EstatePass
State Comparison

Montana vs South Dakota

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

MT Salary
$48K
SD Salary
$46K
MT Pass Rate
60%
SD Pass Rate
60%

MT vs SD At a Glance

CategoryMontana (MT)South Dakota (SD)
Exam Questions120152
Passing Score75%75%
Exam Fee$95$105
Pass Rate60%60%
Avg Salary$48,000$46,000
Renewal Periodβ€”β€”
CE Hoursβ€”β€”

Detailed Comparison

Exam Format
MT
SD
Salesperson Questions
120
152
Time Limit
240 min
240 min
Passing Score
75%
75%
Costs & Fees
MT
SD
Exam Fee
$95
$105
Career Potential
MT
SD
Average Salary
$48,000
$46,000
Pass Rate
60%
60%
License Renewal
MT
SD
Renewal Period
β€”
β€”
CE Hours Required
β€”
β€”

Licensing Authorities

MT
Montana Board of Realty Regulation
MBRR
SD
South Dakota Real Estate Commission
SDREC

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Montana exam has 120 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 Montana 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 MBRR and SDREC for current reciprocity agreements.

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

Montana real estate agents earn an average of $48,000 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 Montana vs South Dakota?

The exam fee in Montana is $95, 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 Montana vs South Dakota?

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

Can I hold a real estate license in both Montana 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 Montana or South Dakota, EstatePass has you covered with comprehensive exam prep materials.