Paramedic in South Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SC. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, South Carolina.
Jobs (SC)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a paramedic in South Carolina
To become a certified Paramedic in South Carolina, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and pass the NREMT Paramedic cognitive and psychomotor exams. Certification is issued by the South Carolina Department of Public Health, EMS and Trauma Section. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and pass state and federal criminal background checks. South Carolina offers reciprocity for paramedics certified in other states or through the National Registry, though those without NREMT certification may initially receive a provisional certification.
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Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for South Carolina. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist South Carolina requirements
| Licensing body | South Carolina Department of Public Health, EMS and Trauma Section |
| State license | Required |
| Education | State-approved Paramedic program |
| Exam | NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($160) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 60.0 hours per cycle |
| Reciprocity | South Carolina offers reciprocity for NREMT or state-certified paramedics, requiring a background check.Reciprocal states: South Carolina offers reciprocity for Paramedics currently certified in another U.S. state or through the National Registry. Applicants must hold a current certification from another U.S. state or the National Registry, have at least six months remaining on their certification, and complete a criminal background check. Those not nationally registered may receive provisional certification for one year, during which NREMT certification must be obtained. |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18. Requires state and federal criminal background checks and a current CPR (BLS) and ACLS card. Renewal requires maintaining NREMT certification, which has its own CE requirements. Provisional certification may be issued for one year to those not NREMT certified via reciprocity, during which NREMT certification must be obtained. |
Source: South Carolina Department of Public Health, EMS and Trauma Section
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to South Carolina? See whether South Carolina recognizes an out-of-state credential — with the tier and pathway for all 50 states — in our Paramedic license reciprocity guide.
work_outline Job outlook
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleSouth Carolina license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.1%)
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