You might wonder whether registering an out‑of‑state vehicle in South Dakota truly requires a $100 non‑resident surcharge.
The process involves specific documents, fees, and submission options that can affect how quickly you get plates.
Knowing the precise requirements and common pitfalls will help you avoid delays and extra costs, so keep going to see exactly what you need.
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Key Takeaways
- Gather the original out‑of‑state title, driver’s license (or ID + SSN), completed Title & Registration Application, and proof of insurance.
- Submit the packet online, by mail, or via a third‑party; online is cheapest (2 % surcharge) with ~2‑week processing (48 hr with $25 expedite).
- Pay the $10 title‑transfer fee, $25 administrative fee, $100 non‑resident surcharge, excise tax (4 % of purchase price), and any wheel tax; credit‑card adds 2 % service charge.
- Verify VIN, odometer reading (if ≤ 20 years), and all required signatures; errors cause supplemental forms and up to two weeks delay.
- Once approved, title, sticker, and plates are mailed; renew annually (A‑F → January, G‑L → February, M‑R → March, S‑Z → April).
Quick Start: Register Your Out‑of‑State Car in 3 Steps
How can you register your out‑of‑state car in South Dakota in just three steps?
First, you’ve gathered your required checklist: original out‑of‑state title, driver’s license copy (or out‑of‑state ID plus SSN), and completed Motor Vehicle & Boat Title & Registration Application.
Second, send the paperwork to the county treasurer, attach payment for title transfer ($10), state technology ($2), non‑resident fee ($100), administrative fee ($25), excise tax (4 % of purchase price or NADA value), and wheel tax ($5 per wheel).
Third, allow the timeline overview of roughly two weeks for processing, then receive title, sticker, and plates by mail today.
Choose Your Submission Method: Online, Mail‑In, or Third‑Party?
Which submission route works best for you—online, mail‑in, or third‑party—depends on how quickly you need your South Dakota plates and how much you want to handle yourself.
Online filing or third‑party services sends documents through the Vehicle Registration & Plates portal, adds a 2 % credit‑card surcharge, and provides electronic confirmation within two weeks—or 48 hours if you select expedite options and pay $25.
Online filing routes documents via the portal, adds a 2% surcharge, and confirms in two weeks—or 48 hours with $25 expedite.
Mail‑in asks you to mail the application, original title, bill of sale, and $25 administrative fee to county treasurer; processing takes up to two weeks, faster with $25 expedite fee.
Cost comparison shows online remains cheapest overall.
Gather Documents to Register an Out‑of‑State Car in South Dakota
Now that you’ve chosen a submission method, gather the required paperwork.
Provide the title—and lien‑holder
Complete the Title & Registration Form – Step‑by‑Step Guide
Because the title and registration form is the core of your packet, you must fill every required field accurately, completing Sections A (vehicle type), B (VIN, year, make, model, color, odometer if ≤ 20 years), C (owner name, address, SD DL/ID or SSN), G (lienholder, if any), and H (signatures). Check each box, avoid handwritten errors, and verify signature placement before mailing.
| Section | Field | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| A | Vehicle type | Use exact classification |
| B | VIN, year, make, model, color, odometer | Match title; odometer only if ≤20 yr |
| C | Owner name, address, ID/SSN | Double‑check spelling |
| G | Lienholder | Leave blank if none |
| H | Signatures | Follow signature placement rules |
Submit promptly today.
How to Pay Fees, Excise Tax, and the $100 Non‑Resident Charge
You can pay the title‑transfer fees, excise tax, and the $100 non‑resident surcharge online with a Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, or Discover card, noting the 2 % service charge.
Calculate the excise tax at 4 % of the purchase price or NADA retail value, including accessories and dealer fees, while subtracting any verified trade‑in.
Then add the $100 non‑resident fee on the payment form and, if you need faster service, include the $25 expedite charge.
Online Payment Options
When you log into the county’s Vehicle Registration & Plates portal, you’ll settle registration, title‑transfer, the $100 non‑resident surcharge, and the 4 % excise tax with a Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover card.
