How to Get a Real Estate License in South Dakota
Everything you need to know about becoming a licensed real estate agent in South Dakota — from pre-license education and exam prep to finding your first brokerage. Updated for 2026.
South Dakota Real Estate License Requirements
Before you can take the South Dakota real estate exam, you must meet these requirements set by the South Dakota Real Estate Commission.
Age & Education
Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
Pre-License Education
Complete 116 hours of approved real estate courses from a South Dakota Real Estate Commission-approved school.
Background Check
Pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting as required by the South Dakota Real Estate Commission.
5 Steps to Get Your South Dakota Real Estate License
Follow these steps to go from zero to licensed real estate agent in South Dakota. Most candidates complete the process in 3 – 5 months.
Complete 116 Hours of Pre-License Education
Enroll in a South Dakota Real Estate Commission-approved real estate school and complete the required 116 hours of coursework. Courses are available online or in-person and cover topics like contracts, property ownership, agency law, and South Dakota-specific regulations.
Apply to the South Dakota Real Estate Commission
Submit your exam application to the South Dakota Real Estate Commission along with the $85 exam fee. You will also need to complete a background check and fingerprinting as part of the application process.
Schedule and Pass the South Dakota Broker Associate Exam
The South Dakota exam has 157 multiple-choice questions with a 4 hours time limit. You need a score of 70% to pass. The first-time pass rate is approximately 55%, so thorough preparation is essential.
Activate Your Real Estate License
Once you pass the exam, submit your license application along with the license fee to the South Dakota Real Estate Commission. Your license will remain inactive until you affiliate with a sponsoring broker.
Find a Sponsoring Brokerage
As a newly licensed agent in South Dakota, you must work under a licensed broker. Interview several brokerages to find the right fit for your career — consider training programs, commission splits, and mentorship opportunities.
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The South Dakota Broker Associate Exam
Here is what to expect on exam day and how to prepare.
The exam covers both national real estate principles and South Dakota-specific law. Key topics include: Property Ownership, Agency Law, Contracts, Finance, South Dakota License Law, and more.
How Much Does a South Dakota Real Estate License Cost?
Here is a breakdown of the typical costs to get your real estate license in South Dakota. Total estimated investment: $475 – $1,365.
How Long Does It Take to Get a South Dakota Real Estate License?
Most candidates complete the South Dakota licensing process in 3 – 5 months. Here is a typical timeline.
Pre-License Education
Complete 116 hours of coursework (at roughly 15 hours per week, part-time).
Exam Application
Submit your application to the South Dakota Real Estate Commission and schedule your exam date.
Exam Preparation
Study with practice tests, flashcards, and mock exams to ensure you pass on your first attempt.
Exam Day & Results
Take the 157-question exam. Results are typically available the same day or within a few days.
Background Check & Licensing
Complete fingerprinting, background check, and submit your license application.
Find a Brokerage
Interview brokerages and select a sponsoring broker in South Dakota to activate your license.
South Dakota Real Estate License FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about getting a real estate license in South Dakota.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in South Dakota?
Most candidates complete the South Dakota licensing process in 3 – 5 months. This includes 116 hours of pre-license education (which takes roughly 8 weeks at a part-time pace), plus time to apply, schedule the exam, pass the 157-question test, complete a background check, and find a sponsoring broker.
How much does a South Dakota real estate license cost?
The total cost to get a real estate license in South Dakota typically ranges from $475 – $1,365. This includes pre-license education ($500 – $1,000), the exam fee ($85), background check ($40 – $80), and the license application fee ($50 – $200). Costs vary by school and application method.
What are the requirements for a South Dakota real estate license?
To get a South Dakota real estate license, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete 116 hours of approved pre-license education, pass the South Dakota broker associate exam with a score of 70%, pass a background check, and find a sponsoring broker.
How hard is the South Dakota real estate exam?
The South Dakota real estate exam is challenging — the first-time pass rate is approximately 55%. The exam has 157 multiple-choice questions covering both national and South Dakota-specific topics. You have 4 hours to complete it and need 70% to pass. Focused preparation with practice exams significantly improves your chances.
Can I get a real estate license in South Dakota with no experience?
Yes. South Dakota does not require any prior real estate experience to obtain a salesperson license. You must complete 116 hours of pre-license education, pass the licensing exam, and work under a supervising broker. Many new agents start their careers with no prior experience and learn on the job through their brokerage's training program.
South Dakota Real Estate Resources
Start Practicing for the South Dakota Real Estate Exam
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