In the State of South Dakota, specific documentation and procedures must be followed to ensure a legal and efficient transfer of vehicle ownership. Sellers are responsible for completing the necessary forms, submitting a report of sale, and ensuring compliance with state requirements regarding license plates and temporary permits. Below are the steps & requirements for selling a vehicle in South Dakota:
1. Complete a Bill of Sale and Odometer Disclosure Statement
For vehicles or motorcycles less than 20 years old, an odometer disclosure statement is required.
Use the back of the South Dakota title to complete this information or fill out separate bill of sale and odometer disclosure forms if preferred.
2. Submit a Report of Sale
A report of sale is required to officially document the vehicle’s sale.
If the title includes a tear-off slip on the bottom (older South Dakota titles), you can submit that slip. Alternatively, fill out a Seller’s Report of Sale form and submit it.
Vehicle owners with a South Dakota driver’s license or ID can report the sale on the SDCars Online Portal.
3. Retain the Vehicle License Plates
In South Dakota, license plates stay with the owner rather than the vehicle.
Remove the plates from the vehicle before finalizing the sale.
4. Obtain a Seller’s Permit for Private Sales
If the vehicle is sold privately, the seller can obtain a Seller’s Permit to allow the new owner to drive legally while awaiting the title application.
The permit is valid for 45 days and can be obtained through the Treasurer’s Office or the SDCars Online Portal.
Below, you'll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about selling a vehicle in Pennington County.
If you have additional questions not answered here please call our office at 605-394-2163 from 8:00 am – 11:00 am and 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm MDT Monday through Thursday or send us a message through our Contact Us page.