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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
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 South Dakota eligibility requirements for Social Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Social Workers Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,123Median 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 | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $77,380 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $79,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $88,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $67,590 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $74,880 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Montana | $49,600 | Degree required | Third-party 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Social Workers Examiners
810 N Main St Ste 298, Spearfish, SD, 57783
Phone: 6056421600
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $54,200 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $102,310 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker 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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.