S.D. Codified Laws § 32-29-5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 29 / Section 32-29-5
Vehicles required to stop at all grade crossings--Shifting gears while crossing--Misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The driver of any motor vehicle carrying passengers for hire, any school bus carrying passengers, any vehicle carrying passengers owned or operated by a nonprofit organization that requires inspection pursuant to § 32-21-3.1 , or any vehicle carrying explosive substances or combustible or flammable liquid as a cargo or part of a cargo, before crossing at grade any track of a railroad, except where a police officer or traffic control signal directs traffic to proceed or the track is nonoperational and is marked with a supplemental sign as provided in § 31-28-7 , shall stop such vehicle within fifty feet from the nearest rail of such railroad and may not proceed until he has ascertained that he can do so safely. After stopping and upon proceeding, the driver of the vehicle shall cross only in such gear of the vehicle that there will be no necessity of changing gears while traversing the crossing and may not shift gears while crossing the track or tracks. This section does not apply to a driver of a taxicab or limousine. Any person failing to comply with the provisions of this section is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, §§ 28.0903, 28.9904; SL 1967, ch 114; SL 1970, ch 175, § 27; SL 1981, ch 228, § 2; SL 1992, ch 227.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-17.16 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-17.16
Nondriver identification cards--Fee waiver--Applicants who are homeless
Status: in_force

The Department of Public Safety shall waive the fee one time for an original nondriver identification card or a duplicate nondriver identification card if the applicant is homeless.

In order for the fee to be waived, the applicant must submit, with the application, an affidavit signed by a homeless services provider attesting that the applicant is homeless.

For the purposes of this section, the term "homeless" means an individual who:

(1) Lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence;

(2) Has a primary nighttime residence that is a place not ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings; or

(3) Is living in a homeless shelter.

For purposes of this section, "homeless services provider" means an official or employee of any government or nonprofit agency that provides a food bank, homeless shelter, housing assistance program, homeless outreach or advocacy program, or any similar program; a homeless liaison designated by a school district, as described by 42 U.S.C. § 11432 (January 1, 2025); a school counselor, certified by the Department of Education; a school nurse, licensed in accordance with chapter 36-9 ; or a social worker, licensed in accordance with chapter 36-26 .

Source: SL 2024, ch 115, § 1; SL 2025, ch 122, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-5.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-5.1
Certain owners exempt from numbering and title requirements--Registration and license decals required on state waters--Proof of taxes paid
Status: in_force

Any owner whose boat is registered and documented in accordance with United States Coast Guard regulations is not required to display a South Dakota boat number nor obtain a South Dakota certificate of title on the boat. However, if the boat is used on the waters of this state,the boat shall be registered and shall display South Dakota boat license validation decals. The owner shall attach to each side of the bow of the boat a validation decal. At the time of application for the boat license, the owner shall furnish proof of tax paid on the boat.

Source: SL 2001, ch 162, § 1; SL 2004, ch 202, § 1; SL 2010, ch 151, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-3
Selling new vehicle without delivering manufacturer's statement or certificate of origin--Purchasing new vehicle without obtaining certificate--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No manufacturer, importer, dealer, or other person may sell or otherwise dispose of a new motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer to a dealer without delivering to the dealer a manufacturer's statement of origin or manufacturer's certificate of origin duly executed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, and with such assignments thereon as may be necessary to show title in the next purchaser's name. No dealer may purchase or acquire a new motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer without obtaining from the seller a manufacturer's statement of origin or a manufacturer's certificate of origin. Any person who does not comply with this section is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0202 (2) as added by SL 1951, ch 229, § 2; SL 1965, ch 186, § 2; SL 1989, ch 257, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-58 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-58
No issuance or transfer of title without tax payment
Status: in_force

No title may be issued or transferred for the ownership of any large boat unless the tax levied by this chapter is paid.

Source: SL 1993, ch 102, § 9; SL 1994, ch 335, § 11; SDCL 10-60-9.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-7A-4.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 7A / Section 32-7A-4.1
Application required--Contents
Status: in_force

Any person selling manufactured homes or mobile homes pursuant to the requirements of this chapter shall file with the department, upon forms provided by the department, an application including the following information:

(1) The name and address of the applicant;

(2) The name of the firm or copartnership, with the names and addresses of all members, if the applicant is a firm or copartnership;

(3) The name of the corporation or limited liability company, with the names and addresses of the principal officers or limited liability company, if the applicant is a corporation or limited liability company;

(4) The exact location of the place of business and, if owned by the applicant, when acquired. If the place of business is leased, a true copy of the lease shall accompany the application;

(5) A certification that the location is the place where the applicant keeps and maintains books, records, and files necessary to conduct business, which shall be available at all reasonable hours to inspection by the department;

(6) A consent to allow periodic inspections of the dealership by the department;

(7) A description of the principal place of business and any supplemental lots;

(8) A statement that the applicant is either franchised by a manufacturer of manufactured homes or mobile homes, in which case the brand name of each home that the applicant is franchised to sell shall be included, or is a used manufactured home or mobile home dealer;

(9) The applicant's qualifications and business history, including whether the applicant, or any director, officer, member, limited or general partner, controlling shareholder, or affiliate has ever been adjudged bankrupt or insolvent, or has any unsatisfied court judgments outstanding against them;

(10) If the applicant, or any director, officer, member, limited or general partner, controlling shareholder, or affiliate, has been convicted of a crime within the previous ten years that either related directly to the business for which the license is sought or involved fraud, misrepresentation, or misuse of funds, or has suffered a judgment in a civil action involving fraud, misrepresentation or conversion within the previous five years or has had any government issued license or permit suspended or revoked as a result of an action brought by federal or state governmental agency in this or any other state within the last five years;

(11) Such other information as the department may require; and

(12) Verification as to the accuracy of the information provided by the applicant.

Source: SL 1986, ch 251, § 7; SL 2014, ch 139, § 8.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-70 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-70
Displaying another's license--Misdemeanor
Status: in_force

It is a Class 1 misdemeanor for any person to display or represent as one's own any driver license not issued to that person.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 27; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.9948 (3); SL 2001, ch 171, § 64.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-2.5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-2.5
Registration of acquired motor vehicle--Application
Status: in_force

A person who acquires a motor vehicle required to be annually registered shall, at the time of application and no later than forty-five days after the date of purchase apply for a certificate of title or transfer of title, register the vehicle until the appropriate month assigned to the person for renewal by § 32-5-2.2 .

Source: SL 1987, ch 215, § 5; SL 1990, ch 230, § 12; SL 1993, ch 219, § 5; SL 2005, ch 158, § 4; SL 2007, ch 173, § 3, eff. July 1, 2008; SL 2016, ch 154, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5B-11 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5B / Section 32-5B-11
Credit for taxes paid to this or another state
Status: in_force

If any motor vehicle has been subjected previously to a sales tax, use tax, motor vehicle excise tax, or similar tax by this or any other state or its political subdivision, no tax is owed to this state if the tax has been paid by the applicant to this or any other state or its political subdivision. Additionally, any part used in a rebuilt motor vehicle or motor vehicle manufactured by an applicant, previously subjected to sales tax, use tax, motor vehicle excise tax, or similar tax by this or any other state or its political subdivision, is not subject to the tax levied by this chapter, if the applicant applies for registration of the motor vehicle in this state within five years from the purchase date of the part. If the amount of tax levied and paid is the same or more than the amount of tax levied by this chapter, no tax or refund is due under this chapter. The county treasurer shall require of all applicants making application for registration of a motor vehicle in this state an affidavit of a licensed dealer, bill of sale, receipt, or other tangible evidence that the amount of tax has been paid by the current applicant. If sufficient proof is not furnished, the county treasurer must collect the tax levied by § 32-5B-1 on the retail value of the motor vehicle listed in a national motor vehicle valuation service. The value must be the retail value of the motor vehicle on the day it entered the state. If a motor vehicle, after being taxed by this chapter or granted an exemption from part or all of the motor vehicle excise tax by this section, is sold or traded, the vehicle does not again qualify for an exemption by this section, if the vehicle is repurchased by the same applicant.

Source: SL 1985, ch 241, § 7; SL 1986, ch 242, § 24; SL 1993, ch 219, § 8; SL 2013, ch 139, § 2; SL 2024, ch 114, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-12.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-12.1
Certain combination exempt--Specifications--Violation as misdemeanor--Rules
Status: in_force

The provisions of §§ 32-22-9 to 32-22-11 , inclusive, do not apply to a combination of vehicles consisting of a towing motor vehicle and two trailers which conform to the specifications contained in this section. In such a combination, the first trailer shall be connected to the towing vehicle by a ball hitch, a gooseneck hitch, pintle hitch or a fifth wheel hitch. The hitch connecting the second trailer to the first trailer shall be a ball type hitch, gooseneck hitch or a pintle hitch directly fastened to the frame of the first trailer. The second trailer may not exceed twenty - four feet in length and if the gross weight of the second trailer is greater than three thousand pounds, it shall be equipped with breakaway brakes. The maximum length of the vehicles in this combination may not exceed seventy - five feet. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

The Transportation Commission may by rules adopted pursuant to chapter 1-26 prohibit or restrict the use of the combination of vehicles described in this section on any highway where such combination of vehicles would create a safety hazard.

Source: SL 1982, ch 244, §§ 2, 4; SL 1983, ch 243, § 3; SL 1984, ch 230, § 16; SL 1986, ch 262; SL 1987, ch 210, § 25; SL 1988, ch 261; SL 1989, ch 264, § 18; SL 1990, ch 258; SL 1998, ch 193, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-21-29 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 21 / Section 32-21-29
Issuance of warning ticket--Contents of tickets--Time within which correction must be made
Status: in_force

Peace officers are hereby authorized to issue a warning ticket to any driver whose motor vehicle is in violation of any of the provisions of this title. Such warning ticket shall clearly designate the provision of the motor vehicle laws which is being violated and shall provide for notification to the issuing officer when such violation is corrected, such correction to be made not later than ten days after the date of issue of the warning ticket, at the discretion of the issuing officer. The form and content of the warning ticket shall be at the discretion of the superintendent of the highway patrol. This authority shall not be construed as a limitation of the power to arrest in accordance with statutes of this state.

Source: SL 1961, ch 147; SL 1965, ch 136; SL 1967, ch 182, § 2; SL 1970, ch 177.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-31 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-31
Application for renewal--Test for hazardous materials endorsement--Period when renewable
Status: in_force

Each person applying for renewal of a commercial driver license shall complete the application form required by § 32-12A-14 , providing updated information and required certifications. If the applicant wishes to retain a hazardous materials endorsement, the written test for a hazardous materials endorsement shall be taken and passed. Each license is renewable one hundred eighty days prior to its expiration.

Source: SL 1989, ch 267, § 22; SDCL § 32-12-103; SL 2001, ch 171, §§ 94, 115.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-25-19 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 25 / Section 32-25-19
Speed limits on posted bridges or structures--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No person may drive any vehicle over any bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of a highway at a speed which is greater than the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to such bridge or structure when such structure is signposted as provided in § 32-25-18 . A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0307; SL 1970, ch 175, § 13; SL 1989, ch 255, § 139.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20-9.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20 / Section 32-20-9.1
Motorcycle entitled to full traffic lane--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

All motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane and no motor vehicle may be driven in such manner as to deprive any motorcycle of the full use of a lane. This section does not apply to motorcycles operated two abreast in a single lane. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1970, ch 176, § 1, § 5; SL 1989, ch 255, § 100.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-97 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-97
Separate numbering of different types of vehicles
Status: in_force

Commercial motor vehicles, noncommercial motor vehicles, trailers and semitrailers, motorcycles, and snowmobiles are distinct classes of motor vehicles, and each shall be numbered in separate series. Each series shall carry a distinctive letter selected by the department.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0105; SL 1943, ch 156, § 1; SL 1949, ch 162, § 1; SL 1955, ch 155; SL 1977, ch 249, § 13; SL 1978, ch 224, § 2; SL 1989, ch 257, § 98.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-27-4 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 27 / Section 32-27-4
Jaywalking--Duty to yield right-of-way to vehicles--Violation as petty offense
Status: in_force

Every pedestrian crossing a highway within a business or residence district at any point other than a pedestrian crossing, crosswalk, or intersection shall yield the right - of - way to vehicles upon the highway. A violation of this section is a petty offense.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0318; SL 1945, ch 188; SL 1989, ch 255, § 186.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-45 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-45
Persons authorized to withdraw blood to determine alcohol content--Liability
Status: in_force

Only a physician, laboratory technician, registered nurse, physician's assistant, phlebotomist, licensed practical nurse, medical technician, medical technologist, or other person authorized pursuant to certification, license, or training may withdraw blood for the purpose of determining the alcoholic content therein for the purposes of this chapter. This limitation does not apply to the taking of a breath or other bodily substance specimen. No such authorized person, acting on the presumption of consent, and no hospital employing such person, may be held liable to pay damages to the party from whom the blood sample is withdrawn, if the withdrawal is administered with usual and ordinary care.

Source: SL 1991, ch 252, § 15; SDCL § 32-12-110.2; SL 2001, ch 171, § 115; SL 2010, ch 163, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-7A-3.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 7A / Section 32-7A-3.1
Supplemental license for auxiliary or supplemental lots--Exemption for temporary locations
Status: in_force

Any person licensed under this chapter, who sells manufactured homes or mobile homes at locations other than the principal place of business, shall obtain a supplemental license for each auxiliary or supplemental lot not contiguous to the location for which the original license is issued. Any supplemental lot shall be located within the county of the principal place of business of the licensee and shall meet local zoning codes or ordinances. Any manufactured home or mobile home located on an auxiliary lot shall meet local zoning codes or ordinances. Any auxiliary lot may be located outside of the county of principal place of business of the licensee. No supplemental license is required if one or more licensed dealers wish to display their manufactured homes or mobile homes at a temporary location as identified in § 32-7A-3.2 .

Source: SL 1986, ch 251, § 4; SL 1998, ch 183, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6D-9 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6D / Section 32-6D-9
Resale of returned vehicle
Status: in_force

If a motor vehicle has been returned to the manufacturer under the provisions of this chapter or a similar statute of another state, whether as the result of a legal action or as the result of an informal dispute settlement proceeding, it may not be resold in this state unless:

(1) The manufacturer discloses in writing to the subsequent purchaser the fact that the motor vehicle was returned under the provisions of this chapter and the nature of the nonconformity to the vehicle warranty; and

(2) The manufacturer returns the title of the motor vehicle to the Department of Revenue advising of the return of the motor vehicle under provisions of this chapter with an application for title in the name of the manufacturer. The department shall brand the title issued to the manufacturer and all subsequent titles to the motor vehicle with the following statement: "This vehicle was returned to the manufacturer because it did not conform to its warranty."

Source: SL 1993, ch 227, § 9; SL 2004, ch 17, § 95; SL 2011, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 11-1 ), § 161, eff. Apr. 12, 2011.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-49 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-49
Suspension, revocation or cancellation after opportunity for hearing--Grounds--Old offenses not considered--Rules
Status: in_force

The secretary of the Department of Public Safety may suspend, revoke, or cancel the driving privilege or license of a person after opportunity for hearing pursuant to chapter 1-26 if hearing is demanded, upon a showing by its records or other sufficient evidence that the licensee:

(1) Has been convicted of an offense for which mandatory suspension or revocation of license is required;

(2) Appears by the records of the department to be an habitually reckless or negligent operator of a motor vehicle or to have repeatedly violated any of the state traffic laws, municipal ordinances which are in strict conformity with state law and adopted by a local authority other than regulations governing parking, traffic laws of another state, or any of the county speed limits set pursuant to law. The secretary of the department of public safety shall implement the method of weighing traffic convictions provided in § 32-12-49.1 ;

(3) Is physically or mentally incompetent to drive a motor vehicle;

(4) Has violated § 32-12-17.3 , 32-12-17.4 , 32-12-17.5 , 32-12-17.6 , 32-12-67 , 32-12-69 , 32-12-70 , or 32-12-71 ;

(5) Has committed an offense in another state, which if committed in this state, would be grounds for suspension or revocation;

(6) Has failed to pay a fine or comply with the terms of a citation issued in the state;

(7) Has failed to pay a fine or comply with the terms of a citation issued by a state covered by the nonresident violators compact; or

(8) Has made a false statement or representation or fails to disclose a material fact in order to obtain a driver license or nondriver identification card.