The portal adds a 2 % service surcharge to cover transaction fees, which appears on the invoice before you confirm payment.
During checkout, you upload a photo ID; the validates card security before authorizing the charge.
Only Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover cards process online; checks, money orders, and cash require mailing or in‑person payment.
All amounts, including the non‑resident surcharge, are billed together, and receipt generation occurs after authorization.
Excise Tax Calculation
Three elements make up the total you’ll owe: the excise tax (4 % of the purchase price or NADA retail value for passenger vehicles, 3 % for watercraft), the $100 non‑resident surcharge, and the title/administrative fees.
Title/administrative fees are $10 title, $2 technology, $10 lien‑holder notation if applicable, $25 administrative and an optional $25 expedite charge.
- Calculate excise tax using purchase price or NADA, applying relevant tax brackets.
- Add $100 non‑resident surcharge and required title/administrative fees.
- Pay total via county treasurer (check, cash, card) or portal; card incurs 2 % service charge.
You’ll also consider depreciation methods when estimating future resale value. Check your records.
Non‑Resident Fee Process
How does a non‑resident finalize the title transfer and registration in South Dakota?
You’ll submit the title, proof of insurance, and a completed application to the county treasurer, then pay the $10 title‑transfer fee, the 4 % excise tax, and the $100 non‑resident surcharge.
Acceptable payments include check, money order, cash, or credit/debit card (2 % service charge).
Online portal lets you combine all amounts in one electronic transaction.
For mail, attach a cover letter marked “EXPEDITE” and a $25 admin fee.
Fee exemptions apply only to residents; the refund policy covers overpayments within thirty days to guarantee compliance and accuracy.
Get Your South Dakota License Plates and Temporary Permit
You apply for plates online through the Vehicle Registration & Plates portal, pay the $7.50 handling fee (or $1.50 for registration‑only), and receive them by mail in about two weeks.
You can also obtain a temporary permit for $1 per day, valid 5–15 days, which you secure instantly after the online transaction.
If you lack a South Dakota driver’s license or address, you’ll add the $100 non‑resident fee to the same application.
Apply Online for Plates
Why wait in line when you can secure South Dakota plates from home?
You upload the out‑of‑state title, driver’s license (or ID plus SSN), and completed application via the portal.
The system validates documents with Digital signatures and offers Real‑time tracking of your submission.
Fees include a $100 non‑resident charge, $10 title transfer, $2 technology fee, and a 2 % card service fee.
After upload, the county treasurer processes the request within two weeks and mails the plates to your address.
- Upload required documents
- Pay fees securely online
- Receive mailing confirmation
Your new plates arrive ready for immediate installation today.
Secure Temporary Permit Quickly
After you’ve uploaded the title and paid for the plates, the system lets you request a temporary permit in minutes.
You enter the VIN, select the daily rate, and pay $1 per day for a 5‑15‑day permit.
The portal provides instant issuance once the $25 administrative fee and title transfer are submitted, even if full registration remains pending.
Choose the EXPEDITE option for express processing; an extra $25 triggers same‑day delivery.
Display the permit on the rear of the vehicle before driving on public roads.
No extensions are allowed after expiration, so plan the permit duration carefully in advance.
Top 5 Mistakes That Delay Your Registration
Ever wondered why your out‑of‑state car registration in South Dakota stalls? You probably missed a critical step. Common delays include:
Missing original title or signature? Your SD out‑of‑state registration will stall.
- Submitting anything but the original out‑of‑state title, which triggers an automatic hold.
- Leaving a Missing signature or an Incorrect VIN on the bill of sale or title application.
- Forgetting the $100 non‑resident fee, forcing a second payment cycle.
Additional pitfalls are omitting the signed odometer reading on vehicles ≤ 20 years old and using altered forms.
Each error requires a supplemental form or new affidavit, adding up to two weeks.
