How to become an insurance agent in South Dakota
South Dakota insurance agents are licensed by the South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation, Division of Insurance. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed insurance agent in South Dakota, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become an insurance agent in South Dakota?
- Pass the producer exam for each line of authority
- Apply online through NIPR (or State Based Systems)
South Dakota insurance agent license requirements
| State license | Yes. South Dakota licenses resident insurance producers by line of authority through the Division of Insurance. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation, Division of Insurance |
| License name | Resident Producer (lines such as Life; Accident & Health or Sickness; Property; Casualty; Personal Lines) |
| Education or training | Not required. The Division states no pre-licensing education is required for a resident or non-resident producer license. |
| Exam | Pearson VUE gives the exams (contracted since January 1, 2018): $85 for a single-line exam or $95 for a combination exam such as Property & Casualty, including a $10 state fee (handbook, August 2026). |
| License term | Biennial, based on birth month; due by the last day of the birth month. |
| Continuing education | Every two years: at least 10 hours for property/casualty lines, 10 for life/health lines, or 20 if you hold both (ARSD 20:06:18:03). |
How much does it cost?
| Resident producer license (plus service fee) | $25 |
|---|---|
| Pearson VUE single-line exam | $85 |
| Pearson VUE combination exam | $95 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become an insurance agent in South Dakota
- Pick your lines of authority
- Book the exam with Pearson VUE
- Pass the exam(s)
- Apply online through NIPR and pay the $25 fee
- Get appointed by an insurer before selling
- Renew every two years by the end of your birth month after required CE
Apply on the official South Dakota site
How do you check an insurance agent's license in South Dakota?
- Search the name or license number on the official South Dakota insurance agent license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.