South Dakota Car Insurance Laws

We’re happy to help you and fellow South Dakotans find affordable car insurance to get you driving legal for less¹.

Before you buy auto insurance, it’s important to know South Dakota’s car insurance laws so you can make sure you’re meeting the legal requirements for your state.

South Dakota Car Insurance Laws

According to the South Dakota Bureau of Motor Vehicles, South Dakota’s car insurance laws require all drivers to present proof of liability insurance when they register their vehicle. South Dakota vehicle owners with cars registered in their name must be able to certify that they have insurance and that it meets state minimum requirements for:

$25,000 for bodily injury to or death of one individual in any one accident
$50,000 for bodily injury to or death of two or more individuals in any one accident
$25,000 for injury to the property of others in any one accident

South Dakota Penalties for Driving Without Car Insurance

In the state of South Dakota, it is illegal to drive any motor vehicle without proof of insurance or financial responsibility. The driver must maintain proof of continuous insurance throughout the registration period. The penalties for driving without car insurance in South Dakota include: suspension of driving privileges, fines and getting your vehicle towed. In addition, you can face imprisonment of up to 30 days.

South Dakota DUI/DWI Laws and Penalties

South Dakota DUI laws state that drivers with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or more are considered to be driving under the influence. South Dakota DUI laws also prohibit driving under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine or inhalants. Penalties for DUIs in South Dakota range from up to a year in jail, fines of up to $1,000 and up to a 1 year license suspension for the first offense, to 1-2 years in jail, fines of up to $2,000 and a 1 year license suspension for multiple offenses.

South Dakota Cell Phone Driving Laws and Texting While Driving Laws

The state of South Dakota currently does not have a full ban on cell phone use for all drivers. However, South Dakota has a texting while driving ban for all drivers. It is a minor misdemeanor and violators could face a fine up to $100.

South Dakota SR-22 Insurance Documents

South Dakota SR-22 insurance documents are required for drivers who have been convicted of driving without auto insurance. An SR-22 form may need to be filed for three years with the DMV, showing proof of financial responsibility. This filing is usually required after the suspension of your driving privileges has been lifted. Your insurer can electronically file SR-22 insurance documents to the state of South Dakota for drivers that are required to keep and show valid auto liability insurance.

Cheap Car Insurance in South Dakota

If you are looking for cheap car insurance in the Mount Rushmore State, Good2Go Auto Insurance^® may be able to help. We help you find low down payments and easy monthly payment options to get you on the road for less.

Start Your Free South Dakota Quote Online.

¹Consult with an attorney to see if it is illegal to drive without insurance in your state. Quote times on partner sites may vary. Prices vary based on the state where you reside, the coverage limits you purchase, and other underwriting factors.