What Is a South Dakota Vehicle Bill of Sale
A South Dakota vehicle bill of sale (Form 1025) is a legal document that proves a vehicle has been sold or transferred from one person to another. It lists the buyer, the seller, and the car’s details, including the make, model, and sale price.
The South Dakota Department of Revenue (DOR) recommends using a motor vehicle bill of sale whenever a vehicle is sold, even though it isn’t required by law in every situation. The form can be handwritten or typed as long as it includes the main details about the sale.
Legal Templates offers a free South Dakota vehicle bill of sale form that meets state requirements. Answer a few simple questions to customize your form and download it as a PDF or Word file.
When Do You Need a Vehicle Bill of Sale in South Dakota?
You may use a South Dakota motor vehicle bill of sale whenever you need written proof that a vehicle changed ownership. It’s especially helpful in the following situations:
- Title transfer: To confirm that the car has been legally sold and to prove ownership when applying for a new title with the South Dakota DOR.
- Selling a vehicle privately: To document the sale when a dealership isn’t involved.
- Gifting or donating a car: To record the transfer and help the new owner apply for a title.
- Recording the sale price for tax purposes: To verify the purchase price during registration or the tax calculation as required under SD Codified L § 32-5B-4.
Some counties, such as Minnehaha County, list the vehicle bill of sale as one of the documents required when transferring vehicle ownership. Since requirements can vary by county, it’s best to check with your local county treasurer’s office to confirm the necessary paperwork. Generally, a completed vehicle bill of sale helps ensure a smooth transaction across South Dakota.
After completing your bill of sale, the seller should also file a Report of Sale with the South Dakota Department of Revenue under SD Codified L § 32-5-2.10. This step isn’t part of the bill of sale itself, but it officially notifies the state that the vehicle has been sold, thereby protecting the seller from liability for taxes, tickets, or accidents that may occur after the transfer. Failure to file the report of sale is also a class 2 misdemeanor in South Dakota.
Does a South Dakota Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?
No, a South Dakota car bill of sale does not need to be notarized. Even though state law does not require notarization, signing before a notary public can add extra protection for both the buyer and the seller.
A notarized bill of sale helps confirm each party’s identity and may prevent disputes over ownership in the future. While not legally required, both the buyer and seller should sign the bill of sale to confirm that the information is accurate and that the transaction has taken place.
Sample South Dakota Vehicle Bill of Sale
View our sample South Dakota vehicle bill of sale template to see how to fill in each section with your motor vehicle details. Follow our step-by-step questionnaire to complete your SD vehicle bill of sale and then download your finished document as a PDF or Word file. You can also get a free printable bill of sale for South Dakota to keep a clear record of your vehicle transfer.
