License Plate FAQs

I was driving down a road and inexplicably swerved into a fire hydrant, bending my car's front license plate in half like a cheese omelet. Can I drive as is or must I replace it?

You need to replace it. To do so, complete an Application for Replacement of License Plates and drop it off at your county treasurer's office.

Can I order special license plates for my motorcycle?

Yes, but your options are limited. You can order the following special plates for your motorcycle: personalized, disabled veteran, historical, exempt, and permanently disabled person.

Is there a source that lists the nonprofit organizations in South Dakota with special license plate decals?

Check the state's Organization Decal Guide.

If I'm interested in ordering an organization's license plate, should I contact my county treasurer?

No. To order, contact the organization itself. The organization decides on who qualifies, what fees to charge, and even issues the special plate decals.

My plates are gone. What should I do?

You need to order new plates. Complete an Application for Replacement of License Plates and drop it off at your county treasurer's office.

Does the South Dakota DMV offer antique plates for historic vehicles?

Your vehicle must be at least 30 years old in order to qualify for historic plates. Keep in mind that vehicles sporting historic plates can only be used for display events such as parades, car shows, and exhibitions. To order, you must complete a South Dakota Special License Plate Application and pay a $10 fee.

If I move out of state, do I need to surrender my license plates?

Nope. Recycle them as you see fit once you get registered in your new state.