In determining whether a driver license or privilege should be suspended or revoked under this section, the director may not consider any offense that is more than four years old.

The secretary of the Department of Public Safety may promulgate rules in regard to driver license suspension, revocation and cancellation in the following areas:

(1) Point accumulation;

(2) Physical or mental incompetence;

(3) Unlawful use of driver license or nondriver identification card;

(4) Out - of - state convictions;

(5) Failure to comply with citations issued in this state or another state; or

(6) Misrepresentation or omissions of material fact to obtain a driver license or nondriver identification card.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 21; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B21 (1); SL 1964, ch 130; SL 1975, ch 204, § 1; SL 1979, ch 218, § 3; SL 1979, ch 219, § 1; SL 1982, ch 18, § 24; SL 1986, ch 22, § 5; SL 1991, ch 252, § 5; SL 1995, ch 179; SL 1998, ch 188, § 1; SL 2001, ch 171, § 48; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-10.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-10.2
Motorcycle safety education fee--Deposit in special revenue fund
Status: in_force

The county treasurer shall remit to the department the motorcycle safety education fees collected pursuant to § 32-5-10.1 . The fees shall be deposited in the state treasury in a special revenue fund for use as specified in § 32-20-14 .

Source: SL 1982, ch 227, § 2; SL 1989, ch 257, § 57; SL 1992, ch 222, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-30-3.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 30 / Section 32-30-3.1
Removal of unattended vehicle by removal agency--Reporting requirements--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

If any removal agency as defined by § 32-36-2 removes any unattended motor vehicle from a public street or highway and the removal is not at the written request of the owner, an authorized agent of the owner, or a law enforcement officer, the removal agency shall report the removal to the owner within twenty - four hours of removing the motor vehicle. However, if the removal agency is unable to contact the owner, the removal agency shall report the removal to the county sheriff, if the removal occurred outside any municipality, or to the chief of police, if the removal occurred inside any municipality, within twenty - four hours of removing the motor vehicle. Failure to make a report as provided by this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 2000, ch 161, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-23 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-23
Government employees exempt from licensing requirement
Status: in_force

Any employee of the United States government possessing a valid driver license of the United States government or any other state is exempt from license under this chapter while operating a motor vehicle owned by or leased to the United States government and being operated on official business, unless the employee meets the qualifications established under § 32-12A-7 .

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 2; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B02 (1); SL 1991, ch 252, § 3; SL 2001, ch 171, § 27.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-18-9 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 18 / Section 32-18-9
Testing of brakes
Status: in_force

Tests for deceleration and stopping distance under § 32-18-8 shall be made on a substantially level (not to exceed plus or minus one percent grade), dry, smooth, hard surface that is free from loose material.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0346; SL 1967, ch 197, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-40-19 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 40 / Section 32-40-19
Primary or excess coverage for transportation network company driver's vehicle permitted
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter precludes an insurer from providing primary or excess coverage for the transportation network company driver's vehicle, if it so chooses to do so by contract or endorsement.

Source: SL 2016, ch 167, § 19.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-26.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-26.1
Period of residency for purpose of licensing requirement
Status: in_force

Any person who has resided in this state for a period of ninety days is considered a resident for the purpose of being licensed to drive a motor vehicle under the laws of this state.

Source: SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B02 as added by SL 1968, ch 174.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-15 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-15
Administrative fee for each boat license
Status: in_force

The county treasurer may charge the boat owner an administrative fee not to exceed three dollars for each boat license sold pursuant to this chapter. The fee shall be deposited in the county general fund.

Source: SL 1988, ch 346, § 8; SDCL § 42-8-18.1; SL 2016, ch 47, § 6.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-26 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-26
Time for filing application for certificate--Vehicles in dealer's stock
Status: in_force

In any transfer of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer, the application for certificate of title shall be filed within forty-five days after the date of assignment of such motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer. However, licensed dealers need not apply for a certificate of title for any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer in stock or acquired for stock purposes. Upon transfer of such a vehicle the licensed dealer shall give the transferee a reassignment of the certificate of title on such motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer or an assignment of a manufacturer's statement of origin or a manufacturer's certificate of origin.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0202 (8) as added by SL 1951, ch 229, § 2; SL 1955, ch 161; SL 1965, ch 186, § 2; SL 1989, ch 257, § 28; SL 1990, ch 228, § 2; SL 2015, ch 156, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-14-14 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 14 / Section 32-14-14
Ordinance permitting golf carts on highway within platted boundaries--Requirements--Permit--Fee
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding § 32-14-15 , any municipality or township with an unincorporated town may adopt, by ordinance, traffic regulations permitting the use of golf carts on a highway within its platted boundaries. The ordinance shall require that the golf cart is insured and the person operating the golf cart in the municipality or unincorporated town to hold a driver license and to obtain a permit from the authority having jurisdiction. The municipality or township may charge a fee for the permit. The ordinance may also require the golf cart to display a slow-moving vehicle emblem in accordance with § 32-15-20 or a white or amber warning light in accordance § 32-17-46 .

Source: SL 2010, ch 164, § 2; SL 2014, ch 48, § 20; SL 2017, ch 138, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-7B-13 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 7B / Section 32-7B-13
Temporary license--Display--Restrictions on use--Renewal or alteration prohibited--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

If a boat is sold by a licensed dealer, the dealer may provide a temporary forty-five day license permit to operate the boat in this state for a period of forty-five days after the date of sale or until the time the purchaser receives the regular license decals from the county treasurer, whichever occurs first. The temporary boat license tags shall be displayed as required by § 32-3A-5 and any rule promulgated, pursuant to chapter 1-26 , by the department. No dealer may use the permit upon any boat owned by the dealer or for any purpose other than for boats sold by the manufacturer or dealer. No person may renew the temporary forty-five day license permit nor change or alter the date or other information thereon. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1998, ch 185, § 13; SL 2001, ch 163, § 6; SL 2021, ch 125, § 8.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-8 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-8
Operation of commercial vehicle while driver license suspended, revoked, etc., prohibited--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No person may drive a commercial motor vehicle on the highways of this state while that person's operator's license or privilege to drive a commercial motor vehicle is suspended, revoked, cancelled, or while subject to a disqualification. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1989, ch 267, § 6; SL 1994, ch 255, § 1; SDCL 32-12-84; SL 2001, ch 171, §§ 78, 115; SL 2001, ch 175, § 1; SL 2005, ch 167, § 8.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-22 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-22
Use of dealer plates--Transfer of plates--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Any new vehicle or used vehicle owned by a licensed dealer, bearing a dealer's 77 license plate issued pursuant to § 32-6B-21 , may be driven on the streets and highways of this state for any purpose. However, the dealer 77 license plate may not be used on any vehicle used for lease or hire or used as a wrecker or service truck. The dealer 77 license plate is transferable by the dealer from one vehicle owned by the dealer to another vehicle owned by the dealer. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 23; SL 1995, ch 176; SL 2019, ch 130, § 14.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-1
Definition of terms
Status: in_force

Terms used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise plainly requires, shall mean:

(1) "Chauffeur," every person who is employed by another for the principal purpose of driving a motor vehicle and every person who drives a school bus transporting school children or any motor vehicle when in use for the transportation of persons or property for compensation;

(2) "Department," the Department of Public Safety;

(3) "Driver," every person who drives or is in actual physical control of a vehicle;

(4) "Judgment," any judgment which shall have become final by expiration without appeal of the time within which an appeal might have been perfected, or by final affirmation on appeal, rendered by a court of competent jurisdiction of any state or of the United States, upon a cause of action arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or use of any vehicle of a type subject to registration under the laws of this state, for damages, including damages for care and loss of services, because of bodily injury to or death of any person, or for damages because of injury to or destruction of property, including the loss of use thereof, or upon a cause of action on an agreement of settlement for such damages;

(5) "License," any operator's or chauffeur's license or any other license or permit to operate a motor vehicle issued under the laws of this state including:

(a) Any temporary license or instruction permit;

(b) The privilege of any person to drive a motor vehicle whether or not such person holds a valid license;

(c) Any nonresident's operating privilege as defined herein;

(6) "Motor vehicle," a vehicle that is self-propelled and a vehicle that is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires, but not operated upon rails. The term does not include an electric bicycle as defined in § 32-20B-9 ;

(7) "Nonresident," every person who is not a resident of this state;

(8) "Nonresident's operating privilege," the privilege conferred upon a nonresident by the laws of this state pertaining to the operation by such person of a motor vehicle, or the use of a vehicle owned by such person, in this state;

(9) "Operator," every person, other than a chauffeur, who drives or is in actual physical control of a motor vehicle upon a highway or who is exercising control over or steering a vehicle being towed by a motor vehicle;

(10) "Owner," a person who holds the legal title of a vehicle, or in the event a vehicle is the subject of an agreement for the conditional sale or lease thereof with the right of purchase upon performance of the conditions stated in the agreement and with an immediate right of possession vested in the conditional vendee or lessee, or in the event a mortgagor of a vehicle is entitled to possession, then such conditional vendee or lessee or mortgagor shall be deemed the owner for the purpose of this chapter;

(11) "Person," every natural person, firm, copartnership, association, or corporation;

(12) "Registration," the registration certificate or certificates and registration plates issued under the laws of this state pertaining to the registration of vehicles;

(13) "State," any state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, or any province of the Dominion of Canada;

(14) "Vehicle," every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.

Source: SL 1953, ch 251, § 1; SL 1957, ch 212, § 1; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03A01; SL 1974, ch 229, § 2; SL 2004, ch 17, § 150; SL 2019, ch 135, § 15.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-51 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-51
Suspension or revocation of nonresident driving privileges
Status: in_force

The privilege of driving a motor vehicle on the highways of this state given to a nonresident under this chapter is subject to suspension or revocation by the Department of Public Safety in like manner and for like cause as a driver license issued under this chapter may be suspended or revoked.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 17; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B17 (1); SL 2001, ch 171, § 50; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5B-1.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5B / Section 32-5B-1.1
Licensing and payment of tax on leased vehicles--Assessment of tax upon purchase by lessee--Lessor to assign title and certify price, fees and title
Status: in_force

For motor vehicles leased for more than twenty - eight days, the lessor shall title and license the motor vehicle and denote the lessee on the application for title. The lessor or the lessee shall pay the motor vehicle excise tax. If the term of the lease is extended or if the vehicle is leased for an additional period of time, the motor vehicle excise tax shall be assessed on the additional lease payments and shall be paid by the lessor. If additional consideration is paid during the course of the lease or upon the termination of the lease, the motor vehicle excise tax shall be assessed upon such amount and paid by the lessor. If a lessee buys the leased vehicle at the end of the lease, excise tax shall be assessed on the purchase prices in § 32-5B-4 . The lessor shall assign the title to the lessee and shall deliver it to the county treasurer of the applicant's residence, along with an application certifying the price of the vehicle and the required fees and taxes.

A lessee who entered into a lease prior to July 1, 2000, and who paid excise tax based on the purchase price of the vehicle, including the value of the leased vehicle at the end of the lease, shall receive credit for tax previously paid if the lessee purchases the vehicle at the end of the lease.

An off-road vehicle, as defined by § 32-3-1 and required to be titled pursuant to § 32-20-12 and is titled in this state, that is leased for more than twenty-eight days, is subject to the provisions of this section.

Source: SL 1986, ch 248, § 2; SL 1994, ch 245, § 2; SL 1995, ch 175, § 1; SL 2000, ch 145, § 2; SL 2001, ch 166, § 1; SL 2022, ch 93, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-67 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-67
Possessor due to unpaid repair bill--Free names and address of title and lien holders
Status: in_force

The department shall provide a person that has possession of a motor vehicle , boat as defined in § 32-3A-2 , moped, motorcycle, off-road vehicle as defined in § 32-20-1 , snowmobile as defined in § 32-20A-1 , or trailer, as the result of an unpaid repair bill, with the last known name and address of the record holder of title and any readily identifiable lien holders free of charge.

Source: SL 2005, ch 154, § 2; SL 2026, ch 128, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-3
Information respecting owner of vehicle
Status: in_force

The application required by § 32-5-2 shall also state the name of each owner along with the owner's South Dakota driver license number or social security number, or, if a business, the federal employer identification number, of the motor vehicle, the owner's residence post office address or the owner's business address, including county, and if in a first or second class municipality, the street number.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0102; SL 1949, ch 161; SL 1967, ch 181; SL 1989, ch 257, § 53; SL 1992, ch 60, § 2; SL 2007, ch 173, § 7.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-39 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-39
Requirement that license be in possession of driver--Display of license--Violation as petty offense
Status: in_force

Each licensee shall have a driver license in the licensee's immediate possession at all times when operating a motor vehicle and shall display the driver license upon demand of a judge of a court of record, a magistrate, a peace officer, or a field deputy or inspector of the Department of Public Safety. Any person violating the provisions of this section commits a petty offense.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 11; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B11; SL 1967, ch 203; SL 1974, ch 153, § 46; SL 2001, ch 171, § 35; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-7B-17.5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 7B / Section 32-7B-17.5
Hearing to contest order to pay fine or suspend or revoke license--Procedures
Status: in_force

A dealer may request a hearing to contest an order issued pursuant to § 32-7B-17.4 . The request shall be submitted to the secretary in writing within twenty days after service of the order. Any hearing shall be conducted pursuant to, and judicial review shall be available as provided by, chapter 1-26 .

Source: SL 2005, ch 162, § 35.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-63 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-63
Regulation of advertising
Status: in_force

The Department of Revenue may promulgate rules, pursuant to chapter 1-26 , to regulate the advertising of vehicles offered for sale by vehicle dealers. The department may promulgate rules concerning the following:

(1) Price advertising;

(2) Availability of vehicles; and

(3) General advertising practices.

Source: SL 1991, ch 247, § 1; SL 2004, ch 17, § 90; SL 2011, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 11-1 ), § 161, eff. Apr. 12, 2011.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-9.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-9.1
Fees for snowmobiles--Period of license--Payment before operation
Status: in_force

License fees for snowmobiles, payable under § 32-5-5 , shall be ten dollars per snowmobile for a one-year period. The fees shall be prorated monthly and the snowmobile registered in the same manner as motor vehicles pursuant to §§ 32-5-2.2 and 32-5-2.6 . Payment of the snowmobile license fee shall be made prior to the operation of, or permitting the operation of, any snowmobile within this state except as specified under § 32-20A-15 .

Source: SL 1971, ch 182, § 16; SL 1979, ch 222, § 1; SL 1986, ch 243, § 1; SL 1988, ch 240; SL 2008, ch 151, § 1; SL 2012, ch 160, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-5.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-5.2
Permit for dealer licensed in another state to sell motorcycles at event
Status: in_force

A person who is a licensed dealer in another state may sell motorcycles at an event without a license issued under this chapter if the person meets the provisions of this section. Before selling any motorcycle, the person shall register and purchase a permit from the department. Before the department may issue a permit, the person shall provide proof the person is a licensed dealer in another state and has no outstanding dealer violations. The permit may be issued if any new motorcycle make being sold is not franchised in this state. The permit may be issued if any used motorcycle make being sold is franchised in this state, is at least two model years old, and has at least two thousand five hundred miles on the odometer. The fee for the permit is five hundred dollars. However, if the permit is purchased before the start of the event, the fee for the permit is two hundred fifty dollars. The permit is valid for fifteen consecutive days. Any person found to be in violation of the provisions of this section shall be denied a permit for a period of fifteen months from the date of the violation.

Source: SL 2019, ch 130, § 7.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-8 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-8
Cancellation upon death of parental authority--New application
Status: in_force

The Department of Public Safety upon receipt of satisfactory evidence of the death of the person who signed the application of a minor for a driver license or nondriver identification card shall cancel the license or nondriver identification card and may not issue a new license or nondriver identification card until such time as a new application, duly signed and verified, is made as required by this chapter. This provision does not apply if the minor has attained the age of eighteen years.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 8; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B08; SL 1989, ch 265, § 10; SL 2001, ch 171, § 7; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-61 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-61
Disqualification for third or subsequent grade crossing conviction
Status: in_force

Any person is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle for a period of one year if convicted during any three-year period, while driving a commercial motor vehicle, of a third or subsequent conviction or any combination of convictions of § 32-29-4 , 32-29-5 , 32-29-7 , 32-29-8 , 32-29-9 , or 32-29-12 in separate incidents.

