Certifications & licenses in North Dakota
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in ND. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about North Dakota
Licensing landscape in North Dakota
North Dakota requires 1,800 hours of training for cosmetologists, one of the higher requirements in the country.
North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology
While the national registry requires EMTs to be 18, North Dakota allows for state licensure for individuals as young as 16 years old.
North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
A journeyman electrician license in North Dakota requires the completion of 8,000 hours of work experience over at least three years.
North Dakota State Electrical Board
As of a 2024 rule change, 12 of the 24 required biennial continuing education hours must be for hands-on muscle manipulation therapies.
North Dakota Board of Massage Therapy
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in North Dakota
A $60,000 salary in North Dakota has the approximate purchasing power of a $65,700 salary in an average-cost-of-living state.
Regional comparison: North Dakota vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs ND |
|---|---|---|
| ND | $45,820 | — |
| MN | $46,680 | +2% vs ND |
| SD | $38,800 | -15% vs ND |
| MT | $40,900 | -11% vs ND |
| State | Required training hours | vs ND |
|---|---|---|
| ND | 750 hours | — |
| MN | 500-650 hours | -100 to -250 hours (local ordinance based) |
| SD | 500 hours | -250 hours |
| MT | 500 hours | -250 hours |
Healthcare in North Dakota
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $45,820 |
| Dental Assistant | Required | $57,770 |
| EMT | Required | $39,670 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $62,300 |
| Medical Assistant | Required | $45,980 |
| Medical Coder | No | $46,280 |
| Paramedic | Required | $62,320 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $47,560 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $47,430 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $67,790 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $80,730 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $81,230 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $61,640 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $90,530 |
Skilled Trades in North Dakota
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $60,910 |
| Electrician | Required | $65,710 |
| HVAC Technician | No | $74,490 |
| Plumber | Required | $63,560 |
| Welder | No | $62,000 |
Personal Care & Wellness in North Dakota
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $37,760 |
| Barber | Required | $48,540 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $34,850 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $74,140 |
Professional & Business in North Dakota
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $75,730 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $59,430 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $71,220 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $73,920 |