South Dakota DMV Services

🚗 1. Where & When You Apply

You must apply for both the title and registration

Dealers often handle this paperwork for you when you buy a vehicle from them

📄 2. Required Documents

🆕 A. Proof of Ownership

New Vehicle

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) — the original ownership document from the dealer.

Used Vehicle (Private Sale)

• Properly signed title from the seller.
  • Title must include seller’s signature, buyer’s name, sale date, and sale price.

Out‑of‑State Vehicle

• Out‑of‑state title — present the complete original title.
• You may need a VIN inspection if the title doesn’t match the vehicle’s current VIN or if required by the county treasurer.

🪪 C. Odometer Disclosure

• Required for vehicles less than 10 years old.
• Either present the disclosure section on the title or complete a separate odometer disclosure.

💳 D. Identification

• A valid driver’s license or government‑issued ID (doesn’t have to be South Dakota, though SD residency may be required for registration).

💰 3. Taxes 

• 4% excise tax on the purchase price (or NADA book value if higher).
• Reciprocal state with CA, form 1737 will need to be included
• Trade in allowed

🔑 4. Proof of Insurance

• South Dakota generally does not require proof of insurance at the time of titling, but you must have liability insurance before driving the vehicle on public roads.

🕒 5. Deadlines

• You must title and register within 30 days of purchase or establishing residency to avoid penalties.

📋 Quick Checklist 

✔ Original title or MCO
✔ Original odometer
✔ Copy of contract
✔ Copy of Driver’s License
✔ Bill of sale or Purchase order
✔ Social Security number or EIN/FEIN if company
✔ Vehicle color
✔ Power of Attorney
✔ Copy of insurance
✔ Fees