Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Transportation
Commercial Pilot Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for commercial pilot in South Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Commercial Pilot in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Continuing education and program notes
- centrally
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota Department of Public Safety
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$75,740 median (38% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to South Dakota Department of Public Safety and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $75,740, Commercial Pilots in South Dakota earn 38% below the national median of $122,670. South Dakota ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,123Median annual salary
$75,740Hourly estimate
$36.4138% below national median
Difference: -$46,930
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCommercial Pilot Salary Ranking
#49 of 50 statesfor Commercial Pilot median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | $229,820 |
| #2 | Connecticut | $227,140 |
| #3 | New York | $172,500 |
| #4 | Texas | $162,930 |
| #5 | Delaware | $155,640 |
Nearby States Comparison
Commercial Pilot licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $75,740 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $111,120 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $117,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $101,040 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $100,150 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $126,570 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Montana | $103,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 | 60 | 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
South Dakota Department of Public Safety
118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057736883
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $56,880 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot in South Dakota?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Commercial Pilot salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Commercial Pilots in South Dakota is $75,740. Salaries range from $49,770 (10th percentile) to $153,600 (90th percentile).
How does the Commercial Pilot salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Commercial Pilots in South Dakota earn 38% below the national median of $122,670, with a state median of $75,740.
How many Commercial Pilots work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 290 Commercial Pilots according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Commercial Pilot license to South Dakota from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Commercial Pilots in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Department of Public Safety. Review agency details at https://dps.sd.gov/driver-licensing/commercial-drivers-license.
How often do you renew a Commercial Pilot license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.