Source: SL 2002, ch 156, § 3; SL 2007, ch 182, § 17; SL 2013, ch 149, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-15 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-15
Commercial driver license fees--Application, endorsement, duplicate, and name or address change
Status: in_force

The application fee for a commercial driver license is forty-three dollars. For each commercial driver license endorsement knowledge test administered, the fee is twenty dollars. The fee for a duplicate license, a name change, or an address change is twenty dollars.

Any fee that is collected must be credited to the state motor vehicle fund.

Source: SL 2001, ch 171, § 109; SL 2009, ch 152, § 3; SL 2015, ch 167, § 3; SL 2025, ch 120, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-42 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-42
Expiration of license or permit--Renewal--Application and fee--Waiver of tests
Status: in_force

An operator's license, motorcycle operator's license, restricted minor's permit, or motorcycle restricted minor's permit expires on the licensee's birthday in the fifth year following the issuance of the license, or on the date of expiration of the applicant's authorized stay in the United States, as determined by the systematic alien verification for entitlements system or an alternate method approved by the United States Department of Homeland Security or, if there is no expiration date, for a period no longer than one year from the date of issuance, whichever occurs first.

Except as provided in § 32-12-42.3 , an operator's license, motorcycle operator's license, restricted minor's permit, or motorcycle restricted minor's permit is renewable one hundred eighty days before its expiration, upon application and payment of the required fee.

A license renewed before its expiration expires five years after the licensee's ensuing birthday, or on the date of expiration of the applicant's authorized stay in the United States, as determined by the systematic alien verification for entitlements system or an alternate method approved by the United States Department of Homeland Security or, if there is no expiration date, for a period no longer than one year from date of issuance, whichever occurs first.

The department must waive the knowledge and driving tests for renewal, if the licensee applies and makes payment of the required fee within thirty days following the expiration date. If the licensee applies and makes payment of the required fee thirty-one or more days after the expiration date of the license, the licensee must take the knowledge test as required by § 32-12-4 .

A license renewed during the thirty-day period following the date of expiration expires five years from the licensee's previous birthday, or on the date of expiration of the applicant's authorized stay in the United States, as determined by the systematic alien verification for entitlements system or an alternate method approved by the United States Department of Homeland Security or, if there is no expiration date, for a period no longer than one year from date of issuance, whichever occurs first.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 14; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B14; SL 1961, ch 233; SL 1964, ch 128, § 4; SL 1973, ch 203; SL 1976, ch 192; SL 1977, ch 256, § 2; SL 1979, ch 217; SL 1988, ch 253; SL 1994, ch 252, § 2; SL 1995, ch 178, § 1; SL 1997, ch 188, § 2; SL 2001, ch 171, § 37; SL 2009, ch 154, § 10, eff. Dec. 31, 2009; SL 2025, ch 123, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20-14 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20 / Section 32-20-14
Motorcycle safety education--Standards and procedures--Funding
Status: in_force

Any revenue derived from the fee imposed by § 32-5-10.1 and appropriated pursuant to § 32-20-15 shall be used to provide motorcycle safety courses and motorcycle safety education approved by the director of the Office of Highway Safety. The director shall promulgate rules pursuant to chapter 1-26 establishing instruction standards, teacher or instructor certification standards, and course approval procedures. The director shall administer the fund created by § 32-5-10.2 , may conduct audits and otherwise examine the records of approved motorcycle courses and may require other information that is considered necessary to evaluate the quality of motorcycle safety courses and safety education.

Source: SL 1992, ch 222, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-18-19 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 18 / Section 32-18-19
Buses and trucks with air brakes--Reservoir--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Every bus, truck, or truck tractor with air operated brakes shall be equipped with at least one reservoir sufficient to ensure that, when fully charged to the maximum pressure as regulated by the air compressor governor cut - out setting, a full service brake application may be made without lowering such reservoir pressure by more than twenty percent. Each reservoir shall be provided with means for readily draining accumulated oil or water. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1967, ch 197, § 1 (i) (1); SL 1989, ch 255, § 79.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-183 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-183
Misuse of special interest motor vehicle plate
Status: in_force

If an applicant misuses the special interest motor vehicle license plate by not adhering to the special interest motor vehicle license plate requirements, that applicant shall surrender to the department all special interest motor vehicle license plates in his or her possession and is not eligible for a special interest motor vehicle plate for a period of three years.

Source: SL 2016, ch 158, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-9-13 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 9 / Section 32-9-13
Registration of maximum gross weight of vehicle
Status: in_force

Every person, corporation, or limited liability company desiring to operate a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer as a motor carrier of property on the public highways of this state shall choose and fix at the time of registration the maximum gross weight of the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer, without regard to the manufacturer's rated carrying capacity of the vehicle.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0424; SL 2014, ch 139, § 12.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-9 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-9
Dealer in new vehicles to give bond to cover warranty obligations--Amount--Exemption
Status: in_force

No application may be granted nor a license issued to an applicant for the purpose of selling new vehicles under this chapter until the applicant executes a bond with a corporate surety which has been authorized to do business in this state. The surety shall be in the amount of fifty thousand dollars, payable to the Department of Revenue for the use and benefit of any new vehicle purchaser to pay all damages and expenses that may be occasioned from the applicant's failure to fulfill warranty obligations. In no event may the liability of the surety in the aggregate exceed the amount of the bond. However, an applicant is exempt from this bond requirement if he has within the county a repair facility and qualified personnel for the purpose of fulfilling new vehicle warranties.

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 10; SL 2004, ch 17, § 87; SL 2011, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 11-1 ), § 161, eff. Apr. 12, 2011.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-42.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-42.2
Extra weight allowance for vehicles hauling from harvesting combine to point of first unloading--Maximum distance--Fine--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No vehicle hauling agricultural products from a harvesting combine to the point of first unloading is subject to enforcement action for violations not exceeding the legal limits imposed pursuant to § 32-22-16 or 32-22-21 by more than ten percent. However, the vehicle is only exempt pursuant to this section within a range of fifty miles of the harvested field. If enforcement action is taken pursuant to this section, the fine or penalty shall apply to that portion of the load more than ten percent above the legal limit. The weight tolerance authorized in this section is not permitted on the interstate highway system. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1979, ch 225; SL 1980, ch 226, § 15; SL 1980, ch 228; SL 1983, ch 241, § 4; SL 1984, ch 230, § 36; SL 1987, ch 235, § 1; SL 1999, ch 163, § 1; SL 2009, ch 157, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-69.4 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-69.4
Electronic title and registration system--ERT provider contract--Fee for services
Status: in_force

The department shall enter into contracts with one or more qualified ERT providers to integrate with the electronic title and registration system and other necessary, related state systems to provide software and programs to approved entities, the department, and county treasurers, to facilitate electronic vehicle registration, titling, and filing of lien statements.

An ERT provider that contracts with the department under this section may act on behalf of the department and county treasurers in receiving, processing, and transmitting, to the county treasurer, title and lien applications, title lien statements, and related documents and fees. An ERT provider may charge the approved entity a fee for services provided under this section.

Source: SL 2025, ch 44, § 12.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20B-2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20B / Section 32-20B-2
Operation on sidewalk or crosswalk--Rights of bicyclist--Duty to stop
Status: in_force

A person operating a bicycle upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances, except as provided in § 32-20B-3 , and except that bicyclists must stop before entering a crosswalk or highway from a sidewalk or sidewalk area.

Source: SL 1982, ch 226, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-18-27 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 18 / Section 32-18-27
Brake inspection of motor-driven cycle
Status: in_force

The Department of Public Safety is authorized to require an inspection of the braking system on any motor - driven cycle and to disapprove any such braking system on a vehicle which it finds will not comply with the performance ability standard set forth in §§ 32-18-8 and 32-18-9 , or which in its opinion is equipped with a braking system that is not so designed or constructed as to ensure reasonable and reliable performance in actual use.

Source: SL 1967, ch 197, § 4 (a); SL 1968, ch 178, § 4; SL 2003, ch 272, § 121.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-50 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-50
Dealers participating in driver education program--Application to department--Fee--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Any motor vehicle dealer who participates in the driver education program in the schools of the state by furnishing any school with a motor vehicle used in the program, shall upon application to the department and payment of a fee of four dollars, receive from the department a public school corporation license plate for the operation of the vehicle upon the highways of the state. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The fee shall be deposited in the license plate special revenue fund.

Source: SL 1957, ch 239, §§ 1, 4; SDC Supp 1960, §§ 44.01 13-5 , 44.9947; SDCL, § 32-5-53 ; SL 1985, ch 243; SL 1986, ch 242, § 32.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5B-9 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5B / Section 32-5B-9
Information to be presented by new owner of vehicle--Falsification--Penalty
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided, a new owner of a motor vehicle, or with written authorization, any other person, as defined in § 2-14-2 , on behalf of and as the agent for the new owner, shall present to the county treasurer in the county of the new owner's residence the manufacturer's or importer's statement or certificate of origin or the assigned certificate of title and a properly endorsed motor vehicle purchaser's certificate. The motor vehicle purchaser's certificate must be on a form to be furnished by the department through the county treasurer's office. The certificate must contain a complete description of the motor vehicle, the owner's name and address, the previous owner's name and address, the full purchase price, as defined in § 32-5B-4 , together with the method of computing the price, the trade-in allowance and description of the trade, if any, and any other relevant information the department may require. For a motor vehicle licensed and registered pursuant to chapter 32-10 , the owner must present to the department the manufacturer's or importer's statement or certificate of origin or an assigned certificate of title and a properly endorsed motor vehicle purchaser's certificate. Any person who intentionally falsifies information on the certificate is guilty of a Class 6 felony.

Source: SL 1985, ch 241, § 4; SL 2000, ch 141, § 2; SL 2004, ch 17, § 81; SL 2011, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 11-1), § 161, eff. Apr. 12, 2011; SL 2026, ch 19, § 11.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-2
Definition of terms
Status: in_force

Terms used in this chapter mean:

(1) "Boat," every description of watercraft, other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water;

(2) "Boat dealer," any person or business who in the ordinary course of business sells new or used large boats or any person or business who in the ordinary course of business sells five or more large boats in a year;

(3) "Commission," the Game, Fish and Parks Commission of this state acting directly or through its authorized officers;

(4) "Department," the Department of Revenue;

(5) "Large boat," any boat over twelve feet in length or a motorboat, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, except canoes, inflatable boats, kayaks, sailboards and seaplanes;

(6) "Motorboat," any boat propelled by machinery, whether or not such machinery is the principal source of propulsion, but does not include a boat which has a valid marine document issued by the commissioner of customs of the United States government or any federal agency successor thereto;

(7) "Operate," to navigate or otherwise use a boat;

(8) "Owner," a person, other than a lien holder, having the property in or title to a boat. The term includes a person entitled to the use or possession of a boat subject to an interest in another person reserved or created by agreement and securing payment or performance of an obligation, but the term excludes a lessee under a lease not intended as security;

(9) "Personal watercraft," any motorboat that has an inboard or outboard motor powering a water jet pump or caged propeller as its primary source of motive power and is designed to be operated by a person standing on, kneeling on, sitting astride, or being towed behind the watercraft, and has the probability that the operator and passengers may in the normal course of use, fall overboard;

(10) "Racing boat," any boat designed and manufactured exclusively for racing;

(11) "Sailboard," any single-hulled boat equipped with an articulating mast and designed to be operated by a person standing on the board, maneuvering through the trim of the hand-held sail and distributing his body weight on the board; and

(12) "Waters of this state," any public waters within the territorial limits of this state and all waters which form a common boundary between this state and Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Iowa, or Nebraska.

Source: SL 1963, ch 353, § 11; SDCL § 10-60-15 ; SL 1998, ch 74, § 5; Sl 2003, ch 272 (Ex. Ord. 03-1), § 82; SL 2011, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 11-1 ), § 161, eff. Apr. 12, 2011; SL 2014, ch 137, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-27 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-27
Names and social security numbers of school bus drivers to be reported to Department
Status: in_force

Each school district and school bus contracting company shall report to the Department of Education, in a manner prescribed by the secretary, the names and social security numbers of all individuals it employs as bus drivers. The school district and school bus contracting company shall inform the department of any changes to the list within seven days after they occur.

Source: SL 2001, ch 176, § 2; SL 2003, ch 272, § 63.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-25-10 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 25 / Section 32-25-10
Changing speed or extent of established zone
Status: in_force

The transportation commission may change the speed limit or the extent of any limited speed zone established under § 32-25-7 at any time it may deem necessary.

Source: SL 1941, ch 187, § 1; SL 1955, ch 168; SL 1959, ch 251, § 1; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.0303 (5); SL 1985, ch 259, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-60 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-60
Payment of judgment in installments--Order permitting installments
Status: in_force

A judgment debtor upon due notice to the judgment creditor may apply to the court in which such judgment was rendered for the privilege of paying such judgment in installments and the court, in its discretion and without prejudice to any other legal remedies which the judgment creditor may have, may so order and fix the amounts and times of payment of the installments.

Source: SL 1957, ch 212, § 44; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03A44.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-10-22 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 10 / Section 32-10-22
Withdrawal of vehicle from proportionally registered fleet--Surrender of proportional registration cards
Status: in_force

If any vehicle is withdrawn from a proportionally registered fleet during the period for which it is registered under the provisions of this chapter, the owner of such fleet shall so notify the administrator on appropriate forms to be prescribed by the administrator. The administrator may require the owner to surrender proportional registration cards and such other identification devices which have been issued with respect to such vehicle as the administrator may deem advisable.

Source: SL 1961, ch 237, § 14.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-34-13 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 34 / Section 32-34-13
Accident reports not privileged--Fees for locating and furnishing reports
Status: in_force

Reports pursuant to §§ 32-34-7 to 32-34-12 , inclusive, and the information contained in such reports is not privileged and may not be held confidential. The secretary of public safety shall collect four dollars for each request to locate a report on file. The secretary shall furnish to any person requesting a search, at no additional cost, any report located by the search. All sums collected shall be deposited in the state highway fund.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0331; SL 1945, ch 190, § 1; SL 1953, ch 232, § 1; SL 1955, ch 172; SL 1957, ch 212, § 76; SL 1961, ch 226; SL 1967, ch 193; SL 1970, ch 175, § 38; SL 1973, ch 215; SL 1977, ch 267, § 4; SL 1985, ch 399, § 21; SL 1991, ch 263, § 1; SL 1999, ch 166, § 1; SL 2004, ch 17, § 148.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-55 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-55
Surrender of license to court upon conviction--Forwarding license to department
Status: in_force

If any person is convicted of any offense for which this chapter makes mandatory the revocation of the driver license of the person by the Department of Public Safety, the court entering the conviction shall require the surrender to the court of all driver licenses then held by the person convicted. The court shall then forward all driver licenses and a record of the conviction to the department.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 19; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B19 (1); SL 2001, ch 171, § 54; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-11.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-11.1
Motorcycle instruction permit--Application requirements--Examination and fee--Restrictions
Status: in_force

Any person who is at least fourteen years of age but less than eighteen years of age applying for a South Dakota motorcycle operator's license, motorcycle restricted minor's permit, or motorcycle instruction permit who does not currently hold an operator's license, motorcycle operator's license, restricted minor's permit, motorcycle restricted minor's permit, instruction permit, or motorcycle instruction permit that has been valid continuously for at least one hundred eighty days if issued before July 1, 2020, or at least two hundred seventy-five days if issued on or after July 1, 2020, shall apply to the Department of Public Safety for a motorcycle instruction permit. The department may, after the applicant has successfully passed all parts of the examination other than the driving test and paid a fee which is equal in amount to the fee prescribed for a license in § 32-12-16 , issue to the applicant a motorcycle instruction permit. The motorcycle instruction permit shall be held for at least one hundred eighty continuous days if issued before July 1, 2020, or at least two hundred seventy-five days if issued on or after July 1, 2020.

