Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Science
Environmental Scientist Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for environmental scientist 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 Environmental Scientist in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$71,510 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $71,510, Environmental Scientists in South Dakota earn 11% below the national median of $80,060. South Dakota ranks #36 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
$71,510Hourly estimate
$34.3811% below national median
Difference: -$8,550
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEnvironmental Scientist Salary Ranking
#36 of 50 statesfor Environmental Scientist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $97,520 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $96,330 |
| #3 | Oregon | $93,560 |
| #4 | Rhode Island | $90,460 |
| #5 | Illinois | $89,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Environmental Scientist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $71,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $81,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $87,210 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $74,060 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $61,260 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $74,060 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Montana | $78,510 | 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 | 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
Official website verified
South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources
523 E Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057735559
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $39,560 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $47,970 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $50,180 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Forester | $63,510 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Environmental Scientist 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 Environmental Scientist salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Environmental Scientists in South Dakota is $71,510. Salaries range from $55,450 (10th percentile) to $93,830 (90th percentile).
How does the Environmental Scientist salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Environmental Scientists in South Dakota earn 11% below the national median of $80,060, with a state median of $71,510.
How many Environmental Scientists work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 180 Environmental Scientists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Environmental Scientist 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 Environmental Scientists in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources. Review agency details at https://danr.sd.gov/Environment/WasteManagement/Asbestos/AsbestosGuide.aspx.
How often do you renew a Environmental Scientist license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.