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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder 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 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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $60,270 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $58,730 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $49,450 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $50,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $66,070 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $51,280 | 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 | 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
South Dakota Appraiser Certification Program
123 W Missouri Ave, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057733803
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $46,500 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $58,550 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $106,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $59,460 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder 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 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.