Double‑check each field before submitting to avoid costly processing delays, gaining approval.
After Approval: Renewal Schedule and Address Updates
Now that you’ve cleared the approval stage, the next step is to manage your renewal schedule and keep your address up to date. Renewals occur annually and are assigned by the first letter of your last name. Choose the online portal or visit your county treasurer’s office to renew. Opt‑in for email reminders to receive alerts before your assigned month. Promptly submit any mailing or physical change for address verification; failure to do so can trigger penalties or invalidate your registration.
| Letter Range | Renewal Month |
|---|---|
| A‑F | January |
| G‑L | February |
| M‑R | March |
| S‑Z | April |
Missed updates may suspend registration now.
State-by-State Guide to Registering an Out-of-State Car
| Alabama | Alabama requires new residents to register out-of-state vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency. Applicants must present the out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and pass a physical VIN inspection at the local licensing office. Standard registration fees apply, plus applicable ad valorem taxes based on the vehicle’s value. |
| Alaska | Alaska mandates that out-of-state vehicles be registered within 10 days of the owner gaining employment or residency. Owners must submit their current title, registration, and a completed application to the DMV. The state does not require emissions or safety inspections, but standard registration and title transfer fees apply. |
| Arizona | Arizona requires immediate registration of out-of-state vehicles upon establishing residency. Applicants must undergo a Level I physical VIN inspection and, if residing in Phoenix or Tucson, pass an emissions test. Drivers must provide the original title and pay a vehicle license tax (VLT) calculated from the car’s base retail value. |
| Arkansas | Arkansas gives new residents 30 days to register their out-of-state vehicles with the Office of Motor Vehicle. The process requires a physical VIN verification, proof of personal property tax assessment, and valid state insurance. Owners must pay state registration fees and potentially a title transfer fee to complete the process. |
| California | California enforces a strict 20-day deadline for new residents to register out-of-state vehicles. The DMV mandates a physical VIN verification, usually performed on-site, and a passing smog certification for most vehicles. Registration fees are calculated based on vehicle value, weight, and county, often totaling several hundred dollars. |
| Colorado | Colorado allows new residents 90 days to register out-of-state vehicles at their county motor vehicle office. Requirements include a VIN verification form (DR 2698) completed by law enforcement or a licensed dealer, and an emissions test in specified counties. Fees include a specific ownership tax based on the vehicle’s age and original taxable value. |
| Connecticut | Connecticut requires vehicle registration within 60 days of moving to the state. Owners must pass a state emissions test, which includes a simultaneous VIN verification, before visiting the DMV. Registration involves paying a title fee, registration fee, and a clean air act fee, plus demonstrating proof of local insurance. |
| Delaware | Delaware mandates that out-of-state vehicles be titled and registered within 60 days of establishing residency. The vehicle must physically pass a safety and emissions inspection at a state DMV lane prior to paperwork processing. Owners pay a document fee equal to 4.25% of the vehicle’s value, plus standard registration costs. |
| Florida | Florida requires new residents to register their vehicles within 10 days of obtaining employment or placing children in public school. Applicants must complete a VIN and odometer verification (Form 82042), usually performed by a notary or police officer. Registration incurs an initial registration fee of $225 plus standard title and license plate charges. |
| Georgia | Georgia gives incoming residents 30 days to register an out-of-state car at their County Tag Office. Vehicles registered in metro-Atlanta counties must pass a state-approved emissions inspection prior to registration. Owners are required to pay a one-time Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) based on the fair market value of the vehicle. |
| Hawaii | Hawaii requires out-of-state vehicle registration within 30 days of arrival in the state. The vehicle must first pass a periodic state safety inspection to obtain a certificate necessary for registration. Owners must submit the out-of-state title, shipping documents, and weight certificates, while paying county-specific weight taxes and registration fees. |
