recording | $10.00 |
| Technology Fee | $2.00 |
Additional Processing Fees
Applicants should anticipate additional costs associated with vehicle titling:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Excise Tax | 4% of purchase price | Applies to all vehicle purchases; minimum $25 fee for donated or gifted vehicles |
| Plate Fee | $5.00 | One-time charge for new plate issuance |
| Registration Fee | Varies by vehicle weight and type | Calculated based on empty weight and vehicle classification |
| County Optional Fee | Up to $5.00 | Some counties assess additional administrative fees |
| Non-Resident Vehicle Fee | $100.00 | Applies to applicants without a South Dakota driver's license or ID, or without a physical address in South Dakota (effective July 1, 2024); does not apply to title corrections, duplicate titles, or certain lien-related transactions |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Properly Assigned Ownership Documents
Secure the existing certificate of title or manufacturer's statement of origin from the selling party. Verify that all assignment sections on the document are completed in full, including seller signature, date of sale, and purchaser information. For vehicles titled in another state, ensure the out-of-state title is properly released by any recorded lienholder before submission.
Step 2: Gather Supporting Documentation
Collect current proof of insurance meeting South Dakota's minimum liability requirements. If transferring a title from outside South Dakota, arrange for a VIN inspection through local law enforcement or an authorized inspection station. Obtain a bill of sale showing the purchase price, transaction date, and parties involved in the sale.
Step 3: Complete Title Application
Fill out Application for Motor Vehicle and Boat Title & Registration Form 1001 completely and accurately. Include your full legal name as it should appear on the title, current mailing address, and South Dakota residential address. Record odometer reading in the designated section for vehicles requiring disclosure. If financing the vehicle, provide complete lienholder information, including name, address, and account number. Sign the application in the presence of the county official or have your signature notarized if submitting by mail.
Step 4: Submit Application and Payment
Present all documentation to the county treasurer's office serving your county of residence. County officials will review documents for completeness and calculate applicable fees, including title fee, excise tax, technology fee, registration costs, and any applicable non-resident fee. Submit payment by cash, check, or money order as accepted by your county office. For mail submissions, include a check or money order payable to your county treasurer along with all required documentation and a return envelope.
Step 5: Await Title Processing and Delivery
Once the county treasurer processes and approves your application, the information is transmitted to the South Dakota Department of Revenue for title production. The certificate of title will be printed and mailed to the address shown on the application. If a lienholder is recorded on the title, the document will be sent directly to that financial institution. Processing typically requires two to four weeks from the date of submission with complete and accurate documentation.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
South Dakota law exempts certain vehicle categories from certificate of title requirements:
- Implements of husbandry used exclusively for agricultural operations
- Special machinery and equipment not designed for highway transportation
- Off-road vehicles registered under the state's off-road vehicle program
- Trailers with an empty weight under 4,000 pounds manufactured before 1985
- Government-owned vehicles operated by federal, state, or local agencies
Contact Information
South Dakota Department of Revenue
445 East Capitol Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone: (605) 773-3541
Official Website: South Dakota Department of Revenue
