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Tax Preparer License in South Carolina

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tax Preparer license in SC. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

2-4 Weeks

Exam Required

IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Tax Preparer license in South Carolina.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tax Preparer training program in South Carolina.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your SC application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the South Carolina licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 2-4 weeks in SC. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Tax Preparer in South Carolina starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the SC licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the South Carolina state board.

Requirements

Before applying for a Tax Preparer license in South Carolina, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. SC requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam is a non-negotiable requirement in South Carolina.

Fees & Costs

South Carolina sets the Tax Preparer license application fee at $150. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in SC. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in South Carolina typically ranges from $150 to $350.

License Fee Calculator — Tax Preparer in South Carolina

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

South Carolina requires Tax Preparer license holders to renew their credentials every 1 year. The renewal fee is $75 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 — Tax Preparer in SC

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. South Carolina requires renewal every 1 year.

Additional Information

South Carolina takes professional licensing seriously, and the Tax Preparer field is no exception. The state board in SC regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Tax Preparer in South Carolina, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The SC licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Tax Preparer

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My South Carolina Tax Preparer License in Other States?

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

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize SC Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize SC Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for SC license holders.

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.