Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Dakota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SD
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Dakota
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Dakota, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The licensing body is the South Dakota Board of Nursing. A criminal background check and a minimum age of 18 are also required. South Dakota is a compact state, meaning LPNs with a multi-state license from another Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) state can practice there. Those from non-compact states can apply for licensure by endorsement.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in South Dakota
| Detail | South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | South Dakota Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $175 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | A criminal background check is required. Minimum age of 18 is required. Renewal requires 140 hours of practice in any 12-month period or 480 hours over 6 years. If these practice hours are not met, a refresher course is required. South Dakota is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). |
Source: South Dakota Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in South Dakota
The median licensed practical nurse salary in South Dakota is $49,170 per year, which is 21.1% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,520 |
| 25th | $47,300 |
| 50th (median) | $49,170 |
| 75th | $57,810 |
| 90th (experienced) | $61,300 |
South Dakota employs approximately 2,100 licensed practical nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook
AI Impact on Licensed Practical Nurses
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.51/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in South Dakota Worth It?
Factors to consider: South Dakota's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.