South Dakota insurance

Low-Income Car Insurance in South Dakota

What South Dakota requires, and how to keep insurance affordable after you receive a car.

Last verified: · By the Free Car Foundation Editorial Team

Woman holding an umbrella beside her car under a large shield representing car insurance

Minimum coverage in South Dakota

South Dakota requires at least $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 per accident and $25,000 property damage liability (often written 25/50/25).

Requirements change — several states raised their minimums in 2025. Confirm current limits with the South Dakota insurance department or South Dakota Motor Vehicle Division.

Is minimum coverage enough?

Minimum liability is the cheapest legal option and is common for older, low-value cars — including most donated cars. It does not pay to repair your own car. If you cannot afford repairs after an accident, compare the cost of adding collision coverage against the value of the car.

Ways to pay less in South Dakota

  • Compare at least three quotes every year
  • Ask about good-driver, low-mileage, paperless and paid-in-full discounts
  • Raise your deductible only if you can cover it
  • Try usage-based insurance if you drive little
  • Take a defensive driving course where it earns a discount

More tips in our national low-income car insurance guide. Budgeting for a new car? Read the real cost of a donated car.

Apply for a free car with Free Car Foundation

South Dakota residents can apply for a free car online. Our application is free, takes about 5 minutes and never asks for your Social Security number or bank details.

Nearby states

Car insurance in North Dakota · Car insurance in Nebraska · Car insurance in Minnesota · Car insurance in Iowa

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum car insurance in South Dakota?
South Dakota requires at least $25,000 bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 per accident and $25,000 property damage liability (often written 25/50/25).
How can I get cheap car insurance in South Dakota on a low income?
Compare quotes, choose state minimum liability for an older car, and ask for every discount you qualify for.

Need a car to get to work?

Apply to the Free Car Foundation program today. It is free, takes about 5 minutes and never asks for your SSN or bank details.