Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in South Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant 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 agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota Board of Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,310 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of 77,310, Certified Public Accountants in South Dakota earn 5% below the national median of $81,680. South Dakota ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$77,310Hourly estimate
$37.175% below national median
Difference: -$4,370
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor Certified Public Accountant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 101,780 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 101,340 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 96,580 |
| #4 | California | 96,360 |
| #5 | Washington | 96,180 |
Nearby States Comparison
Certified Public Accountant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $77,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $72,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $81,100 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $74,290 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $69,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $77,400 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $74,400 | Degree required | Third-party 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
South Dakota Board of Accountancy
301 E 14th St Ste 200, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104-5022
Phone: 6053675770
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $102,420 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $95,110 | 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 Certified Public Accountant 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 Certified Public Accountant salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in South Dakota is 77,310. Salaries range from $59,190 (10th percentile) to $110,630 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in South Dakota earn 5% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 77,310.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 5,950 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant 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 Certified Public Accountants in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Board of Accountancy. Review agency details at https://dlr.sd.gov/accountancy.