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.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 24 months
Renewal fee
$20.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 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
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.
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Next steps
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Printable checklist
South Dakota checklist
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