South Dakota § 32-5-98 - Operation of motor vehicle without visible license plates prohibited-- Removal of unauthorized plates--Violation as misdemeanor.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-5-98 — Operation of motor vehicle without visible license plates prohibited-- Removal of unauthorized plates--Violation as misdemeanor., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 32-5-98. Operation of motor vehicle without visible license plates prohibited-- Removal of unauthorized plates--Violation as misdemeanor.
Except as otherwise specifically provided, no person may operate or drive a motor vehicle on the public highways of this state unless the vehicle has a distinctive number assigned to it by the department, and two number plates, bearing the number conspicuously displayed, horizontally and in an upright position, one on the front and one on the rear of the vehicle, each securely fastened. The plates shall at all times, as far as is reasonably possible, be kept clear and free of mud, ice, or snow so as to be clearly visible. All number plates, markers, or stamps evidencing registration or licensing of any vehicle in this or any foreign state, territory, district, or possession and any plate, marker, or stamp used in substitution for or in lieu of the number plates required by this section by virtue of any law or executive order for any prior year or years shall be removed from such vehicles. A motorcycle is only required to display one number plate. The motorcycle plate may be mounted in any visible manner other than upside down. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0113; SL 1945, ch 186; SL 1989, ch 255, § 16; SL 1989, ch 257, § 99; SL 2016, ch 157, § 2; SL 2017, ch 129, § 1.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 32-5-98
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-5-98 cover?
Section 32-5-98 ("Operation of motor vehicle without visible license plates prohibited-- Removal of unauthorized plates--Violation as misdemeanor.") 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 § 32-5-98?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-5-98" (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 § 32-5-98 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.