South Dakota Vehicle Tax Overview
South Dakota applies a motor vehicle excise tax on vehicle purchases, with additional fees varying by county and vehicle type. The state has specific requirements for registration and documentation based on vehicle characteristics.
Motor Vehicle Excise Tax
- State Rate: 4%
- Tax Base: Purchase price or fair market value
- Trade-In Credit: Full value deducted
- Lease Tax: 4% on lease payments
- Minimum Tax: None
Registration Fees (2024)
- Noncommercial Vehicle Fees:
- 2,000 lbs or less: $30
- 2,001-4,000 lbs: $60
- 4,001-6,000 lbs: $90
- 6,001+ lbs: $120
- Title Fee: $10
- License Plate Fee: $5
- Wheel Tax: Varies by county
Tax Exemptions
- Native Americans living on reservations
- Disabled veterans (specific conditions)
- Government vehicles
- Certain nonprofit organizations
- Interstate commerce vehicles
- Gift transfers between immediate family
Registration Requirements
- New Residents: 90 days to register
- Insurance: Mandatory liability coverage
- Documentation:
- South Dakota driver's license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle title
- Bill of sale
- Damage disclosure
Special Vehicle Categories
- Historic Vehicles:
- 30+ years old
- Special plates available
- Usage restrictions apply
- Farm Vehicles:
- Special registration rates
- Limited use provisions
- Different tax structure
Regional Considerations
- Urban Areas:
- Higher wheel tax rates
- Additional city fees
- Rural Areas:
- Farm vehicle provisions
- Different service availability
- Tribal Lands:
- Special tax considerations
- Different registration rules
Wheel Tax by County
- Major Counties:
- Minnehaha: $4 per wheel
- Pennington: $4 per wheel
- Lincoln: $5 per wheel
- Brown: $4 per wheel
- Maximum: $16 per vehicle
- Applies to: Most vehicles
Seasonal Considerations
- Winter Requirements:
- Snow tire recommendations
- Vehicle winterization
- Seasonal Vehicles:
- Special registration options
- Storage provisions
Money-Saving Tips
- Use trade-in credits
- Check for veteran benefits
- Consider historic registration
- Research farm vehicle options
- Time purchase with registration
Common Questions
- Q: How is vehicle value determined?
A: Purchase price or NADA value
- Q: Is wheel tax mandatory?
A: Varies by county
- Q: Can I register online?
A: Yes, for most renewals