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Physical Therapist License in South Dakota

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

Application Fee

$300

Processing Time

4-8 Weeks

Exam Required

NPTE

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

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

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Physical Therapist 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 NPTE.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the South Dakota licensing board and pay the $300 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-8 weeks in SD. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Physical Therapist 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 NPTE. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the South Dakota state board.

Requirements

South Dakota has specific requirements for Physical Therapist licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility. A clean background check is mandatory in SD, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The NPTE must be passed with a minimum score set by the South Dakota board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Physical Therapist license in South Dakota is approximately $300. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. SD also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in South Dakota may incur additional penalties of up to $75.

License Fee Calculator — Physical Therapist in South Dakota

Base License Fee$300
Estimated Total$300

Renewal Process

License renewal for Physical Therapist professionals in South Dakota occurs on a 2-year cycle. SD charges a renewal fee of $200 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in South Dakota at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Physical Therapist 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 Physical Therapist 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 Physical Therapist professionals.

Document Checklist — Physical Therapist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts SD Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize SD Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts SD Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize SD Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize SD Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize SD Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize SD Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize SD Physical Therapist 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.