South Dakota § 32-17-11 - Registration plate illumination--Requirements respecting on-off switch--Violation as petty offense.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-17-11 — Registration plate illumination--Requirements respecting on-off switch--Violation as petty offense., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 32-17-11. Registration plate illumination--Requirements respecting on-off switch--Violation as petty offense.
Either the rear lamps required by § 32-17-8 or a separate lamp shall be so constructed and placed as to illuminate with a white light the rear registration plate and render it clearly legible from a distance of fifty feet to the rear. If the rear registration plate is illuminated by an electric lamp other than the required rear lamps, the lamps shall be turned on or off only by the same control switch at all times whenever headlamps are lighted. A violation of this section is a petty offense.
Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0352 (5); SL 1989, ch 255, § 45.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 32-17-11
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-17-11 cover?
Section 32-17-11 ("Registration plate illumination--Requirements respecting on-off switch--Violation as petty offense.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Dakota § 32-17-11?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-17-11" (South Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.
How does South Dakota § 32-17-11 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.