Key Takeaways
- South Dakota does NOT require pre-license education - you can take the exam directly
- Pearson VUE administers South Dakota insurance licensing exams (since January 1, 2018)
- The passing score is 70% on all insurance licensing exams
- Combined Life & Health exam has 145 questions with a 2.5-hour time limit
- Single line exams have 90 questions with a 2-hour time limit
Last updated: January 2026
South Dakota Producer Licensing Requirements
South Dakota has streamlined licensing requirements that make it easier to enter the insurance profession.
Pre-License Education Requirements
No Pre-License Education Required
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Pre-license education | NOT REQUIRED |
| Exam prep courses | Recommended but not mandatory |
| Certificate needed | No |
Important: South Dakota does NOT require any pre-license education before taking the insurance licensing exam. You can schedule and take the exam without completing any coursework first. However, study is recommended to increase your chances of passing.
What This Means for You
- You can schedule your exam immediately
- No waiting for course completion
- Study at your own pace using exam prep materials
- No certificate to obtain or submit
Examination Requirements
South Dakota offers both single line and combined exams:
Single Line Exam (Life or Health)
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Testing Provider | Pearson VUE (since January 1, 2018) |
| Questions | 90 (75 scored + 15 pretest) |
| Time Limit | 2 hours |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | $85 |
Combined Life & Health Exam
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Testing Provider | Pearson VUE |
| Questions | 145 (130 scored + 15 pretest) |
| Time Limit | 2.5 hours (150 minutes) |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | $95 |
Exam Format
- All exams are computer-based and multiple choice
- Covers general insurance knowledge and South Dakota-specific laws and regulations
- Results provided immediately after completing exam
Examination Process
Scheduling the Exam
- Schedule exam through Pearson VUE
- Online at home.pearsonvue.com/sd/insurance
- Phone: (888) 873-6205
- Choose testing option:
- Pearson VUE testing center
- OnVUE online proctored exam
- Reserve at least 24 hours in advance (subject to availability)
Exam Day Requirements
What to Bring:
- Two forms of valid ID
- Name on ID must match registration exactly
- At least one must be government-issued with photo
Testing Rules:
- No cell phones or electronic devices at testing station
- No personal items at testing station
- Results provided immediately after completing exam
License Application
After passing the exam:
Application Steps
- Pass the state exam at Pearson VUE
- Apply online through Sircon (www.sircon.com) or NIPR (www.nipr.com) within 12 months
- Pay application fee ($25)
Processing Time
- Applications typically processed within 1-2 weeks
- Total initial cost: $25 application fee + exam fee ($85 or $95)
Basic Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be at least 18 years old |
| Residency | South Dakota resident for resident license |
License Types and Authority
| License Type | What You Can Sell |
|---|---|
| Life Producer | Life insurance and annuities |
| Accident & Health or Sickness Producer | Health, disability insurance |
| Life, Accident & Health | Both life and health products |
| Variable Products | Requires additional securities license |
Appointments
After receiving your license:
- Must be appointed by each insurer you represent
- Insurer files appointment with Division of Insurance
- Cannot transact business until appointment is active
Special Training Requirements
Long-Term Care (LTC) Training
| Training Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Initial Training | 8-hour certification course before selling LTC products |
| Ongoing Training | 4 hours every 2 years |
Annuity Best Interest Training
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Course | One-time 4-hour course |
| When Required | Before selling annuities |
License Renewal
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Renewal Cycle | Biennially (every 2 years) |
| Renewal Basis | Producer's birth month |
| Renewal Fee | $20 |
| Renewal Method | Online through NIPR |
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Test Your Knowledge
Does South Dakota require pre-license education before taking the insurance licensing exam?
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