At a Glance: South Carolina Contractor License
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing Board | South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board (SCCLB) |
| License Types |
|
| License Threshold | $5,000 for general; $200 for residential |
| Application Fee | $100–$300 |
| Exam Required | ✅ Yes |
| Exam Provider | PSI Exams |
| Exam Cost | $75–$130 |
| Experience Required | 2 years in field |
| Insurance Required | General Liability ($300,000 minimum); Workers' Comp required |
| License Renewal | Biennial; $100–$250 |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your South Carolina Contractor License
- Choose license type
- Document 2 years experience
- Pass Business & Law and trade exams
- Obtain required insurance
- Apply to SCCLB online
- License issued in 30–45 days
Exam Requirements
Provider: PSI Exams
Cost: $75–$130
Topics covered: SC Business & Law, Trade Knowledge
Most state contractor exams test two main areas: Business & Law (contracts, lien law, workers' comp, licensing regulations) and Trade Knowledge (construction practices, building codes, safety). Prepare for both sections — even experienced contractors struggle with the Business & Law portion without dedicated study.
Study Resources
- PSI Candidate Handbook (available on PSI website — free, covers exactly what's on the exam)
- ICC Study Guides for code-based exams
- Contractor's Business & Law Study Guide by Craftsman Book Company
- Online prep courses from Contractor Exam Prep and similar providers
Insurance & Bonding Requirements
General Liability ($300,000 minimum); Workers' Comp required
Beyond what South Carolina requires, consider these coverage types for complete protection:
- General Liability: Protects against third-party bodily injury and property damage claims
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees; protects against job-site injury claims
- Commercial Auto: Your personal auto policy won't cover your work truck
- Inland Marine (Tools & Equipment): Covers tool theft from job site or vehicle
Reciprocity
South Carolina has the following reciprocity agreements with other states:
- Georgia
- North Carolina
Important: Reciprocity agreements change over time. Always contact the South Carolina licensing board directly to confirm current reciprocity status before assuming your out-of-state license qualifies for expedited licensure.
Important Notes for South Carolina
South Carolina has active reciprocity with Georgia and North Carolina. The Residential Builder license has separate requirements from General Contractor.
Official Resources
- South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board (SCCLB) — Official Website
- PSI Exams — Schedule Your Contractor Exam
- Contractor Insurance Guide
- Contractor Bonding Guide
- How to Start a Construction Business
Always verify requirements directly with the South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board (SCCLB). Requirements, fees, and exam procedures change frequently — this guide is updated periodically but may not reflect the most recent changes.