Do I need proof of citizenship to register to vote in South Dakota?

It depends on your registration path. South Dakota currently has an active proof-of-citizenship requirement for voter registration. In South Dakota, this currently applies to SB 175 requires documentary proof of U.S. citizenship (driver's license issued after Jul 1, 2025, tribal ID, birth certificate, passport, or similar) to register to vote for the first time or after removal from rolls; also adds citizenship as grounds for voter registration challenge; signed with emergency clause — in effect immediately for new registrants (SOS guidance issued Mar 26, 2026); existing registered voters unaffected. Accepted documents can include a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate. Gov. Rhoden signed SB 175 into law (House 64-3, Senate 28-6) with emergency clause — in effect immediately for first-time registrants (SOS guidance issued Mar 26, 2026). Existing registered voters unaffected. Applies to state elections only.

How much does a birth certificate cost in South Dakota?

A certified birth certificate in South Dakota costs $15.00 certified or informational copy; additional $11.50 expedite fee applies to phone/internet requests (with extra shipping cost if UPS is requested). Processing typically takes South Dakota DOH states processing times may vary depending on location; mail requests can include a prepaid priority envelope for optional expedited processing. Use the official South Dakota vital records office for current details: https://doh.sd.gov/licensing-and-records/vital-records/. Remember: you must order from the state where you were born, not where you currently live.

What voter ID do I need in South Dakota?

South Dakota requires all in-person voters must show approved photo id; voters without photo id may sign a personal identification affidavit and still vote a regular ballot for voting. Check with your local election office or visit the South Dakota Secretary of State website for specific details on acceptable forms of identification.

Can I register to vote online in South Dakota?

No, South Dakota does not currently offer online voter registration. You will need to register by mail or in person. The registration deadline is the voter registration form with original signature must be received by the county auditor 15 days before any election.

What documents count as proof of citizenship in South Dakota?

Documents generally accepted as proof of U.S. citizenship include: U.S. Passport (book or card); U.S. Birth Certificate; Certificate of Naturalization (N-550/N-570); Certificate of Citizenship (N-560/N-561); Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA). Requirements may vary, so check with the South Dakota election office for the most current list of accepted documents.

South Dakota Voter Registration Guide

Current voter registration requirements, birth certificate ordering information, voter ID rules, deadlines, and official election office links for South Dakota.

POC: Yes - ActivePhoto ID required

Active POC Law

POC Law (Not Enforced)

No POC Requirement

Voter ID Requirement

All in-person voters must show approved photo ID; voters without photo ID may sign a personal identification affidavit and still vote a regular ballot

Online Registration

Not available

Registration Deadline

The voter registration form with original signature must be received by the county auditor 15 days before any election

Proof of Citizenship Law

Yes - Active

NoteGov. Rhoden signed SB 175 into law (House 64-3, Senate 28-6) with emergency clause — in effect immediately for first-time registrants (SOS guidance issued Mar 26, 2026). Existing registered voters unaffected. Applies to state elections only.

What to Do Now

1Check if you have one of the accepted documents (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
2If your name has changed, get a passport in your current legal name
3Order your birth certificate now if you don't have one
4Verify your voter registration is current
5Keep originals safe - the SAVE Act requires originals, not photocopies

South Dakota Voter Registration Guide

What to Do Now

How to Order in South Dakota

Online

By Mail

In Person

South Dakota Resources

South Dakota Election Office(opens in new tab)

South Dakota Vital Records(opens in new tab)

Federal Resources

USA.gov Birth Certificates(opens in new tab)

U.S. Passports(opens in new tab)

Vote.gov(opens in new tab)

VoteRiders(opens in new tab)

Verification Sources

Source 1(opens in new tab)

Source 2(opens in new tab)

Source 3(opens in new tab)

Source 4(opens in new tab)

Source 5(opens in new tab)

Source 6(opens in new tab)

Contact Your Senators

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need proof of citizenship to register to vote in South Dakota?

How much does a birth certificate cost in South Dakota?

What voter ID do I need in South Dakota?

Can I register to vote online in South Dakota?

What documents count as proof of citizenship in South Dakota?