by Armando Martinez
License Plate Transfer Process in South Dakota
In South Dakota, license plates are issued to the vehicle owner. The seller will be responsible for removing their plates once the vehicle sale is completed. The buyer will have the option to transfer license plates from another vehicle registered in the state of South Dakota, if they choose, otherwise new license plates will be issued during the registration process.
License Plate Transfer Process for Buyers
As a buyer, you'll need to complete your vehicle registration within 45 days of the date of purchase. If you are planning to transfer your existing South Dakota license plates to your new vehicle the vehicle must be in your name, a similar type of vehicle and the registration cannot be expired. Here's what you need to do:
1. Obtain your seller’s title, a bill of sale from the seller, which should include the vehicle identification number (VIN), purchase price, and date of sale.
2. Visit your local county treasurer's office and provide your current registration, the bill of sale, your driver's license or other government-issued ID, and proof of insurance.
3. Pay the transfer fee, which varies depending on the type of license plate and whether it's a personalized or specialty plate.
License Plate Transfer Process for Sellers
As a seller, you'll need to remove the license plate from the vehicle and return it to your local county treasurer's office. If you're planning to replace the vehicle or purchase a new one, you can transfer the license plate to the new vehicle if the vehicle is in your name, a similar type of vehicle and the registration isn’t expired. To do so, follow these steps:
1. Bring the old license plate, registration, and proof of insurance for the new vehicle to your local county treasurer's office.
2. Pay the required transfer fee, which varies depending on the type of license plate and whether it's a personalized or specialty plate.
3. If you no longer need your license plate, you can surrender it in person to your South Dakota county treasurer's office.
Seller Notification to DMV
For your protection, the Seller's Report of Sale may protect you from liabilities resulting from driving or the movement of your vehicle after the date of the sale. By completing this form, you are notifying the state of South Dakota of the sale or transfer of this motor vehicle or boat. There are three ways you are able to submit this report: a paper copy can be submitted to your local county treasurer's office, you can file online at mysdcars.sd.gov, or you can submit the Report of Sale slip from the bottom of the title or fill out the online form through the following link.
License Plate Fees
In South Dakota, license plate fees vary based on the type of vehicle and the type of license plate. Here are the fees you can expect to pay:
- Standard license plate: $10
- Personalized license plate: $25
- Specialty plate: $10-$25, depending on the plate type
It's important to note that these fees are subject to change, so be sure to check with your local county treasurer's office for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can ensure a smooth license plate transfer process when buying or selling a used car in a private party sale in South Dakota. Don't forget to obtain your seller’s title signed over to you, a bill of sale, provide proof of insurance, and check with your local county treasurer's office for any additional requirements. For more information, check out your South Dakota DOR web page.Best of luck with your car sale or purchase!
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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