South Dakota Voter Guide

Upcoming Elections

There are no statewide elections in South Dakota in 2021

Election Rules

Voter Registration Deadline: 15 days before Election Day in-person or by mail

South Dakota voters can vote early with absentee in-person voting from 46 days before the election until the day before the election. Contact your county election official for more information.

Restoration of Voting Rights After Felony Convictions: The right to vote is automatically restored for felons after the completion of their parole or probation.

ID Requirements for Voting: Photo ID required. If ID is not shown, voter can sign an affidavit to verify identity.

Absentee Voting: Any registered South Dakota voter can request an absentee ballot, no excuse is required. Voter must request the application from their county election official, who will send a paper ballot to the voter. The application must be received at least 1 day prior to the election. View the instructions here.

Gender Gaps in Representation

South Dakota is one of 9 states with a woman governor (Kristi Noem, R). South Dakota is one of 13 states that has no women in its Congressional delegation. South Dakota ranks 36th in the country for women’s representation in the State Legislature.

Voter Turnout

South Dakota had lower voter turnout than the overall United States for both men and women in the 2016 Elections.

Percent Voter Turnout by Gender

Percent Voter Turnout by Race

Other races not shown due to population size