Disclaimer: This post is informational. Pharmacy board rules and processes can change. Always verify current requirements with the South Dakota Department of Health / Board of Pharmacy before applying or renewing.
Table of Contents
- Quick requirements (quick answer)
- Do you need a license to be a pharmacy technician in South Dakota?
- Eligibility checklist + the 30-day registration deadline
- Technician vs Certified Technician in South Dakota
- How to apply for your South Dakota pharmacy technician registration
- Pharmacy technician certification South Dakota: PTCB vs ExCPT
- Renewal: dates, fees, and the 2026–27 CE/certification requirement
- Changes you must report within 10 days
- Scope of practice in South Dakota
- Training and onboarding expectations
- Work environments for pharmacy technicians in South Dakota
- Salary and job outlook in South Dakota
- FAQ
- References
South Dakota pharmacy technician license requirements (quick answer)
Quick answer: To get a South Dakota pharmacy technician license (the state commonly calls this a technician registration), you generally must be at least 16, be employed in South Dakota as a pharmacy technician, and submit your initial application within 30 days of your employment hire date. Registrations expire annually on October 31, and the renewal period runs September 1–October 31 (no grace period).
Heads up for 2026–27 renewals: To renew during the 2026–27 renewal period, technicians must have completed six hours of continuing education or be currently certified (national certification).
At-a-glance requirements (2026)
| Requirement | What it means in practice |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | Must be 16+ to apply. |
| Employment | Must be currently employed in South Dakota as a pharmacy technician to submit an initial application. |
| Deadline | Apply within 30 days of accepting employment / hire date. |
| Application method | Online application. The Board’s instructions recommend using a desktop/laptop (not a phone/tablet) and completing it in one sitting. |
| Fees | $25 initial registration fee and $25 annual renewal fee. |
| Expiration + renewal window | Registration expires October 31 each year. Renew September 1–October 31. No grace period. |
| Renewal proof (rule-based) | Proof of 6 CE hours in the last 24 months (not previously used for a prior renewal) or current national certification (NCCA-accredited). |
Official starting point: South Dakota Department of Health – Pharmacy Technicians (Applications & Requirements)
Do you need a license to be a pharmacy technician in South Dakota?
Yes: South Dakota requires pharmacy technicians to hold a current registration while employed as a pharmacy technician. Many people search “pharmacy technician license,” so you’ll see both terms used, but the state’s official process is a technician registration.
If you’re looking for a plain-English explanation of state registration vs national credentials, see: pharmacy technician license vs certification.
Eligibility checklist + the 30-day registration deadline
Who can apply?
Before you apply for a South Dakota technician registration, the state’s application requirements emphasize two basics:
- Be 16 years of age or older
- Be employed in South Dakota as a pharmacy technician
The deadline most applicants miss
South Dakota requires technicians to submit an initial application within 30 days of accepting employment. Treat this as a compliance deadline—not a suggestion.
Do not submit the “Initial/New” application if you have ever been issued a South Dakota technician registration. Use the renewal process instead (even if your registration expired).
Initial/New application portal: Technician Initial / New Application (SDBOP portal)
Technician vs Certified Technician in South Dakota
South Dakota recognizes a standard technician registration and a certified technician registration. “Certified” in this context refers to national certification—the Board updates your status based on proof you provide.
| Topic | Technician (Not nationally certified) | Certified Technician (Nationally certified) |
|---|---|---|
| State status | Registered/approved as a pharmacy technician in South Dakota. | Registered as a technician and marked “certified” after the Board receives your certification proof. |
| Certification requirement | Not required for the initial registration by itself, but may help for renewal and certain roles. | Must hold national certification from an NCCA-accredited exam/program (e.g., PTCB or ExCPT). |
| Renewal proof | Provide proof of 6 hours CE in the last 24 months (not previously used) or be certified. | Current national certification can satisfy the “proof” requirement for renewal. |
Important wording from the Board: The Board does not certify technicians. Certification questions should be directed to your employer, pharmacist-in-charge, or national certifying agencies (PTCB or ExCPT). Once certified, email your official certificate to [email protected] so your status can be updated.
How to apply for your South Dakota pharmacy technician registration
The Board’s platform is designed for desktop/laptop use. Plan to complete your application in one sitting, with your information ready.
Device tip: The Board’s instructions advise not using a tablet or mobile phone to complete the application.
Step 1 — Confirm you’re eligible
- You are 16+
- You are currently employed in South Dakota as a pharmacy technician
- You are within 30 days of accepting employment / hire date
Step 2 — Gather what you’ll need
Have these items ready (common fields and uploads requested by the Board portal and instruction guides):
- Personal information (name, date of birth, contact details)
- Employer pharmacy details (including the employer’s South Dakota license/registration information as prompted)
- Your NABP e-Profile number (if applicable)
- If applying as a certified technician: a copy of your current certification certificate (PDF)
- If you have reportable legal history: written explanation and court documentation as requested
Step 3 — Submit the online application (desktop recommended)
- Start the Initial/New application: Technician Initial / New Application
- Complete all sections carefully. Avoid leaving and returning later (the platform is designed for a single-session submission).