A motorcycle instruction permit holder is not required to obtain a motorcycle operator's license or a motorcycle restricted minor's permit if the applicant currently holds an instruction permit, restricted minor's permit, or operator's license that has been valid continuously for one hundred eighty days.

A motorcycle instruction permit entitles the holder, while having the permit in the permit holder's immediate physical possession, to operate a motorcycle during the hours of 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. if the permit holder is accompanied by a licensed motorcycle operator who is at least eighteen years of age, who has at least one year of driving experience, and who is driving another motorcycle along with the permit holder. No motorcycle instruction permit holder may carry another person on the motorcycle. The permit is valid for one year. The holder of a motorcycle instruction permit who is at least fourteen years of age but less than eighteen years of age may apply for a motorcycle restricted minor's permit after holding a valid motorcycle instruction permit as required by this section.

Source: SL 2001, ch 171, § 9; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23; SL 2020, ch 117, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-5
Maximum length of vehicle--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No motor vehicle may be operated upon a public highway if it has an overall length, inclusive of front and rear bumpers, in excess of forty-five feet. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0336 (2); SL 1943, ch 158, § 1; SL 1947, ch 192; SL 1957, ch 222; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.0336 (2) (a); SL 1981, ch 244, § 1; SL 1984, ch 230, § 5; SL 2005, ch 169, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6C-2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6C / Section 32-6C-2
License required--Exceptions--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No person may engage in the business of selling, or may offer to sell, display, act as a broker, or advertise the sale of new or used snowmobiles, without a license. Any violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor. Any subsequent violation that occurs within two years from any violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The licensing requirements of this section do not apply to any regulated lenders as that term is defined in § 54-3-14 , any insurance company authorized to do business in this state, or any financing institution as defined in and licensed pursuant to chapter 54-4 that acquires snowmobiles as an incident to its regular business.

Source: SL 1987, ch 223, § 2; SL 2014, ch 137, § 6.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-11-30 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 11 / Section 32-11-30
Expenses of administration
Status: in_force

All expenses in administering the state motor vehicle and driver functions shall be paid from the motor vehicle fund.

Source: SL 1953, ch 250, § 2; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.0216; SL 1983, ch 238, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-76.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-76.1
Person with substantial physical disability--Portable certificates--Promulgation of rules--Surrender--Penalty
Status: in_force

Any individual who is a resident of this state with a substantial physical disability that makes it impossible or causes substantial hardship to walk may be issued a portable, serially numbered certificate by the secretary, which permits the person or the operator of a vehicle being used in transporting the person to park without time limitation pursuant to § 32-30-11.1 and to park in any space reserved for an individual with a physical disability. The individual shall submit an application, on forms approved by the secretary, containing a certification signed by any physician, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or certified nurse practitioner, licensed under title 36, stating that the applicant meets the criteria established by this section. The certification must be within the practitioner's applicable scope of practice. The forms must be submitted through the county treasurer's office. If the secretary determines that the applicant meets the criteria, the secretary must issue a portable certificate to the applicant.

The secretary shall promulgate rules, pursuant to chapter 1-26 , governing the application for, term of, and conditions under which certificates may be issued.

If the applicant is no longer an individual with a physical disability or is deceased, the portable certificate must be surrendered to the county treasurer of the applicant's residence within thirty days. The treasurer shall notify the secretary who shall make the necessary changes in the file.

Failure to surrender the portable certificate as required by this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor to submit a false or fraudulent application or to alter the portable certificate.

Source: SL 1988, ch 236, § 28; SL 1997, ch 179, § 4; SL 2002, ch 149, § 2; SL 2026, ch 130, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-15 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-15
Renewal application--Fees
Status: in_force

A renewal application shall be submitted to the department annually, prior to the expiration of the old license. The applicant shall pay a fee based on the following schedule to the department:

(1) Vehicle dealer's license--$175;

(2) Used vehicle dealer's license--$175;

(3) Motorcycle and off-road vehicle dealer's license--$150;

(4) Trailer dealer's license--$100; or

(5) Emergency vehicle dealer's license--$175.

The renewal application shall contain the same information as required for the initial application in § 32-6B-6 . Any application for renewal made after the expiration date shall be accompanied by a fee in the amount of the initial license fee as established in § 32-6B-13 .

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 16; SL 1998, ch 175, § 7; SL 2008, ch 155, § 2; SL 2016, ch 159, § 6.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-71 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-71
Permitting unauthorized use of license by another--Misdemeanor
Status: in_force

It is a Class 1 misdemeanor for any person to lend that person's driver license to any other person or knowingly permit the use thereof by another.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 27; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.9948 (2); SL 2001, ch 171, § 65.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-24-3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 24 / Section 32-24-3
Reckless driving--Second or subsequent offense as misdemeanor--Revocation of driving privilege--Restricted driving privilege
Status: in_force

If a conviction for a violation of § 32-24-1 is for a second or subsequent offense within a period of one year, such person is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor, and the court shall, in pronouncing sentence, order that the defendant's driving privilege be revoked for thirty days. However, the court may issue an order, upon proof of financial responsibility pursuant to § 32-35-43.1 , permitting the person to operate a vehicle for purposes of the person's employment, attendance at school, or attendance at counseling programs. The court may also order the revocation of the defendant's driving privilege for a further period not to exceed one year or restrict the privilege in such manner as it sees fit for a period not to exceed one year.

Source: SL 1982, ch 249, § 1; SL 1988, ch 254, § 2; SL 1991, ch 252, § 18; SL 1994, ch 255, § 6; SL 2006, ch 165, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-7B-17.4 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 7B / Section 32-7B-17.4
Order to pay fine or suspend or revoke license upon failure to comply with cease and desist order--Deposit of monetary penalties
Status: in_force

If a dealer fails to comply with a cease and desist order issued pursuant to § 32-7B-17.1 , the secretary may issue an order which:

(1) Imposes a monetary penalty on the dealer of five hundred dollars for each violation of the cease and desist order;

(2) Suspends dealer's license for not more than thirty days; or

(3) Revokes the dealer's license.

All monetary penalties collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited into the state motor vehicle fund.

Source: SL 2005, ch 162, § 34.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-10-24 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 10 / Section 32-10-24
Denial of proportional registration where foreign state denies similar registration
Status: in_force

The administrator may refuse to accept proportional registration applications for the registration of vehicles based in, or owned by residents of, another jurisdiction that does not grant similar registration privileges to fleet vehicles based in or owned by residents of this state.

Source: SL 1961, ch 237, § 16.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-17.5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-17.5
Displaying another's nondriver identification card--Misdemeanor
Status: in_force

It is a Class 1 misdemeanor for any person to display or represent as one's own any nondriver identification card not issued to him.

Source: SL 1991, ch 253, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-56 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-56
Dealer's license not to be issued to franchisee absent compliance by franchisor
Status: in_force

If a franchisor enters into or attempts to enter into a franchise for an additional new vehicle dealership in a community where the same line-make is already represented, without first complying with the provisions of this chapter, no dealer's license may be issued to that franchisee or proposed franchisee to engage in the business of selling new vehicles, manufactured or distributed by that franchisor.

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 57; SL 2010, ch 156, § 12, eff. Mar. 9, 2010.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-8 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-8
Dealer in new vehicles to maintain repair shop
Status: in_force

If an applicant sells or offers to sell new vehicles, the principal place of business shall include a suitable repair shop with space to repair, service, maintain, and recondition one or more vehicles and shall be equipped with ample tools, parts, and accessories.

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 9.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-16 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-16
Issuance of duplicate license
Status: in_force

If the holder of a commercial driver license changes that person's name, mailing address, or residential address, application for a duplicate license shall be made.

Source: SL 1989, ch 267, § 11; SDCL § 32-12-91 ; SL 2001, ch 171, §§ 84, 115.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-10-13 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 10 / Section 32-10-13
Reciprocity--Leased vehicles operated by lessee
Status: in_force

An agreement or arrangement entered into, or a declaration issued under the authority of this chapter, may contain provisions under which a leased vehicle properly registered by the lessor thereof may be entitled subject to terms and conditions stated therein, to the exemptions, benefits, and privileges extended by such agreement, arrangement, or declaration when such vehicle is operated by the lessee.

Source: SL 1961, ch 237, § 9.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-23-16 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 23 / Section 32-23-16
Results of analysis available to accused or attorney
Status: in_force

Upon the request of any person who was tested pursuant to §§ 32-23-10 and 32-23-14 , or upon the request of the person's attorney, the results of such analysis shall be made available to the person or to the person's attorney.

Source: SL 1959, ch 264, § 2; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.0302-2; SL 1971, ch 191, § 2; SL 1971, ch 192, § 2; SL 2006, ch 169, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-3
Sale on consignment--Contract required--Form
Status: in_force

Any dealer or public auction may sell, or offer to sell, new or used vehicles on consignment. For the purposes of this chapter, consignment means the delivery of a vehicle by the owner into the possession of another without transfer of title for the purpose of sale or where there is any condition that the purchaser does not have an absolute obligation to pay for the vehicle or has a right to return the vehicle to the seller. Any dealer or public auction who sells, or offers to sell, South Dakota titled vehicles on consignment shall enter into a contract with the consignor. The department shall prescribe the form of the contract.

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 3; SL 1989, ch 257, § 110; SL 1997, ch 182, § 11; SL 2005, ch 163, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-33 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-33
Promulgation of rules for titling large boats
Status: in_force

The secretary of revenue may adopt rules, promulgated pursuant to chapter 1-26 , to establish uniform procedures for the administration of the titling of large boats and registration and numbering of boats for the following areas:

(1) Application requirements for the registration and titling of boats, assignment of certificate of title, certificate of title for boats previously registered, time limits for making application, duplicate certificates and transfer of certificate, lien recording, assignment of liens, execution of cancellation of liens, delivery of title, abandoned, repossessed, and operation by law; and

(2) Issuance, display, inspection, expiration, cancellation, and removal of certificates of number and boat identification tags.

Violation of a rule adopted pursuant to this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1993, ch 322, § 2; SL 1994, ch 335, § 40; SDCL 42-8-85; SL 1998, ch 74, § 20.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-26-36 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 26 / Section 32-26-36
Driving to left on approach to intersection, grade crossing, bridge, or tunnel--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No vehicle may be driven on the left side of the roadway when approaching within one hundred feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing or when the view is obstructed upon approaching within one hundred feet of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0313; SL 1953, ch 230; SL 1967, ch 192; SL 1970, ch 175, § 18; SL 1989, ch 255, § 173.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-19-7 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 19 / Section 32-19-7
Permitted connection between towing and towed vehicle--Maximum length--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The drawbar or other connection between any two vehicles, one of which is towing or drawing the other on a highway, shall be of sufficient strength to hold the weight of the towed vehicle on any grade where operated. The towed vehicle shall not whip, weave, or oscillate or fail to follow substantially in the course of the towing vehicle. Whenever such connection consists of a chain, rope, or cable the length of such connection shall not exceed fifteen feet. It is a Class 2 misdemeanor to violate the provisions of this section.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0345; SL 1955, ch 173; SL 1955, ch 174; SL 1959, ch 260, § 1; SL 1963, ch 263; SL 1978, ch 229.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20-4.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20 / Section 32-20-4.1
Eye protective device or windscreen required--Violation as petty offense
Status: in_force

No person may operate a motorcycle unless he is wearing an eye protective device or unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen of sufficient height and design so as to provide adequate eye protection to the operator when seated on the motorcycle in the normal operating position. However, no person may operate a motorcycle during the time period when headlights must be lighted while wearing an eye protective device that is tinted or shaded to reduce the light transmittance of the device to a level below thirty - five percent. A violation of this section is a petty offense.

Source: SL 1970, ch 176, § 3; SL 1984, ch 228, § 9; SL 1989, ch 255, § 105; SL 1989, ch 256, § 16; SL 1990, ch 255.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-55 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-55
Hearing upon change of circumstances
Status: in_force

If a franchisor is not permitted to enter into a franchise for the line-make in the community, no such franchise may thereafter be entered into for the sale of such vehicles in the community unless the franchisor thereafter establishes, in a subsequent hearing held under the provisions of chapter 1-26 , that there has been a change of circumstances so that the community at that time can be reasonably expected to support such a dealership.

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 56; SL 2010, ch 156, § 11, eff. Mar. 9, 2010.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-25-5.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 25 / Section 32-25-5.2
Posting of minimum speeds on particular highways--Violation of minimum speeds as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

If the transportation commission within its respective jurisdiction determines on the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation that slow speeds on any part of a highway consistently impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, the commission may adopt rules setting minimum speed limits below which no person may drive a vehicle except when necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law. A violation of such minimum speed limits is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1970, ch 175, § 14, § 2; SL 1989, ch 255, § 127.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20A-9 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20A / Section 32-20A-9
Restrictions on use within municipality
Status: in_force

Nothing contained in §§ 32-20A-4 to 32-20A-7 , inclusive, shall grant to the operator of a snowmobile any rights or privileges to operate within the corporate limits of a municipality, and nothing in this chapter shall prohibit the municipality from regulating by ordinance the operation of snowmobiles within the corporate limits.

Source: SL 1971, ch 182, § 8.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-17-7 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 17 / Section 32-17-7
Circumstances under which headlamps must be dimmed--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Whenever a motor vehicle, except a moped equipped with a single beam headlamp as provided in § 32-17-24.1 , is being operated upon a highway, or a portion thereof, which is sufficiently lighted to reveal a person on the highway at a distance of two hundred feet ahead of the vehicle, the driver shall tilt the beam downward. Whenever a motor vehicle meets another vehicle or overtakes another vehicle proceeding in the same direction on any highway, the driver shall tilt the beams of the headlamps downward, provided that at all times, as required in § 32-17-4 , at least two lights shall be displayed on the front of and on opposite sides of every motor vehicle other than a motorcycle. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0356; SL 1955, ch 176; SL 1978, ch 230, § 4; SL 1989, ch 255, § 61.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-180 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-180
Design of special interest motor vehicle plates--Decals--Rear plates
Status: in_force

The special interest motor vehicle plate shall be issued in place of the regular plates issued pursuant to § 32-5-85 . The special interest motor vehicle plate shall be designed by the secretary to be visibly distinct from regular noncommercial license plates and shall be either numbered or personalized. If the special interest motor vehicle plate is personalized, the plate shall conform to the requirements established for special personalized license plates in § 32-5-89.2 . The special interest motor vehicle plate shall be reflectorized and validated with a decal each year in the same manner as noncommercial license plates. Notwithstanding the requirements of § 32-5-98 , a vehicle for which a special interest motor vehicle license plate is issued is not required to display a number plate on the front of the vehicle. The special interest motor vehicle license plate shall be securely fastened to the rear of the special interest motor vehicle in a horizontal and upright position.

Source: SL 2016, ch 158, § 2; SL 2018, ch 183, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-111 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-111
Transfer of vehicle after suspension of registration--Security interests unaffected--Suspension of unauthorized reregistration
Status: in_force

If an owner's registration has been suspended under this chapter, the Department of Revenue shall allow an owner to transfer a vehicle's registration to another person in the ordinary course of business or to a co-owner, as evidenced by the title, if the co-owner can provide written evidence of financial responsibility in the form provided by §§ 32-35-113 and 32-35-119 .

Nothing in this section affects the rights of any conditional vendor, chattel mortgagee, or lessor of such a vehicle registered in the name of another as owner who becomes subject to the provisions of this chapter.

The Department of Revenue shall suspend the registration of any vehicle transferred in violation of the provisions of this section.

