Secondary School Teacher / South Carolina
2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina Secondary School Teacher License Requirements

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

Instructs students in grades 7-12. Requires state teaching certificate.

What the South Carolina data shows for Secondary School Teachers

South Carolina's path to secondary school teacher licensure runs through board-approved instruction and a passing score on State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. South Carolina folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree plus Subject Certification".

Upfront cost is $81, with renewal running $60 on a 5-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 150 hours of continuing education are due every 5-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

For secondary school teachers, the reciprocity picture is: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states.

Licensing Requirements in South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree plus Subject Certification
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$81
Renewal Fee
$60
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
150 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 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 Secondary School Teacher in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the license path calls for, a passing score on State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent), and a $81 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Secondary School Teacher in South Carolina?
To become a licensed secondary school teacher in South Carolina, you must meet the state's requirements. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the South Carolina licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Secondary School Teacher license to South Carolina from another state?
For secondary school teachers, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the South Carolina licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does South Carolina require a background check for Secondary School Teacher licensing?
Background screening is part of the secondary school teacher licensing process in South Carolina. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Secondary School Teacher in South Carolina?
To stay licensed as a secondary school teacher in South Carolina, plan on 150 hours of continuing education per 5-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $60.

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