Cosmetologist / South Carolina
2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Provides hair, skin, and nail care services. Required in all 50 states.

What the South Carolina data shows for Cosmetologists

To practice as a cosmetologist in South Carolina, the state licensing board requires 1,130 documented education or training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. The regulation sits under South Carolina's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Budget $40 to get started, plus $20 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 2 weeks once your application is complete. South Carolina doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

For cosmetologists, the reciprocity picture is: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,130 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$67
Renewal Fee
$39
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$40
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$20
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
2 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

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Compare all states for Cosmetologist All South Carolina licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with South Carolina licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in South Carolina? ▼
South Carolina's requirements cover 1130 hours of education or training, the State Cosmetology Board Exam exam, and an initial fee of $67. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in South Carolina? ▼
To become a licensed cosmetologist in South Carolina, you must meet the state's requirements including 1130 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the South Carolina licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to South Carolina from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for cosmetologists: Varies by state — check with state board. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the South Carolina licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does South Carolina require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Yes, South Carolina requires a criminal background check as part of the cosmetologist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in South Carolina? ▼
The initial licensing fee in South Carolina is $40. The renewal fee is $20 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 2 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in South Carolina? ▼
In South Carolina, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 2 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.