Application Fee
See agencyDentist Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in South Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dentist in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota State Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$162,860 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Dentist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to South Dakota State Board of Dentistry and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $162,860, Dentists in South Dakota earn 6% below the national median of $172,790. South Dakota ranks #34 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
$162,860Hourly estimate
$78.30Difference: -$9,930
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $162,860 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $201,280 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $209,820 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $174,990 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $168,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $126,860 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Montana | $159,480 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $54,200 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $102,310 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist 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 Dentist salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Dentists in South Dakota is $162,860.
How does the Dentist salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Dentists in South Dakota earn 6% below the national median of $172,790, with a state median of $162,860.
How many Dentists work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 270 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to South Dakota from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dentists in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota State Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at https://www.sdboardofdentistry.org/.
How often do you renew a Dentist license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.