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Cosmetologist License in South Dakota

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Cosmetologist license in SD. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

State Cosmetology Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Cosmetologist license in South Dakota.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Cosmetologist training program in South Dakota.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your SD application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the State Cosmetology Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the South Dakota licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in SD. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Cosmetologist in South Dakota, the licensing process begins with education. SD mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the State Cosmetology Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate South Dakota regulatory board.

Requirements

The South Dakota licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Cosmetologist professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the State Cosmetology Exam. SD also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Cosmetologist in South Dakota starts at $150 for the application fee. SD requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in South Dakota can add up to $50 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Cosmetologist in South Dakota

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Cosmetologist license in South Dakota requires timely renewal every 2 years. SD sets the renewal fee at $100. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the South Dakota board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in SD.

License Expiry Calculator — Cosmetologist in SD

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. South Dakota requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Cosmetologist in South Dakota offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. SD has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. South Dakota also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Cosmetologist professionals.

Document Checklist — Cosmetologist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My South Dakota Cosmetologist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for SD license holders.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts SD Cosmetologist license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize SD Cosmetologist license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize SD Cosmetologist license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize SD Cosmetologist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts SD Cosmetologist license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for SD license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize SD Cosmetologist license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in South Dakota

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Pierre

500 E Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501

(605) 773-3101

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sioux Falls

224 W 9th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

(605) 367-8000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Rapid City

300 6th St, Rapid City, SD 57701

(605) 394-4110

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Aberdeen

123 S Lincoln St, Aberdeen, SD 57401

(605) 626-7000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Brookings

520 3rd St, Brookings, SD 57006

(605) 692-6281

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official South Dakota Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the South Dakota state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.