How to Get a Private Investigator License in South Dakota

South Dakota Private Investigator License

To work as a private investigator, you don’t need a private investigator’s license in South Dakota. It is one of a handful of states that don’t require private investigators to be licensed. However, you must obtain a sales tax license through the Department of Revenue.

How to Get a Sales Tax License / Permit

In South Dakota, any retailer that is engaged in selling, renting, or leasing tangible personal property or products delivered electronically or selling services is required to have a tax permit. These requirements apply whether your business is a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or any other organizational type including non-profits. This means that you’ll need a sales tax license to operate as a private investigator in the state. Even though a South Dakota Private Investigator License isn’t required, you will be penalized if you don’t get a sales tax license. So be sure to get one.

How to Apply for a Sales Tax License: You can submit an application online. Or, you can visit one of the offices in person, or call 1-800-829-9188. There aren’t any fees to get the license. You’ll get a license card in the mail once your application is approved.

You may need a bond: Depending on the nature of your business the Department of Revenue may require you to post a bond or security to guarantee payment of state and local taxes. Inquire about this when you contact the DOR.

Department of Revenue Contact Information

South Dakota Department of Revenue
445 E Capitol Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501
Website
Phone Number: 1-800-829-9188
Email Address: bustax@state.sd.us

Local Offices:

Aberdeen: 14 South Main, Suite 1-C, Aberdeen, SD 57401
Mitchell: 417 N. Main, Suite 112, Mitchell, SD 57301
Rapid City: 1520 Haines Avenue, Suite 3, Rapid City, SD 57701
Sioux Falls: 300 S Sycamore, Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD 57110

South Dakota Private Investigator Associations

We recommend that anyone who works in the private investigation industry join an industry association. Investigation associations are a great way to stay in touch with changes in state laws and legislation. In addition, they are a great way to get access to training and education. Also, they are an excellent way of meeting other investigators and developing a referral network.

At the time of this writing, we couldn’t find any information on South Dakota Private Detective associations. If you have information on active associations in South Dakota, please send us the details at webmaster@einvestigator.com.

Although there aren’t any state-level investigation associations in South Dakota, you can still join a national organization. We suggest one of the following:

• National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI)
• United States Association of Professional Investigators (USAPI)
• World Association of Professional Private Investigators (WAPI)
• National Council of Investigation and Security Services (NCISS)

Also, depending on the services you plan to offer, there may be other organizations you can join. For example, the South Dakota Claims Association or an organization in a neighboring state.

Training and Education

Even though a South Dakota Private Investigator License is not required, you still need to know what you’re doing. If you don’t have experience in the military or law enforcement, it makes sense to complete a degree program (such as Criminal Justice) or complete an investigation training course. Visit our Training Resources page for information on various training programs.

Licensing Requirements for the Other States: If you need to learn about licensing requirements in other states, check out the Private Investigator Licensing Handbook.

Questions and Comments

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