Cosmetologist / South Dakota
2026 data South Dakota board official source

South Dakota Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Provides hair, skin, and nail care services. Required in all 50 states.

What the South Dakota data shows for Cosmetologists

Becoming a licensed cosmetologist in South Dakota means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,049 training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 16. South Dakota regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

The initial price tag is $40, and renewal costs $20 every 2 years. Applications usually take around 2 weeks to process once complete. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in South Dakota, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in South Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,049 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$47
Renewal Fee
$30
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$40
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$20
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
2 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

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Compare all states for Cosmetologist All South Dakota licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with South Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in South Dakota? ▼
In South Dakota, the license path calls for 1049 education/training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, and a $47 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in South Dakota? ▼
To become a licensed cosmetologist in South Dakota, you must meet the state's requirements including 1049 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the South Dakota licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to South Dakota from another state? ▼
Cosmetologist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Varies by state — check with state board. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The South Dakota licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does South Dakota require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Yes, South Dakota requires a criminal background check as part of the cosmetologist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in South Dakota? ▼
The initial licensing fee in South Dakota is $40. The renewal fee is $20 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 2 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in South Dakota? ▼
In South Dakota, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 2 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.