Filed as: Department of Labor and Regulation, Cosmetology Commission
Out-of-state cosmetologists, nail technicians, and estheticians applying for a South Dakota license through reciprocity can now count prior work experience toward their education requirements, with the conversion rate staying at two hours of work experience equaling one hour of classroom training. The maximum hours remain the same—750 for cosmetologists, 200 for nail technicians, and 300 for estheticians—though workers must now provide their work experience in written form. Additionally, applicants with cosmetology-related licenses from other states that don't directly match South Dakota's three main license categories may receive credit for relevant work experience at the commission's discretion, making it easier for diverse professionals to transition into the state's regulated fields.
AI-generated from the adopted rule text — verify against the official documents.
Rulemaking to comply with HB 1194 (2026).
Senator Mehlhaff moved to deem the process complete, seconded by Representative DeGroot; the motion passed 5-0 (Larson excused). The rule implements HB 1194 by allowing the Cosmetology Commission to credit out-of-state work experience toward education hours.
No specific cites listed — see the package documents.
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