License Plate Categories in South Dakota

License Plate Categories in South Dakota

South Dakota is where independence meets open skies. From winding roads through the Black Hills to long hauls across prairie land, your vehicle is more than transportation; it’s part of your story. Here, where state pride runs deep, and roads lead to adventure, a custom license plate is one of the most memorable ways to show what matters to you.

Why should you get a custom license plate in South Dakota?

  •  Showcase your heritage, military service, or tribal pride
  •  Add personality or humor to your everyday vehicle
  •  Promote your favorite cause or club
  •  Rep your alma mater or college loyalty
  •  Make your classic or custom ride stand out
  •  Celebrate your South Dakota roots wherever you roam

In this guide from Seat Cover Solutions, we explore the best personalized and specialty plate options available in South Dakota, plus tips to make your ride feel like home from bumper to back seat.

Best License Plate Options in South Dakota 

South Dakota license plates do more than display numbers; they speak for your background, beliefs, and lifestyle. Whether you are honoring your heritage, repping your alma mater, or backing a cause, your plate says it without needing a word. 

Personalized License Plate Options in South Dakota

Personalized License Plate Options in South Dakota

For South Dakota drivers who want to show off creativity, humor, initials, or a personal phrase, personalized plates are the way to go. They let your everyday vehicle reflect your unique personality.

  1. Standard Personalized Plate – If you want a clean, classic look with a custom message, this one’s for you.
  2. Motorcycle Personalized Plate – Love your bike? Let it ride with a name or phrase that’s all yours.
  3. Low Speed Vehicle Plate – If you cruise the neighborhood in a golf cart or small vehicle, this adds flair.
  4. Special Number Plate – For drivers who like symmetry or lucky numbers, this plate stands out.
  5. Dealer Personalized Plate – If you run a dealership, add a little signature to your fleet.
  6. Trailer Personalized Plate – For campers, horse trailers, or gear haulers, add personality.
  7. Non-Commercial Truck Plate – Use your truck for personal life? Say it with a tag.
  8. Embossed Personalized Plate – For vintage enthusiasts who love a retro feel.
  9. Vertical Motorcycle Plate – For riders who want something custom and sleek.
  10. Disability Personalized Plate – Accessibility with identity—this plate delivers both.
  11. Temporary Personalized Plate – While you wait for the permanent one, let your message show.
  12. Fleet Personalized Plate – If you manage multiple cars, this brings unity with personal flair.
  13. Governor’s Plate – If you hold office, this signals your role with dignity.
  14. Legislative Plate – A great option for elected officials to travel with purpose.
  15. Mount Rushmore Vanity Plate – Add your personal message to South Dakota’s iconic image.

Military and Veteran Plates in South Dakota

Military and Veteran Plates in South Dakota

These license plates give current and former service members a proud way to represent their dedication and branch. If you’ve served, this is your salute.

  1. Veteran Plate – A clear and proud display for anyone who has worn the uniform.
  2. Purple Heart Plate – If you were wounded in service, this symbol says it all.
  3. Gold Star Family Plate – Honoring loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice.
  4. Army Plate – Perfect for soldiers past and present who carry their service with pride.
  5. Navy Plate – For those who served on sea and shore with honor.
  6. Air Force Plate – Tailored for aviators and airmen who continue to fly high.
  7. Marine Corps Plate – For the few and the proud, let the road reflect your grit.
  8. Coast Guard Plate – Celebrate your commitment to protecting our waters.
  9. National Guard Plate – A sign of your readiness to serve state and country.
  10. WWII Veteran Plate – A historic honor for those of the Greatest Generation.
  11. Korean War Veteran Plate – For heroes who stood tall in a key conflict.
  12. Vietnam War Veteran Plate – A symbol of remembrance and strength.
  13. Desert Storm Veteran Plate – Represent your Gulf War service with pride.
  14. Afghanistan Veteran Plate – Modern veterans deserve modern recognition.
  15. Retired Military Plate – For careers dedicated to duty and protection.

Tribal and Cultural License Plates in South Dakota

Tribal and Cultural License Plates in South Dakota

South Dakota’s Indigenous communities are deeply woven into the state’s fabric. These plates honor tribal identity and preserve cultural legacy.

