Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Business
Funeral Director Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for funeral director 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 Funeral Director 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 Funeral Service
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,990 median (18% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 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 58,990, Funeral Directors in South Dakota earn 18% above the national median of $49,800. South Dakota ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$58,990Hourly estimate
$28.3618% above national median
Difference: +$9,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFuneral Director Salary Ranking
#16 of 50 statesfor Funeral Director median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Delaware | 80,290 |
| #2 | North Dakota | 76,720 |
| #3 | Minnesota | 76,490 |
| #4 | Nebraska | 65,310 |
| #5 | Maine | 63,790 |
Nearby States Comparison
Funeral Director licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $58,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $76,720 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $76,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $63,770 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $65,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $49,840 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $49,140 | 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 | 54 | 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 Funeral Service
810 N Main St Ste 298, Spearfish, SD, 57783
Phone: 6056421600
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $102,420 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,310 | 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 |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Funeral Director 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 Funeral Director salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Funeral Directors in South Dakota is 58,990. Salaries range from $49,640 (10th percentile) to $80,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Funeral Director salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Funeral Directors in South Dakota earn 18% above the national median of $49,800, with a state median of 58,990.
How many Funeral Directors work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 130 Funeral Directors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Funeral Director 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 Funeral Directors in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Board of Funeral Service. Review agency details at http://doh.sd.gov/boards/Funeral/.