South Dakota Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide

South Dakota regulates most skilled trades at the state level through boards housed within the Department of Labor and Regulation. Electricians are licensed by the South Dakota Electrical Commission, and plumbers—as well as several related specialty trades—are licensed by the South Dakota Plumbing Commission. Exams for these trades are administered by the commissions and are based on current code editions adopted in the state.

This guide explains the state-issued licenses available in South Dakota for electrical, plumbing, and several plumbing-related specialty trades. It also clarifies what is known about HVAC, general building, and roofing credentials so you can plan next steps with confidence. We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for South Dakota below; this guide is updated periodically as additional details are curated.

Use the Quick Navigation to jump directly to your trade. Each section points to official state pages for current applications, fees, exam logistics, and renewal requirements, helping you move from intent to licensure efficiently.

Quick Navigation

Overview of South Dakota Contractor Licensing

South Dakota issues state-level licenses for electricians and plumbers, and it also regulates several specialty trades closely aligned with plumbing. These programs are administered by commissions within the Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR). Electrical exams are based on the National Electrical Code (NEC), and plumbing/specialty exams are offered at designated locations statewide on commission schedules.

The South Dakota Electrical Commission oversees apprentice, journeyman, Class B, and electrical contractor credentials, including examination approval, bonding where required, inspections, and continuing education. The South Dakota Plumbing Commission oversees apprentice, third-year apprentice, journeyman plumber, and plumbing contractor licenses, as well as multiple specialty contractor and installer credentials such as sewer and water, appliance, manufactured and mobile home, underground irrigation, water conditioning, and on-site wastewater system installation.

Renewals are annual. Plumbing and specialty licenses expire on December 31 each year. Electrical licenses renew annually on commission timetables, and continuing education is required for licensees who qualify by exam, per commission rules. Always confirm current fees, forms, and deadlines using the official links below.

Primary Licensing Authority

Multiple Authorities – See research notes

Browse all South Dakota contractor license practice tests →

Electrician Licenses in South Dakota

South Dakota regulates electrical work with 4 license types.

Apprentice Electrician (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Electrical Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/default.aspx

Overview

Entry-level state registration to perform electrical work under the supervision and employment of a licensed electrical contractor while progressing toward journeyman eligibility.

Examination

No examination is required for the apprentice registration.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual. Continuing education is determined by the Commission for renewal of licenses and registrations.

Contact the South Dakota Electrical Commission to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying. Official licensing page: https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/licensing.aspx.

Journeyman Electrician (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Electrical Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/default.aspx

Eligibility

  • Completion of four years (8,000 hours) as a licensed apprentice electrician under the employment and supervision of an electrical contractor, with experience in electrical wiring installations.

Examination

  • Code basis: 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).
  • Scheduling: Application and required fee must be approved by the Commission before an exam can be scheduled. After approval, you have 90 days to arrange the exam at an available site.
  • Locations: Exam sites are arranged by the Commission; details are provided in the approval letter.
  • Retakes: Permitted under Commission rules; reapplication and any re-exam fee may be required.

Renewal

  • Frequency: Annual.
  • Continuing Education: Required for renewal; topics include electrical code updates and safety, including NEC changes.

Contact the South Dakota Electrical Commission to confirm application, examination, and license fees, and any other insurance or renewal details before applying. Official licensing page: https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/licensing.aspx.

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. South Dakota 531 Journeyman Electrician Practice Test.

Electrical Contractor (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Electrical Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/default.aspx

Eligibility

  • Two years (4,000 hours) as a licensed journeyman electrician under the employment and supervision of an electrical contractor, including a minimum of 2,000 hours of commercial electrical work, following four years as a licensed apprentice.

Examination

  • Code basis: 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).
  • Scheduling: Submit application and fee and obtain written approval from the Commission before scheduling; the exam must be scheduled within 90 days of approval.
  • Locations: Commission-arranged sites; details provided upon approval.
  • Retakes: Allowed under Commission procedures; additional exam fees apply.

Insurance/Bond

  • Bond required: Electrical Contractor and Class B Electricians’ Bond Application must be filed prior to licensing.

Renewal

  • Frequency: Annual.
  • Continuing Education: Required for renewal; Commission-approved electrical safety and NEC code updates.

Contact the South Dakota Electrical Commission to confirm application, examination, and license fees and bond amounts before applying. Licensing details: https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/licensing.aspx.

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. South Dakota 530 Electrical Contractor Practice Test.

Class B Electrician (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Electrical Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/default.aspx

Eligibility

Experience requirements are established by the Commission. Application approval is required before examination.

