EMT in South Dakota

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SD

Median Salary
$39,520
South Dakota (2024)
National Median
$41,340
All states

How to Become an EMT in South Dakota

To become a certified EMT in South Dakota, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program and pass the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams. The licensing body is the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE). Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and have current CPR certification. South Dakota also offers reciprocity for EMTs licensed in other states, particularly those within the EMS Compact.

EMT Requirements in South Dakota

DetailSouth Dakota
Licensing BodySouth Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE)
State License Required Yes
EducationState-approved EMT training program and High School Diploma/GED.
Exam NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($104)
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing Education20.0 hours per cycle
NotesMust be at least 18 years old. Requires a background check and current CPR certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers).

Source: South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE)

License Tiers

South Dakota offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:

Tier Hours Required
EMR N/A
EMT N/A
AEMT N/A
Paramedic N/A

EMT Salary in South Dakota

The median emt salary in South Dakota is $39,520 per year, which is 4.4% below the national median of $41,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$28,630
25th$35,170
50th (median)$39,520
75th$45,970
90th (experienced)$48,690

South Dakota employs approximately 710 emts.

EMT Job Outlook

10-Year Growth
+5.1%
Faster than average
Annual Openings
14.1
Nationwide per year
Total Employment
181
Nationwide

Is Becoming an EMT in South Dakota Worth It?

Factors to consider: South Dakota's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified as an emt in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, becoming an emt requires you to complete the required education (State-approved EMT training program and High School Diploma/GED.), and pass the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.
Does South Dakota require emt licensure?
Yes, South Dakota requires a state license to practice as an emt. The licensing body is South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE). You must pass the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.
How much does an emt make in South Dakota?
The median emt salary in South Dakota is $39,520 per year. — within a few percent of the $41,340 national figure. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $28,630, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $48,690.
What are the fees to become an emt in South Dakota?
Costs include exam fee ($104). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
Does South Dakota require continuing education for emts?
South Dakota requires 20.0 hours of continuing education every 2.0 years to maintain your emt license.

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