South Dakota Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in South Dakota
Official source: licensing in South Dakota is administered by the South Dakota Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in South Dakota.
Apply on Official SiteCNS practices autonomously under SDCL 36-9-87 (advanced nursing assessment, interventions, and care management); no career-long collaborative agreement or physician supervision required for nursing practice. CNS has NO prescriptive authority per SD Board of Nursing.
Prescriptive Authority: South Dakota law does not authorize a CNS to prescribe or order medications (SD Board of Nursing, CNS Practice). CNS may, in collaboration with a physician, order/dispense durable medical equipment or therapeutic devices only (SDCL 36-9-87).
1 Education Requirements
Degree Required
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program Requirements
- Complete accredited Clinical Nurse Specialist program
- Hold active RN license in the state
- Clinical hours as specified by program
2 National Certification
Certification Body
ANCC or AACN
Required
Yes
American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
3 Fees
Initial Licensure
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Total | $100 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $100 |
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in South Dakota, you must first hold an active RN license. South Dakota is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.
South Dakota CNS License FAQs
How much does a CNS license cost in South Dakota?
Expect about $100 in total initial CNS license costs in South Dakota, including a $100 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the South Dakota Board of Nursing.
Does South Dakota require continuing education for CNS renewal?
No. South Dakota does not require continuing education hours to renew a CNS license. The renewal fee is $95.
How long does it take to get a CNS license in South Dakota?
Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.
Who issues CNS licenses in South Dakota?
The South Dakota Board of Nursing handles CNS license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 605-362-2760.
State Board of Nursing
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Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 5 official sources • Last verified: June 2026