South Dakota § 32-20-1 - Definition of terms.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-20-1 — Definition of terms., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 32-20-1. Definition of terms.
Terms used in this chapter mean:
(1) "Department," the Department of Public Safety;
(2) "Moped," a motor driven cycle equipped with two or three wheels. If a combustion engine is used, the maximum piston or rotor displacement must be fifty cubic centimeters regardless of the number of chambers in the power source. The power source must be equipped with a power drive system that functions directly or automatically only, not requiring clutching or shifting by the operator after the drive system is engaged. The term does not include an electric bicycle as defined in § 32-20B-9 or a multi-passenger quadricycle as defined in § 32-14-17;
(3) "Motorcycle," includes motorcycles, motorbikes, mopeds, bicycles with motor attached, and all motor operated vehicles of the bicycle or tricycle type, whether the motive power be a part thereof or attached thereto, and having a saddle or seat with the driver sitting astride or upon it, or a platform on which the driver stands, but excluding a tractor. The term does not include an electric bicycle as defined in § 32-20B-9 or a multi-passenger quadricycle; and
(4) "Off-road vehicle," any self-propelled, two or more wheeled vehicle designed primarily to be operated on land other than a highway and includes all terrain vehicles, dune buggies, and any vehicle whose manufacturer's statement of origin or manufacturer's certificate of origin states that the vehicle is not for highway use. The term does not include a farm vehicle as defined in § 32-3-2.4, a multi-passenger quadricycle, or an electric bicycle as defined in § 32-20B-9.
Source: SL 1967, ch 215, § 1; SL 1978, ch 230, § 1; SL 1985, ch 238, § 7; SL 1987, ch 231, § 1; SL 1988, ch 236, § 25; SL 2003, ch 272 (Ex. Ord. 03-1), § 23; SL 2019, ch 135, § 14; SL 2024, ch 118, § 10.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 32-20-1
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-20-1 cover?
Section 32-20-1 ("Definition of terms.") 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 § 32-20-1?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-20-1" (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 § 32-20-1 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.