How to Renew Your Car Registration in South Dakota

Drivers must apply for a South Dakota car registration renewal on an annual basis. Drivers with registered vehicles will receive a DMV registration notice before the current registration period expires. However, they are responsible for renewing their registrations even if they do not receive a notice.

Motorists have several renewal options. The South Dakota Department of Revenue (SD DOR) offers registration tag renewal online, in person and by mail. Residents near Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Pierre, Aberdeen, Mitchell, Watertown, Yankton and Brookings may also visit a license renewal kiosk for an easy, touch-screen transaction. Review the sections below to learn about each renewal option.

Renewing Registration Online in South Dakota

To renew your registration online in South Dakota, you must have a valid SD driver’s license or state-issued ID card. Visit the MySDcars website and create an account, entering your driver’s license or ID number, full legal name and the last four digits of your Social Security number (SSN).

Follow the prompts for license plate renewal, pay your fees via credit card or electronic check and print your receipt. Carry the receipt in your vehicle until your new documents arrive by mail, usually within two weeks.

Getting South Dakota Car Registration Renewal in Person or by Kiosk

If you cannot get a DMV car registration renewal online or you simply prefer an in-person transaction, you may visit your nearest county treasurer’s office. You must bring your renewal notice and your driver’s license or ID card.

If you do not have your registration tag renewal notice or the vehicle that you need to renew is not listed on your postcard, bring proof of vehicle ownership. County treasurer offices generally accept in-state checks, cash, cashier’s checks and money orders.

If you live near one of the areas listed above, check the SD DOR’s website for a list of license renewal kiosk locations. These convenient license plate renewal stations can be used by residents of any county. Simply scan your SD driver’s license or ID card to retrieve all your vehicle registration information. Note that certain types of renewals cannot be completed at kiosk.

Kiosks accept electronic checks and Discover, Visa or MasterCard. The machine will dispense your new license decals and registration card.

Getting ND Tag Renewal by Mail

SD DOR registration renewal by mail takes a little longer than other methods, but it can be the most convenient option for some. Follow the mail-in registration renewal instructions on your reminder postcard. Be sure to write your driver’s license or ID number on your postcard and add the appropriate postage fee to your check or money order.

Checking Vehicle Registration Status Online

You may want to perform a car registration check if your new registration card and decals do not arrive within two weeks of submitting your application. A car reg check will let you know the status of your application and when you can expect to receive your materials. You may also call the DOR or check vehicle registration status online by logging in to your MySDcars account.