Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Healthcare
Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for marriage and family therapist 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 Marriage and Family Therapist in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing 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
$51,190 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists Examiners and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $51,190, Marriage and Family Therapists in South Dakota earn 20% below the national median of $63,780. South Dakota ranks #43 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
$51,190Hourly estimate
$24.6120% below national median
Difference: -$12,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMarriage and Family Therapist Salary Ranking
#43 of 50 statesfor Marriage and Family Therapist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | $135,870 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $89,030 |
| #3 | Utah | $81,170 |
| #4 | Virginia | $80,670 |
| #5 | Oregon | $79,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Marriage and Family Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $51,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $58,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $72,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $61,450 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $68,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 19 years |
| Wyoming | $63,780 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 1-3 months |
| Montana | $37,150 | Degree required | Third-party 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 | 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
Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists Examiners
1351 N. Harrison, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6052241721
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Marriage and Family Therapist 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 Marriage and Family Therapist salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Marriage and Family Therapists in South Dakota is $51,190. Salaries range from $37,670 (10th percentile) to $59,930 (90th percentile).
How does the Marriage and Family Therapist salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Marriage and Family Therapists in South Dakota earn 20% below the national median of $63,780, with a state median of $51,190.
How many Marriage and Family Therapists work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 70 Marriage and Family Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist 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 Marriage and Family Therapists 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.
How often do you renew a Marriage and Family Therapist license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.