| Idaho | Idaho allows a 90-day grace period for new residents to register out-of-state vehicles. The DMV requires a physical VIN inspection, which can be completed by law enforcement or at the county assessor’s office. Standard registration fees are tiered based on the vehicle’s age, and no state-level safety inspections are required. |
| Illinois | Illinois mandates that out-of-state vehicles be registered within 30 days of establishing residency. Applicants must submit the current title or registration, an Application for Vehicle Transaction (Form VSD 190), and proof of state insurance. Registration costs include a title fee, an annual registration fee, and potential local municipal taxes. |
| Indiana | Indiana requires out-of-state vehicle registration within 60 days of becoming a resident. The BMV mandates a physical VIN inspection for all out-of-state titles, which can be done at the branch or by a police officer. Owners pay an excise tax based on the vehicle’s value and age, along with standard registration and title fees. |
| Iowa | Iowa requires new residents to register their out-of-state vehicles within 30 days at their county treasurer’s office. The state does not require VIN verification, safety inspections, or emissions testing for standard passenger vehicles. Registration fees are calculated using the vehicle’s weight and list price, depreciating as the vehicle ages. |
| Kansas | Kansas allows 90 days for new residents to title and register their out-of-state vehicles. A mandatory Motor Vehicle Examination (VIN inspection) must be completed by the Kansas Highway Patrol or designated law enforcement. Owners then present the inspection certificate, title, and proof of insurance to the county treasurer to pay applicable property taxes and registration fees. |
| Kentucky | Kentucky imposes a strict 15-day deadline to register an out-of-state vehicle upon establishing residency. Vehicles must undergo a VIN and odometer inspection conducted by the county sheriff before title processing. Owners are subject to a standard registration fee and a 6% motor vehicle usage tax based on the current trade-in value. |
| Louisiana | Louisiana requires out-of-state vehicles to be registered within 30 days of residency. The state mandates a safety inspection—and an emissions test in the Baton Rouge area—immediately upon registration. Fees include a title transfer fee, a use tax based on the vehicle’s book value, and standard license plate charges. |
| Maine | Maine requires residents to register out-of-state vehicles within 30 days of establishing domicile. Owners must pay an excise tax at their local municipal office before completing the registration at the BMV. Once registered, the vehicle must pass an annual state safety inspection within 14 days of receiving plates. |
| Maryland | Maryland mandates vehicle registration within 60 days of moving to the state. The vehicle must pass a comprehensive Maryland safety inspection at an authorized station before registration can be finalized. Owners are subject to an excise tax based on the vehicle’s fair market value, along with standard title and tag fees. |
| Massachusetts | Massachusetts requires immediate registration upon establishing residency, with no explicit grace period for out-of-state vehicles. Owners must secure state auto insurance, have their agent stamp the registration application, and pay 6.25% sales tax if purchased within the last six months. The vehicle must pass a state safety and emissions inspection within seven days of registration. |
| Michigan | Michigan requires residents to title and register out-of-state vehicles immediately upon establishing residency. The Secretary of State requires the out-of-state title, proof of Michigan no-fault insurance, and identification. Registration fees are based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for newer vehicles or weight for older models. |
| Minnesota | Minnesota requires new residents to register their out-of-state cars within 60 days of moving. The state does not require VIN checks or emissions testing for standard passenger vehicles. Owners must submit their current title, ID, and pay registration fees based on the vehicle’s base value and age, alongside local wheelage taxes. |
| Mississippi | Mississippi gives new residents 30 days to obtain a state title and registration for out-of-state vehicles. The state does not enforce emissions testing or safety inspections for standard registrations. Costs include a standard title fee, a highway privilege tax, and an ad valorem tax based on the vehicle’s assessed value and county of residence. |
| Missouri | Missouri mandates that out-of-state vehicles be registered within 30 days of residency. The vehicle must pass an ID/OD (VIN and Odometer) inspection, plus a statewide safety inspection and a local emissions test in St. Louis areas. Owners must provide a property tax waiver or receipt and pay standard registration and title fees. |
