South Dakota Certified Nursing Assistant License
South Dakota DOH
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
Not officially specified
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Proof of Training — Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
- State Competency Exam Results — Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
- Fingerprint background check — through IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
- Application fee — $0
How to Apply
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Meet Eligibility Requirements ▾Ensure you meet the South Dakota requirements for CNA registration, which typically involves completing a state-approved nurse aide training program and passing the competency evaluation, or qualifying for endorsement from another state.
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Download Application Packet ▾Visit the South Dakota Board of Nursing's Nurse Aide Registry Information page (bon.sd.gov/Nurse-Aide-Registry-Information.aspx) and download the appropriate 'Nurse Aide Registry Application Packet' (Initial or Endorsement).
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Complete Application Form ▾Fill out the downloaded application packet completely and accurately. Ensure all sections, including personal information, education/training details, and eligibility questions, are answered. Remember to sign the application.
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Gather Supporting Documents ▾Collect all required documentation as specified in the application packet. This may include proof of training, competency evaluation results, verification from other states (for endorsement), and any other requested materials.
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Submit Application by Mail ▾Mail the original signed application packet along with all required supporting documents to the South Dakota Board of Nursing at the address provided in the packet and on their contact page.
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Receive Registry Confirmation ▾Allow the Board time to process your application. Once approved, your name will be added to the South Dakota Nurse Aide Registry, and you can verify your status via the online verification portal.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
Not officially specified
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the South Dakota DOH for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Submit Your Application ▾Apply through the South Dakota DOH.
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Provide License Verification ▾South Dakota requires official verification of your active out-of-state license. This must be sent directly to the board from your current state board or its official online verification system before your file can be considered complete.
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Provide Proof of Training ▾Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
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Submit Your State Competency Exam Results ▾Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
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Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾South Dakota requires a criminal background check for all applicants. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside South Dakota can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
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Await Board Processing ▾Plan for a processing timeline of about Not officially specified once your file is complete. If you need to start working immediately, most states do not offer temporary practice authorization for CNAs during the endorsement process. Contact the state nurse aide registry directly for current policies on practice authorization while your application is pending.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
South Dakota DOH
Keeping Your License Active
South Dakota Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the South Dakota DOH for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|
Slow Downs
Fingerprinting delays
▾
Out-of-state prints can add 2-4 weeks to your timeline.
Missing or incomplete documents
▾
Have all your documents ready before starting the application to avoid processing delays.
Application errors
▾
Double-check that your name matches across all documents exactly. Mismatches are a common reason for delays.
Questions
How much does South Dakota CNA endorsement cost?
▾
There is no application fee for CNA endorsement in South Dakota. However, background check fees may apply.
Is a background check required?
▾
Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in South Dakota.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to South Dakota?
▾
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.
Can I start working in South Dakota while waiting?
▾
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.
Board Info
Sources