South Dakota lawmakers will consider a proposal in the 2026 legislative session to allow solid‑black and solid‑white license plates for non‑commercial vehicles. The Department of Revenue is requesting authorization to offer the new designs, which would cost $100 per year. Of that fee, $75 would go to the state highway fund and $25 to the license plate special revenue fund. Personalized versions would be available for a one‑time $25 fee.
The bill directs the department to create black plates with white lettering and white plates with black lettering. At least 10 states — including Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota and Wyoming — already offer blackout‑style plates.
South Dakota law has required Mount Rushmore imagery on plates since 1941, though lawmakers have gradually added numerous specialty options, including habitat conservation plates, tribal plates, firefighter and EMS plates, military plates, emblem plates, historical plates, disability plates, and others. Temporary commemorative or souvenir plates are also allowed for up to 30 days.
The Legislature will take up the proposal when the session opens January 13.
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