How often do I need to renew my Electrical Contractor License in South Dakota?

The Electrical Contractor License in South Dakota must be renewed every 24 months.

How much does it cost to renew a Electrical Contractor License in South Dakota?

The renewal cost for a Electrical Contractor License in South Dakota is $300.00.

What happens if my Electrical Contractor License expires in South Dakota?

Performing electrical work without a valid South Dakota Electrical Commission license is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The Commission may issue cease-and-desist orders, impose fines, and refer violations for criminal prosecution under SDCL 36-16.

South Dakota renewal guide

Electrical Contractor 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

South Dakota Electrical Commission

Renewal period

Every 24 months

Renewal fee

$300.00

Bond requirement

Yes — $10,000.00

Insurance requirement

Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation

Continuing education

16 hours

Before you renew

Get the filing straight.

1
Finish the CE first

Complete the 16 required hours before you start the renewal.
2
Make sure the bond still clears

The $10,000.00 bond requirement needs to stay active through the renewal.
3
Check the insurance certificates

Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
4
File with the board

File through South Dakota Electrical Commission and pay the $300.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online
5
Leave room for processing

Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.

Detailed notes

The fine print is here.

South Dakota Electrical Contractor License

The South Dakota Electrical Commission, housed within the Department of Labor and Regulation, issues the Electrical Contractor license to businesses that perform electrical installations, alterations, and repairs throughout the state. South Dakota is one of only two trades (along with plumbing) that require state-level contractor licensing.

What This License Authorizes

An Electrical Contractor license authorizes the holder to contract for and perform electrical wiring, installation, and repair work on residential, commercial, and industrial properties. The contractor must employ or be a licensed journeyman or master electrician to perform the actual work.

Bond and Insurance Requirements

Surety Bond (Undertaking): $10,000 bond deposited with the State Electrical Commission
Public Liability Insurance: Minimum $100,000 per occurrence
Bodily Injury and Property Damage: $300,000 aggregate limit or combined single limit of $300,000
Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees
Undertaking Deposit Fee: $50 at time of execution and biennially at renewal

Examination Requirements

Applicants must pass the electrical contractor examination administered via computer-based testing (CBT). The exam fee is $110. As of December 2024, all exams are based on the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).

Fees

Application Fee: $40
License Fee: $300
Exam Fee: $110
Biennial Renewal Fee: $300
Undertaking Deposit: $50 biennially

Renewal Process

Renewal Period: Every 2 years (expires June 30 of even-numbered years)
Renewal Fee: $300
Continuing Education: 16 hours required per renewal cycle, with a minimum of 8 hours on the National Electrical Code. Only 8 hours may be from correspondence or online courses.

Consequences of Operating Without a License

Performing electrical work without a valid license from the South Dakota Electrical Commission is a Class 1 misdemeanor under SDCL 36-16. The Commission may issue cease-and-desist orders and refer violations for criminal prosecution.

*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.*

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