Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedic 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 Department of Public Safety • Emergency Medical Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,070 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 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 48,070, EMT/Paramedics in South Dakota earn 18% below the national median of $58,410. South Dakota ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$48,070Hourly estimate
$23.1118% below national median
Difference: -$10,340
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#45 of 50 statesfor EMT/Paramedic median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 100,780 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 80,100 |
| #3 | Connecticut | 75,400 |
| #4 | Oregon | 73,380 |
| #5 | California | 72,180 |
Nearby States Comparison
EMT/Paramedic licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $48,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $59,950 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $68,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $53,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $54,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $61,600 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $49,360 | Specific course 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. 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
South Dakota Department of Public Safety • Emergency Medical Services
4101 W 38th St Ste 102, Sioux Falls, SD, 57103
Phone: 6053675372
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 EMT/Paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedic salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in South Dakota is 48,070. Salaries range from $40,590 (10th percentile) to $55,740 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in South Dakota earn 18% below the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 48,070.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 340 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedics in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Department of Public Safety / Emergency Medical Services. Review agency details at https://doh.sd.gov/health-care-professionals/ems-trauma-program/ems-licensing/.