Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor 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 Licensed Professional Counselor 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
Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$53,400 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 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 53,400, Licensed Professional Counselors in South Dakota earn 10% below the national median of $59,190. South Dakota ranks #39 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$53,400Hourly estimate
$25.6710% below national median
Difference: -$5,790
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#39 of 50 statesfor Licensed Professional Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 79,220 |
| #2 | New Mexico | 70,770 |
| #3 | Oregon | 69,660 |
| #4 | North Dakota | 66,450 |
| #5 | Utah | 65,920 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Professional Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $53,400 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $66,450 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $58,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $60,880 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $64,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $61,640 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $58,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 | 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
Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists Examiners
1351 N. Harrison, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6052241721
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $102,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,200 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,540 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor 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 Licensed Professional Counselor salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in South Dakota is 53,400. Salaries range from $40,410 (10th percentile) to $74,250 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in South Dakota earn 10% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of 53,400.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 1,510 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor 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 Licensed Professional Counselors in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists Examiners. Review agency details at https://dss.sd.gov/licensingboards/counselors/counselors.aspx.