Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse 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 Registered Nurse 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 Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$69,510 median (26% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 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 69,510, Registered Nurses in South Dakota earn 26% below the national median of $93,600. South Dakota ranks #50 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$69,510Hourly estimate
$33.4226% below national median
Difference: -$24,090
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#50 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $69,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $78,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $100,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $76,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $81,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $81,790 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $81,560 | Degree 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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 Board of Nursing
4305 S Louise Ave Ste 201, Sioux Falls, SD, 57106-3115
Phone: 6053622760
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 Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurse salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in South Dakota is 69,510. Salaries range from $51,980 (10th percentile) to $92,570 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in South Dakota earn 26% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 69,510.
How many Registered Nurses work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 14,500 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://doh.sd.gov/boards/nursing/licensure.aspx.