Plumber / South Carolina
2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina Plumber License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Installs and repairs pipes and plumbing systems. Requires apprenticeship.

What the South Carolina data shows for Plumbers

To practice as a plumber in South Carolina, the state licensing board requires 4,865 documented education or training hours, a passing score on State Journeyman Plumber Exam, and 4 years of supervised work experience. 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 the training track as "Apprenticeship Program".

The initial price tag is $88, and renewal costs $78 every 1 years. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 8 hours of continuing education are due every 1-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, plumbers should know: Journeyman licenses rarely reciprocal — check state board.

Licensing Requirements in South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Apprenticeship Program
4,865 hours
Exam Requirement
State Journeyman Plumber Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$88
Renewal Fee
$78
Renewal Cycle
Every 1 year
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years
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 Plumber in South Carolina?
South Carolina's requirements cover 4865 hours of education or training, the State Journeyman Plumber Exam exam, and an initial fee of $88. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Plumber in South Carolina?
South Carolina licenses plumbers who complete its requirements (4865 education hours, 4 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the South Carolina licensing board.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to South Carolina from another state?
Plumber licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Journeyman licenses rarely reciprocal — check state board. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The South Carolina licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does South Carolina require a background check for Plumber licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for plumber licensing in South Carolina. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Plumber in South Carolina?
South Carolina ties continued plumber licensure to 8 continuing-education hours, due every 1 year, alongside a $78 renewal fee.

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