The bill seeks to modernize the vehicle title and registration process in South Dakota by establishing an electronic system for managing vehicle titles. It introduces new terms such as "approved entity" and "electronic title and registration system," allowing authorized individuals to handle title transfers electronically, thus eliminating the reliance on paper records. The Department of Revenue is mandated to implement this system by July 1, 2026, which will facilitate the electronic transmission of title applications, lien statements, and other related documents. Additionally, approved entities will be permitted to charge fees for their services, and the responsibilities of county treasurers in processing these electronic applications are clearly outlined.

Moreover, the bill clarifies that references to "certificate of title" will include electronic records, and it establishes a framework for the Department of Revenue to collaborate with qualified Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) providers. It allows for the electronic submission of documents, with authenticated electronic signatures satisfying any signature requirements. Once accepted, these electronically submitted documents will carry the same legal weight as original documents. The bill also limits the issuance of paper titles when a title is held electronically, allowing for paper titles only under specific circumstances. Additionally, it amends existing laws related to vehicle regulations, including exemptions for certain vehicles from specific operational regulations, thereby streamlining the overall vehicle registration process while ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/29/2025: 10-4-2, 10-4-2.4, 10-9-1, 10-45-2.1, 10-46-5.1, 32-3-1, 32-3-53, 32-3-57, 32-3-69.1, 32-5-85, 32-10-1, 32-14-11, 32-15-7, 32-33-17, 37-5-13, 37-14-21
Senate Transportation Engrossed, 02/07/2025: 10-4-2, 10-4-2.4, 10-9-1, 10-45-2.1, 10-46-5.1, 32-3-1, 32-3-53, 32-3-57, 32-3-69.1, 32-5-85, 32-10-1, 32-14-11, 32-15-7, 32-33-17, 37-5-13, 37-14-21
Enrolled, 03/10/2025: 10-4-2, 10-4-2.4, 10-9-1, 10-45-2.1, 10-46-5.1, 32-3-1, 32-3-53, 32-3-57, 32-3-69.1, 32-5-85, 32-10-1, 32-14-11, 32-15-7, 32-33-17, 37-5-13, 37-14-21