In South Dakota, you can obtain disability placards and plates if you are disabled. These will allow you to park in special spots, and also allow you other privileges under the law, assuming that you fill out the appropriate paperwork that designates you as a disabled driver.
Summary of South Dakota plate and placard laws
In South Dakota, there are placards and plates available for handicapped drivers, who can apply if they are medically certified. You can get a tag to hang on your rear view mirror, or a license plate that will entitle you to park in any space, and specially designated spaces as well.
Applying
You can apply for a handicapped plate or placard by mail, or in person. You will need to fill out the Application for Physically Disabled Parking Permit and License Plates. You will also have to provide a letter from your doctor, certifying that you are disabled. You can get a placard at no cost, but a license plate will cost you five dollars.
Disabled veterans’ plates
Veterans are also entitled to special privileges under the law of South Carolina. This means that you can also apply for a special plate if you are a disabled veteran who has received a VAK award, or owns a car under Public law 187. Apply using The South Dakota Military License Plate Application.
Renewal
In the State of South Dakota, special plates will expire. They have to be renewed periodically. Permanent placards (despite the name) have to be renewed every five years. Temporary placards are good for a year. As to license plates, they have to be renewed the same way as any ordinary plate – they are only good for the duration of your vehicle registration.
Lost or stolen permits
If you lose your disability permit, or it is stolen, then you will have to get it replaced. This will require you to re-apply using the appropriate forms, or complete the Affidavit for Duplicate License Plate/Validation Sticker. The fee to replace a license plate is ten dollars, plus a mailing fee of five dollars.
If you are a disabled driver in the State of South Dakota, then you are entitled to rights and privileges not accorded to other drivers. Keep in mind, though, that these rights and privileges are not automatically accorded to you. You have to apply for them, and also, they have to be renewed.