- Pay the fee (typically $25) using accepted payment methods shown in the Board instructions.
- Upload documents only when prompted, and use PDF format when possible.
Step 4 — After approval: set up your online account and print your registration
- After your registration is issued, set up your online account so you can print your registration and renew later.
- Write down your username/password for future renewals.
Official hub for technician requirements, FAQs, and application links: South Dakota Department of Health – Pharmacy Technicians
Pharmacy technician certification South Dakota: PTCB vs ExCPT
National certification is the most common way to become a certified technician in South Dakota. If you want a deeper explainer on how state registration and national credentials fit together, see: license vs certification.
Accepted national certifying agencies
The South Dakota Board of Pharmacy materials commonly reference two national certification options:
- PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) — ptcb.org
- ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians, offered via NHA)
How to update your South Dakota status after you get certified
Once you’re certified, email a copy of your official certification certificate to the Board so your status can be updated: [email protected].
Reminder: The Board does not “certify” technicians. Certification is handled by national organizations. Your national certification typically has its own renewal requirements, including continuing education.
If you’re looking for education and training options, see: accredited pharmacy technician programs.
Renewal: dates, fees, and the 2026–27 CE/certification requirement
Renewal timeline (South Dakota)
- Expiration: October 31 each year
- Renewal period: September 1 – October 31
- No grace period: If you miss the deadline, the registration becomes delinquent/expired.
Requirements for Renewal
To renew your technician registration, the Board’s instructions specify that:
- You must be currently employed as a pharmacy technician in a South Dakota pharmacy at the time you submit the renewal application.
- You must submit the renewal application and the $25 fee.
- You must provide proof of either CE completion or current national certification (details below).
New renewal requirement (2026–27 cycle)
For the 2026–27 renewal period, technicians must have completed six hours of continuing education or be currently certified (national certification).
| Renewal item | What to do |
|---|---|
| Employment status | Confirm you are currently employed as a pharmacy technician in South Dakota when you submit. |
| Fee | Pay $25 online during renewal submission. |
| Proof requirement | Provide proof of 6 CE hours completed in the last 24 months (not previously used for a prior renewal) or proof of current national certification. |
| Timing | Renew between Sept 1 and Oct 31. Do not wait until the last day. |
Important: If your registration is expired, the Board’s technician guidance indicates you should reactivate it by completing a renewal application (not an initial/new application). Your technician number stays with you.
Renewal login (per Board instructions): SDBOP Online Services (Renewals)
Changes you must report within 10 days
South Dakota rules require technicians to report changes in name, address, or employment status within 10 days. The Board provides a specific form for certain changes.
- Name or employer changes: Use the Board’s Change of Name or Employer Form (PDF) and submit it within 10 days.
- Personal address, phone, or email changes: Log in to the licensing platform and update your “My Profile” information.
Need an official verification? The Board directs verification requests to the verification site: South Dakota Board of Pharmacy – License/Registration Verification
Scope of practice in South Dakota
South Dakota’s rules focus on delegation and supervision. Pharmacy technicians support pharmacists, but the pharmacist remains responsible for final verification and legal compliance.
Supervision and pharmacist final check
As a general rule, technicians perform technical functions under appropriate pharmacist supervision. National certification does not replace pharmacist oversight.
Pharmacist-to-technician ratios
In most settings, up to three registered pharmacy technicians may be on duty for every pharmacist on duty. A pharmacy intern does not count in this ratio. (Some settings have specific exceptions.)
Remote (tele)pharmacy technician requirements
Remote pharmacy rules are detailed. In general, remote sites are staffed with a certified technician registered with the Board or a registered pharmacy intern. If a certified technician is working at a remote pharmacy without an onsite pharmacist/intern/another qualifying certified technician, the rules set experience requirements (including a minimum number of technician hours and a portion of those hours in specified settings).
If remote pharmacy work is on your radar, review the official rules and confirm the staffing model with your employer before accepting the position.
Training and onboarding expectations
While the Board issues registrations, each pharmacy still has responsibilities for technician training and documentation. The pharmacist-in-charge must ensure technicians receive adequate training for the tasks they perform, and the pharmacy must maintain written policies and training records.
- Pharmacies must develop and periodically review written training/utilization policies.
- Training must be documented and maintained for the duration of employment and be available for Board inspection.
- Technicians must wear a visible ID badge identifying them as a pharmacy technician, including the technician’s first name.