Examination

  • Code basis: 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).
  • Scheduling: Application and fee must be approved prior to scheduling; approved applicants have 90 days to arrange the exam.
  • Locations: Commission-provided exam sites; details supplied upon approval.
  • Retakes: Follow Commission policy; a new exam fee is required.

Insurance/Bond

  • Bond required: Bond filing via the Electrical Contractor and Class B Electricians’ Bond Application.

Renewal

  • Frequency: Annual.
  • Continuing Education: Commission-approved electrical code and safety training required for renewal.

Contact the South Dakota Electrical Commission to confirm application, examination, and license fees and bond amounts before applying. Licensing details: https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/licensing.aspx.

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. South Dakota 533 Class B Electrician Practice Test.

Plumbing Licenses in South Dakota

South Dakota regulates plumbing work with 4 license types.

Apprentice Plumber (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

Apprentice plumbers accumulate experience under the supervision of licensed plumbing or specialty contractors to qualify for higher licenses.

Fees

  • Application: $20.
  • Initial license: $20 for the first year.
  • Renewal: Annual; fee starts at $20 and increases to $50 for four or more years licensed.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual; licenses expire December 31 each year.

Official licensing page: https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/licensing.aspx. Fee schedule: Administrative Rule 20:53:12.

Third-Year Apprentice Plumber (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

  • Two years as an apprentice plumber, with at least 1,900 hours per year spent learning and assisting in plumbing installation, alteration, and repair under a plumbing contractor.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $50 (initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered; offered in Pierre by appointment, and in Sioux Falls and Rapid City during scheduled sessions.
  • Scheduling: Apply with fees; Pierre exams scheduled on demand, other sites when sufficient applicants are present.
  • Retake policy: $50 re-exam fee submitted at least two weeks before scheduled sessions in Sioux Falls or Rapid City.

Fees

  • Application (apprentice category): $20.
  • Examination: $50.
  • Renewal: Annual; apprentice renewals range from $20 to $50 based on years licensed; licenses expire December 31.

Renewal

Continuing Education: Required for third-year apprentice plumbers licensed by exam before renewal, per Commission rules.

Exam logistics: https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/exams.aspx. Applications & forms: https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/forms.aspx. Fee rule: 20:53:12.

Plumber (Journeyman) — State License

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

  • Four years as an apprentice plumber, with at least 1,900 hours per year under supervision.
  • Military plumbing experience may be credited at one year for each two years of service, up to five years (documentation required).

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered written exam in Pierre, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City.
  • Scheduling: Apply with fees; Pierre by appointment; Sioux Falls/Rapid City when enough applicants (typically 8–10) justify travel.
  • Retake policy: $100 re-exam fee submitted at least two weeks prior to scheduled sessions in Sioux Falls or Rapid City.

Fees

  • Application: $50.
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $105 annually.

Renewal

  • Frequency: Annual; licenses expire December 31.
  • Continuing Education: Required before renewal for plumbers licensed by exam (Commission-approved courses).

Licensing and exam details: https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/licensing.aspx | exam information. Fee rule: 20:53:12.

Plumbing Contractor — State License

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

  • Six years of experience as a plumbing contractor, plumber, or plumber’s apprentice, with at least two of those years as a plumbing contractor or plumber, and at least 1,900 hours per year during those six years.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered; offered in Pierre, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City.
  • Scheduling: First-time examinees must be approved before scheduling or attending sessions; re-exam fees due at least two weeks before scheduled sessions.
  • Retake policy: Re-exam permitted with $100 fee, subject to scheduling deadlines.

Fees

  • Application: $50.
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $275 annually.

Renewal

  • Frequency: Annual; licenses expire December 31.
  • Continuing Education: Required for renewal for contractors licensed by exam (Commission-approved courses).

Applications and forms: https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/forms.aspx. Licensing overview: licensing page. Fee rule: 20:53:12.

HVAC Licenses in South Dakota

HVAC/mechanical licensing is not administered by the Electrical or Plumbing Commissions. If you work with refrigerants, federal EPA Section 608 certification is required for handling and servicing regulated refrigerants.

Contact the Department of Labor and Regulation

For current statewide guidance on HVAC/mechanical credentialing and any related requirements, consult the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation: https://dlr.sd.gov (Phone: 605.773.3429).

General Contractor Licenses in South Dakota

There is no general-contractor credential administered by the South Dakota Electrical Commission or South Dakota Plumbing Commission. Business registration, project permitting, and contractor qualifications may be addressed through other state or local processes depending on project scope.

Next step: Start with the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation for direction to the appropriate authority for your business and project needs: https://dlr.sd.gov (Phone: 605.773.3429).