| Montana | Montana gives new residents 60 days to title and register an out-of-state car at their county treasurer’s office. The state does not require physical vehicle inspections, smog checks, or safety certifications. Registration fees are calculated as a flat rate based on the vehicle’s age and type, supplemented by local county option taxes. |
| Nebraska | Nebraska requires out-of-state vehicles to be registered within 30 days of the owner establishing residency. A mandatory VIN inspection must be performed by the county sheriff or local police prior to submitting paperwork. Owners pay standard registration fees plus a motor vehicle tax and fee based on the vehicle’s original value and weight. |
| Nevada | Nevada requires residents to obtain new plates and registration within 30 days of moving. Vehicles must undergo a VIN inspection at the DMV and, if residing in Clark or Washoe counties, pass an emissions smog check. Registration fees include a basic registration fee and a Governmental Services Tax based on the vehicle’s depreciated MSRP. |
| New Hampshire | New Hampshire allows 60 days for new residents to register out-of-state vehicles at their town or city clerk’s office. Registration involves a local municipal fee based on vehicle list price and a state fee based on vehicle weight. Following registration, the vehicle must pass an annual state safety and emissions inspection within 10 days. |
| New Jersey | New Jersey mandates that out-of-state vehicles be titled and registered within 60 days of residency. Owners must submit their out-of-state title and proof of New Jersey liability insurance to the MVC. Once registered, the vehicle has 14 days to pass a mandatory state emissions inspection at an approved facility. |
| New Mexico | New Mexico requires vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency. The MVD requires a physical VIN inspection for all out-of-state vehicles, and Bernalillo County residents must pass an emissions test. Fees include a title fee, registration fee based on vehicle weight and age, and an excise tax if the vehicle was recently purchased. |
| New York | New York gives new residents 30 days to turn in their out-of-state title and register their vehicle. The DMV requires proof of specific New York state auto insurance prior to processing any paperwork. After receiving plates, the vehicle has 10 days to pass a state safety and emissions inspection at a licensed station. |
| North Carolina | North Carolina requires out-of-state vehicle registration within 30 days of residency. Owners must provide a valid North Carolina driver’s license and proof of liability insurance to title the vehicle. The car is exempt from state safety and emissions inspections for the first year, but must pass them for subsequent renewals. |
| North Dakota | North Dakota requires immediate registration of out-of-state vehicles once residency or employment is established. The state does not require safety inspections, emissions testing, or physical VIN verifications. Owners simply submit the out-of-state title, application forms, and an excise tax if the vehicle was purchased out-of-state within the last year. |
| Ohio | Ohio residents must register out-of-state vehicles within 30 days of moving. An out-of-state VIN inspection must be completed by a deputy registrar or authorized dealership to verify the title. Residents in certain northern counties must also pass an E-Check emissions test before registering. |
| Oklahoma | Oklahoma gives new residents 30 days to register their out-of-state vehicles at a local tag agency. A physical VIN inspection is required to ensure the vehicle matches the out-of-state title, though safety and emissions checks are not. Standard flat-rate registration fees apply, along with a title transfer fee. |
| Oregon | Oregon mandates out-of-state vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency. Applicants must bring their vehicle to the DMV for a physical VIN inspection. Residents in the Portland and Medford areas must also pass a DEQ emissions test before completing the registration and title transfer. |
| Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania requires out-of-state vehicles to be registered within 20 days of residency. A physical VIN tracing or verification by a certified mechanic or notary is required during the title transfer. Once registered, the vehicle has 10 days to pass a mandatory state safety and emissions inspection. |
| Rhode Island | Rhode Island requires vehicle registration within 30 days of moving to the state. All out-of-state vehicles must undergo a VIN check performed by a local police department prior to visiting the DMV. Registration costs are based on vehicle weight, and the car must pass a safety/emissions inspection within 5 days of registration. |
| South Carolina | South Carolina gives incoming residents 45 days to register an out-of-state vehicle. Before visiting the DMV, owners must pay the vehicle’s property tax at their county auditor’s office and obtain a tax receipt. No state safety or emissions inspections are required, but standard title and registration fees apply. |
