Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Healthcare
Veterinarian Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for veterinarian 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 Veterinarian 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 Veterinary Medical Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$89,970 median (28% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 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 89,970, Veterinarians in South Dakota earn 28% below the national median of $125,510. South Dakota ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$89,970Hourly estimate
$43.2528% below national median
Difference: -$35,540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationVeterinarian Salary Ranking
#48 of 50 statesfor Veterinarian median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 158,950 |
| #2 | Washington | 155,060 |
| #3 | New Jersey | 148,550 |
| #4 | West Virginia | 134,290 |
| #5 | Vermont | 134,240 |
Nearby States Comparison
Veterinarian licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $89,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $99,490 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $117,340 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $100,910 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $83,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $95,400 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $82,340 | 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 | 56 | Medium | 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 Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
411 S Fort St, Pierre, SD, 57501-4503
Phone: 6057733321
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 Veterinarian 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 Veterinarian salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Veterinarians in South Dakota is 89,970. Salaries range from $60,560 (10th percentile) to $138,840 (90th percentile).
How does the Veterinarian salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Veterinarians in South Dakota earn 28% below the national median of $125,510, with a state median of 89,970.
How many Veterinarians work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 240 Veterinarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Veterinarian 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 Veterinarians in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. Review agency details at https://vetboard.sd.gov/licapp.html.