Compact status
Nurse Licensure Compact member
SD · Internationally educated nurses
South Dakota RN license requirements
A researched starting point for applying to South Dakota Board of Nursing, including education review, English rules, identification requirements, background checks, and the NCLEX sequence.
Credential evaluation
Obtain a TruMerit/CGFNS Credentials Evaluation Service Professional Report and have it sent directly to SDBON.
English requirement
An applicant educated in a non-English-speaking nursing program must successfully pass an English Language Proficiency examination through the CGFNS review process.
SSN requirement
Applicants with a valid U.S. SSN use the online application. An applicant without one requests a paper application from sdbon@state.sd.us. A valid SSN is required for a multistate license.
Background check
Complete state and federal fingerprint checks using cards provided by SDBON.
Education review
The CES must support completion of qualifying RN education. SDBON retains the licensing decision.
Application sequence
How to apply in South Dakota
- 1
Complete CGFNS CES/English review first and have it submitted to SDBON.
- 2
Apply online with SSN or request paper application without SSN.
- 3
Complete Board-provided fingerprint cards.
- 4
Register with Pearson VUE; SDBON authorizes testing after review.
Documents to prepare
- CGFNS CES Professional Report
- English result when applicable
- Fingerprint cards
- Proof of South Dakota residency for multistate
- Valid SSN for multistate
Verify before paying
- • A no-SSN applicant can pursue the paper single-state pathway, but not a multistate license.
- • South Dakota residency is required for a South Dakota multistate license.
Apply through the official board
This guide helps you compare requirements; it is not the application. Check the current instructions from South Dakota Board of Nursing before ordering reports or submitting documents.
Official sources reviewed
Research checked 2026-07-22. Requirements can change.
General educational information only. The state board is the authority on licensure eligibility; immigration authorization is a separate process.