Source: SL 1957, ch 212, § 63; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03A63; SL 1988, ch 269; SL 2004, ch 17, § 183; SL 2011, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 11-1 ), § 161, eff. Apr. 12, 2011.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-16.3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-16.3
Limited exemption for certain vehicles hauling agricultural products or livestock from a farm--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No vehicle hauling agricultural products from farm storage or livestock from a farm is subject to enforcement action for violations not exceeding the legal limits imposed pursuant to § 32-22-16 or 32-22-21 by more than five percent. However, the vehicle is only exempt pursuant to this section within a range of fifty miles of the farm. The vehicle may not exceed the posted weight of any bridge or road. The weight tolerance authorized in this section is not applicable during spring load restrictions as set forth in § 32-22-24 . If enforcement action is taken pursuant to this section, the fine or penalty shall apply to that portion of the load that is above the legal limit. The weight tolerance authorized in this section is not permitted on the interstate highway system. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1991, ch 259; SL 1999, ch 161, § 1; SL 2009, ch 157, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6C-14.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6C / Section 32-6C-14.2
Hearing on question of whether violations occurred--Procedures
Status: in_force

Within twenty days after service of the order to cease and desist, the snowmobile dealer may request a hearing in writing on the question of whether acts or practices in violation of this title have occurred. Any hearing shall be conducted pursuant to, and judicial review shall be available as provided by, chapter 1-26 .

Source: SL 2005, ch 162, § 12.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-17.4 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-17.4
Unlawful use of nondriver identification card--Misdemeanor
Status: in_force

It is a Class 1 misdemeanor for any person to permit any unlawful use of a nondriver identification card issued to him.

Source: SL 1991, ch 253, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-117 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-117
Appearance before magistrate to provide written evidence of financial responsibility--Submission by mail in lieu of appearance--Dismissal of proceedings
Status: in_force

Any person cited for a violation of § 32-35-113 , may personally appear before a magistrate, as designated on the citation, and provide written evidence of financial responsibility that is acceptable to the magistrate showing that the driver was in compliance with § 32-35-113 at the time the citation was issued. In lieu of a personal appearance, the person may submit written evidence of financial responsibility by mail to the magistrate. Upon receipt by the magistrate of written evidence of financial responsibility that is acceptable to the magistrate further proceedings on the citation for a violation of § 32-35-113 shall be dismissed.

Source: SL 1986, ch 269, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-72 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-72
Local law enforcement officers to provide certain information to motor vehicle repossession businesses
Status: in_force

Any person in the business of repossessing motor vehicles may request any local law enforcement officer to provide the license plate number and color of a motor vehicle licensed in South Dakota. If a person in the business of repossessing motor vehicles provides a copy of the contract for the repossession of the motor vehicle to a local law enforcement officer, the officer shall provide the license plate number and color of the motor vehicle to the person. Any law enforcement officer, who in good faith releases information pursuant to this section, is immune from civil liability for such release.

Source: SL 2008, ch 149, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-28-9.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 28 / Section 32-28-9.1
Pedestrian control signals--Violation by driver as misdemeanor--Violation by pedestrian as petty offense
Status: in_force

Whenever special pedestrian control signals exhibiting the words, walk or don't walk, or exhibiting a lighted international pedestrian walk or don't walk symbol are in place, the signals indicate the following:

(1) Walk or a lighted international pedestrian walk symbol.--Pedestrians facing the signal may proceed across the roadway in the direction of the signal and shall be given the right-of-way by the drivers of all vehicles;

(2) Don't walk or a lighted international pedestrian don't walk symbol.--No pedestrian may start to cross the roadway in the direction of the signal, but any pedestrian who has partially completed crossing on the walk signal shall proceed to a sidewalk or safety island while the don't walk signal or lighted international pedestrian don't walk symbol is showing.

The special pedestrian control signals shall conform to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 2009 Edition.

Any failure by a driver to comply with the provisions of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor. Any failure by a pedestrian to comply with the provisions of this section is a petty offense.

Source: SL 1970, ch 175, § 23, § 1; SL 1989, ch 255, § 236; SL 1989, ch 256, § 25; SL 2005, ch 171, § 1; SL 2011, ch 149, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-22.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-22.1
Commercial motor vehicles licensed to dealers--Dealer 88 license plates--Return of plates--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The department shall issue metal numerical license plates to licensed vehicle dealers upon application and payment of the gross weight tonnage fees pursuant to § 32-9-15 at the time of annual renewal for each set desired. The license plates shall be numbered consecutively and shall bear as a prefix the number 88. If a dealer's license is revoked or canceled or the dealer goes out of business, the 88 plates shall be returned to the department. If any motor vehicle is operated with 88 plates after the dealer license is revoked or canceled or after the dealer goes out of business, or if the dealer refuses to return the plates, the dealer is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 2004, ch 208, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-42.15 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-42.15
Last trailer marked long load
Status: in_force

The rear of the last trailer authorized in § 32-22-42.14 shall be marked "LONG LOAD."

Source: SL 1988, ch 263, § 2; SL 1989, ch 272, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-26-51 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 26 / Section 32-26-51
Funeral procession--Definitions
Status: in_force

(1) "Funeral escort vehicle," an authorized emergency vehicle operating with visible flashing or strobing emergency lights;

(2) "Funeral lead vehicle," any motor vehicle including a funeral hearse that is carrying the remains of a deceased person, leading and facilitating the movement of a funeral procession;

(3) "Funeral procession," two or more motor vehicles, one of which is carrying the remains of a deceased person, including a funeral lead vehicle or a funeral escort vehicle.

Source: SL 2020, ch 125, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-2-1.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 2 / Section 32-2-1.1
Division continued within Department of Public Safety--Functions performed by department--Head of division
Status: in_force

The Division of Highway Patrol shall continue within the Department of Public Safety, and all its functions shall be performed by the Department of Public Safety. The director of the Division of the Highway Patrol shall be the superintendent of the highway patrol, provided for under this chapter, who shall be appointed by the secretary of the Department of Public Safety in accordance with § 1-32-6 .

Source: SL 1973, ch 2, § 33; SL 2003, ch 272 (Ex. Ord. 03-1), § 21.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-34-23 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 34 / Section 32-34-23
Repair of vehicle with reportable damage prohibited unless required notice affixed--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The person in charge of any garage or repair shop shall not commence repair on any motor vehicle which shows evidence of having been involved in a reportable accident or struck by any bullet unless the vehicle bears the notice provided for in § 32-34-10 . Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0332; SL 1967, ch 194, §§ 1, 2; SL 1977, ch 268.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-6 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-6
Minors under age of eighteen--Authorization by parental authority
Status: in_force

The application of any person under the age of eighteen years for a driver license or nondriver identification card shall be signed by the father, mother, or guardian, or, if there is no parent or guardian, then by another responsible adult and verified before a designee of the Department of Public Safety or a person authorized to administer oaths.

Source: SL 1959, ch 261, § 6; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03B06; SL 1989, ch 265, § 8; SL 2001, ch 171, § 5; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-15-11 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 15 / Section 32-15-11
Sirens, whistles, and unnecessary loud noises as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

It is a Class 2 misdemeanor, except as otherwise provided in § 32-15-12 , for any vehicle to be equipped with or for any person to use upon a vehicle any siren, or any compression or spark plug whistle, or any exhaust horn, or whistle which does not produce a harmonious sound, or for any person at any time to use a horn otherwise than a reasonable warning or to make any unnecessary or unreasonably loud or harsh sound by means of a horn or other warning device.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0347; SL 1977, ch 189, § 105; SL 1989, ch 255, § 31.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-84 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-84
Composition of number plates--Size of figures--Snowmobile tags
Status: in_force

The number plates authorized by § 32-5-82 shall be of metal or other suitable material bearing the name of the state, either in full or by abbreviation and a distinctive number for assignment to each vehicle. The distinctive number may be in figures or a combination of figures and letters and shall be of a size clearly distinguishable by law enforcement officers and individuals generally. The department shall issue either decals or tags made of some durable material for the purpose of licensing snowmobiles. Such license shall be attached to each side of a snowmobile below the windshield on the hood cowling.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0115; SL 1941, ch 183; SL 1943, ch 157; SL 1951, ch 226; SL 1951, ch 227; SL 1955, ch 159, § 2; SL 1959, ch 249, § 2; SL 1963, ch 250; SL 1971, ch 182, § 20; SL 1975, ch 198, § 3; SL 1985, ch 245, § 2; SL 1989, ch 257, § 81; SL 1990, ch 256, § 4; SL 2020, ch 135, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-29-2.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 29 / Section 32-29-2.1
Action required at stop sign--Place of stopping--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Unless directed to proceed by a police officer or traffic control signal, every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop intersection indicated by a stop sign shall come to a full stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersection. After having stopped, the driver shall yield the right - of - way to any vehicle which has entered or is approaching the intersection from another highway and may not proceed into the intersection until certain that such intersecting roadway is free from oncoming traffic which may affect safe passage. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1970, ch 175, § 25; SL 1989, ch 255, § 194.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-69.3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-69.3
Electronic title and registration system--Approved entity--Application process
Status: in_force

An approved entity using the electronic title and registration system shall transmit all application documents, required electronic signatures, and fees, through the system to the department. Upon receiving an application transmitted through the electronic title and registration system, the county treasurer shall, by close of business on the third business day, either:

(1) Accept the application and forward it to the department; or

(2) Reject the application and return it to the approved entity.

Source: SL 2025, ch 44, § 11.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20-7 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20 / Section 32-20-7
Renting motorcycle to unauthorized person--Violation as petty offense
Status: in_force

No dealer nor person renting or loaning motorcycles may loan or rent a motorcycle unless a valid license or permit is shown such dealer by the renter or loanee and possesses the safety equipment required of the operator of such motorcycle. A violation of this section is a petty offense.

Source: SL 1967, ch 215, § 7; SL 1989, ch 255, § 107.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-82 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-82
Delivery or mailing of plates or stickers--Fees--Plates to be stocked at county treasurer office
Status: in_force

On receipt of any registration application pursuant to the provisions of §§ 32-5-2 and 32-5-3 , the county treasurer or department shall deliver to the owner two number plates or two number stickers, or both. The plates or stickers shall bear the distinctive number contained in the application as mentioned in § 32-5-81 . If the plates or stickers are mailed to the applicant, the applicant shall pay mailing fees pursuant to § 32-5-127 . If the applicant requests that the plates or stickers be express mailed, the applicant shall pay the actual costs of postage and handling. All fees received by the county treasurer for mailing or expressing of the plates or stickers shall be deposited by the treasurer in the county general fund. All fees received by the department for mailing or expressing of the plates or stickers shall be deposited by the department in the state motor vehicle fund.

Each county treasurer office shall be stocked with the following license plates:

(1) Standard issue county motor vehicle and standard issue county motorcycle license plates issued pursuant to this section;

(2) Emblem speciality plates issued pursuant to § 32-5-167 ;

(3) Commercial trailer license plates issued pursuant to § 32-5-8.1 ; and

(4) Trailer license plates issued pursuant to this chapter.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0104; SL 1959, ch 246, § 2; SL 1965, ch 178; SL 1975, ch 198, ch 198, § 1; SL 1981, ch 234, § 1; SL 1999, ch 154, § 1; SL 2009, ch 150, § 3; SL 2018, ch 179, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-31-1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 31 / Section 32-31-1
Emergency vehicle--Traffic regulations
Status: in_force

The driver of an authorized emergency vehicle, when responding to an emergency call or when in the pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law or when responding to but not upon returning from a fire alarm or when operating a funeral escort vehicle as defined in § 32-26-51 , may exercise the privileges set forth in § 32-31-2 , but subject to the conditions stated in §§ 32-31-3 and 32-31-5 .

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0308 as added by SL 1967, ch 191; SL 2020, ch 125, § 7.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-10-29.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 10 / Section 32-10-29.1
Failure to surrender suspended, revoked or canceled plates or registration card as misdemeanor--Assistance by peace officers
Status: in_force

It is a Class 1 misdemeanor for any person to fail or refuse to surrender to the Department of Revenue upon its lawful demand any proportional license plates and registration card which has been suspended, revoked, or canceled. If any person shall fail to return the proportional license plate or registration card to the secretary of revenue after lawful demand, the secretary shall forthwith direct any peace officer to secure possession thereof and return the same to the secretary.

Source: SL 1975, ch 201, § 3; SL 2004, ch 17, § 125; SL 2011, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 11-1 ), § 161, eff. Apr. 12, 2011.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-7A-16 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 7A / Section 32-7A-16
Sales on consignment--Title requirements
Status: in_force

Any mobile home or manufactured home sold on consignment under the provisions of this chapter, shall have a saleable title from the current owner. The title shall be transferred and recorded at the time of each sale.

Source: SL 1984, ch 223, § 16.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-10-30 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 10 / Section 32-10-30
Form and filing of agreements made pursuant to statute--Access to instruments--Public distribution
Status: in_force

All agreements, arrangements, and declarations authorized by this chapter shall be in writing and shall be filed in the office of the administrator. A copy of each agreement, arrangement, or declaration shall be filed within fifteen days after execution or the effective date of the instrument, whichever is the later. The administrator shall provide access to the instrument to any agency administering or enforcing laws relating to vehicles. The administrator shall provide copies for public distribution upon request.

Source: SL 1961, ch 237, § 22; SL 2003, ch 48, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-26-24 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 26 / Section 32-26-24
Manner of making arm signal--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

If the signal required by §§ 32-26-22 and 32-26-23 is given by means of the hand and arm, the driver shall indicate his intention to start, stop, or turn by extending the hand and arm from the left side of the vehicle in the following manner and such signals shall indicate as follows:

(1) Left turn: hand and arm extended horizontally.

(2) Right turn: hand and arm extended upward.

(3) Stop or decrease speed: hand and arm extended downward.

A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0317; SL 1949, ch 166; SL 1989, ch 255, § 164.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-169 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-169
Reflectorized emblem specialty plates--Annual stickers--Permissible vehicles--Contents
Status: in_force

All emblem specialty plates shall be reflectorized and validated with a sticker each year in the same manner as a noncommercial license plate. The emblem specialty plates shall read, Place Approved Emblem Here, to designate where the emblem shall be placed on the plate. Emblem specialty plates may only be used on automobiles, pickup trucks, or vans licensed pursuant to § 32-5-6 , motorcycles licensed pursuant to § 32-5-9 , or pickup trucks licensed pursuant to § 32-5-6 .3. Emblem specialty plates shall be displayed in accordance with § 32-5-9 8. The plate shall bear a design of George Washington's face as depicted on Mount Rushmore upon approval by the Department of Revenue. Any change to the emblem specialty plate design will be implemented during the next license plate reissue under § 32-5-83 .

Source: SL 2014, ch 143, § 3; SL 2020, ch 132, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-24-13 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 24 / Section 32-24-13
Street racing, stunt driving, or takeover--Coordination, collection of money prohibited--Penalty
Status: in_force

It is a Class 6 felony for any person to coordinate or facilitate, or collect money incident to any of the following involving the operation of a motor vehicle on a public highway:

(1) A race;

(2) A drag race;

(3) An organized race prohibited by § 32-24-12 ;

(4) A speed competition or contest;

(5) An acceleration race or contest;

(6) An exhibition of speed or acceleration;

(7) An exhibition of stunt driving; or

(8) A street takeover.

Source: SL 2025, ch 129, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-40-10 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 40 / Section 32-40-10
Transportation network company to provide coverage where driver's insurance lapsed or insufficient--Duty to defend
Status: in_force

If the insurance maintained by the driver pursuant to § 32-40-8 or 32-40-9 has lapsed or does not provide the required coverage, the insurance maintained by the transportation network company shall provide the coverage required by those sections beginning with the first dollar of a claim and has the duty to defend any claim.

Source: SL 2016, ch 167, § 10.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-11-4.3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 11 / Section 32-11-4.3
County and township infrastructure fund--Expenditures--Administration--Purpose
Status: in_force

There is created in the state treasury the county and township infrastructure fund. The fund consists of unobligated moneys transferred pursuant to § 31-34-3 . Expenditures from the fund must be budgeted through the general appropriation bill. The Department of Revenue shall administer the fund. The purpose of the fund is to:

(1) Provide for the distribution of moneys to counties, in accordance with § 31-34-2 ; and

(2) Provide for the accounting and safekeeping of unobligated or unspent moneys distributed to rural access distribution funds, as provided in chapter 31-34 .

Source: SL 2026, ch 127, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-29-1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 29 / Section 32-29-1
Indication of right-of-way by stop or yield signs
Status: in_force

Preferential right - of - way at an intersection may be indicated by stop signs or yield signs as authorized in § 32-29-2 .

