South Carolina Contractor & Trade License Requirements
South Carolina requires statewide licensing for general contractors, electricians, plumbers, HVAC contractors, and roofing contractors. Commercial work over $10,000 is regulated by the SC Contractors' Licensing Board (CLB) under LLR, with five license groups based on financial qualifications. Residential work over $200 (builders) or $200 (specialty trades) is regulated by the Residential Builders Commission (RBC). Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors need separate residential specialty licenses for residential work. As of January 1, 2026, the Carolinas AGC (CAGC) replaced MASC as the trade certification provider for master electrician and master plumber certifications.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredReciprocity Agreements
South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 9 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
South Carolina Licensing Overview
South Carolina requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by 2 separate agencies: South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board (under LLR) (SC CLB), SC Contractors' Licensing Board (commercial) / SC Residential Builders Commission (residential), both under LLR (SC CLB / SC RBC). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $335 to $425, including application fees, exams, and license issuance. South Carolina also participates in reciprocity agreements with 9 other states, which can streamline the process for out-of-state contractors.
South Carolina Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $350 | $75 | — | — | $425 |
| Electrician | $100 | $75 | $160 | $10,000 | $335 |
| Plumber | $100 | $75 | $160 | $10,000 | $335 |
| HVAC Technician | $100 | $75 | $160 | $10,000 | $335 |
| Roofing Contractor | $350 | $75 | — | $5,000 | $425 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About South Carolina Contractor Licensing
- Workers' compensation required for businesses with 4+ employees. GL not mandated by the state but strongly recommended and often required by project owners.
- South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 9 states, which may allow licensed contractors to skip certain exams.
- License required for commercial projects over $10,000
- NASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building exam accepted for Building classification
- All commercial contractor exams are open-book
Frequently Asked Questions
Does South Carolina require a contractor license?
Yes, South Carolina requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in South Carolina?
Initial licensing costs range from $335 to $425 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does South Carolina have license reciprocity with other states?
Yes, South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 9 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in South Carolina?
Workers' compensation required for businesses with 4+ employees. GL not mandated by the state but strongly recommended and often required by project owners.
Official South Carolina Licensing Resources
- South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board (under LLR) (SC CLB) — for general contractor
- SC Contractors' Licensing Board (commercial) / SC Residential Builders Commission (residential), both under LLR (SC CLB / SC RBC) — for electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor