Cosmetologist License in South Dakota
Quick Answer
To become a licensed cosmetologist in South Dakota, you must complete approximately 2,100 hours of training and pass the licensing exam. The South Dakota Cosmetology Commission oversees licensing. Estimated costs are approximately $200.
- Education Required
- 2100 hours
- Exam
- South Dakota Cosmetology Exam
- Total Cost
- $200 (est.)
- Timeline
- 12-18 months
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Cosmetologist license in South Dakota
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $50
- Exam Fee
- $75
- Renewal Fee
- $25
- Total Estimated Cost
- $200
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Cosmetologist license in South Dakota. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the South Dakota licensing board.
Cosmetologist Salary in South Dakota
Entry Level
$32,670
Median
$49,050
Experienced
$61,900
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Cosmetologist in South Dakota.
- 1
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$50.
- 2
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 12-18 months.
Cosmetologist Licensing in South Dakota: What to Know
South Dakota's COS listing provides a brief scope of practice description covering beauty services including hair, scalp treatment, and related services. The South Dakota Cosmetology Commission oversees licensing. South Dakota has one of the higher education requirements at approximately 2,100 hours. Sioux Falls and Rapid City are the primary markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Cosmetologist license cost in South Dakota?
- The estimated total cost is $200, including application fees, exam fees ($75), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist license in South Dakota?
- The process typically takes 12-18 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist license in South Dakota?
- You need to pass the South Dakota Cosmetology Exam. N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Cosmetologist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.