Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Dakota
This guide outlines the steps to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Dakota, detailing the required 1500 hours of training, including 600 classroom hours and 900 clinical hours. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks to complete, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500. Key steps include verifying prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the licensing exam, and obtaining state certification.
In South Dakota, the career of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) presents significant opportunities due to a promising job market and a median annual salary of $49,610. With a national workforce of 651,400 LPNs and an expected growth rate of 2.6% by 2034, South Dakota remains an appealing state for those interested in nursing careers. This growth indicates a steady demand for LPNs, driven by an aging population and an increasing need for healthcare services across the state. Choosing a career as an LPN in South Dakota not only offers financial stability but also a chance to contribute significantly to community health.
South Dakota provides a unique environment for LPNs due to its specific state regulations and healthcare needs. The state demands a rigorous licensing process, ensuring that all practicing nurses meet high professional standards. South Dakota's healthcare system is served by a mix of large medical centers and smaller community clinics, providing diverse employment opportunities for LPNs. Regional factors such as rural healthcare delivery also influence the demand for LPNs, as these professionals often fill critical roles in less densely populated areas where healthcare services are limited.
This guide will detail the necessary steps to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in South Dakota, including the process of obtaining a license, the educational requirements, and the examination details. Readers will gain insights into salary expectations, with a specific focus on how these can vary across different regions and healthcare institutions within the state. Additionally, the guide will provide an overview of the job market for LPNs in South Dakota, helping prospective nurses understand where the opportunities lie and what career progression might look like in this field.
Licensing Authority
South Dakota Board of Nursing
In South Dakota, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must meet specific educational, examination, and background check requirements to obtain licensure. The South Dakota Board of Nursing oversees the licensing process to ensure that candidates are prepared to provide safe and effective nursing care.
Official Resources
South Dakota Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of an accredited high school or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 1500 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 600 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 900 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of CPR certification
- Completion of a jurisprudence exam
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-PN
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- 200
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in South Dakota
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $0-$200, scrubs $0-$50
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet South Dakota's Prerequisites
Before starting your LPN training in South Dakota, ensure you meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the South Dakota Board of Nursing website to download the initial checklist and application forms. This step involves gathering your high school transcript or GED certificate and preparing for a health screening and background check, which will be covered in later steps.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Complete a background check and health screenings as required by South Dakota regulations. You'll need to submit fingerprints for a state and FBI background check. Visit a local police station or a third-party provider like Identogo for fingerprinting services. Also, complete a health screening that includes a TB test and proof of immunizations. Background checks can take up to 4 weeks to process, so plan accordingly.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early in the process to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved LPN training program in South Dakota. It's crucial that the program is recognized by the South Dakota Board of Nursing to ensure your eligibility for licensure. Visit the Board's website to view a list of approved programs. These programs meet the required 1500 hours of training, split into 600 classroom hours and 900 clinical hours. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the licensing exam.
Tip
Check for programs with high pass rates on the licensure exam for better outcomes.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have chosen an approved program, proceed to enroll. Ensure you meet the program's specific entry requirements, which may include entrance exams or interviews. Complete the 1500 hours of training as stipulated, with 600 hours in the classroom and 900 hours in clinical settings. This training is essential to gain the practical and theoretical knowledge required to pass the state licensing exam and perform effectively as an LPN.
Tip
Stay organized and keep track of all coursework and clinical hours to ensure all requirements are met.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This exam tests your knowledge and skills essential for the safe and effective practice of nursing at the entry level. Use study guides and practice tests to prepare. The exam consists of 85 to 205 questions and must be completed in 5 hours. Register for the exam through Pearson VUE, the official testing service.
Tip
Take multiple practice tests to become familiar with the exam format and question styles.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
After preparing for the NCLEX-PN, schedule your exam date through Pearson VUE. Choose a test date and location that are convenient for you. Ensure you have all required identification and confirmation of your exam registration on the day of the test. It's advisable to book your test date well in advance to secure your preferred time and location, as slots can fill up quickly.
Tip
Check for available test dates periodically if your preferred date is not initially available.
