South Dakota Car Insurance Guide
Whether you’re driving to work in Sioux Falls or headed to a nearby state or national park to enjoy the great outdoors, affordable auto insurance can help protect you, your loved ones, and your vehicle on every journey around South Dakota. Learn which coverages are mandatory, which are optional, and how Direct Auto Insurance could be your cheap South Dakota car insurance solution. Get a free quote to see how much you can save.
Do You Have to Have Car Insurance in South Dakota?
South Dakota law requires drivers to have proof of financial responsibility, usually satisfied by purchasing an auto insurance policy that meets at least the state’s minimum coverage limits. Liability limits are expressed as three numbers representing thousands of dollars. For South Dakota, these limits are 25/50/25.
In addition to liability coverage, South Dakota requires drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) bodily injury coverage at the same minimum limits as liability insurance.
South Dakota Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
| Coverage Type | Required by Law | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability – Pays for medical expenses and legal costs if you injure someone in an accident. | Yes | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
| Property Damage Liability – Pays to repair or replace others’ property damaged in an accident. | Yes | $25,000 per accident |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) – Pays for medical bills if the other driver lacks coverage. | Yes | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
| Medical Payments (Med Pay) – Pays for your medical expenses regardless of fault. | Not required | – |
| Collision – Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after a collision. | Not required¹ | – |
| Comprehensive – Pays for non-collision damages like fire, vandalism, flood, or animal impact. | Not required¹ | – |
¹May be required by lenders if the vehicle is leased or financed.
Important: Liability and UM/UIM coverage meets South Dakota law but does not fully protect your vehicle in every circumstance. Additional coverage like comprehensive and collision is recommended.
Additional Coverage Options
- Roadside Assistance*
- Emergency Protection Plan (EPP)*
- Towing & Labor Coverage
- Rental Reimbursement Coverage
Proof of Financial Responsibility and Penalties
Driving without insurance is a serious offense in South Dakota. It’s a Class 2 misdemeanor that can result in fines, reinstatement fees, loss of driving privileges, and potential jail time. Avoid coverage lapses and never drive uninsured.
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License
Driving without a valid license can result in:
- Class 2 misdemeanor: up to $500 fine and 30 days in jail
- Driving while revoked: Class 1 misdemeanor, up to $2,000 fine and up to 1 year in jail
SR-22 Insurance in South Dakota
High-risk drivers may be required to maintain an SR-22 certificate (proof of financial responsibility) if they:
- Committed multiple serious driving violations
- Failed to maintain proper liability coverage
- Were convicted of a DUI/DWI
Direct Auto can help file an SR-22 and guide drivers through compliance.
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Drivers with violations or poor records may need non-standard (high-risk) auto insurance. Direct Auto provides coverage for all drivers, regardless of past driving history.
Finding the Cheapest Car Insurance Rates in South Dakota
Rates vary depending on:
- Coverage type and limits
- Vehicle year, make, and model
- Driving habits and location
- Demographics, driving record, and credit history
Direct Auto Insurance helps drivers find affordable coverage. Get a free quote online or work with an agent to create a plan that fits your needs and ensures you get all available discounts.