CertOutlook

Cosmetologist in South Dakota

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SD. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary
$49,050
trending_up +39.1% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, South Dakota.

engineering
530

Jobs (SD)

monitoring Strong
+5.6%

10-yr job growth

payments
$120

Licensing fees

schedule
9 months - 2 years (for education program)

Time to complete

route How to become a cosmetologist in South Dakota

To become a licensed Cosmetologist in South Dakota, individuals must complete 1,500 hours of cosmetology education from a South Dakota approved program or a program certified by another state board, and possess a high school diploma or GED. An apprenticeship option requiring 3,000 hours over 18 months is also available. Applicants must pass the NIC National Written (Theory) Exam and the South Dakota Laws & Rules Exam. The examination fee, which includes the initial license, is $120. Licenses are renewed annually on the licensee's birthday. South Dakota offers reciprocity for active licensees from other states whose requirements are equivalent.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $32,670
25th percentile $38,630
50th (median) $49,050
75th percentile $58,870
90th (experienced) $61,900

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for South Dakota. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist South Dakota requirements

Licensing bodySouth Dakota Cosmetology Commission
State license Required
Education1,500 hours of cosmetology education from a South Dakota approved program or certified by another state board, and a high school diploma or GED. An apprenticeship option of 3,000 hours over 18 months (40 hours/week) is also available.
ExamNIC National Written and Practical Exams, plus a state law exam ($120)
RenewalEvery 1.0 year
NotesMinimum age of 18 years old. Renewal is annual on the licensee's birthday. Cosmetology instructors are required to complete 12 hours of Commission-approved continuing education annually. While not explicitly stated for cosmetologists, it is good practice to check for any updates or specific requirements directly with the Commission.

Source: South Dakota Cosmetology Commission

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth
+5.6%
Faster than average
Annual openings
75,800
Nationwide per year
Total employment
575,200
Nationwide
neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -0.68/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

  • check_circleSouth Dakota license required — clearer credential signal to employers
  • check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.6%)
  • check_circleLow AI disruption risk
psychology
Wondering if a cosmetologist career is the right fit?
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Frequently asked questions

How do I become a cosmetologist in South Dakota? expand_more
The path to cosmetologist licensure in South Dakota: complete the required education (1,500 hours of cosmetology education from a South Dakota approved program or certified by another state board, and a high school diploma or GED. An apprenticeship option of 3,000 hours over 18 months (40 hours/week) is also available.), and pass the NIC National Written and Practical Exams, plus a state law exam.
Is a cosmetologist license required in South Dakota? expand_more
Yes, South Dakota requires a state license to practice as a cosmetologist. The licensing body is South Dakota Cosmetology Commission. You must pass the NIC National Written and Practical Exams, plus a state law exam.
How much does a cosmetologist make in South Dakota? expand_more
In South Dakota, the median pay for cosmetologists comes to $49,050/year. This exceeds the $35,250 national median by 39%. Wages range from $32,670 (10th percentile) up to $61,900 (90th percentile).
How expensive is cosmetologist licensing in South Dakota? expand_more
The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($120) and required training.
How long does it take to become a cosmetologist in South Dakota? expand_more
The typical timeline in South Dakota is 9 months - 2 years (for education program). This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.

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