  1. Oglala Sioux Tribe Plate – Carry a piece of your Lakota heritage everywhere.
  2. Cheyenne River Sioux Plate – For those proud of their Northern Plains roots.
  3. Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Plate – A symbol of strength and resistance.
  4. Yankton Sioux Tribe Plate – Honoring ties to the Missouri River Nation.
  5. Rosebud Sioux Tribe Plate – Celebrate your Sicangu Lakota pride.
  6. Flandreau Santee Sioux Plate – Visibility and respect for your Dakota lineage.
  7. Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Plate – Represent your culture across every mile.
  8. Tribal Veteran Plate – When tradition and service come together.
  9. Tribal Council Plate – Reserved for those in leadership and governance.
  10. Cultural Preservation Plate – Support language, art, and tribal storytelling.
  11. Buffalo Nation Plate – A powerful symbol of resilience and strength.
  12. Lakota Language Plate – Keep your language alive with every drive.
  13. Reservation Educator Plate – Recognize those shaping tribal futures.
  14. Native Student Plate – Carry pride to campus and beyond.
  15. Indigenous Heritage Plate – Show respect for all Native cultures.

Charity and Organizational License Plates in South Dakota

Charity and Organizational License Plates in South Dakota

If you believe in driving for a cause, these license plates help raise awareness and support the groups making a difference in South Dakota.

  1. Donate Life Plate – If you support organ donation, share that message proudly.
  2. Breast Cancer Awareness Plate – Ride with purpose and support critical research.
  3. Habitat for Humanity Plate – Back affordable housing with every trip.
  4. South Dakota 4-H Plate – Perfect for those who grew up at the county fair.
  5. American Legion Plate – For continued service even out of uniform.
  6. Rotary International Plate – Highlight your community service and global impact.
  7. Freemason Plate – For those who value tradition, honor, and service.
  8. Shriners Plate – Support children's hospitals with every mile.
  9. Lions Club Plate – Visibility for your volunteerism and mission.
  10. Elks Club Plate – Recognize your charitable community spirit.
  11. Firefighter Plate – Whether you serve or support, this one’s for you.
  12. EMS Plate – For everyday heroes in emergency response.
  13. Police Officer Support Plate – Show your respect for law enforcement.
  14. State Park Conservation Plate – Give back to the trails and rivers you love.
  15. School Pride Plate – Support your local school and show your colors.

College and University License Plates in South Dakota

College and University License Plates in South Dakota

South Dakota is proud of its schools. Whether you're an alum, student, or parent, college plates help you represent your academic pride.

  1. South Dakota State University Plate – Go Jacks, on campus and off.
  2. University of South Dakota Plate – Coyote pride runs strong and bold.
  3. Black Hills State University Plate – A must for Yellow Jacket families.
  4. Northern State University Plate – Show your loyalty to the Wolves.
  5. Dakota State University Plate – For the Trojans who value tech and tradition.
  6. Mount Marty University Plate – Ride with Lancer spirit.
  7. Augustana University Plate – Great for proud Vikings near and far.
  8. University of Sioux Falls Plate – Represent your Cougar connection.
  9. Presentation College Plate – Faith and learning, together on the road.
  10. Oglala Lakota College Plate – Highlight your dedication to education and community.
  11. Sinte Gleska University Plate – Carry your Sicangu scholarship with pride.
  12. Sisseton Wahpeton College Plate – A nod to local learning and culture.
  13. National American University Plate – Ideal for career-driven students and grads.
  14. Dakota Wesleyan University Plate – Ride with blue and white dedication.
  15. University of Jamestown Plate – For South Dakotans attending just across the border.

Antique and Specialty Vehicle Plates in South Dakota

Antique and Specialty Vehicle Plates in South Dakota

If your vehicle is a classic, custom build, or collector’s gem, these license plates give it the spotlight it deserves.

  1. Antique Plate – For rides over 30 years old with timeless charm.
  2. Classic Car Plate – When your car turns heads everywhere it goes.
  3. Collector Plate – Perfect for the multi-car vintage enthusiast.
  4. Historic Truck Plate – For restored pickups with real history.
  5. Farm Use Plate – Built tough and still getting the job done.
  6. Street Rod Plate – A hot rod deserves a plate with attitude.
  7. Kit Car Plate – You built it. Let your tag say so.
  8. Replica Plate – For faithful reproductions of past designs.
  9. Custom Build Plate – For one-of-a-kind engineering and style.
  10. YOM Plate – Match your ride’s original year for full authenticity.
  11. Vintage Motorcycle Plate – Great for restored Harleys or rare finds.
  12. Exhibition Plate – For show-only masterpieces.
  13. Military Show Vehicle Plate – Restored Jeeps and gear need proper ID.
  14. Horse Trailer Plate – For equestrians who travel in style.
  15. Special Interest Plate – When your vehicle breaks every category.

