Key Takeaways
- South Dakota requires 4-10 hours of CE every 2 years depending on the line of authority
- Licenses renew biennially based on the producer's birth month
- Renewal fee is \$20
- CE requirements are lower than most states
- Special product training is required for LTC and annuities
Last updated: January 2026
License Maintenance and Continuing Education
South Dakota insurance licenses require ongoing maintenance through continuing education and timely renewal.
License Terms and Renewal
Biennial Renewal System
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| License Term | 2 years (biennial) |
| Renewal Basis | Producer's birth month |
| Renewal Fee | $20 |
| Renewal Method | Online through NIPR |
Continuing Education Requirements
South Dakota has lower CE requirements than most states:
CE Requirements by Line
| Line of Authority | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Life | 4-10 hours |
| Health | 4-10 hours |
| Property & Casualty | 4-10 hours |
Note: Specific hour requirements vary by line. Contact the Division of Insurance for current requirements.
CE Course Requirements
- Must be completed at approved providers
- Online and classroom options available
- Must be completed BEFORE license expiration
Special Training Requirements
Long-Term Care (LTC) Training
| Training Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Initial Training | 8-hour certification course |
| Ongoing Training | 4 hours every 2 years |
| When Required | Before selling LTC products |
Annuity Best Interest Training
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Course | One-time 4-hour course |
| When Required | Before selling annuities |
Reporting Requirements
South Dakota producers must notify the Division of Insurance of changes:
Required Notifications
- Change of business address
- Change of residence address
- Change of name
- Administrative actions by other states
- Criminal charges or convictions
How to Report
- Update through NIPR online portal
- Or contact Division of Insurance directly
- Failure to report is a violation
Disciplinary Actions
The Division of Insurance can take disciplinary action against licensees for violations:
Grounds for Discipline
- Violating insurance laws or regulations
- Fraudulent or dishonest practices
- Misappropriation of funds
- Misrepresentation to clients
- Failure to maintain CE
- Failure to report required information
- Criminal conviction
Types of Discipline
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Warning | Letter for minor violations |
| Probation | License continues with conditions |
| Fine | Monetary penalty per violation |
| Suspension | Temporary loss of license |
| Revocation | Permanent loss of license |
License Status Types
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Active | License current and in good standing |
| Inactive | Not actively selling (voluntary) |
| Expired | License term ended, not renewed |
| Suspended | Temporary disciplinary action |
| Revoked | License permanently cancelled |
Test Your Knowledge
How many hours of CE does South Dakota require every 2 years?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the South Dakota license renewal fee?
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When do South Dakota insurance licenses renew?
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Test Your Knowledge
What initial training is required before selling LTC insurance in South Dakota?
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