The South Dakota Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division handles all driver licensing, vehicle registrations, and title transfers for the state. This overview covers the major services provided.
Forms
The Motor Vehicle Division provides many standard forms both online and at branch locations including:
- Title transfer paperwork
- Registration renewal forms
- Driver’s license applications
- Address change affidavits
- Specialty plate applications
While basic forms can be found online, specialized filings like bonded titles or policy exceptions need to be obtained directly through division offices.
Services
Registration Renewal South Dakota Motor Vehicles Division
Vehicle owners can renew expired South Dakota registrations within 60 days past expiration. Renewals can be processed:
- Online
- By mail
- In person
- At county treasurer agent locations
To renew online, drivers need their license plate number or VIN, odometer reading, insurance info, and payment details to submit renewal paperwork and fees.
Appointment Scheduling
Select high-volume Motor Vehicle Division offices now offer scheduled appointments for:
- Driver licensing exams
- VIN inspections
- Title transfers
- Registration issues
Appointments allow customers to skip long wait lines during peak seasons. Schedule through the DOVR appointment portal up to 60 days out based on location offerings and demand.
Driver Exam Stations
South Dakota manages 20+ driver exam stations administering:
- Permit exams
- Road skills tests
- CDL licensing exams
Driver licensing locations can be searched via zip code through the Motor Vehicle Division website, along with study guides.
2024 Drivers Manual
South Dakota updates its Drivers Manual every 2-3 years with law and policy changes. The latest 2024 DMV handbook covers:
- Traffic laws and fines
- Licensing application process
- Road sign meanings
- Safe driving tips
- Special conditions guides
Be sure to review the newest 2024 Drivers Manual for your license exam and traffic law knowledge needs. Download online or pick up copies at your local county office.
License Renewals
In South Dakota, driver’s licenses are valid for 5 years, expiring the day before your birthday when eligible for renewal. Licenses can be renewed up to a year early:
- Online
- By mail
- In person
Some license renewals require new vision screening and updated photos depending on your age. Name or address changes need proper documentation as well during in-person renewals.
License Plates
Beyond regular number plates, specialized SD license plate options include:
- Personalized plates
- Military recognition plates
- Special interest plates
- Collegiate plates
- Native American plates
Fees, term limits, qualifications and restrictions apply for the 40+ specialty plate designs offered. Details found within the Plates section of the DOVR site.
Drivers License South Dakota Motor Vehicles Division
To obtain your initial South Dakota driver’s license, applicants must:
- Pass the written learners exam
- Hold a learners permit for 6 months
- Pass the road skills exam
Those under 16 have additional curfew and passenger limits. Full unrestricted licenses are issued to adults at age 18 under state law. Other licenses like CDL have different requirements.
Contact DMV
Contact info for general inquiries and mailing:
- Phone: 1-800-952-3696
- Mail: 118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
- Website: https://dor.sd.gov/motor-vehicles/
The DOVR website covers all drivers licensing and motor vehicle division details including fees, forms instructions, testing locations, license renewal guidance, office hours, and traffic law references.
South Dakota MV Division Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions received:
What is the minimum age to get your learners permit?
14 years, 6 months – this allows teens to start working towards their license under supervision using a restricted learners permit
How many questions are on the written permit test?
20 multiple choice questions drawn randomly from a pool – you must score at least 16 correct to pass the knowledge exam at the minimum 80% correct threshold set in law.
Can you renew car registration at any county office?
No, you must process SD vehicle renewals in your official county of residence each year for proper documentation
What forms of payment are accepted for fees?
South Dakota MV offices accept cash, checks, money orders, and major debit/credit cards including American Express to cover licensing and registration costs.
Is an eye exam required for license renewal?
es, an eye exam by an optical professional is required at every other renewal, so once every 10 years minimum in order to renew your SD drivers license.
- Further frequently asked questions are covered on the Department of Revenue website linked above regarding South Dakota motor vehicle policies and procedures.