South Dakota Auto Insurance Rates & Minimums
South Dakota requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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South Dakota at a Glance
25/50/25
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Required
Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
South Dakota operates under a traditional tort liability system, meaning the at-fault driver is financially responsible for damages. All drivers must carry proof of insurance and present it during traffic stops or accidents. The state does not require uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, distinguishing it from neighboring states with broader mandates.
Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Collision Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage
Cost Overview
$27–$63/mo
Typical monthly rate in South Dakota, minimum-coverage policies
Rate data: NerdWallet, ValuePenguin and Insurify, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Vehicles garaged in Rapid City face elevated comprehensive costs due to higher vehicle theft rates compared to the state average, particularly for trucks and SUVs.
Find the Lowest Rate That Still Protects You
Find Your Lowest RateCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
The only coverage South Dakota law requires — 25/50/25 limits for bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. Does not cover your own injuries, your vehicle, or damages exceeding these limits.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist protection — the coverage bundle lenders require for financed vehicles. Once your car is paid off, you decide whether the added cost justifies continued protection.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays your medical bills and vehicle damage when an at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient limits. South Dakota does not require this coverage, but insurers must offer it and document your written rejection.
Collision Coverage
Repairs or replaces your vehicle after a crash, regardless of who caused it. Not required unless you have an auto loan, and often not cost-justified once your vehicle's value drops below $4,000–$5,000.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers damage from hail, theft, vandalism, fire, flooding, and animal strikes — everything except collisions with other vehicles. Optional unless required by your lender.
SR-22 Insurance
Not a coverage type but a state filing proving you carry minimum liability insurance after a DUI, multiple violations, or license suspension. The SR-22 itself costs $25–$50 to file, but the underlying high-risk insurance premiums increase dramatically.