Welcome to the Mount Rushmore state!
" The Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement between states that allows nurses to have one license but the ability to practice in other states that are part of the agreement.
Originally developed in 2000, in 2024 the license had grown to include at least 25 states. To help streamline the process for nurses the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) was implemented in 2018 and included standards for licensure which the originally compact license was lacking.
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Each state needs a competent medical workforce to meet the needs of it’s citizens. However, the requirements for some health care professions are not the same in each state. That is why it is important to find out what is required of you as a future or current registered nurse before moving across state lines. Contact information is located at the bottom of this page.
South Dakota is a compact state. If you are moving to South Dakota or claiming it as your primary state of residence, you will need to apply for application by endorsement in order to use your license in South Dakota. General instructions are listed below.
Completed online application and fee of $100, You can also apply for a temporary permit for an additional $25 fee.
Official transcripts must be sent to the Board of Nursing
Criminal background check
Verification of employment verifying either
140 hours practiced as an RN in the last 12 months, or
480 hours in the last six years
You must have your current or previous employer fill out the Employment Verification Form and return it to the South Dakota Board of Nursing.
Verification of original licensure
You may verify your licensure using Nursys website if your original state of licensure participates in the site
If your state does not participate in the Nursys Verification system you can download the Verification of Licensure Form here. Check with your state for applicable fees.
You may renew your license online for a fee of $90. You must verify that you have worked either 140 hours in the last 12 months or 480 hours in the last six years as a registered nurse.
South Dakota does not have a continuing education requirement for renewal. If you cannot demonstrate the minimum work requirement, then you will have to take an 80 hour refresher course.
Click here to view the licensure and renewal page. Foreign educated nurses can click here for more information.
Address
4305 South Louise Ave., Suite 201 Sioux Falls, SD 57106-3115
Phone number: 605.362.2760
Fax number: 605.362.2768
Click here to view South Dakota Nursing Board’s FAQ page.