Step-by-Step: How to Get a South Dakota Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Primary Source Verification
2–4 weeksFCVS accepted but not required. The board conducts primary source verification of your medical education, residency, and fellowship training directly.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
1–3 weeksComplete the required background check: FBI fingerprint. Schedule fingerprinting at an authorized location and submit results to the board.
Submit Supporting Documents
1–2 weeksProvide verification of training (residency, fellowship), board certification, malpractice history, peer references, and any required CME documentation.
Board Review & Approval
4–8 weeksThe South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners reviews your complete application. Processing time varies based on application volume and completeness of your file.
DEA Registration
2–4 weeksApply for DEA registration in the new state if you will be prescribing controlled substances. DEA registration is separate from state licensure.
Total estimated time: 4–8 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
South Dakota Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is South Dakota in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
South Dakota is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a South Dakota license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 4–8 weeks traditional process.
IMLC Eligibility Requirements:
- • State of principal licensure must be an IMLC member
- • No disciplinary orders on any state license
- • Board certified (or meeting IMLC GME standards)
- • No criminal history preventing licensure
South Dakota Medical License Fee Structure
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $200–$600 (varies by state) |
| Fingerprint Processing | $25–$75 |
| DEA Registration | $888 (3 years) |
| FCVS Profile (if required) | $375 initial |
Fees subject to change. Verify current fees at the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners website.
How Locums One Handles South Dakota Licensing
For every physician we place in South Dakota, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the South Dakota Medical License Guide PDF:
Already eligible for IMLC
South Dakota is an IMLC member state. Pay us a $99 refundable deposit, we'll handle your full IMLC application — get South Dakota + 40+ other state licenses in 3–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions — South Dakota Medical License
How long does it take to get a South Dakota medical license?
The South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners typically processes applications in 4–8 weeks. IMLC compact members can obtain a South Dakota license in 2–3 weeks through the expedited pathway. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is South Dakota in the IMLC compact?
South Dakota is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a South Dakota license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 4–8 weeks traditional process.
Does South Dakota require FCVS for medical licensure?
FCVS accepted but not required. While FCVS is not required, it can expedite the verification process.
What background check does South Dakota require for medical licensure?
South Dakota requires: FBI fingerprint. Background check results must be submitted directly to the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners.
Can Locums One handle my South Dakota medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including South Dakota medical board applications, FCVS coordination, fingerprinting scheduling, and DEA registration. Our average credentialing time is 21 days (industry average: 60–90 days).
Do I need a separate DEA registration for South Dakota?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in South Dakota, you need a South Dakota DEA registration in addition to your state medical license. DEA registration takes 2–4 weeks and costs $888 for a 3-year registration.
What CME requirements does South Dakota have for medical license renewal?
South Dakota requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners website for current CME requirements. Locums One tracks license expiration dates and prompts renewal 90 days in advance.
Is locum tenens work 1099 or W-2 in South Dakota?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in South Dakota. You receive a 1099-NEC, handle your own quarterly estimated taxes, and access significant business deductions. has state income tax — factor this into your rate negotiations.