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Registered Nurse (RN) License in South Carolina

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Registered Nurse (RN) license in SC. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$200

Processing Time

4-8 Weeks

Exam Required

NCLEX-RN

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Registered Nurse (RN) license in South Carolina.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Registered Nurse (RN) training program in South Carolina.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your SC application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NCLEX-RN.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the South Carolina licensing board and pay the $200 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-8 weeks in SC. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in South Carolina, the licensing process begins with education. SC mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the NCLEX-RN. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate South Carolina regulatory board.

Requirements

South Carolina has specific requirements for Registered Nurse (RN) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to provide patient care in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities. A clean background check is mandatory in SC, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The NCLEX-RN must be passed with a minimum score set by the South Carolina board.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in South Carolina starts at $200 for the application fee. SC requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in South Carolina can add up to $75 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Registered Nurse (RN) in South Carolina

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

South Carolina requires Registered Nurse (RN) license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $150 in SC. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. South Carolina offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Registered Nurse (RN) in SC

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. South Carolina requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Registered Nurse (RN) professionals in South Carolina continues to grow. SC offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in South Carolina provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Registered Nurse (RN) professionals in SC report high job satisfaction and competitive compensation.

Document Checklist — Registered Nurse (RN)

0 of 6 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My South Carolina Registered Nurse (RN) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts SC Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts SC Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts SC Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts SC Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize SC Registered Nurse (RN) license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts SC Registered Nurse (RN) license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in South Carolina

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Columbia

110 Centerview Dr, Columbia, SC 29210

(803) 896-4300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Charleston

75 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 724-3700

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Greenville

206 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601

(864) 467-4400

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Myrtle Beach

1018 2nd Ave N, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

(843) 918-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Rock Hill

155 Johnston St, Rock Hill, SC 29730

(803) 329-5500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Official South Carolina Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the South Carolina state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.