Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker 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 Social Worker 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
Social Workers Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$89,320 median (29% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 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 89,320, Social Workers in South Dakota earn 29% above the national median of $69,480. South Dakota ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$89,320Hourly estimate
$42.9429% above national median
Difference: +$19,840
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#13 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | 109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | 104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $89,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $77,380 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $79,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $88,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $67,590 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $74,880 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $49,600 | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Social Workers Examiners
810 N Main St Ste 298, Spearfish, SD, 57783
Phone: 6056421600
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 Social Worker 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 Social Worker salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in South Dakota is 89,320. Salaries range from $64,250 (10th percentile) to $104,330 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Social Workers in South Dakota earn 29% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 89,320.
How many Social Workers work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 140 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker 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 Social Workers in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is Social Workers Examiners. Review agency details at https://dss.sd.gov/licensingboards/socialwork/social.aspx.