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How to Register a Motorcycle in South Dakota

Need to register your motorcycle? We'll walk you through each step. First, let's take care of your motorcycle insuance.

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In order to ride your motorcycle on public roadways in South Dakota, you’ll need to make sure it is registered and that your registration is valid. 

When you buy a motorcycle, you’ll first need to transfer the title and get an insurance policy. Next, you’ll need to get it registered and get your South Dakota motorcycle license plates and stickers. 

Note, you should also be sure to have a valid South Dakota motorcycle license when you register your motorcycle too. 

This page will provide you with an overview of the steps to register a motorcycle in South Dakota for the first time, and then we’ll go over your options for renewing your motorcycle registration before it expires. 

Remember, your registration documents and proof of insurance should be kept on your bike when you ride. 

South Dakota Motorcycle Registration Steps

Registering a motorcycle in South Dakota is basically the same process as registering any other vehicle.

If necessary, you’ll also need to complete any motorcycle inspections as required by the South Dakota DMV.

How to register a motorcycle in South Dakota:

  1. Visit your local county treasurer’s office. 
  2. Complete an application for title and registration: https://sddor.seamlessdocs.com/f/1001 
  3. Provide your ownership documents and bill of sale form, if applicable. 
  4. Provide proof of your identity. 
  5. Pay your registration fees and taxes. 

If you’ve just bought a motorcycle, you’ll need to transfer it into your name within 45 days. 

Renew Motorcycle Registration in South Dakota

In order to avoid any traffic tickets or late fees, you’ll want to make sure that your South Dakota motorcycle registration and license plate stickers are valid. 

Motorcycle registration expiration dates are based on the first letter of your last name as follows:

First Letter of Last NameExpiration Month
A/BJanuary
C/D/EFebruary
F/G/JMarch
H/I/OMay
K/LJune
M/NJuly
P/Q/RAugust
SSeptember
T/U/V/W/X/Y/ZNovember

Your options for renewing your South Dakota motorcycle registration include:

  • In person. 
  • At a self-serve kiosk.
  • By mail.
  • Online.

The information and items you’ll need in order to complete your motorcycle registration renewal include:

  • Your renewal notice or registration details. 
  • Your personal information and current address.
  • Payment for your renewal fees.

Depending on the type of bike you have, you may also need to complete the necessary motorcycle inspections when you renew your motorcycle registration. 

South Dakota Motorcycle Insurance

In addition to renewing your motorcycle registration, you’ll also want to make sure that your motorcycle insurance policy is up to date. 

Your annual registration renewal is a great time to compare motorcycle insurance quotes and check for cheaper rates

For more information about South Dakota motorcycle registration and registration renewals, check out the official DMV website at: https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/motor-vehicle/ 

Need more information? Check out our overview of the requirements for motorcycle titles and registrations in South Dakota.