Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor in South Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for General Contractor in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota Plumbing Commission
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$113,520 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for General Contractor licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to South Dakota Plumbing Commission and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $113,520, General Contractors in South Dakota earn 6% above the national median of $106,980. South Dakota ranks #14 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
$113,520Hourly estimate
$54.586% above national median
Difference: +$6,540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#14 of 50 statesfor General Contractor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Massachusetts | $147,750 |
| #2 | Washington | $136,180 |
| #3 | Alaska | $135,630 |
| #4 | New York | $135,530 |
| #5 | Delaware | $135,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
General Contractor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $113,520 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $101,020 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $117,500 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $96,300 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $96,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $97,050 | Specific course required | State exam required | 1-18 years |
| Montana | $102,820 | 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is 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 Plumbing Commission
217 W Missouri Ave, % 1320 E Sioux Ave, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057733429
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,410 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $46,500 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $63,320 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a General Contractor 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 General Contractor salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in South Dakota is $113,520. Salaries range from $88,290 (10th percentile) to $159,510 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
General Contractors in South Dakota earn 6% above the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $113,520.
How many General Contractors work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 980 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor 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 General Contractors in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Plumbing Commission. Review agency details at http://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing.
How often do you renew a General Contractor license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.