Source: SL 1961, ch 225, § 2 (1).
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-15-2.5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 15 / Section 32-15-2.5
One-way glass, adhesive film, or other glaze in rear window prohibited--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No motor vehicle required to be registered in this state and which is operated on the highways of this state may be equipped with one - way glass, adhesive film, or other glaze in the rear windows behind the operators seat that reduces light transmission below twenty percent, with an enforcement tolerance of nine percent. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1988, ch 257, § 2; SL 1989, ch 255, § 232; SL 1994, ch 257, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-90 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-90
Proof of financial responsibility by self-insurer--Certificate of self-insurance
Status: in_force

Any person in whose name more than twenty - five vehicles are registered in this state may qualify as a self - insurer by obtaining a certificate of self - insurance issued by the Department of Public Safety as provided in § 32-35-91 .

Source: SL 1957, ch 212, § 71; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03A66; SL 2004, ch 17, § 172.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-123 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-123
Special plates identifying Indian tribes
Status: in_force

Any owner of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who has complied with all of the laws of this state in relation to the registration of a motor vehicle may receive plates bearing a special design identifying an Indian tribe located within the state. The special license plates shall be issued only upon proof of payment of the current registration fees. The special plates shall be in lieu of the regular number plates issued for the motor vehicle pursuant to § 32-5-98 . Annual renewal of these special plates shall be in accordance with the general provisions of this chapter.

Source: SL 1991, ch 243, § 1; SL 1992, ch 210; SL 2007, ch 173, § 46.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-49 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-49
Conviction of nonresident--Suspension of operating privilege in absence of proof of financial responsibility
Status: in_force

Whenever the Department of Public Safety suspends or revokes a nonresident's operating privilege by reason of a conviction or forfeiture of bail, such privilege shall remain so suspended or revoked unless such person shall have previously given or shall immediately give and thereafter maintain proof of financial responsibility for the future.

Source: SL 1957, ch 212, § 34; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03A34; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-19 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-19
Combination vehicles deemed single for weight purposes
Status: in_force

Any combination of vehicles being operated upon the public highways shall, for the purposes of § 32-22-16 , be deemed to be a single vehicle.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0336 (6) (e) as added by SL 1953, ch 234; SL 1957, ch 223, § 2; SL 1959, ch 260, § 2; SL 1980, ch 226, § 9.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-116 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-116
Written evidence of financial responsibility when cited for violation or involved in accident--Electronic copy as written evidence--Citation for noncompliance
Status: in_force

If a driver of a motor vehicle required to be registered in the state is cited for a violation of Title 32 or is involved in a reportable motor vehicle accident, the driver of the motor vehicle shall furnish written evidence of financial responsibility upon request of the law enforcement officer issuing the citation or investigating the accident. For purposes of this section, an electronic copy of financial responsibility is written evidence if it meets the requirements of this section and is issued as an official electronic document by the insurer. The law enforcement officer shall indicate whether the driver has produced evidence of financial responsibility on the citation and shall write the driver's evidence of financial responsibility on the accident report. If the driver fails to provide evidence of financial responsibility at the time the citation or the accident report is issued, the law enforcement officer may issue the driver a citation for a violation of § 32-35-113 .

Source: SL 1986, ch 269, § 4; SL 1987, ch 241; SL 2014, ch 156, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6C-14.6 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6C / Section 32-6C-14.6
Finality of order to pay fine or suspend or revoke license
Status: in_force

An order issued pursuant to § 32-6C-14.4 becomes final upon expiration of the time allowed for appeals from the secretary's order, if no appeal is taken, or, if an appeal is taken, upon final decision of the court if the court affirms the secretary's order or dismisses the appeal.

Source: SL 2005, ch 162, § 16.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-116 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-116
Restrictions on issuing license to person in arrears for child support--Notice of intent to revoke license--Request for hearing--Promulgation of rules
Status: in_force

The Department of Public Safety may not issue or renew any license under this chapter to a person after receiving notice from the Department of Social Services that the person has support arrearages in the sum of one thousand dollars or more unless the person has made satisfactory arrangements with the Department of Social Services for payment of any accumulated arrearages. However, the Department of Public Safety may, upon the recommendation of the Department of Social Services, issue a temporary permit pursuant to § 32-12-19 pending the issuance of a license if the temporary permit is necessary for the licensee to work and if the Department of Social Services has determined that the licensee is making a good faith effort to comply with the provisions of this section.

The Department of Social Services may also serve a notice of intent to administratively revoke a license if the licensee has failed to comply with a written repayment agreement. The notice shall be mailed to the licensee's last known address and shall advise the licensee of the Department of Social Services' intent to seek administrative revocation of the license for failure to comply with the repayment agreement. The notice shall advise the licensee of all administrative due process rights, including the right to request a fair hearing pursuant to chapter 1-26 within ten days following service of the notice. If a licensee fails to request a hearing within ten days of service of the notice, the Department of Social Services may request the Department of Public Safety to revoke the license. If a licensee makes a timely request for a hearing, a hearing shall be provided pursuant to chapter 1-26 . Upon entry of an administrative decision that determines that a licensee has failed to comply with the terms of a repayment agreement, the Department of Public Safety shall enter an order revoking the license.

The Department of Social Services may promulgate rules pursuant to chapter 1-26 to implement the provisions of this section as they pertain to the functions of the Department of Social Services. The Department of Public Safety may promulgate rules pursuant to chapter 1-26 to implement the provisions of this section as they pertain to the functions of the Department of Public Safety.

Source: SL 1993, ch 232; SL 1994, ch 202, § 2; SL 1996, ch 167, § 2; SL 1998, ch 157, § 16; SL 2001, ch 171, § 104; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20-4.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20 / Section 32-20-4.2
Protective devices not required of riders in enclosed cab
Status: in_force

Section 32-20-4 , requiring helmets, and § 32-20-4.1 shall not apply to persons riding within an enclosed cab.

Source: SL 1970, ch 176, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-29-11 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 29 / Section 32-29-11
Location of mandatory brake checks--Failure to stop as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The transportation commission may, pursuant to chapter 1-26 , adopt rules designating the location of mandatory turnouts where operators of motor vehicles over twenty - six thousand pounds shall stop and check the vehicle brakes. The location of the mandatory turnout shall be conspicuously signed. The failure to stop at a conspicuously signed mandatory brake check turnout is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1987, ch 238.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-39 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-39
Deposit of security interest instrument not required
Status: in_force

The provisions of chapters 44-10 , 44-11 , and §§ 57A-9-501 to 57A-9-530 , inclusive, shall not be construed to apply to or to permit or require the deposit, filing, or other record whatsoever, of a chattel mortgage, conveyance intended to operate as a mortgage, conditional sales contract, mechanic's lien, or similar instrument, (herein referred to as liens) or any copy of the same covering a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer, executed and delivered after July 1, 1951.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0203 (1) as added by SL 1951, ch 229, § 3; SL 1965, ch 186, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20A-15 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20A / Section 32-20A-15
Application of excise tax registration and licensing laws--License required--Registration and titling of snowmobiles--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The title issuance, excise tax, vehicle registration, and dealer licensing provisions of chapters 32-3 to 32-6B , inclusive, apply to snowmobiles. In addition, all snowmobiles used on public lands, private lands, and any frozen public waters within the territorial limits of this state shall be licensed pursuant to § 32-5-90 or have a permit as provided in § 32-20A-15.1 . Any snowmobile used by a resident of the state on property owned by him is exempt from the licensing requirements. Any super modified snowmobile built exclusively for organized track racing events on raceway facilities is exempt from the title registration and licensing requirements. Upon the sale of each new snowmobile by a snowmobile dealer, the dealer or applicant shall deliver to the county treasurer of the applicant's residence the snowmobile manufacturer's statement of origin, the required fees and taxes, and completed vehicle title registration forms for the snowmobile. If the snowmobile has not been sold by a licensed snowmobile dealer, the snowmobile owner is responsible for registering and titling the snowmobile, and for the payment of any fees and taxes. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1971, ch 182, § 15; SL 1973, ch 209; SL 1979, ch 222, § 2; SL 1982, ch 242, § 2; SL 1986, ch 244, § 3; SL 1990, ch 256, § 2; SL 1991, ch 257, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-58.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-58.1
Franchisor, component manufacturer, or manufacturer--Separate warranty for an engine, transmission, or rear axle--Process--Right to audit
Status: in_force

A franchisor, component manufacturer, or manufacturer that provides a separate warranty for an engine, transmission, or rear axle installed in a commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle, as defined in 49 U.S.C. § 32901(a)(7) as of January 1, 2021, shall compensate any authorized repair facility that performs warranty work to repair or replace the engine, transmission or rear axle upon the same terms and conditions as provided in § 32-6B-61 for compensation of warranty work performed by a vehicle dealer. The franchisor, component manufacturer, or manufacturer shall pay all claims made by the facility for the labor and parts within thirty days following approval. The franchisor, component manufacturer, or manufacturer shall either approve or disapprove the claim within thirty days after receiving the claim. If a claim is disapproved, the facility that submitted the claim shall be notified in writing of the claim's disapproval within the thirty-day period. Any claim rejected for technical reasons may be put into proper form by the facility. Any claim resubmitted by the facility within thirty days after the receipt of the claim shall be considered to be approved and payment shall be made within thirty days. The franchisor, component manufacturer, or manufacturer has the right to audit any facility’s claim for a period of one year after the claim is paid to the facility and to charge back to the facility the amount of any unsubstantiated claim. If there is evidence of fraud by the facility, the audit period is two years from the actual or constructive notice of facts constituting the alleged fraud.

Source: SL 2021, ch 134, § 1; SL 2023, ch 100, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-9-17 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 9 / Section 32-9-17
Duration of commercial plates and decals--Payment for unexpired portion of year--Proration of fee
Status: in_force

Each commercial motor vehicle plate or validation decal, intrastate and interstate, shall be valid from the date of issue to the last day of the assigned expiration month. If any plate is issued after the renewal month, the commercial motor vehicle fee shall be paid only for the unexpired portion of the registration period. For each full month which has passed before the license is purchased there shall be a one-twelfth reduction of the annual commercial motor vehicle fee. If a vehicle is being commercially licensed for the first time and the registration expiration date falls within ninety days, the applicant may choose to make payment for the current period and for the succeeding period and receive a license for the next registration year.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0426; SL 1939, ch 176, § 2; SL 1943, ch 161, § 2; SL 1947, ch 195, § 3; SL 1961, ch 236; SL 1977, ch 249, § 28; SL 1988, ch 251, § 4; SL 2010, ch 158, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-27-6 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 27 / Section 32-27-6
Blind persons--Use of cane by sighted persons as petty offense
Status: in_force

It is a petty offense for any person, unless totally or partially blind or otherwise incapacitated, while on any public street or highway, to carry in a raised or extended position a cane or walking stick which is white in color or white tipped with red.

Source: SL 1949, ch 176, §§ 1, 4; SDC Supp 1960, §§ 44.03 18-1 , 44.9932; SDCL § 32-27-9 .
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-40-12 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 40 / Section 32-40-12
Eligible insurers
Status: in_force

Any insurance required by §§ 32-40-8 and 32-40-9 may be placed with an insurer licensed under title 58, or with a surplus lines insurer eligible under title 58.

Source: SL 2016, ch 167, § 12.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-40 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-40
Disqualification for conviction within three-year period of two serious traffic violations
Status: in_force

Any person is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle for a period of not less than sixty days if convicted within a three-year period of two serious traffic violations committed while operating a commercial motor vehicle. Any person is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle for a period of not less than sixty days if convicted within a three-year period of two serious traffic violations committed while operating a noncommercial motor vehicle and either conviction results in the revocation, cancellation, or suspension of the holder's commercial learner's permit, commercial driver license, or noncommercial driving privilege.

Source: SL 1989, ch 267, § 23C; SDCL § 32-12-107; SL 2001, ch 171, § 115; SL 2005, ch 167, § 21, eff. Sept. 30, 2005; SL 2015, ch 168, § 30.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-3.3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-3.3
Titling of mobile or manufactured home whose title was surrendered--Affidavit--Report
Status: in_force

An owner of a mobile or manufactured home may choose to obtain a title on a mobile or manufactured home whose title was surrendered. Before the mobile or manufactured home is removed from real property, the owner shall submit to the department a current tax affidavit from the county treasurer in which the mobile or manufactured home was located and an affidavit stating that the home is no longer subject to a real property mortgage or any other liens. The owner shall also furnish the department an independent report that lists the legal description of the real estate upon which the mobile or manufactured home is located, any liens or encumbrances against the mobile or manufactured home or the real estate upon which the mobile or manufactured home is located, and the current owner of the mobile or manufactured home. The independent report shall also contain an affidavit stating a lien search was conducted of all records of the register of deeds, clerk of courts, the treasurer in the county where the mobile or manufactured home is located, and the secretary of state and shall describe any liens revealed by that search. If any liens or encumbrances exist against the mobile or manufactured home, the applicant shall obtain a release from each lienholder prior to issuance of a title. The department is not responsible for any mistakes in the issuance of the title resulting from documents provided pursuant to this section.

Source: SL 2005, ch 71, § 16.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6C-14.5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6C / Section 32-6C-14.5
Hearing to contest order to pay fine or suspend or revoke license--Procedures
Status: in_force

A dealer may request a hearing to contest an order issued pursuant to § 32-6C-14.4 . The request shall be submitted to the secretary in writing within twenty days after service of the order. Any hearing shall be conducted pursuant to, and judicial review shall be available as provided by, chapter 1-26 .

Source: SL 2005, ch 162, § 15.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-17-5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 17 / Section 32-17-5
Construction and adjustment of headlamps--Visibility distance--Four headlight system--High beam indicator--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The headlamps of motor vehicles shall be so constructed, arranged, and adjusted that, except as provided in § 32-17-7 , they shall at all times mentioned in § 32-17-4 and under normal atmospheric conditions and on a level road produce a driving light sufficient to render clearly discernible a person two hundred feet ahead. However, headlamps may not project a glaring or dazzling light to persons in front of such headlamps. Any vehicle equipped with a four lamp headlight system shall have all lamps lighted on high beam, if such system was designed by the manufacturer to require all four headlamps be lighted, and shall have the two low beam lamps lighted on low beam when headlamps are lighted as required in § 32-17-4 . Every motor vehicle, except those excluded in § 32-17-1 , shall be equipped with a high beam indicator lamp which shall be lighted whenever the vehicle headlamps are on high beam position. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0355 (1); SL 1984, ch 228, § 3; SL 1988, ch 258; SL 1989, ch 255, § 59.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-18-2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 18 / Section 32-18-2
Wheels on which brakes must act--Particular vehicles
Status: in_force

Every vehicle described in § 32-18-1 shall be equipped with brakes acting on all wheels except as provided by §§ 32-18-3 to 32-18-6 , inclusive.

Source: SL 1967, ch 197, § 1 (c); SL 1968, ch 178, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-62 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-62
Trailer dealers exempt from certain liability insurance requirements
Status: in_force

The provisions of subdivision 32-6B-6(16) and subdivision 32-6B-41(13) do not apply to a trailer dealer's license.

Source: SL 1991, ch 246; SL 2019, ch 130, § 16.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20A-7 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20A / Section 32-20A-7
Conditions permitting operation on roadways--Unauthorized operation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

A snowmobile may be operated upon or across a roadway:

(1) To cross at right angles to the roadway only after stopping and yielding the right - of - way to all approaching traffic and crossing as closely as possible to an intersection or approach;

(2) When there is no ditch along either side of a roadway, then on the shoulder or berm until there is a ditch on the right - hand side of the roadway which can be traversed;

(3) When by reason of a bridge or culvert or other obstruction, it is impossible to proceed, then only in the right lane of the roadway and for only such distance as necessary to clear the obstruction;

(4) When permitted in writing by a law enforcement officer or a county civil defense director as authorized under § 32-20A-8 ;

(5) When snow has not been removed from a roadway which has been obstructed and is not used by other types of motor vehicles.

