South Dakota licenses cosmetologists through the Cosmetology Commission under the Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR). Note that South Dakota has two separate regulatory bodies for beauty licensing — the Cosmetology Commission handles cosmetology, esthetician, and nail technician licenses, while barber licensing is administered by the separate Board of Barber Examiners. You need a South Dakota cosmetology license to perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation.
South Dakota requires 1,500 training hours plus NIC written and practical exams administered by Prov. No continuing education is required. Annual renewal on your birth date. Total initial cost is approximately $100. Here is exactly how to get your South Dakota cosmetology license.
South Dakota Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | Cosmetology Commission (DLR) |
| Statutory Authority | SDCL 36-15 |
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | High school diploma or GED |
| Training Hours Required | 1,500 hours at a licensed school |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes — 3,000 hours |
| Exam Required | NIC Written + Practical (Prov) |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Exam + License Fee | $100 (combined) |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$100 (excluding tuition) |
| Renewal Cycle | Annual (expires on birth date) |
| Renewal Fee | $45 |
| Continuing Education | None required |
| Apply Online | SD Cosmetology Commission |
| Board Website | dlr.sd.gov/cosmetology |
Education & Training Requirements
Complete 1,500 hours at a licensed cosmetology school. The cosmetology curriculum covers hair cutting, coloring, styling, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, facials, skin care, makeup application, manicures, pedicures, artificial nail application, sanitation and infection control, anatomy, and South Dakota laws and rules.
Full-time students typically complete the program in 10 to 14 months.
Apprenticeship alternative: 3,000 hours under a licensed cosmetologist (2:1 ratio to school hours). Apprenticeship requirements were updated by HB 1214 (2024).
For a comparison of cosmetology requirements across all states, see our cosmetology license guide.
Exam Requirements
NIC Cosmetology exams through Prov:
- Written Exam: 110 items (100 scored + 10 unscored), 90 minutes. Content: Scientific Concepts (35%), Hair Care & Services (45%), Skin Care (10%), Nail Care (10%).
- Practical Exam: Hands-on demonstration of cosmetology skills including hair cutting, chemical services, facials, and nail services.
Passing score: 75%. Register at Prov.
Application Process & Fees
- Complete 1,500 hours of cosmetology training (or 3,000 apprenticeship hours)
- Register for NIC exams through Prov
- Pass the written and practical exams
- Apply through the Cosmetology Commission ($100 combined exam and license fee)
Total: approximately $100 — among the lowest total costs in the country.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
South Dakota cosmetology licenses expire annually on your birth date. Renewal fee: $45. No continuing education required. Late renewals incur additional fees. Lapsed licenses may require re-examination depending on the length of lapse.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
South Dakota offers endorsement for cosmetologists licensed in other states. Reciprocity fee: $125. You must provide proof of current licensure in good standing and documentation of training hours meeting South Dakota’s 1,500-hour requirement. A South Dakota Laws & Rules exam may be required.
Military Provisions
South Dakota issues licenses within 30 days for active-duty members and spouses holding valid licenses from other states under SDCL 36-1B-1. All licensing fees are waived for military applicants. Military training and experience may be credited toward licensing qualifications.
Recent Legislative Changes
SB 27 (2025): Increased fee caps for the Cosmetology Commission, allowing adjustments to exam and license fees.
HB 1214 (2024): Updated apprenticeship requirements and pathways for cosmetology license types.
HB 1232 (2025): Authorized booth sharing arrangements in licensed salons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours do I need for a cosmetology license in South Dakota?
1,500 hours at a licensed school, or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship. Full-time students complete training in about 10 to 14 months.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in South Dakota?
Approximately $100 total (combined exam and license fee paid to the Cosmetology Commission). This is among the lowest total costs in the country.
Does South Dakota require continuing education for cosmetologists?
No. South Dakota does not require CE for cosmetology license renewal.
Why does South Dakota have two separate boards for beauty licensing?
South Dakota has the Cosmetology Commission (for cosmetology, esthetician, and nail technician licenses) and the Board of Barber Examiners (for barber licenses). They are separate agencies under the Department of Labor and Regulation.
Official Resources
- South Dakota Cosmetology Commission (official website)
- Prov Exam Registration
- Commission Contact: 605.773.6193 | cosmetology@state.sd.us
- Address: 217 W. Missouri Ave., Pierre, SD 57501