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Private Investigator Licensing in South Dakota

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in South Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in South Dakota

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Register with licensing agency
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Social Workers Examiners

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $52,370 median (0% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #16 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in South Dakota

With a median salary of 52,370, Private Investigators in South Dakota earn 0% above the national median of $52,370. South Dakota ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$52,370

Hourly estimate

$25.18
0% above national median

Difference: +$0

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentileN/A
  • P2525th percentileN/A
  • P50Median$52,370
  • P7575th percentileN/A
  • P9090th percentileN/A

State vs National Median

State: $52,370
National: $52,370

Total employment: 60 | Annual openings: N/A

Private Investigator Salary Ranking

#16 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Oregon77,320
#2Maryland74,360
#3Illinois73,070
#4Minnesota72,070
#5Connecticut68,290

Nearby States Comparison

Private Investigator licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
South Dakota$52,370Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
North Dakota$45,710No educational requirementsState exam required6-24 months
Minnesota$72,070Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Iowa$45,070Specific course requiredNo exam required6-24 months
Nebraska$52,160Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Wyoming$67,360Specific course requiredNo exam required6-24 months
Montana$47,910Varies by state boardState exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
South Dakota78HighBoard-specific review required.
North Dakota54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Minnesota78HighBoard-specific review required.
Iowa58MediumState-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated.
Nebraska78HighBoard-specific review required.
Wyoming54LowState-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

Social Workers Examiners

810 N Main St Ste 298, Spearfish, SD, 57783

Phone: 6056421600

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in South Dakota

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Architect$102,420Varies by state board6-24 months
Certified Public Accountant$77,310Varies by state board6-24 months
Civil Engineer$95,110Varies by state board6-24 months
Financial Advisor$123,380Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Private Investigator 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 Private Investigator salary in South Dakota?

The median annual salary for Private Investigators in South Dakota is 52,370.

How does the Private Investigator salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?

Private Investigators in South Dakota earn 0% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 52,370.

How many Private Investigators work in South Dakota?

South Dakota employs approximately 60 Private Investigators according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Private Investigator 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 Private Investigators in South Dakota?

The licensing agency is Social Workers Examiners. Review agency details at https://dss.sd.gov/licensingboards/socialwork/social.aspx.