Take and Pass the Exam
On your scheduled exam date, arrive at the test center early with appropriate IDs and confirmation of registration. The NCLEX-PN consists of multiple-choice questions and is computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty adjusts based on your answers. You'll have 5 hours to complete the exam. If you fail, you can reapply to take the exam, with a waiting period of 45 days between attempts.
Tip
Ensure a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the NCLEX-PN, apply for your LPN license through the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Submit the required documents, including proof of passing the exam, completed training hours, and background check clearance. The processing time can take up to 6 weeks. Once approved, your name will appear in the state's registry of licensed practical nurses.
Tip
Double-check all documents for accuracy before submission to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your LPN certification from the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Verify your status on the online state registry to ensure your information is correct and up to date. This registry is used by employers to confirm your licensure status.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry for updates on your licensure status.
Find Your First Job
With your LPN license in hand, begin your job search. Utilize job boards, local healthcare facilities' employment pages, and networking within the healthcare community to find suitable positions. Consider various employment settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private practices. Tailor your resume to highlight your newly acquired LPN credentials and any relevant clinical experience.
Tip
Attend local healthcare job fairs and use LinkedIn to connect with potential employers.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in South Dakota offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring LPNs. These programs sometimes cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after licensure. This path can reduce education costs and secure immediate employment post-certification.
Best for: Individuals looking to minimize education costs and secure immediate employment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the South Dakota Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
NCLEX-PN Examination administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 85 to 205
Time Limit: 5 hours
Format: Multiple choice and alternate format questions
Passing Score: Variable (Computer Adaptive Testing)
- • Safe and Effective Care Environment: 23-31%
- • Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- • Psychosocial Integrity: 9-15%
- • Physiological Integrity: 35-51%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: Not applicable
Time Per Skill: Not applicable
Not applicable as the NCLEX-PN does not include a practical skills test.
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) letter
- ✓ One form of acceptable identification (ID must be government-issued, photo, and signature-bearing, such as a driver's license or passport)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items including but not limited to mobile phones, bags, hats, notebooks
- ✗ Food and drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test lasts up to 5 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are sent by the South Dakota Board of Nursing typically within 6 weeks. Check results online through the Pearson VUE account or wait for mail notification.
If You Don't Pass
Can retake after 45 days. Cost varies depending on re-application fees. Allowed up to 8 attempts in South Dakota.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on mastering the format of multiple-choice and alternate format questions.
- 2. Prioritize studying major topics based on their percentage weight.
- 3. Use process of elimination in tricky questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Practice time management to ensure completion of all questions within the 5-hour limit.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From the applicant's high school or GED program · Varies · Varies
Official transcripts may be required by the nursing program.
Criminal Background Check
South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation · Approximately $43.25 · 2-4 weeks
Required for enrollment in most nursing programs.
Immunization Records
Personal physician or local health department · Varies · Varies
Must include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and TB test.
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies
Ensure the certification is for Healthcare Providers.
Application to Nursing Program
Specific nursing school's admissions office · Varies · Varies
Each program may have additional specific requirements.
2During Training
Course Completion Certificates
Nursing program · Included in tuition · Upon completion of each course
Keep records for licensure application.
Clinical Hours Documentation
Nursing program · Included in tuition · End of clinical rotation
Required for licensure; ensure accuracy and completeness.
3For the Exam
Application for Licensure by Examination
South Dakota Board of Nursing website · Approximately $100
Must be submitted to schedule the NCLEX-PN exam.
NCLEX-PN Registration
Pearson VUE website · Approximately $200
Registration is required after board application approval.
Photo ID
State or federal government · Varies
Valid government-issued ID required for exam entry.
4For Certification
Passing NCLEX-PN Score Report
Pearson VUE · Included in exam fee
Automatically sent to the board; retain a copy for records.
