Updated March 2026
State Requirements
South Dakota requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 property damage. Drivers with DUI convictions, multiple violations within 12 months, at-fault accidents while uninsured, or license suspensions must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Department of Public Safety for 3 years. Underinsured motorist coverage is also mandatory at the same 25/50/25 limits, which matters for high-risk drivers who face higher exposure in accidents.
Cost Overview
High-risk drivers in South Dakota pay 80%–250% more than standard drivers depending on violation type. A DUI conviction typically increases premiums by $1,200–$2,800 annually, while minor violations add $400–$900. Rates vary significantly by carrier — some non-standard insurers specialize in high-risk profiles and may offer better pricing than being assigned to a standard carrier's high-risk tier.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI increases rates 120%–250%, at-fault accidents 40%–90%, speeding tickets 15%–35%
- SR-22 duration remaining: rates may decrease slightly after the first year if no new violations occur
- Location: Sioux Falls and Rapid City drivers pay 10%–20% more than rural counties due to accident frequency and theft rates
- Carrier type: non-standard insurers like Dairyland, The General, and Bristol West often quote lower rates for high-risk drivers than standard carriers' assigned risk programs
- Credit score: South Dakota allows credit-based insurance scoring, which can add 20%–50% to premiums for drivers with poor credit and violations
- Vehicle type: insuring a newer or high-value vehicle with full coverage under SR-22 can double total premium costs compared to state minimums on an older car
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing Division
- South Dakota Division of Insurance
- South Dakota Codified Laws Title 32 (Motor Vehicles)