Do I need to be a AAA member to apply?

No, anyone with a valid U.S. driver’s license can apply.

Can I apply if I’m not a South Dakota resident?

Yes, but you must apply in the state where your driver’s license was issued.

International Driving Permit in South Dakota

Q: How long is the IDP valid?

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue.

Getting an IDP at AAA Office in South Dakota

AAA is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue International Driving Permits. South Dakota is served by AAA South Dakota. The branches listed below have been verified to not currently offer IDP service in person — use AATA by mail, or visit an IDP-issuing branch in a neighboring state.

AAA South Dakota — Sioux Falls (49th Street)
3701 W 49th Street, Unit 100
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Phone: (605) 271-2700
IDP status unverified — call to confirm 📍 Get directions
AAA South Dakota — Rapid City
1314 W Main Street
Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: (605) 343-7800
IDP status unverified — call to confirm 📍 Get directions

💡 Heads up: AAA's IDP service varies by branch and changes over time. Green badges below were verified at the time of writing; phone the office before visiting to confirm same-day service. You can also check the official locator at aaa.com/office.

To apply, bring your valid South Dakota driver's license, two passport-sized photos (2"x2"), the completed IDP application form, and the $20 fee. Most IDP-issuing branches complete the permit the same day.

Visit AAA IDP Page

Getting an IDP from AATA (by Mail)

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the other federally authorized IDP issuer. AATA has no offices in South Dakota, but accepts applications by mail from anywhere in the United States. Send your completed application to:

AATA – IDP Department
16300 SW Langer Drive, Suite 130
Sherwood, OR 97140

Include a copy of your valid South Dakota driver's license (front and back), two passport photos, the completed application form (download from the AATA website), and a check or money order for the $20 fee. Processing and return mail usually take 2–3 weeks.

Visit AATA Website

Fastest Way to Get an IDP in South Dakota

Since no AAA branch in South Dakota currently issues IDPs in person, your fastest options are: (1) visit a AAA office in a neighboring state, or (2) apply by mail through AATA (2–3 weeks).

No AAA or AATA Nearby?

If no AAA branch is convenient and you cannot wait for AATA's mail processing, you may come across third-party "instant IDP" services online. These documents are not officially recognized by the U.S. Department of State and most foreign governments.

          ⚠️ Important: Unofficial IDPs may cause issues at border control, with rental car companies, or with local police. Use them only as a last resort and understand the risks.
        

If you must use an alternative service, research it thoroughly: verified reviews, transparent refund policy, and a real company address. The only officially recognized IDPs in the U.S. come from AAA or AATA.

Feature	AAA	AATA
Application Method	By mail only (no in-state South Dakota branches currently issue IDPs)	By mail only
Processing Time	Same day (in-person)	2–3 weeks
Fee	$20	$20

Cities in South Dakota

Find the nearest AAA office (including offices just over the state line) for any South Dakota city with population 5,000 or more:

Aberdeen 28,102
Belle Fourche 5,696
Box Elder 9,289
Brandon 9,856
Brookings 23,657
Ellsworth Air Force Base 8,000
Harrisburg 5,498
Huron 13,313
Madison 7,258
Mitchell 15,669
Pierre 14,091
Rapid City 73,569
Rapid Valley 8,260
Sioux Falls 171,544
Spearfish 11,283
Sturgis 6,688
Vermillion 10,738
Watertown 22,073
Yankton 14,557

19 cities listed.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a AAA member to get an IDP in South Dakota?

No. Any holder of a valid U.S. driver's license can apply at a AAA branch that issues IDPs — membership is not required.

Is an IDP valid in South Dakota?

An IDP, paired with a valid foreign driver's license, lets visitors drive in South Dakota for a limited period. South Dakota residents must obtain a South Dakota driver's license through their state DMV.

How long is the IDP valid?

Exactly 1 year from the date of issue. You must carry it together with your original driver's license whenever you drive abroad.

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