The operation of a snowmobile on or across a roadway in a manner not permitted by this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1971, ch 182, § 6; SL 1972, ch 179; SL 1978, ch 158, § 42.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-14 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-14
Requirements of application
Status: in_force

The application for a commercial learner's permit or commercial driver license, shall include the following:

(1) The full legal name and current mailing and residential address of the applicant;

(2) A physical description of the applicant including sex, height, weight, and eye color;

(3) Date of birth;

(4) The applicant's social security number;

(5) The applicant's signature;

(6) The applicant's color photograph;

(7) Certifications including those required by 49 C.F.R. Part 383.71(a) as amended through January 1, 2015;

(8) A consent to release driving record information; and

(9) The names of each state where the applicant has previously been licensed to drive any type of motor vehicle during the ten-year period immediately preceding the date of the application.

Source: SL 1989, ch 267, § 10; SDCL § 32-12-90; SL 2001, ch 171, §§ 83, 115; SL 2005, ch 167, § 13, eff. Sept. 30, 2005; SL 2007, ch 182, § 6; SL 2010, ch 161, § 5; SL 2011, ch 144, § 5; SL 2015, ch 168, § 13.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-9-10 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 9 / Section 32-9-10
Duties of department
Status: in_force

The department shall make suitable provisions for the carrying out of the purposes of this chapter. The department shall furnish to the county treasurer all receipts, certificates, plates, and supplies required by this chapter.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0425; SL 1947, ch 195, § 2; SL 1949, ch 171; SL 1955, ch 179; SL 1967, ch 204, § 1; SL 1980, ch 217, § 2; SL 1989, ch 264, § 7.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12A-11.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12A / Section 32-12A-11.1
Commercial driver license--Eligibility--Tests waiver for military experience
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person may not be issued a commercial driver license unless that person:

(1) Is a resident of this state for the purpose of being licensed to drive a motor vehicle, as described in § 32-12-26.1 ;

(2) Meets the general requirements of 49 C.F.R. § 383.23 (January 1, 2026) and has passed the knowledge and driving skills tests that meet the federal standards contained in 49 C.F.R. §§ 383.110 to 383.135, inclusive (January 1, 2026);

(3) Has received entry-level driver training from a provider that meets the federal standards established in 49 C.F.R. §§ 380.700 to 380.725, inclusive (January 1, 2026); and

(4) Has demonstrated proficiency in the English language, as required in the general qualifications for commercial motor vehicle drivers established in 49 C.F.R. § 391.11 (January 1, 2026).

The department may waive the knowledge and driving skills tests specified in this section for an applicant who has experience operating a military commercial motor vehicle and meets the requirements established in 49 C.F.R. § 383.77 (January 1, 2026).

Source: SL 2026, ch 134, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-157 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-157
Specific additional requirements for military specialty plates
Status: in_force

Any owner applying for a military specialty plate listed in § 32-5-155 must meet the following specific additional requirements for the respective military specialty plate:

(1) Any applicant for the National Guard plate must be an active enlisted member of the National Guard, an active warrant officer of the National Guard, an active commissioned member of the National Guard, or a retired member of the National Guard with twenty years or more of creditable service;

(2) Any applicant for the disabled veteran plate must be a veteran who has been rated as in receipt of a statutory benefit for loss or loss of use of one or more extremities, a veteran who receives a veteran's allotment for a total service-connected disability, or a veteran who has received a United States Veterans Administration K Award. The disability must have been incurred while serving on active duty during a time of war or while participating in a military mission involving armed conflict;

(3) Any applicant for the veteran plate must be an honorably discharged veteran who served on active duty;

(4) Any applicant for the active duty plate must currently be serving on active duty;

(5) Any applicant for the Prisoner of War plate must be a veteran who was a prisoner of war while serving on active duty;

(6) Any applicant for the Pearl Harbor survivor plate must have survived the attack at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941, while serving on active duty, and have received an honorable discharge from the United States armed forces;

(7) Any applicant for the Gold Star plate must be a parent, spouse, sibling, or child of a member of the United States armed forces who died while serving this country on active duty or as a result of that service;

(8) Any applicant for the Purple Heart plate must be a veteran who received the Purple Heart as a result of the applicant's service;

(9) Any applicant for the Medal of Honor plate must be a veteran who received the Medal of Honor as a result of the applicant's service;

(10) Any applicant for the Silver Star plate must have received the Silver Star as a result of the applicant's service;

(11) Any applicant for the Distinguished Service Cross plate must have received the Distinguished Service Cross as a result of the applicant's service;

(12) Any applicant for the Navy Cross plate must have received the Navy Cross as a result of the applicant's service;

(13) Any applicant for the Air Force Cross plate must have received the Air Force Cross as a result of the applicant's service;

(14) Any applicant for the Distinguished Flying Cross plate must have received the Distinguished Flying Cross as a result of the applicant's service;

(15) Any applicant for the Bronze Star with Valor plate must have received the Bronze Star with Valor as a result of the applicant's service;

(16) Any applicant for the Bronze Star plate must have received the Bronze Star as a result of the applicant's service;

(17) Any applicant for the tribal veteran plate must be a member of a tribe and an honorably discharged veteran who served on active duty;

(18) Any applicant for the woman veteran plate must be a woman and an honorably discharged veteran who served on active duty; and

(19) Any applicant for the Legion of Merit plate must have received the Legion of Merit as a result of the applicant's service.

Source: SL 2014, ch 142, § 4; SL 2015, ch 161, § 1; SL 2017, ch 130, § 2; SL 2018, ch 181, § 2; SL 2024, ch 111, § 2, eff. Mar. 1, 2025.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20A-5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20A / Section 32-20A-5
Restriction of use on interstate highways and railroads--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No snowmobile may be operated upon or across an interstate highway, except that it may cross in the ditch of an underpass or on the extreme right of an overpass. No snowmobile may be operated, other than by a law enforcement officer or a railroad employee in the lawful discharge of duties, upon any railroad right - of - way, except that it may be driven directly across a railroad crossing after stopping and yielding the right - of - way to approaching railroad traffic. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1971, ch 182, § 3; SL 1989, ch 255, § 112; SL 1996, ch 204, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-21.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-21.1
Single trip permits to move to scale site
Status: in_force

The Transportation Commission shall promulgate rules, pursuant to chapter 1-26 , to provide for the issuance of single trip permits by the Division of Highway Patrol to allow a motor vehicle or motor vehicle combination to move to a public or private scale site for the purpose of determining whether a load is properly placed on the motor vehicle or motor vehicle combination. Upon reaching the scale site, as specified in the permit, if the motor vehicle or motor vehicle combination is not within the maximum limits set by §§ 32-22-16 and 32-22-21 , the operator shall adjust the load within the weight limits set by §§ 32-22-16 and 32-22-21 before proceeding. The permit authorized by this section is void after leaving the scale site.

Source: SL 1985, ch 256; SL 1987, ch 210, § 26; SL 1992, ch 372, § 17.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-57 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-57
Boats previously subjected to tax
Status: in_force

If any large boat has been subjected previously to a sales tax, use tax, excise tax, or similar tax by this or any other state or its political subdivision, no tax is owed to this state if the tax has been paid by the applicant to this or any other state. If the amount of tax levied and paid is the same or more than the amount of tax levied by this chapter, no tax or refund is due under this chapter. The county treasurer shall require of each applicant making application for registration of a large boat in this state to furnish a bill of sale, receipt or other tangible evidence that the amount of tax has been paid by the current applicant. If sufficient proof is not furnished, the county treasurer shall collect the tax levied by this chapter on the retail value of the large boat listed in a nationally recognized dealers' guide. The value shall be the retail value of the large boat on the day it entered the state.

Source: SL 1993, ch 102, § 8; SL 1994, ch 335, § 10; SDCL 10-60-8; SL 1998, ch 74, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-14 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-14
False statement in application--Felony
Status: in_force

Any person who knowingly makes any false statement of a material fact, either on the application for the certificate of title provided for in this chapter, or in any assignment thereof, is guilty of a Class 5 felony.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.9911; SL 1989, ch 257, § 16.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-69.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-69.1
Electronic title and registration system--Creation--Submissions--Verification
Status: in_force

On or before July 1, 2026, the department shall establish an electronic title and registration system for motor vehicles; boats, as described in chapters 32-3A and 32-7B ; vehicles, as defined in § 32-6B-1 ; snowmobiles, as described in chapter 32-6C ; manufactured and mobile homes, as described in chapter 32-7A ; commercial motor vehicles, as described in chapter 32-9 ; and fleet vehicles and fleets, as described in chapter 32-10 .

The electronic title and registration system required under this section must permit:

(1) Electronic transmission of data and scans by an approved entity or county treasurer to or from the department in lieu of the transmission of paper documents required under this chapter, including:

(a) The manufacturer's statement of origin;

(b) The manufacturer's certificate of origin; and

(c) Odometer disclosure information;

(2) Receipt and processing of electronic record transactions from an approved entity;

(3) The production and submission by an approved entity of title records generated from electronic records of title and registration maintained by the department; and

(4) Certification and audit by the department of data and scans submitted to the department by an approved entity.

Any approved entity or other participant in the electronic title and registration system shall submit electronic applications for original vehicle titles in a form and format prescribed by the department. A participant shall electronically provide all documentation or information required by the department to process the electronic title application, including the electronic manufacturer's statement of origin or odometer disclosure statement. The department shall verify the authenticity of the electronic information before the electronic title is issued.

Source: SL 2013, ch 135, § 1; SL 2025, ch 44, § 9.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-43 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-43
Identifying markings of state-owned vehicles--Exceptions--License plates
Status: in_force

All state - owned motor vehicles shall have identifying markings printed on both sides thereof. The design size and description of the markings shall be specified by the commissioner of human resources and administration. This section does not apply to the vehicles used by the office of the attorney general, the Department of Corrections, the Department of Public Safety, or the unified judicial system. All state - owned motor vehicles registered under § 32-5-42 shall bear state license plates, except the vehicles used by the office of the attorney general.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0108 (11); SL 1939, ch 169; SL 1953, ch 225; SL 1957, ch 211; SL 1961, ch 220; SL 1982, ch 231; SL 1982, ch 233; SL 1983, ch 233; SL 1984, ch 220; SL 1987, ch 390, § 17; SL 1989, ch 20, § 182; SL 2004, ch 17, § 56; SL 2024, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 24-1), §§ 13, 34, eff. Apr. 8, 2024.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-10-25 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 10 / Section 32-10-25
Records kept for proportionally registered fleet--Inspection by administrator--Joint audits
Status: in_force

Any owner whose application for proportional registration has been accepted shall preserve the records on which the application is based for a period of four full years following the year or period upon which said application is based. Upon request of the administrator, the owner agrees to make such records available to the administrator at his office for audit as to accuracy of computations and payments, or to pay the reasonable costs of an audit at the home office of the owner by a duly appointed representative of the administrator. The administrator may enter into agreements with agencies of other jurisdictions administering motor vehicle registration laws for joint audits of any such owner.

Source: SL 1961, ch 237, § 17.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-20.4 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-20.4
Time period to satisfy lien after receipt of funds--Offering vehicle for sale prior to tender to lienholder
Status: in_force

If a dealer enters into an agreement pursuant to § 32-6B-20.3 , the dealer shall satisfy the lien within ten business days after the receipt of funds. No dealer may offer the vehicle for sale until payment has been tendered to the lienholder, except on a consigned vehicle, whereby the dealer shall comply with the terms of the consignment agreement.

Source: SL 2005, ch 159, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-23-4.7 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 23 / Section 32-23-4.7
Punishment for fifth or subsequent offense--Revocation of driving privilege--Jail sentence for driving while privilege revoked--Limited driving privilege--Mandatory sentence
Status: in_force

If a conviction for violation of § 32-23-1 is for a fifth or subsequent offense, the person is guilty of a Class 4 felony and the court must revoke the person's driver license for a period of not less than three years from the date sentence is imposed or three years from the date of initial release from imprisonment, whichever is later. If the person is returned to imprisonment prior to the completion of the period of driver's license revocation, time spent imprisoned does not count toward fulfilling the period of revocation. If the person is convicted of driving without a license during that period, the court must sentence the person to the county jail for not less than twenty days, which sentence may not be suspended. Notwithstanding § 23A-27-19 , the court retains jurisdiction to modify the conditions of the license revocation for the term of the revocation. Upon the successful completion of a court-approved chemical dependency counseling program, and proof of financial responsibility pursuant to § 32-35-113 , the court may permit the person to operate a vehicle for the purposes of employment, 24/7 sobriety testing, attendance at school, child care delivery or pickup, health appointments, attendance at court or probation appointments, or attendance at counseling programs, treatment, or aftercare.

The court must sentence the person to at least four years in a state correctional facility, one year of which must be served on parole, unless refused pursuant to § 24-15A-15 . Any term of parole must include at least one of the following: enrollment in an alcohol or drug accountability program, an ignition interlock, a breath alcohol interlock, an alcohol monitoring bracelet, or another enhanced monitoring tool. The court may suspend this sentence only if the court orders the person to participate in and complete a drug court program, DUI court program, veterans treatment court program, or mental health court program, as a condition of probation.

Source: SL 2005, ch 173, § 1; SL 2006, ch 168, § 11; SL 2008, ch 161, § 5, eff. Feb. 27, 2008; SL 2011, ch 147, § 2; SL 2022, ch 99, § 5; SL 2023, ch 107, § 2; SL 2024, ch 120, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-7B-22 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 7B / Section 32-7B-22
Permission to change principal place of business
Status: in_force

If the licensee desires to move from the principal place of business occupied at the time the license was granted to a new location within the county, the licensee shall secure written permission from the department to do so. The licensee is required to furnish proof to the department that the new location constitutes a principal place of business as defined in this chapter.

Source: SL 1998, ch 185, § 22.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-35-89 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 35 / Section 32-35-89
Proof by owner on behalf of certain drivers--Vehicles covered--Endorsement on license
Status: in_force

The owner of a motor vehicle may give proof of financial responsibility on behalf of his employee or a member of his immediate family or household in lieu of the furnishing of proof by any said person. The furnishing of such proof shall permit such person to operate only a motor vehicle covered by such proof. The Department of Public Safety shall endorse appropriate restrictions on the face of the license held by such person, or may issue a new license containing such restrictions.

Source: SL 1957, ch 212, § 59; SDC Supp 1960, § 44.03A59; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-24 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-24
Refund of overpayments and erroneous payments--Return of registration and stickers--Time for application
Status: in_force

The department shall issue to the several county treasurers authorizations to refund to the lawful owner of any motor vehicle from current collections of motor vehicle license fees for overpayments or for any motor vehicle license fee paid in error, past or future, paid by the owner for any license plate fees. The refunds shall be paid out of the motor vehicle fees collected by the various county treasurers, and accounted for in accordance with the existing provisions of the motor vehicle licensing law. No refund may be made unless the registration and stickers are returned unused. Any application for refund shall be made within ninety days from the date the license fee was paid.

Source: SL 1964, ch 135; SL 1965, ch 204; SL 1989, ch 257, § 59; SL 2018, ch 178, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-19-6 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 19 / Section 32-19-6
Number of vehicles in tow limited--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

No motor vehicle may be driven upon any highway drawing or having attached thereto more than one other vehicle, except that two other motor vehicles may be drawn if transported by the driveaway method in saddlemount, as provided by §§ 32-22-10 and 32-22-11 , or in a combination of vehicles as provided in § 32-22-12.1 . A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0345; SL 1955, ch 173; SL 1955, ch 174; SL 1959, ch 260, § 1; SL 1963, ch 263; SL 1982, ch 244, § 3; SL 1989, ch 255, § 89.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-34 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-34
Dealer's car auction agency--Defined--Applicability of chapter--Additional provisions
Status: in_force

For the purposes of §§ 32-6B-35 to 32-6B-37 , inclusive, a dealer's car auction agency includes any person, firm, limited liability company, corporation, or association engaged in an auction, as defined by chapter 59-8 , of vehicles. The sales shall involve only vehicles owned by dealers and sold to dealers. The provisions of this chapter apply to dealers' car auction agencies and the license issued is subject to the additional provisions set forth in §§ 32-6B-35 to 32-6B-37 , inclusive.

Source: SL 1986, ch 250, § 35; SL 1994, ch 351, § 54.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-28 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-28
Dealer record of large boats--Inspection by Department of Revenue
Status: in_force

A dealer shall maintain for five years a record of any large boat bought, sold, exchanged, or received for sale or exchange. The dealer shall allow department representatives to inspect the record during reasonable business hours.

