📅 2026 Update: Changes to South Dakota License Plates

Since the original article on South Dakota license plates was published, several important updates have taken place. These changes include new plate designs, updated fees, and the introduction of a solid background option. The information in the earlier article continues further down this page.

🎨 New License Plate Designs

Starting January 1, 2024, South Dakota began issuing new designs for standard commercial and trailer plates. This change aims to modernize the appearance of license plates in the state, providing vehicle owners with updated options.

💵 Increased Fees

As of 2026, the South Dakota Legislature increased the mailing fees for sending decals and license plates to motor vehicle owners. The mailing fee is now $12, while the cost for a decal or set of decals is $2.50. Additionally, a $2 technology fee was implemented for vehicle registrations, reflecting the ongoing modernization of registration processes.

🆕 Solid Background License Plates

In 2026, Senate Bill 24 introduced a new solid background license plate option. The fee for both initial issuance and renewal of these plates is $100. This gives South Dakota residents more choices for their vehicle registration.

📄 Application Processes

To apply for personalized plates, individuals must complete the Application for Special License Plates (Form MV 1300). For solid background plates, applicants must follow the specific guidelines outlined in Senate Bill 24. Having clear forms and processes helps streamline the application experience for residents.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🎨 New plate designs started in January 2024.
  • 💵 Mailing fees increased to $12 for plates and $2.50 for decals.
  • 🆕 Solid background license plates introduced with a $100 fee.
  • 📄 Specific applications needed for personalized and solid background plates.
  • 🚗 Technology fee of $2 now applies to vehicle registrations.

💡 Tips for Handling License Plates in South Dakota

Review the details of your specific situation with your attorney.

📝 Check Application Forms

Make sure you have the correct forms for your license plate type. Different plates require specific applications, such as Form MV 1300 for personalized plates.

⏰ Be Aware of Renewal Dates

Renewal dates for license plates depend on the first letter of your last name. Keep track of these dates to ensure you remain compliant with state laws.

💳 Prepare for Additional Fees

When registering your vehicle, be ready for the technology fee of $2 and any increased mailing fees. Knowing these costs in advance can help you budget effectively.

🔍 Research Plate Options

Explore the new solid background license plates. This option may appeal to those looking for a different design and willing to pay the $100 fee.

📞 Contact Local Authorities

If you have questions about specific requirements or processes, reach out to your local County Treasurer's Office. They can provide assistance tailored to your situation.

🏆 South Dakota License Plate Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section covers services related to obtaining and managing license plates. Information is based on Trustpilot data as of October 2026. Ratings may change over time, and unhappy customers often leave more reviews, which can affect scores.

🥇 1. Placatemporal

Placatemporal has a Trustpilot score of 4.9. It is known for providing temporary license plates for all states in the USA, with options for virtual and physical delivery. Reviewers appreciate the fast processing times.

However, there is no recent history of actively soliciting reviews, which may affect the overall representation of customer experiences.

🆓 Free Government Assistance

For those needing help with license plates, the South Dakota Department of Revenue and County Treasurer's Offices offer resources. They can assist with applications and provide information about vehicle registration. Additionally, the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks helps with Habitat Conservation License Plates, supporting environmental initiatives.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing License Plate Services

  • 📄 Types of plates offered (personalized, historic, military)
  • 💵 Fees for issuance and renewal
  • ⏱️ Processing times for applications
  • 📞 Availability of customer support
  • 🌐 Online vs. in-person application options

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❔ What types of license plates are available in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers several types of license plates, including standard, personalized, historic, and military plates. Each type has specific eligibility requirements and application processes.

📅 When do I need to renew my license plates?

Renewal dates for license plates are based on the first letter of your last name. It is important to check the specific month assigned to you to remain compliant.

💡 How do I apply for personalized license plates?

To apply for personalized plates, complete the Application for Special License Plates (Form MV 1300). This form can be obtained from the South Dakota Department of Revenue.

💵 What is the fee for a solid background license plate?

The fee for a solid background license plate is $100 for both initial issuance and annual renewal as introduced in 2026.

📦 How much are mailing fees for license plates?

As of 2026, the mailing fee for license plates is $12, while the fee for a decal or set of decals is $2.50. These fees reflect the actual costs of mailing.

🎖️ Are military license plates available to all veterans?

Military license plates are available to honorably discharged veterans and active-duty military members. Applicants must have a valid South Dakota driver's license or ID card.

⚖️ Recent Legal Cases Relating to License Plates

There have been recent court rulings that affect the regulations and processes surrounding license plates in South Dakota. These rulings can influence how license plates are issued and managed.

For more insights, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Like other states, South Dakota requires drivers to register their vehicles with the South Dakota Motor Vehicle Division. After registering and titling your automobile, you will then receive standard license plates. As of July 1, 2011, the South Dakota Motor Vehicle Division changed their license fees for noncommercial passenger vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, noncommercial gross weight registered vehicles, motor homes, and trailers. Additionally, the fee reduction that is applied to vehicles over 5 years old has been changed to 10 years for any commercially licensed vehicles.

The State provides many different varieties of South Dakota license plates. They are actually broken down into twelve different types:

• Standard South Dakota License Plates

South Dakota License Plates


• Commercial License Plates


• Physically Disabled License Plates and parking permits


• Dealer License Plates


• Military License Plates


• Exempt Entities License Plates


• Organization/First Responder Decals


• Historic Plates


• Motorcycle License Plates


• Special License Plates


• Prorate License Plates


• Personalized License Plates


The standard South Dakota license plate will be issued to you after you submit Form MV-608, or the Application for Motor Vehicle Title and Registration.

Personalized South Dakota License Plates

South Dakota provides the option to receive personalized South Dakota license plates, or vanity plates. These license plates are issued to a driver after completing and submitting Form MV-239, the South Dakota Personalized License Plate Application. On top of any normal fees, personalized South Dakota license plates have an additional fee of $25 for each year.