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South Dakota renewal guide

Apprentice Electrician License

If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.

Start here

What matters before you file.

Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.

Renewal period

Every 24 months

Renewal fee

$20.00

Bond requirement

No

Insurance requirement

No

Before you renew

Get the filing straight.

  1. 1

    File with the board

    File through South Dakota Electrical Commission and pay the $20.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.

    Renew online
  2. 2

    Leave room for processing

    Typical processing time is 14 days, so do not wait until the last minute.

Detailed notes

The fine print is here.

South Dakota Apprentice Electrician License


The South Dakota Electrical Commission issues the Apprentice Electrician license to individuals beginning their careers in the electrical trade. Apprentices must work under the direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or master electrician at all times.


What This License Authorizes


An Apprentice Electrician may perform electrical work only under the direct, on-site supervision of a licensed journeyman or master electrician. The apprentice cannot work independently or contract for electrical services.


Requirements


Applicants must be employed by a licensed electrical contractor and submit an apprentice application through the South Dakota Electrical Commission. No examination is required for the apprentice license.


Fees


  • License Fee: $20
  • Biennial Renewal Fee: $20

Renewal Process


  • Renewal Period: Every 2 years (expires June 30 of even-numbered years)
  • Renewal Fee: $20
  • No Continuing Education Required: Apprentices are not required to complete continuing education hours for renewal.

Path to Journeyman


Apprentices should accumulate approximately 8,000 hours of supervised experience before applying for the journeyman electrician examination. Completion of a registered apprenticeship program or equivalent on-the-job training is required.


Consequences of Operating Without a License


Performing electrical work without a valid license is a Class 1 misdemeanor under SDCL 36-16. Apprentices working without proper supervision may also face disciplinary action.


*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the South Dakota Electrical Commission.*

Official links

Check the board or agency directly.

Required documents

  • employer_verification

Source notes

South Dakota Electrical Commission, Department of Labor and Regulation . Verified March 2026. https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/forms.aspx

Rules move. Check South Dakota Electrical Commission again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.

Track the next renewal.

Keep Apprentice Electrician License dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.

Free to start. No credit card required.