Source: SL 1991, ch 362, § 13; SL 1994, ch 335, § 36; SDCL 42-8-80; SL 1998, ch 74, § 17; SL 2021, ch 130, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20A-14 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20A / Section 32-20A-14
Operating under the influence
Status: in_force

The operator of a snowmobile shall be deemed the driver or operator of a motor vehicle within the meaning of chapter 32-23 and is subject to all the provisions of chapter 32-23 relating to driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, drugs, or otherwise therein provided and is punishable thereunder for any violation of that chapter.

Source: SL 1971, ch 182, § 14.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-17-43 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 17 / Section 32-17-43
Exemption of towed highway maintenance vehicles
Status: in_force

A vehicle used primarily for the maintenance of highways and drawn by another vehicle equipped and operated with flashing yellow lights is exempt from the provisions of this chapter when operated during daylight hours.

Source: SL 1985, ch 254.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-22.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-22.1
Fee for assignment of vehicle identification number
Status: in_force

The fee for assignment of a vehicle identification number is twenty - five dollars. The fee is payable to the county treasurer's office at the time of application for a rebuilt title. The county treasurer shall forward to the Division of Motor Vehicles the rebuilt title application with the affidavit of rebuilt motor vehicle and the vehicle identification number assignment fee. The rebuilt application may not be processed if the fee is not paid. If the vehicle identification number is not assigned as a result of the inspection of the vehicle, the Division of Motor Vehicles shall refund the fee to the applicant.

Source: SL 2002, ch 147, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-4-8 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 4 / Section 32-4-8
Certificate forms--Unauthorized possession prohibited--Violation as felony
Status: in_force

No person may have in possession any blank or partially executed certificate of title and registration, certificate of registration, certificate of title, or other similarly styled form or document, whether genuine or counterfeit, of this or any other state or country, which is of a type that, when genuine and properly issued, evidences ownership of a vehicle under the laws of this or another state or country, and surrender of which is required in order to sell, transfer, register, or title a motor vehicle or trailer in this state.

Except, a person may possess such forms or documents if the person is:

(1) An employee of a manufacturer or printer of the form or document and possesses the form or document in the normal course of the business of design or manufacture in connection with bid invitation, bid, or contract with a government agency related to supplying the forms for governmental use;

(2) An employee of a shipper or agency under whose direction the forms are being shipped or delivered to a state or local agency charged with receiving, distributing, or issuing the forms or documents, when they are in a container sealed under governmental direction;

(3) An employee of a state agency who possesses the forms or documents in the course of carrying out the employee's official duties;

(4) A county treasurer or any employee of the treasurer whose official work duties require the handling of the forms or documents and the treasurer or employee possesses them within the confines of the county's official storage space or immediately incidental to placing them in such places;

(5) In possession of the form or document and it is prominently and indelibly marked on its face, either specimen, void, or sample.

A violation of this section is a Class 6 felony.

Source: SL 1983, ch 230, § 7; SL 1989, ch 255, § 8; SL 2003, ch 160, § 14.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20A-19 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20A / Section 32-20A-19
Notice of certain accidents to department--Investigation--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

The operator of a snowmobile on public lands, frozen public waters, or private lands leased for public snowmobile use shall, in the case of a collision or an accident resulting in damage to a snowmobile or other property to an apparent extent of one thousand dollars or more to any one person's property or two thousand dollars or more in any one accident or resulting in death or injury to a person, immediately, by the quickest means of communication, give notice of the collision or accident to the nearest conservation officer or other law enforcement officer who shall file with the Department of Game, Fish and Parks a full description of the collision or accident upon forms provided by the department and available from any state, county, or local law enforcement agency. If the operator of the snowmobile is physically incapable of giving an immediate notice of a collision or accident and there was another occupant in the snowmobile at the time of the collision or accident capable of doing so, such occupant shall make or cause to be given the notice not given by the operator. The secretary of game, fish and parks may investigate the circumstances of such accidents. Any operator or occupant who fails to file a notice as required by this section is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1988, ch 260, § 2; SL 2000, ch 213, § 2; SL 2003, ch 168, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-25-22 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 25 / Section 32-25-22
Punishment upon fourth or subsequent conviction--Cancellation of compensation plates--Duration of cancellation
Status: in_force

Upon a fourth or subsequent conviction of any person for driving a motor truck or trailer at a speed in excess of the limitations fixed by §§ 32-25-1.1 to 32-25-17 , inclusive, the court in which such conviction is obtained may, as a part of the judgment, cancel and require the surrender of the compensation plates of the vehicle involved, which plates shall be transmitted to the Department of Public Safety, together with a copy of the judgment; and compensation plates shall not be issued for such vehicle before the expiration of one year from the date of the judgment.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.9929 as added by SL 1949, ch 173; SL 1953, ch 240; SL 2003, ch 272, § 23.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-35.1 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-35.1
Dealer's car auction agency--Announcement at sale when title denotes any brand or damage--Return of vehicle
Status: in_force

If any motor vehicle has a title that has been marked by this state or another state or jurisdiction denoting any brand or damage and that motor vehicle is offered for sale by a dealer's car auction agency, the auction agency shall announce at the time of the sale that such brand or damage notation is listed on the title. If the auction agency fails to comply with this section, the purchaser of the motor vehicle may return the motor vehicle to the auction agency within ten days after receiving the title, and the auction agency shall make a full refund to the purchaser.

Source: SL 2004, ch 209, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-33-18.3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 33 / Section 32-33-18.3
First degree eluding--Felony--License revocation
Status: in_force

Any driver of a vehicle who, after failing or refusing to bring a vehicle to a stop pursuant to § 32-33-18 , flees from a law enforcement officer or attempts to elude the pursuit of a law enforcement officer and does so in a manner that constitutes an inherent risk of death or serious bodily injury to any third person and causes serious bodily injury to another person is guilty of first degree eluding.

First degree eluding is a Class 4 felony. In addition, the court shall order that the defendant’s driver’s license be revoked for a period of not less than three years from the date the sentence is imposed or three years from the date of initial release from imprisonment, whichever is later. In the event the defendant is returned to imprisonment prior to the completion of the period of driver’s license revocation, time spent imprisoned does not count toward fulfilling the period of revocation.

Source: SL 2024, ch 121, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-22.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-22.2
Use of dealer 88 license plates--Transfer of plates
Status: in_force

Any vehicle owned by a licensed new or used vehicle dealer that is being used to transport any inventory replacement vehicle bearing an 88 license plate issued pursuant to § 32-6B-22.1 may be operated on the streets and highways of this state as a motor carrier if the provisions of this section are met. The dealer 88 license plate is transferable by the dealer from one vehicle owned by the dealer to another vehicle owned by the dealer. However, no dealer 88 license plate may be used on a vehicle for lease or hire, or on a wrecker or service truck.

Source: SL 2004, ch 208, § 2.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-76.3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-76.3
Special plates for nursing facilities transporting persons with disabilities--Parking--Surrender of plates--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Any nursing facility licensed pursuant to the provisions of chapter 34-12 and which has complied with all laws of this state in regards to the registration of a motor vehicle, may apply for a set of special plates as prescribed by § 32-5-76 permitting the operator of a vehicle transporting any person with a disability to park pursuant to § 32-30-11.1 . However, the vehicle may only park for the time reasonably necessary to load or unload passengers in any space reserved for persons with disabilities. The application shall be made on a form approved by the secretary. If the department determines that the applicant is licensed as a nursing facility, the secretary shall issue and deliver a set of special plates to the applicant. The secretary may promulgate rules, pursuant to chapter 1-26 , regarding the application for, term of, and conditions under which the special plates may be issued. If the applicant no longer transports persons with physical disabilities, the applicant shall surrender the special plates to the department within thirty days. Failure to surrender the special license plates as required by this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1995, ch 174; SL 1996, ch 192, § 2; SL 2002, ch 149, § 4; SL 2007, ch 173, § 27.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-11 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-11
Exemptions from numbering requirement
Status: in_force

A boat is not required to be numbered under this chapter if the boat is:

(1) A boat covered by a number still in effect which was awarded pursuant to federal law or a federally approved numbering system of another state, and the boat has neither:

(a) Been in this state for more than sixty consecutive days during any calendar year; nor

(b) Been subject to a contract for a berth for a period of more than sixty consecutive days during any calendar year in marina facilities located within this state;

(2) A boat from a country other than the United States temporarily using the waters of this state;

(3) A boat whose owner is the United States, a state, or subdivision thereof;

(4) A racing boat competing in a regatta or boat race approved by the Game, Fish and Parks Commission or operating during a period not to exceed forty-eight hours immediately preceding the race and the remainder of the race day; or

(5) A boat owned or operated by a person who is participating in a fishing tournament permitted by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks, provided the boat has been issued a temporary boat license valid in South Dakota for a period of ten consecutive days at a fee set by rules promulgated by the Game, Fish and Parks Commission pursuant to chapter 1-26 .

Source: SL 1959, ch 125, § 6; SDC Supp 1960, § 25.1406; SL 1984, ch 279, § 7; SDCL § 42-8-10 ; SL 2001, ch 162, § 2; SL 2008, ch 150, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-34-6 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 34 / Section 32-34-6
Information furnished by driver involved in property damage accident--Failure as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Any driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in damage to property shall stop his vehicle at the scene of the accident and immediately give his name and address, and the name and address of the owner of the vehicle. If the damage is to another motor vehicle and the owner of the damaged vehicle is not at the scene of the accident, the driver shall immediately leave such information on the other motor vehicle. If the damage is to property other than a motor vehicle, and the owner of the damaged property is not at the scene, the driver shall leave such information with the owner of the property or with a law enforcement agency as soon as possible. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.9923; SL 1964, ch 133; SL 1977, ch 189, § 118; SL 1981, ch 251; SL 1984, ch 12, § 8.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3-62 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 32-3-62
List of vehicles sold at auction--Copy of title--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Within fifteen days after an auction held pursuant to § 32-3-59 , the nonprofit automobile club sponsoring the auction shall provide the department with a list of the vehicles sold, including a photocopy of each vehicle's title. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1986, ch 27, § 16; SL 1989, ch 255, § 6; SL 1989, ch 257, § 49.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20-13 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20 / Section 32-20-13
All-terrain or off-road vehicles--License requirements--Public highway use--Violation
Status: in_force

Any all-terrain vehicle with four or more wheels and with a combustion engine having a piston or rotor displacement of two hundred cubic centimeters or more or any off-road vehicle with two wheels and with a combustion engine having a piston or rotor displacement of one hundred twenty cubic centimeters or more or any all-terrain vehicle, with four or more wheels, propelled by an electric motor that draws power from a battery that is capable of being recharged may be licensed as a motorcycle pursuant to chapter 32-5 to be used on a public highway.

Prior to being licensed, the vehicle shall meet the necessary light, brake, and other vehicle accessory requirements provided by chapters 32-15 , 32-17 , and 32-18 that are applicable to motorcycles.

This section does not apply to a golf cart, as defined in § 32-14-13 , a low-speed vehicle, as described in § 32-3-71 , or a toy or youth off-road vehicle.

Any vehicle licensed pursuant to this section may not be operated on the interstate highway system. A person who operates any vehicle licensed pursuant to this section on the interstate highway system is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1987, ch 233, § 2; SL 1989, ch 270, § 1; SL 2017, ch 141, § 1; SL 2022, ch 98, § 1, eff. Feb. 23, 2022.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-158 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-158
Application for military specialty plate--Falsification of application as misdemeanor--Determination of eligibility
Status: in_force

Any owner applying for a military specialty plate shall submit an application, on a form prescribed by the secretary, to the county treasurer of the applicant's county of residence. Any applicant who submits a falsified application is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. The secretary may, at any time, require the applicant to provide additional information to determine if the applicant meets the military specialty plate requirements. The secretary may confer with the Department of the Military, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, to determine if the applicant meets the military specialty plate requirements.

Source: SL 2014, ch 142, § 5.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20B-3 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 20B / Section 32-20B-3
Operation on sidewalk or crosswalk--Duty to yield right-of-way to pedestrian--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

A person operating a bicycle upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall yield the right - of - way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1982, ch 226, § 3.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-3A-32 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 3A / Section 32-3A-32
Certificate of title for large boats not yet subject to large boat provisions
Status: in_force

The owner of a large boat not yet subject to the titling requirements of §§ 32-3A-20 to 32-3A-32 , inclusive, may apply to the county treasurer of the owner's residence for a certificate of title for the large boat. If there are one or more liens on the large boat, the department shall note the liens on the certificate of title in order of their priority and shall deliver or mail the certificate of title to the owner or as otherwise directed by the owners.

Upon issuance of the certificate of title for the large boat, the large boat shall thereafter be subject to the requirements of §§ 32-3A-20 to 32-3A-32 , inclusive, as though the boat was required to be titled.

The owner shall present the certificate of title to the county treasurer when a release statement is filed and a new or endorsed certificate shall be issued to the owner.

Source: SL 1991, ch 362, § 17; SL 1993, ch 322, § 32; SL 1994, ch 335, § 39; SDCL § 42-8-84; SL 1998, ch 74, § 19; SL 2003, ch 160, § 16.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-22-31.2 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 22 / Section 32-22-31.2
Highway construction vehicles on contract to county, township or municipality--Inspection of scale tickets for compliance with weight limitations--Reporting offenders
Status: in_force

Any county highway superintendent or municipal street superintendent may inspect any scale ticket issued by any weight scale operator for a vehicle being used in connection with removal of construction aggregate from a county - permitted gravel pit or for the construction, repair, or maintenance of a public highway pursuant to a contract administered by a county, township, or municipality for compliance with the weight limitations imposed by this chapter. Any violation shall be reported to the Department of Public Safety.

Source: SL 1999, ch 162, § 3; SL 2004, ch 17, § 141.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-26-5 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 26 / Section 32-26-5
Highways divided by markings
Status: in_force

Whenever any roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic the rules set forth in §§ 32-26-6 to 32-26-10 , inclusive, shall apply in addition to all others consistent therewith.

Source: SL 1961, ch 150, § 1.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-6B-80 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 6B / Section 32-6B-80
Manufacturer or franchisor may not own or operate dealership--Exceptions
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided by §§ 32-6B-79 to 32-6B-83 , inclusive, no manufacturer or franchisor may directly or indirectly:

(1) Own an interest in a vehicle dealer or dealership;

(2) Operate or control a vehicle dealer or dealership; or

(3) Act in the capacity of a vehicle dealer.

This section does not apply to a final stage manufacturer dealer.

Source: SL 2000, ch 151, § 2; SL 2012, ch 165, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-12-12.4 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 12 / Section 32-12-12.4
Enforcement of prohibition of use of wireless communication device
Status: in_force

Any enforcement of the prohibition of the use of a wireless communication device pursuant to the provisions of §§ 32-12-11 and 32-12-12 by a law enforcement officer shall be accomplished as a secondary action.

Source: SL 2013, ch 145, § 4.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-5-194 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 32-5-194
Habitat conservation specialty plates
Status: in_force

Any owner of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who has complied with all of the laws of this state in relation to the registration of a motor vehicle may receive habitat conservation specialty plates. The specialty plates must be issued only upon proof of payment of the current registration fees. Habitat conservation specialty plates may only be used on automobiles, pickup trucks, or vans licensed pursuant to § 32-5-6 , motorcycles licensed pursuant to § 32-5-9 , or pickup trucks licensed pursuant to § 32-5-6.3 . Habitat conservation specialty plates must be displayed in accordance with § 32-5-98 . Annual renewal of habitat conservation specialty plates must be in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

Source: SL 2024, ch 113, § 1, eff. Mar. 1, 2025.
S.D. Codified Laws § 32-18-18 — SD Code / Title 32 / Chapter 18 / Section 32-18-18
Brakes on towing vehicle in case towed vehicle breaks away--Violation as misdemeanor
Status: in_force

Every motor vehicle manufactured or assembled after July 1, 1967, and used to tow a trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer equipped with brakes, shall be equipped with means for providing that in case of breakaway of the towed vehicle, the towing vehicle will be capable of being stopped by the use of its service brakes. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: SL 1967, ch 197, § 1 (e); SL 1989, ch 255, § 78.