What Do I Need to Sign My Will in South Dakota?

Notarization is not required for a will to be valid in South Dakota.SDCL 29A-2-502Verified Jul 15, 2026 However, notarization Makes the will self-proving, avoiding witness testimony at probate.

South Dakota allows Remote Online Notarization (RON) for wills.SDCL 29A-2-502Verified Jul 15, 2026 The notarization can be completed via secure video call with an approved RON provider. The state also accepts out-of-state RON.

To execute a will in South Dakota: Find 2 adults to serve as witnesses. Review witness restrictions to ensure eligibility. Get the document notarized (standard practice, not required). Wet signature required; the notarization step may still be remote

Yes. South Dakota has adopted the Uniform Probate Code, which validates a will under any of three tests: it complied with the law of the place of execution, the law of the testator's domicile when signed, or the law of the testator's domicile at death (UPC § 2-506). A will signed in another state is recognized in South Dakota if any of those tests passes. The practical wrinkle is the self-proving affidavit — if the foreign will doesn't have one, witnesses may need to testify during probate. See the South Dakota document portability tool for the full breakdown.