South Dakota
South Dakota passed HB 1141 in early 2016 requiring behavior analyst licensure. The Applied Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee (3 members appointed by Governor) operates under the Board of Social Work Examiners. BACB certification (BCBA) required. Annual renewal cycle with $300 renewal fee. Online verification available.
Quick Reference
Licensing Board
South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners - Applied Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee
License Verification
Online verification available
BACB Certification
BACB certification required
Available License Types
Detailed Requirements
Master's degree or higher from accredited institution in behavior analysis, psychology, or related field meeting BACB standards.
Must meet BACB supervised fieldwork requirements (1,500+ hours for BCBA). Experience verified through BACB certification.
Must pass BACB certification exam. No additional state exam required. SD exam pass rate approximately 60%.
Annual renewal (not biennial). $300 annual renewal fee. Must maintain valid BACB certification. Follow BACB CE requirements: 32 CEUs every 2 years (including 4 ethics). Online renewal available via sdboards.org.
Initial Application: $300. Initial Licensing Fee: $350. Total Initial: $650. Annual Renewal: $300.
BACB certification required. Must maintain valid BCBA certification. CE requirements follow BACB standards (32 CEUs every 2 years including 4 ethics).
South Dakota has ANNUAL renewal (not biennial like most states) - important cost consideration. ABA Advisory Committee is unique structure - 3 non-voting members making recommendations to Board of Social Work Examiners. Governed by SDCL 36-38 and ARSD 20:85. State insurance mandate (SDCL 58-17-157, 2014) requires coverage for ABA autism treatment. SDABA (South Dakota ABA) provides networking and CE events. Contact: Brooke Tellinghuisen Geddes, (605) 642-1600, office@sdlicensing.com.
HB 1141 enacted early 2016 establishing behavior analyst licensure. Insurance coverage mandate established 2014 (SDCL 58-17-157).
Additional Information
South Dakota's licensing has unique features: ANNUAL renewal ($300/year - higher ongoing cost than biennial states), advisory committee under social work board (rather than dedicated BA board). High fees: $650 initial is among the highest. Strong job market: BCBAs earn average $94,006 annually (15% above national average). Exam pass rate only 60% - preparation important. Insurance mandate (2014) preceded licensure (2016).
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference purposes. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners - Applied Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee. Last updated: Jan 20, 2026.