Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Public Safety
Security Guards Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for security guards in South Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Security Guards in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$37,010 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Security Guards licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to South Dakota Board of Nursing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $37,010, Security Guardss in South Dakota earn 4% below the national median of $38,370. South Dakota ranks #36 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
$37,010Hourly estimate
$17.794% below national median
Difference: -$1,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSecurity Guards Salary Ranking
#36 of 50 statesfor Security Guards median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $48,620 |
| #2 | Washington | $48,010 |
| #3 | Colorado | $46,080 |
| #4 | Minnesota | $46,020 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | $44,950 |
Nearby States Comparison
Security Guards licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $37,010 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $39,970 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $46,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $37,380 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $38,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $36,330 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 1-3 months |
| Montana | $38,300 | No educational requirements | No 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 62 | 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
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $52,310 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $47,520 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $60,300 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Security Guards 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 Security Guards salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Security Guardss in South Dakota is $37,010. Salaries range from $30,020 (10th percentile) to $50,190 (90th percentile).
How does the Security Guards salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Security Guardss in South Dakota earn 4% below the national median of $38,370, with a state median of $37,010.
How many Security Guardss work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 1,420 Security Guardss according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Security Guards 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 Security Guardss in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://doh.sd.gov/boards/nursing/licensure.aspx.
How often do you renew a Security Guards license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.