If you are enrolled in a college- or vocational-based pharmacy technician training program, you must obtain a technician registration before beginning on-site practical experience.
Training options and program selection can be confusing—especially when comparing “accredited” programs to “PTCB-recognized” training. If you want a structured overview, see: accredited pharmacy technician programs.
Work environments for pharmacy technicians in South Dakota
Once registered, pharmacy technicians work across a range of settings. Common options include:
- Retail/community pharmacies: prescription processing, insurance claims, customer service, inventory.
- Hospital/health-system pharmacies: medication distribution systems, sterile compounding support (with training), inpatient workflows.
- Long-term care pharmacies: cycle fills, packaging systems, coordination with nursing facilities.
- Mail order/specialty: production-style fulfillment, prior authorizations, specialty medication handling.
- Federal/tribal health settings: team-based care supporting community access.
Salary and job outlook in South Dakota
Pay depends on setting (retail vs hospital), shift differentials, region, and whether you hold national certification.
- South Dakota (statewide, 2024): median hourly wage $21.04; median annual wage $43,760.
- United States (BLS, May 2024): median annual wage $43,460.
If you’re comparing offers, ask about onboarding, certification support, and opportunities to cross-train (inventory, billing, IV room support, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you need a license to be a pharmacy technician in South Dakota?
South Dakota requires a Board-issued technician registration to work as a pharmacy technician while employed in the state. Many people call this a “license,” but the official process is registration through the Board of Pharmacy.
How long do you have to apply after getting hired?
You have 30 days from your employment hire date / accepting employment to obtain a technician registration. Don’t wait until the last week—delays happen.
How much does it cost to register and renew?
The initial registration fee is typically $25, and the annual renewal fee is typically $25. Fees are commonly listed as nonrefundable in the Board’s application instructions.
Can you apply on your phone?
The Board’s instructions advise not using a tablet or mobile phone for the application. For fewer issues, apply using a desktop or laptop and complete the application in one sitting.
When do you renew your South Dakota pharmacy technician registration?
Registrations expire on October 31 each year. The renewal period runs September 1–October 31, and there is no grace period.
Does South Dakota require continuing education for pharmacy technicians?
For the 2026–27 renewal period, technicians must have completed six hours of continuing education or be currently certified (national certification). Rule language also describes proof requirements for renewal.
Is national certification required to work as a pharmacy technician in South Dakota?
Not necessarily for initial registration, but national certification may be required for certain roles and can help satisfy renewal proof requirements. If you become certified, email your official certificate to the Board so your status can be updated.
Which certifications does South Dakota accept?
Board materials commonly reference PTCB and ExCPT as national certifying agencies for technician certification. Confirm current acceptance on the official technician page before you register.
What changes do you need to report to the Board?
Changes in name, address, or employment status must be reported within 10 days. Use the Board’s Change of Name or Employer form when appropriate.
What is the pharmacist-to-technician ratio in South Dakota?
In most settings, up to three registered pharmacy technicians may be on duty per pharmacist on duty, and pharmacy interns do not count in that ratio. Certain settings have exceptions.
References (official sources)
- South Dakota Department of Health – Pharmacy Technicians (requirements + application links): https://doh.sd.gov/licensing-and-records/boards/pharmacy/licensing-requirements/pharmacy-technicians/
- South Dakota Board of Pharmacy – Technician FAQ (PDF): https://doh.sd.gov/media/4i3jjrzx/faq-document-technicians.pdf
- Technician Initial Application Instructions (Revised 09/2025, PDF): https://doh.sd.gov/media/jf4bbqo3/technician-initial-application-instructions.pdf
- Technician Renewal Instructions (Revised 08/2025, PDF): https://doh.sd.gov/media/2i3bnhdm/technician-renewal-instructions.pdf
- South Dakota Board of Pharmacy – Change of Name or Employer Form (PDF): https://doh.sd.gov/media/gbcd3mlx/change-name-or-employer-form.pdf
- South Dakota Board of Pharmacy – License/Registration Verification: https://doh.sd.gov/licensing-and-records/boards/pharmacy/license-verification/
- Laws and Rules Related to the Practice of Pharmacy in SD (2025, PDF): https://doh.sd.gov/media/ikgg2aon/laws-and-rules-related-to-the-practice-of-pharmacy-in-sd-2025.pdf
- South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation – Occupational Employment and Wage Rates (Statewide, 2024, PDF): https://dlr.sd.gov/lmic/documents/wages/sd_statewide_occupational_wages_2024.pdf
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook – Pharmacy Technicians: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacy-technicians.htm
- PTCB: https://www.ptcb.org/
Final note: This post is informational and not individualized legal or medical advice. Always verify details with official South Dakota Board of Pharmacy resources.