| Tennessee | Tennessee requires new residents to register out-of-state vehicles within 30 days at their county clerk’s office. The state has discontinued emissions testing statewide, and no safety inspections or VIN verifications are required. Owners pay a state registration fee, standard title fee, and applicable county-specific wheel taxes. |
| Texas | Texas requires out-of-state vehicles to be registered within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle must first pass a comprehensive state safety inspection (and emissions check in select counties) to obtain a Vehicle Inspection Report. The inspection station will also complete the mandatory VIN verification before registration at the county tax office. |
| Utah | Utah mandates vehicle registration within 60 days of moving to the state. Vehicles are subject to a VIN inspection, and certain counties require passing an emissions test before processing. Fees include a uniform age-based fee and standard registration charges, paid at the DMV. |
| Vermont | Vermont requires new residents to register their out-of-state vehicles within 60 days. A physical VIN verification completed by law enforcement or a DMV investigator is mandatory for processing the title. After receiving plates, the vehicle has 15 days to pass an annual safety and emissions inspection at an approved garage. |
| Virginia | Virginia gives new residents 30 days to title and register an out-of-state car. The vehicle must pass an annual safety inspection, and vehicles in the Northern Virginia area must also pass an emissions test. Owners are subject to standard registration fees and a motor vehicle sales and use tax based on the vehicle’s value. |
| Washington | Washington requires out-of-state vehicles to be registered within 30 days of establishing residency. A physical VIN inspection is typically only required if the out-of-state title is missing or irregular. Owners must pay standard state registration fees, county taxes, and a Regional Transit Authority (RTA) tax if living in the Seattle metro area. |
| West Virginia | West Virginia mandates that new residents register their vehicles within 30 days. The DMV requires the out-of-state title, proof of state insurance, and payment of personal property taxes. The vehicle must pass a state safety inspection within 10 days of being registered. |
| Wisconsin | Wisconsin requires new residents to register out-of-state vehicles within 60 days. The state does not require a physical VIN verification, but residents in seven southeastern counties must pass an emissions test. Registration costs include a title fee, an annual registration fee, and a local wheel tax depending on the municipality. |
| Wyoming | Wyoming gives new residents 130 days to register out-of-state vehicles, though immediate registration is required if taking a job in the state. A physical VIN inspection must be performed by law enforcement prior to titling. Fees are determined by the factory price of the vehicle and a county property tax rate. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Register My Car in South Dakota From Out of State?
You’ve registered your car by submitting the out‑of‑state title, driver’s license copy, and application via online filing or mail registration, paying fees and taxes, then ordering plates and confirming the 45‑day deadline to complete process.
Can I Register My Vehicle in Another State if I Don’t Live There?
85% of out‑of‑state registrations trigger higher fees, showing why you can’t register elsewhere without meeting residency requirements; you’ll also face tax consequences, including state excise and possible surcharge, and you must provide proof of ownership.
What Do I All Need to Register My Car in South Dakota?
You’ve got to the out‑of‑state title, registration application, driver’s license with proof residency, bill of sale, odometer statement (if under 20‑years), $10 title fee, $2 tech fee, $100 non‑resident surcharge, plus vehicle inspection if required.
How Much Is It to Register Your Vehicle in South Dakota?
You might think the fees are hidden, but it’s about $10 base fee plus $2 technology charge, $5 per wheel, $25 handling, plus excise tax and registration tax, yielding an annual cost around total $200.
Conclusion
Now you’ve got the roadmap, so hit the ground running and submit your packet. Double‑check each document, pay the title, technology, administrative, non‑resident, and excise fees, and choose your delivery method. Once the DMV processes your application, you’ll receive plates and a temporary permit within the promised timeframe. Keep the registration renewal dates on your calendar and update your address promptly to avoid penalties. Follow these steps, and your out‑of‑state car will be legally South Dakota‑registered.
