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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.

Reciprocity Agreements

South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 9 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.

alabamaTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam.
georgiaTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam. Residential builders/specialty: exam waiver if current license obtained by exam with no disciplinary action in last 3 years.
louisianaTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam.
mississippiTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam.
north carolinaTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam. Residential: exam waiver for builder, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing if current license obtained by exam with no disciplinary action in last 3 years.
ohioTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam.
tennesseeTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam.
texasTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam.
utahTrade/technical exam waiver for qualifying license holders. Must still pass SC Business Management & Law exam.