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South Dakota License Plate Lookup

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South Dakota License Plate Lookup /License Plate Renewal

South Dakota License Plate Renewal

What Is License Plate Renewal in South Dakota?

License plate renewal in South Dakota is renewing a vehicle's registration and obtaining new license plate stickers or tags. Vehicle owners must renew their license plates annually to maintain valid registration and legally operate their vehicles on public roads. The renewal process involves submitting the necessary documents, paying the required fees, and receiving updated registration documents and license plate stickers.

Do I Need To Renew My South Dakota License Plate?

Yes, if you own a vehicle registered in South Dakota, you must renew your license plate annually. Failing to renew your license plate can result in penalties, fines, and legal consequences. Renewing your license plate ensures that your vehicle registration remains valid and you comply with state laws and regulations.

When Do You Need To Renew Your South Dakota License Plate?

In South Dakota, license plates must be renewed annually by the last day of the month the registration expires. The expiration month is determined by the first letter of the vehicle owner's last name, according to the following schedule:

License Plate Renewal Dates

License plates are issued based on the first letter of your last name, which then correlates to a particular month. For example, someone with a last name starting with a "J" must renew their plates in March each year.

First Letter of Last Name - Month

  • A/B January
  • C/D/E February
  • F/G/J March
  • H/I/O May
  • K/L June
  • M/N July
  • P/Q/R August
  • S September
  • T/U/V/W/X/Y/Z November

You must renew your license plate before expiration to avoid penalties and ensure your vehicle remains legally registered. You can renew your license plate up to 90 days before expiration.

By renewing your license plate on time, you can avoid the risk of driving with expired registration and maintain compliance with South Dakota's vehicle registration laws, as outlined in South Dakota Codified Law Chapter 32-5.

How To Renew Your License Plate in South Dakota

To renew your license plate in South Dakota, follow these steps:

Gather the necessary documents

  • Current vehicle registration
  • Proof of insurance
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Payment for the renewal fees

Choose a renewal method

  • Online: Follow the South Dakota Department of Revenue's online renewal portal instructions.
  • By mail: Complete the renewal notice sent to you by the Department of Revenue and mail it along with the required documents and payment.
  • In-person: Visit your local county treasurer's office with the necessary documents and payment.

Pay the renewal fees

  • Fees vary based on the type of vehicle, weight, and other factors.
  • Refer to the South Dakota Department of Revenue's fee schedule for specific fee information.

Receive your new registration documents and license plate stickers

  • If renewing online or by mail, your new documents and stickers will be mailed to you.
  • If renewing in person, you will receive your documents and stickers immediately.

Where To Renew a License Plate in South Dakota?

You can renew your license plate in South Dakota through the following methods:

For additional assistance, contact the South Dakota Department of Revenue's Motor Vehicle Division:

Can I Renew a South Dakota License Plate Online?

Yes, you can renew your South Dakota license plate online through the South Dakota Department of Revenue's online renewal portal. You must have received a renewal notice with a personal identification number (PIN) to be eligible for online renewal. Follow the instructions on the online portal to complete your renewal and pay the required fees.

What Do You Need To Renew Your License Plate in South Dakota?

To renew your license plate in South Dakota, you will need the following:

  1. Current vehicle registration
  2. Proof of insurance
  3. Vehicle identification number (VIN)
  4. Payment for the renewal fees

Make sure to have these documents and information ready before beginning the renewal process, whether you choose to renew online, by mail, or in person.

Do You Need Insurance To Renew Plates in South Dakota?

Yes, proof of insurance is required to renew your license plates in South Dakota. According to South Dakota Codified Law 32-35-113, vehicle owners must provide evidence of financial responsibility, which typically means having valid auto insurance when registering or renewing the registration of a vehicle. Provide proof of insurance to avoid denial of your license plate renewal.

How Much Is License Plate Renewal in South Dakota?

The cost of license plate renewal in South Dakota varies depending on the type of vehicle, its weight, and other factors. Some standard renewal fees include:

  • Passenger vehicles: $36 to $144, depending on weight
  • Motorcycles: $20
  • Trailers: $15 to $75, depending on weight

For a complete list of registration fees, refer to the South Dakota Department of Revenue's fee schedule.

Is There a Senior Discount for South Dakota License Plate Renewal?

No, South Dakota does not offer a specific senior discount for license plate renewal. However, the state offers a reduced registration fee for vehicles owned by individuals aged 65 and older and for persons with disabilities. The car must weigh 6,000 pounds or less to qualify for the reduced cost, and the owner must provide proof of age or disability.