RN NLC Compact State

South Carolina RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in South Carolina

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$350

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

30 hours

Official source: licensing in South Carolina is administered by the South Carolina Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying.

Apply on Official Site

1 Education Requirements

Program Requirements

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Additional Requirements

Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

2 NCLEX-RN Examination

Exam Name

NCLEX-RN

Administered By

Pearson VUE

Exam Fee

$200

Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.

Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.

3 Background Check

FBI and SLED fingerprint background check

FBI and SLED background check required

Fingerprint cards sent after application received

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$100
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$50
Total	$350

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$75

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General Nursing CE: 30 hours

Career Advancement

Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

South Carolina RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in South Carolina?

Expect about $350 in total initial RN license costs in South Carolina, including a $100 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the South Carolina Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do RNs need to renew in South Carolina?

South Carolina RNs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $75.

Is South Carolina a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

Yes. South Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so eligible nurses with a multistate license can practice in South Carolina and every other NLC state without extra licenses.

How long does it take to get an RN license in South Carolina?

Most complete applications are processed in about 2 to 4 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in South Carolina?

The South Carolina Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (803) 896-4550.