System Modernization RFI

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety (SDDPS), in partnership with the South Dakota Bureau of Information and Technology (BIT), is issuing a Request for Information on modernization of the state's driver licensing system, with responses due August 1, 2026.

This is an RFI, not a procurement; the state explicitly disclaims any contract commitment and will not reimburse vendor costs or pay for information provided. Vendors with existing driver licensing solutions, emerging products, or custom-built approaches demonstrating understanding of driver licensing ecosystem complexity are encouraged to respond. SDDPS seeks information across driver services (licensing, identification cards, learner's permits, photo capture, scheduling, and testing), driver records management, customer management, financial operations, hosting capabilities, implementation approach, data conversion, testing, training, ongoing support, and vendor perspectives on AI tools in system modernization.

The state's stated modernization priorities include improved customer experience through digital channels, automation of daily tasks, enhanced partner interfaces with courts and law enforcement, improved financial management, county and city integration, expanded data access and reporting, federal compliance with AAMVA REST interface standards, and establishment of a unified system of record. The modernization addresses an aging platform that relies heavily on manual processes and disconnected systems.

Responses must be submitted as searchable PDFs to Jeannelle.Yitagesu@state.sd.us. Vendor inquiries regarding the RFI are due July 13, 2026, also directed to this email address. The state plans to request live demonstrations from vendors whose solutions appear to meet SDDPS needs; these presentations will be conducted virtually via video conferencing and are expected to take less than one half day, with dates to be determined. Vendors may designate proprietary information and provide redacted versions as needed.