Free South Dakota Car Bill of Sale
South Dakota pairs one of the nation's lowest flat vehicle taxes — 4% excise, with no county or city able to add anything — with famously light residency requirements, which built its reputation among full-time RVers and out-of-state registrants. A standard private sale runs on form MV-009 at the county treasurer of the buyer's county of RESIDENCE (not where the car sits), inside a relaxed 45-day window, with no inspection of any kind. The 4% calculates from the declared price, so the bill of sale should carry the real number, an exact date, and both signatures.
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South Dakota Car Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Sales Tax Details
South Dakota charges a 4% motor vehicle excise tax on the purchase price. No local add-on for vehicles. Minimum $1 tax. South Dakota is famous for out-of-state vehicle registration due to no income tax and simple registration.
Inspection Requirements
South Dakota does not require a state safety or emissions inspection.
South Dakota Car Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Complete MV-009 with VIN, year, make, model, odometer, sale price.
- Seller signs the title over to buyer.
- Buyer takes MV-009 + signed title to county treasurer within 45 days.
- Buyer pays 4% excise tax + title fee + registration fees.
Common Pitfalls
- County treasurer is the transfer location, not a central SD DOR office.
- Out-of-state registration: only legal for SD residents.
- Missing the 45-day deadline.
- Odometer disclosure required on vehicles under 10 years old.
Pro Tip
SD car: MV-009 + county treasurer + 45-day transfer + 4% excise tax.