How to Get a Title for an Abandoned Vehicle in South Dakota
South Dakota has a 10–30 days wait period before you can begin the title process. Here is everything a towing company, storage facility, or property owner needs to know.
Quick Reference
Wait Period & Reporting
10–30 days wait required. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
Notifying the Owner
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder
Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
Lienholder Rights
Lienholder must be notified and given time to respond
Failure to notify a lienholder properly can void the entire abandoned vehicle title process.
The Title Application Process
Form/Program: Abandoned Vehicle Title Application
Process varies by state. Typically initiated by a towing company, storage facility, or property owner.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Must follow state-specific notice and wait period requirements
- All liens must be resolved before a clean title can issue
- Storage or towing facility typically must be licensed
South Dakota-Specific Note
South Dakota-Specific Facts for Abandoned Vehicle Title
South Dakota Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In South Dakota, the title transfer fee is $10 and registration costs Based on vehicle weight and age; $36 - $144+. Vehicle sales are subject to 4% motor vehicle excise tax plus municipal taxes. South Dakota does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. South Dakota does not require emission testing for private-party vehicle sales.
- 4% motor vehicle excise tax on purchase price
- Wheel tax varies by municipality
- Title transfer at county treasurer office within 30 days
South Dakota sales tax on vehicle purchases
South Dakota has a 4% state sales tax rate. 4% motor vehicle excise tax plus municipal taxes. Private-party vehicle sales in South Dakota are subject to sales tax. Motor vehicle excise tax applies to all sales. The title transfer fee is $10.
South Dakota bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 223 bill of sale documents for South Dakota transactions, with 6 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More South Dakota Vehicle Guides
- Kelley Blue Book Value in South Dakota
- Leasing vs Buying in South Dakota
- Mechanic's Lien on Vehicle in South Dakota
- New Resident Vehicle Registration in South Dakota
- Out-of-State Buyer Vehicle in South Dakota
- License Plate Transfer in South Dakota
Each guide is written specifically for South Dakota laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in South Dakota?
South Dakota requires a 10–30 days wait period. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
How do I notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle in South Dakota?
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder. Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
How much does it cost to get an abandoned vehicle title in South Dakota?
DMV fees + towing and storage charges. Costs vary widely by state and accumulate with each day in storage.
How long does the abandoned vehicle title process take in South Dakota?
45–90 days. Process includes wait periods, notice periods, and DMV processing time.
Does South Dakota require a surety bond for an abandoned vehicle title?
Not for the standard process. Some states require a surety bond if the title history is unclear or the vehicle has a prior out-of-state registration.
Selling the Vehicle After You Get Title?
Create a compliant South Dakota bill of sale to protect yourself in the transaction.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: State DMV. Abandoned vehicle laws change frequently — verify current wait periods with your state DMV.