South Dakota is poised to join a growing trend in the United States by potentially introducing distinctive solid-color license plates that could redefine the landscape of its vehicle registrations.
The proposed legislation, requested by the South Dakota Department of Revenue, seeks to create two new license plate designs: one featuring a black background with white letters and numbers and another with a white background highlighted by black text. This initiative aims to offer South Dakota’s residents a more personalized and stylish option for their vehicles, including cars, pickup trucks, vans, and motorcycles.
South Dakota License Plates
The annual fee for these aesthetically appealing license plates is set at $100, with $75 allocated to the state highway fund and $25 going to the license plate special revenue fund. For those seeking to add a personal touch to their plates with custom messaging, a one-time fee of $25 would be imposed.
This bold move by South Dakota comes as other Midwestern states like Iowa, Minnesota, and North Dakota have already embraced similar ‘blackout’ license plates with considerable success. Iowa, for instance, was a pioneer in this trend, launching its black background plates back in 2019. By the end of 2022, over 450,000 Iowans had opted for the ‘blackout’ design, marking a 90% increase from 2020.
Similarly, Minnesota joined the ranks in 2024, selling over 248,000 such plates in that year alone. North Dakota instituted its version in 2025 and projects distributing more than 116,000 plates over a span of four years.
For South Dakota, a state renowned for its expansive landscapes and strong community spirit, this legislative effort could be seen as a nod to its residents’ desire for individuality and local pride. The prospect of these new license plates could not only add a layer of customization for vehicle owners but also bolster state infrastructure with the funds generated.
South Dakota, often characterized by its scenic beauty, bountiful wildlife, and friendly communities, is a state that treasures both its history and modern developments. Such legislative proposals mirror the ongoing balance between preserving tradition and embracing novelty within the state.
The participation of states in this trend highlights a broader shift in consumer preference towards modern, sleek vehicle accessories, allowing individuals to showcase a touch of personal style and make a statement on the open road.
While many residents are eagerly awaiting further updates on when these plates might become available, the timeline remains unspecified in the current proposal. Nevertheless, the prospect has successfully generated buzz across the state, urging locals to envisage the aesthetic appeal these plates might add to their vehicles.
Should the bill pass, South Dakotans will have the chance to join their fellow North and Midwestern states in adorning their vehicles with these chic, solid-color designs, merging form with function in a distinctive manner.
As this proposal moves through legislative channels, it demonstrates the continued commitment of South Dakota’s governance to proffer choices that reflect the interests and inclinations of its people. Progressing forward, this initiative may well place South Dakota at the forefront of an emerging automotive registration trend that combines practicality with personalized elegance.
For more information on South Dakota’s license plate proposal or to participate in the public discussion, contact the Department of Revenue via email at info.dor@sd.us.