EstatePass
State Comparison

Minnesota vs South Dakota

Compare real estate exam requirements, costs, and career potential between Minnesota and South Dakota

MN Salary
$53K
SD Salary
$46K
MN Pass Rate
56%
SD Pass Rate
60%

MN vs SD At a Glance

CategoryMinnesota (MN)South Dakota (SD)
Exam Questions130152
Passing Score75%75%
Exam Fee$68$105
Pass Rate56%60%
Avg Salary$53,000$46,000
Renewal Period——
CE Hours——

Detailed Comparison

Exam Format
MN
SD
Salesperson Questions
130
152
Time Limit
240 min
240 min
Passing Score
75%
75%
Costs & Fees
MN
SD
Exam Fee
$68
$105
Career Potential
MN
SD
Average Salary
$53,000
$46,000
Pass Rate
56%
60%
License Renewal
MN
SD
Renewal Period
—
—
CE Hours Required
—
—

Licensing Authorities

MN
Minnesota Department of Commerce
MDC
SD
South Dakota Real Estate Commission
SDREC

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is easier: Minnesota or South Dakota real estate exam?

The Minnesota exam has 130 questions with a 75% passing score, while South Dakota has 152 questions with a 75% passing score. South Dakota typically has a higher first-attempt pass rate.

Can I transfer my real estate license from Minnesota to South Dakota?

License reciprocity varies. Some states offer partial reciprocity where you may only need to take the state-specific portion of the exam. Check with both the MDC and SDREC for current reciprocity agreements.

Which state pays more for real estate agents: Minnesota or South Dakota?

Minnesota real estate agents earn an average of $53,000 annually, while South Dakota agents average $46,000. However, consider cost of living and market conditions in your decision.

How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Minnesota vs South Dakota?

The exam fee in Minnesota is $68, while South Dakota charges $105. Total licensing costs including pre-license education, application fees, and background checks typically range from $400-$1,000 in both states.

What are the CE requirements for Minnesota vs South Dakota?

Renewal cycles and CE hours are set by MDC and SDREC. Both states require completion of CE before license renewal.

Can I hold a real estate license in both Minnesota and South Dakota?

Yes, you can hold licenses in multiple states. You would need to meet each state's individual requirements, including education, exams, and fees. Some agents who work in border areas maintain licenses in both states to serve more clients.

Ready to Start Your Real Estate Career?

Whether you choose Minnesota or South Dakota, EstatePass has you covered with comprehensive exam prep materials.