Top1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

Renew SD Registration

You must renew your vehicle's registration annually and maintain constant car insurance in order to drive legally in the state. If you need help finding a carrier, visit our Insurance Center to compare quotes from different companies.

Ready to start the renewal process? Scroll down to "Check Your Renewal Notice."

Register a Vehicle in SD for the First Time

You must register your vehicle for the first time with the Motor Vehicles Division (MVD) if you just moved to the state or purchased a vehicle. For information on how to register, visit our car registration page.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

You do not have to notify the state when taking your vehicle off the road. When it comes time to drive it again you must re-register it:

1. Find the vehicle's last registration certificate and title.
2. Have proof of insurance.
3. Have your license.
4. Be ready to pay the registration fee.
5. Visit your County Treasurer's office.

Top2) Check Your Renewal Notice

You should receive a renewal notice in the mail approximately four weeks prior to your registration's expiration date. If you don't receive a renewal notice, contact your County Treasurer's office.

Your notice will include information about the renewal process, including when you must renew. When you register your vehicle for the first time the MVD will issue a license plate number based on the first letter of your last name. For example, if your last name is Brachman, you'll be issued a license plate that must be renewed every January.

Or, for more clarity, here's the MVD's system:

• Last names beginning with A or B must renew in January.

• Last names beginning with C, D, or E must renew in February.

• Last names beginning with F, G, or J must renew in March.

• Last names beginning with H, I, or O must renew in May.

• Last names beginning with K or L must renew in June.

• Last names beginning with M or N must renew in July.

• Last names beginning with P, Q, or R must renew in August.

• Last names beginning with S must renew in September.

• Last names beginning with T, U, V, W, X, Y, or Z must renew in November.

Your notice won't include information about emissions inspections, though. The state doesn't require them.

Top3) Calculate Your Fees

You can find your registration fee printed on your renewal notice. Call your County Treasurer's office if you don't receive a notice in the mail. If you have a newer or pricier vehicle, expect your registration fee, just like your insurance rate, to be higher.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

There are no late fees if you miss the expiration date. You will, however, get a ticket if the police nab you while you're driving with an expired registration.

Top4) Renew Online, In Person, By Mail or By Phone

Renew Online

This option is currently unavailable. You must renew in person or by mail.

In Person

1. Have your old registration certificate.
2. Have proof of car insurance.
3. Have state-issued ID.
4. Have payment for the the registration fee.
5. Visit your County Treasurer's office.

By Mail

1. Have your registration renewal notice.
2. Mail it, along with your payment, to the address printed on your renewal notice.

NOTE: Processing time depends on your county.

By Phone

Not all counties provide this option. Call your County Treasurer's office first to see if this option is available in your county.

1. Have your title number.
2. Have a credit card.
3. Call the number specific to your county and follow the instructions.

NOTE: Processing time depends on your county.

Top5) Affix Your Stickers

Affix the registration sticker on your vehicle's rear plate as soon as you receive it. Included instructions will explain where exactly to place the sticker.

Top6) Get a Tax Deduction

You can claim the 3% excise tax you pay for a first time registration as a tax deduction, but you're out of luck when it comes to registration renewal fees. To better your understanding on this topic, consult a tax attorney.

Top7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

Maintaining your vehicle is just as important to road safety as wearing a seat belt and adhering to posted speed limits. Some simple maintenance steps for keeping your vehicle running smoothly include rotating the tires and replacing your tires before it's too late; changing the oil; and regular tune ups.

You can also bolster your road safety in other ways, like taking the time to find a mechanic you can trust, subscribing to a roadside assistance program, and buying an after-market auto warranty.

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