Updated April 14, 2023
A South Dakota motor vehicle or boat bill of sale is a document that proves the sale and purchase of a vehicle or vessel has occurred in the State of South Dakota. This document provides information about the buyer, seller, and vehicle or vessel that is necessary for registration with the state.
Signing Requirements – The seller (only) is required to sign the document.
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Registering a Vehicle
A vehicle owner must register their new vehicle within forty-five (45) days of the purchase date. Registration must be renewed annually, and a vehicle’s registration renewal month is determined by the first letter of the owner’s last name. Owners can renew their registrations online at the South Dakota Department of Revenue vehicle registration and plates portal, in-person at their local county treasurer’s office, by postal mail through their county, or through a DMV Now License Renewal Kiosk.
Where to Register
Vehicle registration is available online at the vehicle registration and plates portal.
Required Documents
- Motor Vehicle/Boat Title & Registration Application;
- Bill of Sale;
- Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form DMV-611);
- Certificate of Title (for a replacement, submit a Duplicate Title Application Form 1002 and $10.00 to a local county treasurer’s office).
- Valid driver’s license;
- South Dakota Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney is required if the vehicle owner appoints someone else to register the vehicle on their behalf;
- Registration Fees; and
- Proof of Insurance with Minimum Requirements:
- Bodily injury liability (unspecified amount);
- Property damage liability (unspecified amount); and
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (unspecified amount).
Registering a Boat
A boat must be registered with the state of South Dakota within sixty (60) days of a change of ownership. Boat registrations last for one (1) calendar year. Registration renewal is available in-person at a local county treasurer’s office.
Where to Register
Boat owners can apply for registration at the county treasurer’s office local to their residence (not where the boat is kept).
Required Documents
- Motor Vehicle/Boat Title & Registration Application;
- Bill of Sale;
- Certificate of Title; and
- Registration Fees.