How do I apply for a South Dakota nursing license by endorsement?

Apply through the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Requirements, fees, and processing times are set by the board and change, so use the official board site for specifics — we do not list them here to avoid giving outdated figures.

Is endorsement the same as a compact license?

No. Endorsement gives you that state's own single-state license. A compact license is one multistate license that covers all compact states. See our endorsement vs compact guide.

CompactStates

How to get a nursing license in South Dakota by endorsement

If you are already licensed in another state, endorsement is usually how you get licensed in South Dakota. Here is how it works and when the compact is the better path.

How do I get a nursing license in South Dakota by endorsement?

You apply to the South Dakota Board of Nursing for a South Dakota license by endorsement, based on your existing license. Because South Dakota is a compact state, if you are moving your residence here you may instead qualify for a multistate license — often the better route. Endorsement still applies if South Dakota is not becoming your primary state of residence.

Last reviewed 2026-06-17

What licensure by endorsement means

Endorsement is applying for South Dakota’s own license based on an existing license in good standing. You end up holding a South Dakota license. It is different from a compact license, which is one multistate license covering all compact states.

Applying through the South Dakota Board of Nursing

Applications go through the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Requirements and fees are set by the board and change over time, so we point you to the official source rather than listing specifics that could go stale.

Endorsement vs the compact here

Since South Dakota is a compact state, moving your residence here can make you eligible for a multistate license instead of a plain endorsement. See moving to a compact state.

Next-step checklist

Confirm your current license is active and unencumbered (Nursys).
Open the South Dakota Board of Nursing endorsement application.
Follow the board's current requirements and fees (do not rely on third-party figures).
If moving to South Dakota, ask whether you qualify for a multistate license instead.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, if your license is an active multistate license from a compact state — you can practice in South Dakota under compact privilege. If South Dakota becomes your home state, you would license here. Confirm your license type on Nursys.