The passing of a loved one often comes with numerous tasks, one of which includes notifying various institutions and organizations. If your loved one was a resident of South Dakota and held a driver's license, you will need to notify the South Dakota Department of Public Safety Driver Licensing. In this post, we will guide you through this process.
Who Should Be Notified
The South Dakota Department of Public Safety Driver Licensing is the state agency responsible for issuing driver's licenses. If your loved one held a South Dakota driver's license, it's important to notify the department to prevent any potential misuse of their identification.
When to Notify
It's recommended to notify the South Dakota Department of Public Safety Driver Licensing as soon as it is feasible after your loved one's passing. This will ensure their records are updated promptly and their driver's license is invalidated.
How to Notify
To inform the South Dakota Department of Public Safety Driver Licensing about the death, you will need to mail a copy of the death certificate to the department. The mailing address is: Driver Licensing Program, 118 West Capitol Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501.
What to Expect After Notification
Once the department receives the death certificate, they will update their records to reflect the status of the deceased and invalidate their driver's license. This prevents the potential misuse of the deceased's driver's license.
Tips for Notification
It's advisable to send the death certificate via certified mail, providing you with a receipt and ensuring that your letter reaches the department. Also, make sure to keep a copy of the death certificate and the receipt for your records.
Conclusion
The task of notifying the South Dakota Department of Public Safety Driver Licensing after a loved one's death is a necessary step in settling their affairs. Taking this step ensures that their driver's license is appropriately handled, preventing potential identity misuse.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify the department online or in-person?
A: Currently, the South Dakota Department of Public Safety Driver Licensing only accepts death notifications by mail.
Q: What if I cannot find the deceased's driver's license number?
A: If you don't have the driver's license number, the department can usually locate the deceased's record using their full name and date of birth.
Q: What if the deceased also owned a vehicle?
A: If the deceased owned a vehicle, you will need to contact the South Dakota Motor Vehicle Division to transfer or cancel the vehicle's registration.
