Who regulates water operators in South Dakota?
South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Drinking Water Program Operator Certification administers the credentials covered here.
Certification types
- Water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment and wastewater collection Classes I-IV, plus Small Water Treatment and Small Wastewater System.
Certification levels / grades / classes
Water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment and wastewater collection Classes I-IV, plus Small Water Treatment and Small Wastewater System.
Initial certification requirements
Submit complete DANR exam application at least two weeks before exam, pay fee, and pass the applicable class/category examination; system classification determines required operator class.
Exam information
Submit complete DANR exam application at least two weeks before exam, pay fee, and pass the applicable class/category examination; system classification determines required operator class.
Renewal cycle
Three-year CE period: one I/II certificate 10 hours; one III/IV 20; multiple all I/II 15; multiple with any III/IV 30. Annual renewal applies; after two consecutive unrenewed years the certificate is nonrenewable.
Continuing-education requirements
Three-year CE period: one I/II certificate 10 hours; one III/IV 20; multiple all I/II 15; multiple with any III/IV 30. Annual renewal applies; after two consecutive unrenewed years the certificate is nonrenewable.
Reciprocity / out-of-state operators
DANR provides an official reciprocity application and evaluates the out-of-state certification under ARSD 74:21; submit through the Operator Certification program.
Water vs. wastewater differences
Water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment and wastewater collection Classes I-IV, plus Small Water Treatment and Small Wastewater System.
Official forms and sources
Last verified: August 25, 2026. Confirm current details with the applicable authority.