Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter 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 Firefighter in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Continuing education and program notes
- certificate of competency for the operation of a boiler, which is a closed vessel in which water is heated, steam is generated, steam is superheated, or any combination thereof
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota State Fire Marshall
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,520 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to South Dakota State Fire Marshall and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $47,520, Firefighters in South Dakota earn 20% below the national median of $59,530. 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
$47,520Hourly estimate
$22.8520% below national median
Difference: -$12,010
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#34 of 50 statesfor Firefighter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $93,490 |
| #2 | New York | $88,380 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $87,660 |
| #4 | California | $83,400 |
| #5 | Illinois | $79,080 |
Nearby States Comparison
Firefighter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $47,520 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $53,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $41,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $55,190 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $61,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $51,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 1-3 years |
| Montana | $64,020 | No educational requirements | No 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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 State Fire Marshall
118 West Capitol Avenue, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057733562
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $52,310 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $60,300 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $37,010 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter 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 Firefighter salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in South Dakota is $47,520. Salaries range from $35,650 (10th percentile) to $62,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Firefighters in South Dakota earn 20% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $47,520.
How many Firefighters work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 540 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter 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 Firefighters in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota State Fire Marshall. Review agency details at https://dps.sd.gov/emergency-services/state-fire-marshal.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.