Contractor License Requirements in South Carolina

South Carolina requires contractor licensing for construction work on projects exceeding $5,000. The licensing process is overseen by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Contractor Licensing Board. South Carolina requires licensing for contractors on projects over $5,000. Licenses are grouped by maximum project value: Group 1 (unlimited) through Group 5 ($15,000-$30,000). Both business and trade exams are required. South Carolina has a reciprocal agreement with North Carolina.

Important

Never hire a contractor who cannot provide a valid license number. A legitimate contractor will have no hesitation sharing their license credentials for you to verify independently. If a contractor refuses, discourages you from checking, or makes excuses, treat that as a serious red flag.

Visit the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Contractor Licensing Board website to verify any contractor's license before hiring.

South Carolina has reciprocal licensing agreements with the following states, which may allow contractors licensed in those states to obtain a South Carolina license through a simplified process:

• North Carolina

Reciprocity terms and conditions vary. Contact the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Contractor Licensing Board to confirm current reciprocity requirements and any additional steps needed.