License Fee
South Dakota Board of Nursing · Approximately $90
Payable upon passing the NCLEX-PN for issuance of license.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after receiving LPN licensure, verify your status on the South Dakota Board of Nursing website. Secure a physical copy of your nursing license for employment purposes.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • South Dakota Department of Health job board, Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn specifically filtered for South Dakota LPN positions.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private clinics are primary employers. Hospitals offer structured environments with shift work, while long-term care provides opportunities in geriatric care and potentially more patient interaction.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical skills acquired during training, any internships or practicums, and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Include certifications like CPR.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss clinical experiences, patient care scenarios, and why you chose nursing. Expect questions on handling stressful situations and teamwork.
Expected First-Year Salary
In South Dakota, entry-level LPNs can expect to earn between $36,000 and $42,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Nurse (RN)
Complete an accredited RN program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • New LPNs often face high workload, emotional stress from patient care, and adapting to shift work. Effective time management and seeking support from experienced colleagues can help mitigate these challenges.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in South Dakota
Licensed Practical Nurse salaries in South Dakota sit at a median of $49,610 annually, which is lower than the national median. This reflects a variance in regional economic conditions and local market demand.
Entry Level
$40,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$49,610
$23.85/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$55,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,730 national · -16.9% in South Dakota
Salary by Metro Area
Higher due to urban location
Slightly below state median
Salary by Employer Type
The lower salary in South Dakota is somewhat offset by the state's lower cost of living, which can make the wages more competitive in terms of purchasing power.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Some employers offer continuing education credits and flexible schedules.
Salary Growth Outlook
Expected to see gradual increase as demand for healthcare services grows.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight relevant experience and special skills
- •Discuss local salary data to inform negotiations
Job Market in South Dakota
In South Dakota, the job market for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is experiencing a unique trajectory compared to the national growth rate of 2.6%. The state's rural landscape and aging population create a consistent demand for healthcare services, particularly in long-term care and home health settings. Factors such as fewer healthcare facilities in proximity and a significant elderly demographic are pivotal in shaping the demand for LPNs.
Top Hiring Areas
Major medical centers and growing suburban population
Healthcare facilities expansion and tourist health service needs
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall
Opportunities
- Specialization in geriatric care
- Advancement through additional certifications
Challenges
- Recruitment in remote locations
- Retention rates affected by competitive neighboring states
Training Programs in South Dakota
South Dakota offers various LPN training programs across community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored opportunities. Programs are designed to meet state nursing requirements and prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 12 to 18 months | $5,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 9 to 12 months | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies, typically 12 months | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
High pass rates and strong local hospital partnerships
Watertown, South Dakota
Award-winning college with high employment rates post-graduation
Online & Hybrid Options
Hybrid options are available, combining online theory classes with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation and NCLEX-PN pass rates before enrollment.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Licensed Practical Nurse program info for South Dakota
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
90
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: 400 hours in the past 2 years
CE Topics: Patient care, Ethics, New medical practices
Out-of-State Reciprocity
South Dakota allows Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) licensed in other states to apply for licensure by endorsement if they meet specific state requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current active LPN license in another state
- Completion of a state-approved nursing education program equivalent to South Dakota standards
- Passing score on the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE examinations
- Criminal background check
State Agreements
South Dakota is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which includes multiple states allowing nurses to practice across state lines without needing additional licenses.
Additional Exams
No additional exams are required if the applicant has passed the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE previously.
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, pay the required fee, provide verification of original state licensure, submit proof of education, and complete a criminal background check.
Fees
The application fee for endorsement is $100, plus additional costs for the criminal background check.
Processing Time: Applications are typically processed within 3-4 weeks after all required documents are received.
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Keep track of renewal deadlines to maintain an active license status.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-PN Prep Plus by Kaplan Nursing
Contains practice questions and test-taking strategies specific to the NCLEX-PN exam.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination
Provides a thorough review of all nursing content areas and includes over 4,500 practice questions.
LPN Notes: Nurse's Clinical Pocket Guide
A quick-reference guide for LPN students, covering essential nursing content and procedures.
Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses
Offers detailed drug information to assist nursing students in medication administration.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Used for assessing heart and lung sounds during clinical training.
Nursing Scrubs
Mandatory uniform for clinical rotations, providing comfort and hygiene in medical environments.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-08
- South Dakota Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-08
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-08