RN NLC Compact State

South Dakota RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in South Dakota

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$343

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

None required

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 Site

1 Education Requirements

Program Requirements

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Additional Requirements

Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

2 NCLEX-RN Examination

Exam Name

NCLEX-RN

Administered By

Pearson VUE

Exam Fee

$200

Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.

Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.

3 Background Check

DCI and FBI fingerprint background check

DCI and FBI background check required

Fingerprint cards obtained from SDBON

Mail fingerprint cards to SDBON

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$100
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$43
Total	$343

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$115

Career Advancement

Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

South Dakota RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in South Dakota?

Expect about $343 in total initial RN license costs in South Dakota, including a $100 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the South Dakota Board of Nursing.

Does South Dakota require continuing education for RN renewal?

No. South Dakota does not require continuing education hours to renew an RN license. The renewal fee is $115.

Is South Dakota a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

Yes. South Dakota is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so eligible nurses with a multistate license can practice in South Dakota and every other NLC state without extra licenses.

How long does it take to get an RN license in South Dakota?

Most complete applications are processed in about 2 to 4 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in South Dakota?

The South Dakota Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (605) 362-2760.