Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Dakota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SD
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Dakota
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Dakota, individuals must complete a 75-hour state-approved training program, which includes at least 16 hours of clinical experience. After training, applicants must pass the South Dakota Nurse Aide Competency Exam, consisting of a knowledge test and a skills evaluation. The licensing body is the South Dakota Board of Nursing, and there is no application fee for initial registration. South Dakota offers reciprocity for CNAs from other states, allowing them to work while their application is processed.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in South Dakota
| Detail | South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | South Dakota Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 75-hour state-approved training program |
| Exam | South Dakota Nurse Aide Competency Exam (includes Knowledge Exam and Skills Evaluation) ($170) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age is 16. Renewal requires having worked for pay as a CNA for at least 12 hours in the past 24 months and completing 12 hours of in-service education annually (24 hours total per renewal cycle). A criminal background check is required. |
Source: South Dakota Board of Nursing
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in South Dakota
The median certified nursing assistant salary in South Dakota is $38,070 per year, which is 3.7% below the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $29,960 |
| 25th | $35,010 |
| 50th (median) | $38,070 |
| 75th | $41,440 |
| 90th (experienced) | $45,070 |
South Dakota employs approximately 6,520 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in South Dakota Worth It?
Factors to consider: South Dakota's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.