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Dental Hygienist License in South Dakota

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

Application Fee

$250

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

NBDHE

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

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

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Dental Hygienist 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 NBDHE.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the South Dakota licensing board and pay the $250 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in SD. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Dental Hygienist in South Dakota starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the SD licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the NBDHE. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the South Dakota state board.

Requirements

Before applying for a Dental Hygienist license in South Dakota, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. SD requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the NBDHE is a non-negotiable requirement in South Dakota.

Fees & Costs

South Dakota sets the Dental Hygienist license application fee at $250. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in SD. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in South Dakota typically ranges from $250 to $450.

License Fee Calculator — Dental Hygienist in South Dakota

Base License Fee$250
Estimated Total$250

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Dental Hygienist license in South Dakota requires timely renewal every 2 years. SD sets the renewal fee at $175. 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 — Dental Hygienist 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 Dental Hygienist 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 Dental Hygienist professionals.

Document Checklist — Dental Hygienist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My South Dakota Dental Hygienist 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) NoneAL does not recognize SD Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for SD license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for SD license holders.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for SD license holders.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for SD license holders.
California (CA) FullCA accepts SD Dental Hygienist license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize SD Dental Hygienist 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.