South Dakota Food Safety Certification Requirements

Overview

South Dakota food safety is administered by SDDOH under SDCL §34-18-1 and ARSD 44:02:07. South Dakota requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager per licensed food establishment using the 2017 FDA Food Code. South Dakota's food service industry is concentrated in Sioux Falls and Rapid City, with significant seasonal activity in the Black Hills during summer — particularly around Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, one of the largest annual food service events in the northern plains.

Who Must Be Certified in South Dakota?

Food Protection Managers (CFPM)

South Dakota requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per food establishment. The CFPM must hold a current ANAB-CFP accredited certification and be present or reachable during all operating hours under ARSD 44:02:07. All retail food establishments are covered. South Dakota's SDDOH offices handle licensing and inspection statewide.

Food Handlers

Statewide requirement: No statewide mandate for all handlers

South Dakota does not have a statewide food handler card requirement. Many employers require food handler training voluntarily, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like the Black Hills where food safety reputation is critical to seasonal business success.

Accepted Certification Programs in South Dakota

South Dakota accepts certifications from ANAB-CFP accredited providers. All of the following nationally recognized programs meet South Dakota's legal requirements:

Costs approximate as of 2026. All listed providers are ANAB-CFP accredited.

How to Get Your Food Manager Certification in South Dakota

Step 1: Prepare (8–16 Hours Recommended)

No mandatory pre-exam course is required in South Dakota — you can register for the CFPM exam directly. However the exam has roughly a 65% pass rate without studying. Provider courses take 8–16 hours and significantly improve pass rates.

Step 2: Register for the Exam

Register through any ANAB-CFP accredited provider above. Online exams with remote proctoring are available from ServSafe, StateFoodSafety, 360training, NRFSP, and FoodSafePal. In-person testing is available through ServSafe-authorized proctors and Prometric test centers in South Dakota.

Step 3: Pass the Exam

The CFPM exam has approximately 80 questions; a passing score is typically 75% or higher. Results are immediate for computer-based exams. Retakes are available after 24–72 hours with an additional fee.

Step 4: Keep Your Certificate On-Site

Your CFPM certificate must be kept at your establishment and made available for health inspectors upon request. Some jurisdictions require it to be posted visibly — verify with your local health department.

Step 5: Renew Before 5 Years

CFPM certifications are valid for 5 years. Renew by retaking an approved exam before expiration. Begin the renewal process at least 30 days before your expiration date.

Cottage Food & Home Kitchen Businesses in South Dakota

South Dakota Cottage Food Law

Annual Sales Limit

No annual sales limit for direct cottage food sales in South Dakota under SDCL §39-3-36 — among the most permissive nationally.

Permitted Products & Sales

Non-potentially-hazardous foods including baked goods, jams, jellies, candy, dried goods, and similar shelf-stable items. Direct-to-consumer sales at farmers markets, roadside stands, community events, and from your home. Online sales with in-person delivery within South Dakota are generally permitted. No permit or home kitchen inspection required.

City & County Variations in South Dakota

South Dakota state law sets baseline food safety requirements, but local jurisdictions may enforce stricter rules. Always verify with your specific county or municipal health department in addition to state requirements.