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Massage Therapy License in South Dakota: Cost, Steps & How to File

If you're planning to get a massage therapy license in South Dakota, the process is more paperwork than it needs to be — but it's paperwork with a predictable pattern. This guide walks through the South Dakota steps in plain English, with real fee amounts and the specific state office to file with.

Typical cost

$100–$500

Timeline

30–90 days

Renewal

Every 1-2 years with continuing education

Who needs it

licensed massage therapists (LMT)

Steps to get a massage therapy license in South Dakota

Step 1: Graduate from an approved massage therapy program (500-1000 hours in most states)
Step 2: Pass the MBLEx exam (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination — accepted in ~45 states)
Step 3: Submit fingerprints and background check
Step 4: Apply to the state's massage therapy board
Step 5: Get commercial liability insurance (usually through AMTA or ABMP membership)
Step 6: Verify local (city/county) licensing — some cities require an additional 'body work' permit on top of the state LMT

Required documents

School transcript
MBLEx score report
Fingerprints
Government-issued ID
Insurance certificate

Where to file in South Dakota

Business filings: https://sosenterprise.sd.gov/BusinessServices
Secretary of State: https://sosenterprise.sd.gov
Tax authority: https://dor.sd.gov
Labor/workforce: https://dlr.sd.gov

Heads up: Once you've filed, keep a copy of your massage therapy license in your business records. South Dakota agencies periodically request proof during audits, tax filings, or when you apply for related permits, and reproducing a lost filing costs more than the original.

Related permits in South Dakota

Business License in South Dakota

Frequently asked questions

How much does a massage therapy license cost in South Dakota?

Typical cost ranges from $100–$500. The exact fee depends on your specific business type, city, and any expedited processing you choose.

How long does it take to get a massage therapy license in South Dakota?

Most South Dakota applications complete in 30–90 days. Same-day or next-day processing is often available for an added fee at the state level.

Do I need a massage therapy license if I'm just starting a home business in South Dakota?

In most cases, yes — even home-based businesses in South Dakota are subject to the same state filing rules. Local rules (city and county) may add a home occupation permit on top.

This page reflects general South Dakota filing rules as of 2026. Fees and processing times change; verify the current amounts with the linked state agency before filing.