Do I Need a Vehicle Transfer on Death Designation in South Dakota?

South Dakota allows a transfer on death beneficiary designation on motor vehicle, off-road vehicle, snowmobile, and boat. The property may not be subject to any lien or other encumbrance; the department may not issue a TOD title for encumbered property (SDCL 32-3-83).SDCL 32-3-80 to 32-3-84Verified Aug 25, 2026View source

Add the designation through the South Dakota Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles (applications filed at the county treasurer's office) using Motor Vehicle and Boat Title Application (Form Form 1001). Notarization is not required.SDCL 32-3-80 to 32-3-84Verified Aug 25, 2026View source

Yes. The designation can be changed or cancelled at any time during your lifetime. In South Dakota: Apply for a subsequent certificate of title changing or removing the beneficiary designation (SDCL 32-3-82)..SDCL 32-3-80 to 32-3-84Verified Aug 25, 2026View source

The beneficiary retitles the vehicle with the South Dakota Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles (applications filed at the county treasurer's office) by submitting: Affidavit verifying the death of the owner (or of the last survivor of a joint tenancy with right of survivorship) submitted to the Department of Revenue (SDCL 32-3-81), Copy of the owner's death certificate, Application for a new certificate of title (Form 1001). A vehicle designation covers only that vehicle — to keep a home, accounts, and everything else out of probate in one document, SimplyTrust sets up a revocable trust online.