South Dakota Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Some of the most desolate highways in North America can be found in South Dakota. Once away from the main tourism routes to the Bad Lands, Black Hills and Mt. Rushmore, traffic and dwellings (and service stations!) disappear.
The first week of August is the world famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. Lodging and campgrounds within a hundred-mile radius are filled to capacity.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural (township roads) | 55 mph |
| Rural (county roads) | 55 - 65 mph |
| State highways | 65 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 65 mph |
| Interstates | 75 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | No |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
Yes
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or damage to any one person’s property exceeding $500 or total property damage exceeding $1,000 per accident, must be reported immediately to the local authorities.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/25,000.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- South Dakota has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. There is no breathalyzer refusal penalty.
- Handguns must be unloaded and carried in the trunk or other closed compartment of the vehicle; loaded rifles and shotguns may be carried in a vehicle passenger area.
- Studded tires are permitted from October 1 to April 30.
- Tire chains are not required.
- South Dakota has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- South Dakota has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 6 years of age. Children under age 2 must use approved car safety seats.
- South Dakota has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law for persons under 18 years of age.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 605/773-3105
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: None