How to become a real estate agent in South Dakota
South Dakota real estate agents are licensed by the South Dakota Real Estate Commission (Department of Labor and Regulation). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in South Dakota, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from South Dakota law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a real estate agent in South Dakota?
- Complete a 116-hour prelicensing course
- Pass the exam with a score of 75%
- Commission approval of your application
South Dakota real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | South Dakota Real Estate Commission (Department of Labor and Regulation) |
|---|---|
| License name | Broker Associate |
| Education or training | 116-hour prelicensing course |
| Exam | PSI administers a South Dakota state exam and a national exam, given by computer in Madison, Rapid City and Sioux Falls. |
| License term | 2 years |
| Continuing education | 24 hours every two license years (at least 12 in required subjects); new broker associates instead complete 60 postlicensing hours split across their first two license cycles. |
How much does it cost?
| Broker associate application | $225 |
|---|---|
| Broker associate renewal | $125 every 2 years |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a real estate agent in South Dakota
- Complete the 116-hour prelicensing course
- Apply to the Commission
- Schedule and pass the state and national exams with PSI
- Receive your license after approval
- Complete postlicensing education in your first two license cycles
Apply on the official South Dakota site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in South Dakota?
- Search the name or license number on the official South Dakota real estate 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.