Motorized Black Hills Forest Service Trail Permits

Motorized Trail Permits

Purchase your Black Hills Motorized Trail Permit.

  • Online orders will be MAILED to you.
  • Please allow 8 to 10 days for your permit(s) to arrive via U.S. Postal ServiceShipping times may vary.
  • Permits may also be purchased in-person, seven days a week at: Black Hills Visitor Information Center, 1851 Discovery Circle, Rapid City, SD (Exit 61 off I-90) 
  • 2025 BLACK HILLS FOREST SERVICE Motorized Trail Permits are valid through Dec. 31, 2025
  • The permits are a stick-on decal and must be placed on the vehicle. A print option is not available.

Permits-Documents

Online Purchase (Black Hills National Forest Permit)

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Notes & Information

Orders will be processed and mailed via USPS. Please allow 8-10 days for your permit(s) to arrive as shipping times may vary.

  • Watch your mail! Your permit and Off-Road Adventures Guide will arrive in a 9 x 6 white envelope from the Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association.
  • The Black Hills National Forest no longer requires the license number or color of vehicle to purchase a permit.
  • Permit orders are non-refundable and lost permits will not be replaced.

If you have further questions about the online order email, info@blackhillsbadlands.com or call 605-355-3600 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Off-Road Adventures Guide

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Black Hills National Forest Motorized Trails Permit Information

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All motor vehicles traveling on motorized trails in the South Dakota portion of the Black Hills National Forest are required to have a Black Hills Motorized Trail Permit (sticker).

The permit must be attached to the vehicle in the proper locations and visible to oncoming vehicles to be valid before riding on the trails. ATVs/UTVS place the permit on the front left external wheel panel, Motorcycles/Dirt Bikes affix the permit on the front center fork or the top of the fender, Vehicles with windshields place the permit on the driver's side on the front windshield.

Permits are for private use vehicles only. Commercial (rental) vehicles are required to have a commercial use permit, which is available at any Black Hills National Forest office.

Permits are valid through December 31, 2025.

Black Hills National Forest Motorized Trails

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Black Hills Forest Service MVUM Maps

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Motor Vehicle Use Maps are available for the 1.2 million-acre Black Hills National Forest and are the official map for designating all roads, trails and areas available for public motorized travel on the National Forest.

The MVUM can be downloaded and viewed on GPS units as well as your mobile device using GPS apps, such as Avenza Maps. Instructions for downloading map HERE. Using GPS navigation does not require cellular service if the map is downloaded on the device.

For more information on downloading the MVUM for free, visit Black Hills National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Maps page.

Permits purchased online will not include an MVUM with the mailed permit, however, operators are responsible for obtaining an MVUM.

Department of Revenue

Wyoming Off-Highway Permits

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Please note that the State of Wyoming requires a separate permit when operating an OHV in Wyoming. There is no reciprocity for out-of-state registrations. The Wyoming portion of the Black Hills National Forest is subject to different regulations. The motorized trails in the Wyoming portion of the Black Hills National Forest are open to vehicles 50 inches or less in width.

For information on OHV Rules and Regulations in Wyoming, visit Wyoming State Parks.

Ride Responsibly - Forever 605

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Motorized vehicle operators are responsible for knowing and abiding by OHV travel regulations. Minimize your impact on the environment when you ride by traveling responsibly, respecting the rights of others, educating yourself and avoiding sensitive areas.

For tips on riding ethically and responsibly, visit Tread Lightly!