StateLicensed

Nail Technician License Requirements in South Dakota

Verified · July 2026
Training hours
400 hrs
Upfront cost
$120
Exam
NIC National Nail Technology Written Theory Examination, South Dakota Cosmetology State Laws and Rules Examination
Renewal cycle
Every 1 year
Issuing board
South Dakota Cosmetology Commission

How to get licensed

  1. 1

    Meet the prerequisites

    Be at least 18 years old. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. A criminal record must be disclosed on the application, but a fingerprint background check is not required. [3]

  2. 2

    Complete approved training

    Complete 400 hours of training at a state-approved program. Requires 400 hours of nail technology education from a school approved and licensed by the South Dakota Cosmetology Commission. [1]

  3. 3

    NIC National Nail Technology Written Theory Examination

    Pass the NIC National Nail Technology Written Theory Examination. Computer-based Fee is included in the $120.00 initial operator application fee. Retakes are $90.00. [2]

  4. 4

    South Dakota Cosmetology State Laws and Rules Examination

    Pass the South Dakota Cosmetology State Laws and Rules Examination. Online Fee is included in the $120.00 initial operator application fee. [2]

  5. 5

    Submit your application

    Submit your application to South Dakota Cosmetology Commission with the $120 application fee. Typical processing time: 10-15 business days. [3]

  6. 6

    Receive your license

    Once your application is approved, South Dakota Cosmetology Commission issues your Nail Technician for South Dakota.

Fees

Fee Amount
Application fee [3] $120
License fee [3] None specified
Renewal fee [3] $45
NIC National Nail Technology Written Theory Examination [2] None specified
South Dakota Cosmetology State Laws and Rules Examination [2] None specified

The $120 fee covers the examination application and includes the initial operator license. A separate initial license fee is not charged.

Renewal & continuing education

Renew every 1 year. 0 continuing education hours required per cycle.

Standard operator licenses must be renewed annually on or before the licensee's birth date. Continuing education is only required for instructors or specialized certifications.

Reciprocity

Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.

Reciprocity is available for applicants who hold an active license in good standing from another state with equivalent training hours (400 hours). Reciprocity applicants must pay a $120 fee and pass the South Dakota Laws & Rules exam.

3 state-approved training providers in South Dakota — browse programs and compare schools on tradecolleges.org.

Cost calculator

  • $120
Total$120

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a booth license if I am a W-2 employee at a salon?

No, if you are a W-2 employee receiving a wage from a salon, you do not need to hold a separate booth license. A booth license is only required for independent contractors renting space.

How do I apply to open a new salon or booth?

You must complete the Salon/Booth Permit License Application, pay a $75.00 fee, and include an opening date for the application to be processed.

When can a cosmetology or nail technician student take the licensing exam?

Students are eligible to register for the theory examination while enrolled. The Commission encourages students to complete at least 50% of their education before attempting the exam.

Are state board theory examinations available online?

Yes, first-time candidates can schedule their theory examination online and choose a date and time that fits their schedule when registering.

Sources

  1. [1] dlr.sd.gov/cosmetology/education.aspx — accessed 2026-07-12
  2. [2] dlr.sd.gov/cosmetology/exams.aspx — accessed 2026-07-12
  3. [3] dlr.sd.gov/cosmetology/licensing_requirements.aspx — accessed 2026-07-12
  4. [4] dlr.sd.gov/cosmetology/license_renewal.aspx — accessed 2026-07-12