Properly signing your South Dakota vehicle title is one of the most important parts of a legal sale. Use the steps below as your guide. If you're working with a dealer, ask them how they want the title handled before you sign.
1. Verify Your Title
Start by confirming that the title is in your name and contains no mistakes. If the title has been lost, stolen, or damaged, request a duplicate through your local County Treasurer's office before going any further.
2. Notarization Is Not Required
In a standard private sale, South Dakota does not require notarization of the seller's signature on the title. Both parties simply need to sign the title itself. Notarization is generally only needed in unusual cases, such as when a representative is signing under a Power of Attorney — contact the South Dakota Motor Vehicle Division if you're uncertain.
3. Complete the Seller Information on the Back of the Title
The back of the title contains a section for seller information that must be filled out carefully:
- Seller's Signature: Sign in the box labeled for the seller's signature. All owners listed on the title must sign.
- Printed Name of Seller: Print your name exactly as it appears on the title.
- Buyer Information: Provide the buyer's full name and address in the designated section.
- Odometer Reading: Provide the vehicle's accurate mileage at the time of sale, ensuring this information is filled in correctly without errors. It is important to not guess this number, and record an exact mileage number.
Important: Never apply white-out, scribble through information, or attempt corrections on a title — any of these will invalidate it.
4. Address Liens
Got a lien on the title? You'll need the lienholder's permission before transferring ownership. They can either sign the title directly or issue a lien release letter. The transfer isn't legal until the lien is officially cleared.
5. Consider Multiple Owners
If there are multiple names listed on the title, all parties must sign, depending on how the names are joined:
- "AND": Both owners are required to sign.
- "OR": Only one owner needs to sign.
Key Takeaways
- Notarization is not required for a standard private sale.
- Ensure all signatures match exactly as they appear on the title.
- Address any existing liens before proceeding.
These steps cover the South Dakota title-signing process for a standard sale. For deeper guidance and any state-specific exceptions, refer to the South Dakota Motor Vehicle Division page.
Verified May 2026