South Dakota real estate license guide
How to Get a Real Estate License in South Dakota (2026 Guide)
Use this guide to see exactly how to get licensed in South Dakota, including your pre-license education, exam path, published fees, renewal rules, and the right class options for your next step.
Pre-license education
116 hours
Estimated cost range
$580–$1,192+
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing education
24 hours every 2 years (plus 60 hours post-licensing for first renewal)
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Ready to start your South Dakota pre-license education?
If you already know you want to move forward, use this direct path to review the matching class options without losing your place in the licensing process.
Age and eligibility
Typically 18 or older; verify with the state regulator.
Education baseline
High school diploma or equivalent is commonly required; verify any state-specific exception.
| Pre-license hours | 116 hours |
|---|---|
| Exam provider | PSI |
| Exam fee | $105.00 |
| Application or initial license fee | $225 |
| Background check / fingerprint fee | $50.00 |
| Renewal cycle | Every 2 years |
| Continuing education | 24 hours every 2 years (plus 60 hours post-licensing for first renewal) |
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The best time to compare South Dakota real estate classes is after you understand the published requirements. Once you know the hours, renewal cycle, exam route, and expected fees, you can choose the right education option with much better context.
Start with the licensing rules here, then move to the matching course page on UniversityOfSuccess.com when you are ready to compare classes or enroll.
Start Classes Here!
Choose the South Dakota classes that match what you need next.
If you are ready to move forward, choose prelicense classes to start your education or CE classes if you are already licensed and need renewal coursework.
How many pre-license hours are required in South Dakota?
South Dakota requires 116 hours of pre-license education before you complete the remaining application and examination steps. Keep your course completion record because the regulator or exam process may require it.
Who administers the South Dakota real estate licensing exam and what does it cost?
The listed exam provider for South Dakota is PSI, and the published exam fee is $105.00. Confirm the current fee and scheduling rules with the official South Dakota regulator before registering.
How much should I budget to get a real estate license in South Dakota?
The current planning range shown for South Dakota is $580–$1,192+. That estimate reflects a published application or initial license fee of $225, an exam fee of $105.00, a listed background-check or fingerprint cost of $50.00, and variable education costs.
How often is a South Dakota real estate license renewed?
The listed renewal cycle is Every 2 years. The continuing-education requirement shown for that cycle is 24 hours every 2 years (plus 60 hours post-licensing for first renewal). Verify the active deadline and any first-renewal exceptions with the official regulator before filing.
Use these related guides if you are deciding where to practice or if you want to compare education hours, costs, and renewal rules across nearby markets before you move forward.