Official South Dakota Guide

South Dakota SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying South Dakota DPS requirements. Compare rates, understand liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

Min. Liability
25/50/25
$25k BI / $50k Total / $25k PD
Mandate Term
3 Years
Standard from date of reinstatement
Filing Fee
~$15 - $25
One-time administrative cost

How South Dakota SR-22 Filing Works

In South Dakota, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS). It serves as legal evidence that you maintain the state-mandated minimum liability insurance (25/50/25) required to restore and keep your driving privileges.

The "Re-Suspension" Trap

If your policy cancels or lapses for even one day, your carrier is legally required to file an SR-26 Notice. This triggers an immediate suspension of your license by the DPS and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in SD?

  • DUI Conviction: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is the primary reason for an SR-22 mandate.
  • Uninsured Accident: Being involved in a reportable accident while failing to maintain valid liability insurance.
  • Judgment Suspension: Failure to pay court-ordered damages resulting from an auto accident.
  • License Revocation: Any administrative hold or court order requiring proof of financial responsibility for reinstatement.

Don't Own a Car in South Dakota?

You can still get reinstated! A South Dakota Non-Owner SR-22 Policy covers you as a driver for any vehicle you borrow or rent. It satisfies the South Dakota DPS requirement and is typically much cheaper than a standard owner's policy.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The SD Reinstatement Timeline

1

Verify Status

Access the South Dakota DPS online portal or contact a Driver Licensing office to confirm your eligibility date and required fees.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 25/50/25 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the DPS in Pierre.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory restoration fee (typically $50-$200) online through the DPS website or at a local driver exam station.

4

Status Valid

Once the SR-22 is verified and the fee is processed, your driving privileges are officially restored in the state system.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Driving while suspended or letting your SR-22 lapse carries severe penalties in South Dakota:

First Offense

Suspension Extension

Court Fines

Up to $1,000 + Court Costs

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Potential Class 2 Misdemeanor

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South Dakota Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in South Dakota?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the South Dakota DPS. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a SD SR-22?
Yes. Your South Dakota SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must simply maintain the SD-specific limits (25/50/25) to remain compliant with state law.
What is the difference between SR-22 and normal insurance?
An SR-22 is not insurance itself; it is a certificate of financial responsibility attached to your policy that notifies the DMV if your coverage lapses.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in SD?
Yes, South Dakota allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. It is often the most cost-effective way to restore your license if you do not own a vehicle.
Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?
Yes. South Dakota law requires insurers to notify the state immediately (via SR-26) if your policy lapses, which triggers an instant automatic suspension.
How do I remove the SR-22 after 3 years?
Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact the South Dakota DPS to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.