Roofing Licenses in South Dakota

Roofing is not licensed by the South Dakota Electrical or Plumbing Commissions. Depending on the work performed, you may need building permits, inspections, and to meet insurance or bonding expectations set by project owners or authorities with jurisdiction.

Next step: Contact the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation for statewide guidance and then confirm permit requirements with the authority having jurisdiction for the project: https://dlr.sd.gov (Phone: 605.773.3429).

Specialty Trade Licenses in South Dakota

South Dakota regulates specialty trades related to plumbing with 6 state-level license types. These credentials are administered by the South Dakota Plumbing Commission, with state exams offered on Commission schedules.

Sewer and Water Contractor License (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

  • One year of experience as a sewer and water installer under a licensed contractor.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (installer and contractor exams; initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered; offered in Pierre (by appointment) and in Sioux Falls/Rapid City during scheduled sessions.
  • Scheduling: Application and exam fees must be approved before scheduling; sessions outside Pierre are scheduled when sufficient applicants are present.
  • Retake policy: Re-exam fee due at least two weeks before scheduled sessions.

Fees

  • Application: $50 (contractor).
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $235 annually.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual; licenses expire December 31. Continuing education is required for contractors licensed by exam.

Details: licensing page | exam information | fee rule 20:53:12.

Appliance Contractor License (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

Experience requirements are set by the Commission and must be documented with experience verification when applying by exam.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (installer and contractor exams; initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered; sessions posted and conducted by the Commission.
  • Scheduling: Application and exam fees must be submitted and approved prior to scheduling.
  • Retake policy: Re-exam fee is required before being added to a scheduled session.

Fees

  • Application: $50 (contractor).
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $200 annually.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual; licenses expire December 31. Continuing education is required for contractors licensed by exam.

Details: exam information | applications & forms | fee rule 20:53:12.

Manufactured and Mobile Home Contractor License (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

Experience requirements are set by the Commission and must be documented for license by exam.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (installer and contractor exams; initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered for contractors, installers, and apprentices.
  • Scheduling: Submit application and exam fees; approval is required prior to scheduling.
  • Retake policy: Re-exam fee must be submitted in advance of scheduled sessions.

Fees

  • Application: $50 (contractor).
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $200 annually.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual; licenses expire December 31. Continuing education is required for contractors licensed by exam.

Details: exam information | applications & forms | fee rule 20:53:12.

Underground Irrigation Contractor License (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

Applicants must meet underground irrigation experience requirements defined by the Commission and provide experience verification with the application.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (installer and contractor exams; initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered for contractors, installers, and apprentices.
  • Scheduling: Applications and exam fees must be approved; exams are scheduled in Pierre, Sioux Falls, or Rapid City.
  • Retake policy: Re-exam fee must be paid prior to scheduling.

Fees

  • Application: $50 (contractor).
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $200 annually.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual. Continuing education is required for exam-licensed contractors.

Details: exam information | applications & forms | fee rule 20:53:12.

Water Conditioning Contractor License (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

Applicants must meet Commission-defined experience requirements for water conditioning work and provide verification when applying by exam.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (installer and contractor exams; initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered for contractors, installers, and apprentices.
  • Scheduling: Submit application and exam fees for approval; exams are held in Pierre, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City.
  • Retake policy: Re-exam fee must be submitted in advance of exam sessions.

Fees

  • Application: $50 (contractor).
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $200 annually.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual. Continuing education is required for contractors licensed by exam.

Details: exam information | applications & forms | fee rule 20:53:12.

Individual and Small On-Site Wastewater System Installer License (State License)

Regulatory Authority

South Dakota Plumbing Commission — https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx

Eligibility

Applicants must meet Commission-defined experience requirements for individual and small on-site wastewater (septic) system installation and provide experience verification.

Examination

  • Exam fee: $100 (installer exams; initial and re-exams).
  • Format/locations: State-administered for on-site wastewater installers.
  • Scheduling: Apply with exam fee for approval; exams scheduled in Pierre, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City based on applicant volume.
  • Retake policy: Re-exam fee must be paid and submitted before scheduling.

Fees

  • Application: $50 (installer).
  • Examination: $100.
  • Initial license and renewal: $105 annually.

Renewal

Frequency: Annual; December 31 expiration. Continuing education is required for installers licensed by exam.

Details: applications & forms | exam information | fee rule 20:53:12.

