Verified October 8, 2026 against the practice act, board rules and sources cited below. The board decides every application. All states
What chiropractors miss in South Dakota
- Every DC must carry malpractice coverage of at least $100,000 per claim and $300,000 aggregate as a condition of licensure and renewal (ARSD 20:41:05:10).
- All applicants must appear in person at a regular board meeting after applying.
- Fingerprints go to the state Division of Criminal Investigation and the FBI.
Can a chiropractor licensed in another state get a South Dakota license by endorsement?
A DC licensed in a state with equivalent requirements can be licensed without exam. Board rules add five years of active practice immediately before applying, all NBCE parts required at graduation, no pending investigations or adverse actions, and certification from the other state board. Every applicant appears in person at a board meeting.
- Endorsement route available
- 5 years of practice required
Citation: SDCL 36-5-13; ARSD 20:41:05:05
Which exams does South Dakota require?
Applicants pass all NBCE exams available when they graduated. Someone who finished school more than two years before applying may be required to retake Parts I–IV and Physiotherapy and pass SPEC at 375, depending on whether they have been licensed and practicing.
- NBCE Parts I–IV
- NBCE Physiotherapy exam
- SPEC for some applicants
What else does the South Dakota board check?
- Fingerprint background check
Does South Dakota offer a temporary or travel-to-treat permit?
The board may exempt an out-of-state DC for a single sporting, performing arts or educational event of up to 15 days, treating only participants, if actively practicing and in good standing at home and applying at least 15 days ahead.
- Temporary permit available
Citation: ARSD 20:41:05:12
Does South Dakota regulate chiropractic assistants?
Assistants register with the board after a 20-hour approved course, CPR certification and a board-approved exam at 75 percent, or two years of experience plus the exam. They work under a DC's direct, on-site supervision and need 4 CE hours every two years.
- Certified chiropractic assistant (registration)
How often does a South Dakota chiropractic license renew?
The license fee is paid every year, $100 for active status. CE runs on a two-year cycle ending in odd years: 40 approved hours, with current CPR certification required; DCs certified in acupuncture need 8 acupuncture hours per cycle.
- Renews every year
- 40 CE hours per cycle
Licensing in South Dakota?
We file the application, send your NBCE scores and verifications, and carry the board correspondence. License by endorsement is $499. Not sure which route fits? The readiness review answers that for every state you want.