Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by SD Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant 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 Dental Assistant 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 State Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,680 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the South Dakota State Board of Dentistry.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of 47,680, Dental Assistants in South Dakota earn 1% above the national median of 47300. South Dakota ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,123Median annual salary
$47,680Hourly estimate
$22.921% above national median
Difference: +$380
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#22 of 50 statesfor Dental Assistant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Minnesota | 64,630 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 57,960 |
| #3 | Oregon | 57,720 |
| #4 | Washington | 57,040 |
| #5 | Alaska | 55,950 |
Nearby States Comparison
Dental Assistant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $47,680 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $51,310 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $64,630 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $47,820 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $46,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $42,770 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $45,820 | 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.
Official Licensing Agency
South Dakota State Board of Dentistry
PO Box 1079, 1351 North Harrison Avenue, Pierre, SD, 57501-1079
Phone: 6052241282
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $102,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,200 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,540 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $84,300 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant 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 Dental Assistant salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in South Dakota is 47,680. Salaries range from 37790 (10th percentile) to 60760 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in South Dakota earn 1% above the national median of 47300, with a state median of 47,680.
How many Dental Assistants work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 1240 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant 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 Dental Assistants in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota State Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at https://www.sdboardofdentistry.org/.