Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder 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 Welder 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
South Dakota Appraiser Certification Program
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,340 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Dakota eligibility requirements for Welder 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 South Dakota Appraiser Certification Program and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of $48,340, Welders in South Dakota earn 5% below the national median of $51,000. South Dakota ranks #45 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
$48,340Hourly estimate
$23.245% below national median
Difference: -$2,660
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#45 of 50 statesfor Welder median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | $76,970 |
| #2 | Alaska | $75,140 |
| #3 | Wyoming | $66,070 |
| #4 | Connecticut | $64,520 |
| #5 | Washington | $61,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Welder licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $48,340 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $60,270 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $58,730 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $49,450 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $50,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $66,070 | Specific course required | State exam required | 1-3 years |
| Montana | $51,280 | 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. 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 Appraiser Certification Program
123 W Missouri Ave, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057733803
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,410 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $46,500 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $63,320 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder 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 Welder salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Welders in South Dakota is $48,340. Salaries range from $36,960 (10th percentile) to $61,330 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Welders in South Dakota earn 5% below the national median of $51,000, with a state median of $48,340.
How many Welders work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 3,480 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder 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 Welders in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Appraiser Certification Program. Review agency details at http://dlr.sd.gov/appraisers.
How often do you renew a Welder license in South Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.