Application Fee
See board websiteCivil Engineer Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in South Dakota, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota Board of Technical Professions
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$95,110 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the South Dakota Board of Technical Professions.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of 95,110, Civil Engineers in South Dakota earn 4% below the national median of 99590. South Dakota ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$95,110Hourly estimate
$45.73Difference: -$4,480
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 118,450 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 112,250 |
| #3 | Alaska | 107,240 |
| #4 | Washington | 105,090 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 104,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Civil Engineer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $95,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $96,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $101,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $94,500 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $99,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $95,800 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $80,390 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
South Dakota Board of Technical Professions
2525 West Main St Suite 211, Rapid City, SD, 57702
Phone: 6053942510
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $102,420 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $123,380 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $58,990 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in South Dakota?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in South Dakota is 95,110. Salaries range from 67500 (10th percentile) to 127610 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in South Dakota earn 4% below the national median of 99590, with a state median of 95,110.
How many Civil Engineers work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 1270 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to South Dakota from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Board of Technical Professions. Review agency details at https://dlr.sd.gov/btp.