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✔ Article reviewed by Ethan Orenstein. Bringing motorcycles back from the dead since 2013. Learn More.

Register & Title a Motorcycle in South Dakota

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This page will cover the street legal requirements and motorcycle registration and title process in South Dakota and provide some tips on how to register if you bought the motorcycle without a title.

Learn more about motorcycle title transfers in South Dakota.

South Dakota Title & Inspection Requirements for Used Motorcycles

  • Does South Dakota have an equipment/safety inspection?
    • Not required.
  • Does South Dakota require VIN Inspections for motorcycles bought out of state?
    • Not required.
  • Does South Dakota require a title for old motorcycles?
    • Yes, title required.

Title and Register a Motorcycle in South Dakota

You’ll need to provide the following:

Find more information about South Dakota motorcycle registration and registration renewal.

How to Register a Motorcycle with No Title in South Dakota

If your project motorcycle has no title:

Option 1: Motorcycles bought in SD

Before sale is complete, ask previous owner to get a duplicate title:

Learn how to replace a lost motorcycle title in South Dakota.

Option 2: Bikes from out of state

If the motorcycle was bought in a state that requires motorcycle titles:

Option 3: Register in a No-Title State

Register the bike in a non-title, no residency requirement, mail-in registration application state, such as Vermont.

South Dakota Street Legal Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

Motorcycles in South Dakota must have:

  • Rearview mirrors.
  • Passenger footrests when riding with passengers.
  • Brake light may not display a blue light larger than 1” in diameter.

Learn more about street legal motorcycle requirements.


This information was correct at the time of writing it, but state laws are subject to change.

More South Dakota Motorcycle Resources

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Content Editor: Ethan Orenstein

Ethan is not just any motorcycle enthusiast. With a decade of experience riding, maintaining, and restoring a range of motorcycles, Ethan brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Many of the tips and tricks shared on this site are born from hours spent wrenching on personal bikes. Paired with his experience as a journalist covering DMV & insurance topics, MotorcycleZombies.com is a must-visit site for any home-mechanic. Every article has been carefully reviewed and edited to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and simplicity - all to help bring your bike back from the dead and onto the road.

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