Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Business
Real Estate Agent Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate agent 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 Real Estate Agent 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 Real Estate Commission
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$54,410 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 54,410, Real Estate Agents in South Dakota earn 3% below the national median of $56,320. South Dakota ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$54,410Hourly estimate
$26.163% below national median
Difference: -$1,910
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Agent Salary Ranking
#22 of 50 statesfor Real Estate Agent median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 97,440 |
| #2 | Alaska | 85,800 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 85,170 |
| #4 | Vermont | 82,630 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 79,790 |
Nearby States Comparison
Real Estate Agent licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $54,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $61,830 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $47,650 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $36,420 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $48,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $43,040 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $56,670 | Specific course required | State 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 | 50 | Low | 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
South Dakota Real Estate Commission
217 W Missouri Ave, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057733600
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $102,420 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $95,110 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $123,380 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Agent 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 Real Estate Agent salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Agents in South Dakota is 54,410. Salaries range from $40,420 (10th percentile) to $94,310 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Agent salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Real Estate Agents in South Dakota earn 3% below the national median of $56,320, with a state median of 54,410.
How many Real Estate Agents work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 330 Real Estate Agents according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent 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 Real Estate Agents in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Real Estate Commission. Review agency details at http://dlr.sd.gov/realestate.