How much does the South Dakota insurance exam cost?

Pearson VUE's August 2026 handbook lists $85 for a single exam and $95 for the combined exams. The fee includes a $10 state administrative fee.

How long do I have to apply after passing?

180 days for major line exams. Wait about two days after passing so your result is uploaded before you apply.

Can I take the South Dakota Life exam online?

No. The handbook says the South Dakota Life Producer exam is only available in test centers; other major lines can be taken online.

Can I take the South Dakota exam before moving there?

Yes. New residents may take South Dakota licensing exams at any Pearson test center nationwide before moving to the state.

How to Get Your South Dakota Insurance License: Step-by-Step Guide

South Dakota producers are licensed by the Division of Insurance. Exams are given by Pearson VUE, and you apply online after you pass.

Quick answer: South Dakota's Pearson VUE exams cost $85 for a single line and $95 for the combined Life, Accident & Health or Property & Casualty exams (the fee includes a $10 state administrative fee). The passing score is 70, and you must apply within 180 days of passing.

Step 1: Confirm you're eligible

Pearson's August 2026 handbook says you must pass the required exam(s) for your license type and then apply with the appropriate application and fee. As a new resident, you can take South Dakota exams at any Pearson test center nationwide before moving.

Step 2: Prepare for the exam

The handbook lists no pre-licensing course. Each exam has general and South Dakota material; a course built on the South Dakota outline is the fastest way to cover both. See the South Dakota courses →

Step 3: Reserve and pass the exam

Reserve at least 24 hours ahead at Pearson VUE's South Dakota page or by phone at (888) 873-6205; walk-ins aren't available. The handbook lists:

Exam	Time	Fee
Life Producer (test centers only)	120 min	$85
Accident & Health or Sickness	120 min	$85
Property	120 min	$85
Casualty	120 min	$85
Personal Lines	120 min	$85
Life, Accident & Health (combined)	150 min	$95
Property & Casualty (combined)	150 min	$95

The passing score is reported as 70. On a combined exam you must pass the complete exam to be licensed in either line. After a fail, you can retake 24 hours later with a new fee. Cancel at least 24 hours ahead to avoid forfeiting the fee.

Step 4: Apply for the license

South Dakota requires you to apply within 180 days of passing a major line exam. Wait 48 hours (two days) after passing so your result uploads, then apply online through State Based Systems at statebasedsystems.com or NIPR. NIPR shows a $25 state fee for a producer license. The handbook mentions fingerprinting "if required," so confirm with the Division whether your application needs it.

What it actually costs

Item	Cost
Pearson VUE exam (single / combined)	$85 / $95
State producer license fee (per NIPR)	$25 + transaction fee
Pre-licensing course	not listed as required

Keeping your license

South Dakota licenses renew every two years on the last day of your birth month. South Dakota's continuing education rules require at least 10 hours for each classification held, up to 20 hours for a producer with multiple licenses.

Putting it together

Study to the South Dakota outline, take the Pearson VUE exam, and apply within 180 days.

Ready to start your South Dakota license?

Start the South Dakota Property & Casualty course → — built around the South Dakota exam outline, with timed practice exams and a state-law section.

Start the South Dakota Life Only course → — the same approach for the life exam.

Both are one flat price per license line: pay once, keep lifetime access, no subscription, and backed by our Pass Guarantee. Not sure which line to pick? Compare everything on the South Dakota page, or book a 1-on-1 tutoring session and we'll help you choose and build a study plan.