Application Process

  1. Identify the correct trade commission (Electrical or Plumbing) and review license requirements on the commission’s licensing page.
  2. Complete the appropriate application form (apprentice, journeyman/plumber, contractor, or specialty) from the Applications and Forms section. Include all required experience verification and documentation.
  3. Submit the application with the non-refundable application fee to the commission office by the accepted methods (mail, fax, or electronic, as available).
  4. Await commission review and approval. If applying by exam, you will receive approval instructions for scheduling.
  5. Schedule and take the state-administered examination within the allowed timeframe (for example, within 90 days for electrical exams), and pay the applicable exam fee.
  6. After passing the exam and meeting all requirements, pay initial license and renewal fees and, if required, submit bonding documentation (e.g., Electrical Contractor and Class B Electricians’ Bond Application).
  7. Maintain your license by completing required continuing education and submitting timely renewals before annual expiration dates (plumbing/specialty typically December 31).

Timeline: Applications are reviewed by the commissions. Where exams are required, candidates must schedule within specified windows (e.g., 90 days for electrical after approval). Licenses are issued after passing the exam and paying all required fees.

Reciprocity

Availability: The South Dakota Plumbing Commission accepts reciprocity applications for eligible plumbing licenses when the applicant holds a license by examination from another jurisdiction.

Requirements: Submit proof of license by exam, official license verification from the issuing jurisdiction, and proof of completion of four hours of continuing education, along with the appropriate application and fees. Specific reciprocal states are determined by the Plumbing Commission; confirm eligibility directly with the Commission.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a contractor license in South Dakota?

Processing times depend on the commission and completeness of your application. For licenses requiring an exam, allow time for application approval, scheduling (for electrical, within 90 days of approval), testing, and issuance after fees are paid.

Can I transfer my license from another state to South Dakota?

For plumbing, reciprocity is available to applicants who hold a license by exam in another jurisdiction. You must submit license verification and proof of at least four hours of continuing education with your application and fees. Confirm eligible jurisdictions directly with the South Dakota Plumbing Commission.

What happens if I fail the exam?

Electrical retakes are permitted according to Electrical Commission procedures and may require reapplication and a new exam fee. For plumbing and specialty licenses, re-exam fees are $50 for third-year apprentice plumber and $100 for plumber, contractor, and installer exams; re-exam requests are typically due at least two weeks before scheduled sessions in Sioux Falls or Rapid City.

Do I need insurance?

Electrical Contractors and Class B Electricians must file a bond using the Electrical Contractor and Class B Electricians’ Bond Application before licensing. Other insurance requirements can vary by business model and project; verify any additional expectations with the relevant commission and the authority having jurisdiction for your project.

How do I renew my license?

Plumbing and specialty licenses expire annually on December 31. Electrical licenses renew annually on Commission schedules. Licensees who qualified by examination must complete Commission-approved continuing education before renewal (see each trade section for details).

What if my city has different requirements than what’s shown here?

Licensure for the trades covered here is administered at the state level by the Electrical and Plumbing Commissions. Local building departments still govern permits, inspections, and project approvals, so always confirm permit and code requirements with the authority having jurisdiction for the job.

Where can I find practice tests for South Dakota exams?

We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for South Dakota license exams. Guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with complete answer keys and reference locators pointing to exact code sections. Study offline at your pace; no time or use limits. Browse South Dakota contractor practice tests.

South Dakota · Practice tests

South Dakota contractor license practice tests

The South Dakota practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.

Browse all South Dakota tests →

Related Official Resources

Official Sources for Further Details:

  1. South Dakota Electrical Commission
    https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/default.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  2. South Dakota Electrical Commission – Licensing
    https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/licensing.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  3. South Dakota Electrical Commission – Exams
    https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/exams.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  4. South Dakota Electrical Commission – Forms
    https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/forms.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  5. South Dakota Plumbing Commission
    https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/default.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  6. South Dakota Plumbing Commission – Licensing
    https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/licensing.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  7. South Dakota Plumbing Commission – Exams
    https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/exams.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  8. South Dakota Plumbing Commission – Applications & Forms
    https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/forms.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  9. Plumbing License Application (PDF)
    https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/forms/Plumbing-Application.pdf
    Fee Schedule/Application Instructions | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  10. South Dakota Plumbing Commission – Homeowner Plumbing
    https://dlr.sd.gov/plumbing/homeowner_plumbing.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  11. South Dakota Administrative Rule 20:53:12
    https://sdlegislature.gov/Rules/Administrative/20:53:12
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-10-05
  12. South Dakota Electrical Commission – Board Information
    https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Information.aspx?BoardID=35
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-10-05

Important Disclaimer

Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Requirements can change without notice. Always verify current rules, fees, and forms with official sources before applying.

Official Source: For current information, contact Multiple Authorities – See research notes:

No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult the applicable commission or a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

Permitting: Building permits, inspections, and code enforcement are administered locally. Confirm project-level requirements with the authority having jurisdiction.