Across South Dakota, the vehicle you drive often reflects the region you call home and the lifestyle you lead. From the ranches of the west to the college towns in the east, the road tells a story of personal preference, practicality, and pride.

  • In Rapid City, Spearfish, and the Black Hills region, you’ll see a strong preference for trucks and SUVs that can handle rugged terrain and snowy winters. The Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, and Jeep Grand Cherokee are top choices for drivers who want comfort with power.
  • In Sioux Falls, Brookings, and Vermillion, commuter-friendly sedans and hybrids like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Hyundai Sonata are popular for navigating city streets or heading to campus.
  • Across smaller towns like Mitchell, Pierre, and Yankton, versatile vehicles like the Subaru Outback and Ford Escape are favored for balancing family life, work, and adventure. 

How to Apply for a Custom License Plate in South Dakota

Getting a personalized license plate in South Dakota is straightforward and can be done online or by mail. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Choose Your Plate Category

Decide what type of plate you want, whether it's a military tribute, tribal design, charity cause, or a classic personalized option. Browse the South Dakota DMV website to explore available designs.

Step 2: Create Your Custom Message

Think of a message that’s meaningful to you. Most plates allow up to 7 characters. Keep it respectful and appropriate, as offensive or misleading messages will be denied.

Step 3: Check Plate Availability

Use the South Dakota Personalized Plate website to see if your message is available. Try multiple variations if your first choice is taken.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Fill out the correct form based on your selected plate category. Specialty plates, such as military or tribal options, may require proof of service, affiliation, or authorization.

Step 5: Submit Your Application and Payment

Send your completed form along with the required payment to the address listed on the form. Fees vary by plate type:

Plate Type

Initial Fee

Annual Renewal

Personalized Plate

$25

$25

Military or Veteran Plate

$10–$25

Varies by vehicle type

Charity or Organization Plate

$25–$50

Often includes donation

Antique or Specialty Plate

$10

May be exempt

Step 6: Receive and Install Your License Plate

After submission, you can expect your custom plate to arrive in 4 to 6 weeks. Once it arrives, install it securely and enjoy your new custom look.

Best Vehicle Customization Ideas for South Dakota Drivers

Your license plate is just the beginning. South Dakota drivers know that every detail from the outside to inside matters when it comes to comfort, performance, and personality.

Exterior Customization Ideas for South Dakota 

  •  Custom decals or pinstriping
  •  Chrome or matte black trim upgrades
  •  Upgraded headlights or fog lights
  •  New rims or all-terrain tires
  • Tinted windows for privacy and UV protection

Interior Customization Ideas for South Dakota

Conclusion

Your South Dakota journey deserves to be personal. Whether you’re cruising past Mount Rushmore or running errands in Sioux Falls, your license plate should tell your story. This blog has shown just how many ways you can make your ride truly yours, from personalized plate options to military, cultural, college, and charity tags.

And it doesn’t stop there. Once your message is on your bumper, upgrade the inside to match. With waterproof seat covers, pet protectors, steering wheel grips, and fresh-smelling air fresheners from Seat Cover Solutions, your vehicle becomes a space that works for your lifestyle.

Ready to complete the look? Browse interior customizations designed for South Dakota drivers at Seat Cover Solutions today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I personalize a South Dakota military or tribal plate?

Yes. Some military and tribal plates offer personalization. Be prepared to provide proper documentation verifying eligibility.

How long does it take to receive my custom license plate in South Dakota?

Most plates are delivered within 4 to 6 weeks after approval.

Can I transfer my personalized plate to a different vehicle?

Yes. You can transfer your plate as long as the new vehicle is registered in your name and meets any specific plate requirements.

What vehicles can have personalized plates in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers vanity options for motorcycles, trailers, non-commercial trucks, low-speed vehicles, and more.

Do antique and specialty plates require yearly renewal in South Dakota?

Many antique and specialty plates have a one-time registration fee and do not require annual renewal, depending on use.

Can I have special characters or emojis on my license plate?

No, South Dakota plates only allow standard letters, numbers, and a limited set of punctuation.

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