Titling a newly purchased watercraft

Watercraft Title Transfer and Registration in South Dakota – Pennington County

In South Dakota, buyers have 45 days from the purchase date of a new or used watercraft to transfer the title into their name. A penalty of $1 per week (up to 26 weeks) will be assessed for late transfers, with a flat penalty of $50 applied after 26 weeks. Additional interest of 1% and penalties will apply to the 3% vehicle excise tax if the transfer is not completed within 45 days, with further fees due on the 60th day after purchase.

Titling requires providing a valid South Dakota driver’s license or ID for each owner. If an owner has an out of state driver’s license or ID then a clear copy of their social security card, or other acceptable proof, will be required. Businesses must provide their FEIN #. If there are multiple owners both may need to sign the documents depending on how the names are connected.

Most, but not all, types of watercraft are titled and/or registered in South Dakota. Please see the below FAQ, or contact our office, to determine if your watercraft needs to be titled or registered.

 

Know Your County

If you live in Box Elder your physical address could be either Pennington County or Meade County. South Dakota residents must register their vehicles in the county they reside.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you'll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about titling and registration in Pennington County.

If you have additional questions not answered here please call our office at 605-394-2163 from 8:00 am – 11:00 am and 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm MDT Monday through Thursday or send us a message through our Contact Us page.

What Documents Are Required to Title a Newly Purchased Watercraft in South Dakota?

What are the Fees for Title Transfer and Registration?

Can I Process My Title and Registration by Mail?

How Do I Get a Quote for Title and Registration Fees?

Can I Request Expedited Service?

What Payment Options Are Available for Titling and Registration?

Where Can I Obtain a South Dakota Boating Handbook, and What Information Does It Include?

Is a title required in South Dakota?

Does my watercraft need to be titled and/or registered in South Dakota?

Does my watercraft require a boat number to be displayed?

What is required for a valid purchase agreement or bill of sale?

How to fill out the Motor Vehicle and Boat Title Application

When is the Non-Resident fee applicable?

Can I get an extension on the 45-day requirement to title and register a newly purchased watercraft?

How is the 3% excise tax calculated?

I purchased a watercraft and trailer together, do I need separate bills of sale?

I received a watercraft as a gift- Do I have to pay excise tax?

I have inherited a watercraft, what do I do?

Can I title my watercraft in the name of a trust?

Can I title and register my watercraft in South Dakota if I live out of state?