How to Get a Temporary Vehicle Permit in South Dakota

Navigating vehicle registration often requires temporary solutions, whether you are buying a new car, waiting for personalized plates, or moving a vehicle out of state. South Dakota offers specific temporary permit options to ensure you can legally operate your vehicle during these transition periods.

This guide details the types of temporary permits available, eligibility requirements, costs, and the step-by-step process for obtaining them.

Types of Temporary Vehicle Permits in South Dakota

South Dakota provides three main categories of temporary permits. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are buying a car, waiting for plates, or just need to move a vehicle.

Permit Type	Duration	Cost	Best For…
Seller’s Permit(Report of Sale)	45 Days	Free	Buyers driving a newly purchased vehicle while waiting to transfer the title.
5-15 Day Permit	5–15 Days	$1/day($5 min)	Moving a vehicle, non-residents driving a purchased car home, or if you need time beyond the 45-day seller’s permit.
Plate Ordered Permit	30 Days	Free(with app)	Drivers who have applied for specialty/personalized plates and are waiting for them to arrive.

How to Get a Temporary Vehicle Permit in South Dakota

Option A: Seller’s Permit for Private Vehicle Sales

The Permit: Seller’s Permit (Report of Sale) The Rule: The seller is legally required to provide this to you.

1. Seller Reports the Sale: The seller must log in to my605drive.sd.gov (or visit a kiosk/county treasurer) to complete the Report of Sale.
2. Print & Hand Over: The system generates a permit. The seller prints it and gives it to you (the buyer).
3. Drive Legally: You can now drive legally for 45 days while you arrange for your title transfer and permanent registration.

Option B: Applying for a 5–15 Day Temporary Permit

The Permit: 5-15 Day Temporary Permit The Rule: Perfect for non-residents driving a purchased car home or moving a car out of storage.

1. Gather Documents: You need proof of ownership (Title or Bill of Sale).
2. Visit the Treasurer: Go to your local county treasurer’s office.
3. Choose Duration: Pick a timeframe between 5 and 15 days.
4. Pay the Fee: It costs $1 per day (minimum $5.00).
5. Display It: Place the permit clearly in your rear window.

Option C: Plate Ordered Permit for Specialty Plates

The Permit: Plate Ordered Permit The Rule: Use this while waiting for your metal plates to be manufactured and mailed.

1. Request It: When you apply for your specialty plates at the treasurer’s office, ask for a “Plate Ordered Permit.”
2. Validity: This paper permit is valid for 30 days or until your new plates arrive in the mail.

Option D: 30-Day Commercial Permit

• Who needs it: This is primarily for commercial vehicles or specific non-resident harvest situations.
• Where to buy: These are typically purchased at a Port of Entry, online, or at a county treasurer’s office depending on the specific commercial classification.
• Note: Standard passenger vehicle owners usually do not qualify for this and should use the 5-15 day permit instead.

Rules and Restrictions for South Dakota Temporary Permits

• No Homemade Signs: Never use a cardboard “In Transit” or “Lost Tag” sign. These are illegal and will likely get you pulled over.
• Carry Your Papers: Even with a permit, always keep your Bill of Sale or Title in the car. Police may ask to see proof of ownership.
• No Commercial Jobs: The 5-15 Day Permit is for personal use only. You cannot use the vehicle for commercial hauling while using this temporary tag.
• Watch the Date: Driving on an expired permit is a traffic violation. If your permanent plates are delayed, contact the county treasurer before your permit expires.

Frequently Asked Questions