2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina Real Estate Agent / Salesperson License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Assists clients in buying, selling, and renting properties.

What the South Carolina data shows for Real Estate Agent / Salespersons

Becoming a licensed real estate agent / salesperson in South Carolina means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 70 training hours, a passing score on State Real Estate Salesperson Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. South Carolina regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Pre-License Coursework".

Budget $75 to get started, plus $40 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 3 weeks once your application is complete. The license also carries an ongoing 10-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For real estate agent / salespersons, the reciprocity picture is: Reciprocal agreements vary significantly by state.

Licensing Requirements in South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Pre-License Coursework
70 hours
Exam Requirement
State Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$88
Renewal Fee
$76
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
12 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$75
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$40
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
10 hrs
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 Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in South Carolina?
South Carolina requires 70 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Real Estate Salesperson Exam), and an initial fee of $88. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in South Carolina?
South Carolina licenses real estate agent / salespersons who complete its requirements (70 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the South Carolina licensing board.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license to South Carolina from another state?
Real Estate Agent / Salesperson licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Reciprocal agreements vary significantly by state. 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 Real Estate Agent / Salesperson licensing?
South Carolina does require a background check before issuing a real estate agent / salesperson license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in South Carolina?
To stay licensed as a real estate agent / salesperson in South Carolina, plan on 12 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $76.
How much does it cost to get a Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license in South Carolina?
The initial licensing fee in South Carolina is $75. The renewal fee is $40 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license processing take in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, license processing for real estate agent / salespersons typically takes approximately 3 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

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