2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in South Dakota
Everything you need to know to earn a South Dakota teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in South Dakota
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. This typically includes completing an approved teacher preparation program that includes coursework in pedagogy, child development, and your subject area.
- 2
Complete Student Teaching
Complete a supervised student teaching experience (clinical practice) in an approved school setting. Most programs require a full semester of student teaching under a cooperating teacher.
- 3
Pass Required Assessments
South Dakota requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to South Dakota Department of Education, including transcripts, test scores, proof of student teaching completion, and any applicable fees. Most applications are processed through an online portal.
- 5
Start Teaching & Advance Your License
Your Initial Certificate (valid 5 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Professional Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Alternative Paths to Certification in South Dakota
If you have a bachelor's degree in another field or relevant professional experience, these routes may let you enter the classroom sooner while completing certification requirements.
- Alternative Certificate: For those with subject-area degrees employed by a district while completing pedagogy coursework
- Career and Technical Education endorsements
- Emergency Certificate for critical shortage areas
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
South Dakota participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a South Dakota certificate with verification of content knowledge.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact South Dakota Department of Education directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in South Dakota?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. South Dakota teachers start around $35,000 and average $52,050 per year statewide.
South Dakota Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in South Dakota — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: South Dakota Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with South Dakota Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in South Dakota
- How do I become a teacher in South Dakota?
- South Dakota certification is administered by South Dakota Department of Education. The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months traditional; Alternative Certificate allows classroom entry while completing requirements.
- What exams are required to teach in South Dakota?
- South Dakota requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores) (Basic reading, writing, and mathematics); Praxis Subject Assessments (Content knowledge for your certification area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a South Dakota teaching license valid?
- The initial Initial Certificate is valid for 5 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Professional Certificate which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in South Dakota with a license from another state?
- South Dakota participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a South Dakota certificate with verification of content knowledge.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in South Dakota?
- Alternative Certificate: For those with subject-area degrees employed by a district while completing pedagogy coursework; Career and Technical Education endorsements; Emergency Certificate for critical shortage areas