2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Provides basic patient care under supervision. Requires NCLEX-PN exam.

What the South Carolina data shows for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

To practice as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in South Carolina, the state licensing board requires 1,108 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the NCLEX-PN examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under South Carolina's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $102, with renewal running $72 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,108 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$102
Renewal Fee
$72
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice

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 Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Carolina?
South Carolina requires 1108 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-PN), and an initial fee of $102. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Carolina?
To become a licensed licensed practical nurse (lpn) in South Carolina, you must meet the state's requirements including 1108 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the South Carolina licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to South Carolina from another state?
South Carolina has reciprocity provisions: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the South Carolina licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does South Carolina require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing?
Yes, South Carolina requires a criminal background check as part of the licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Carolina?
Licensed licensed practical nurse (lpn)s in South Carolina must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $72.

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

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