Certifications & licenses in South Carolina
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in SC. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about South Carolina
Licensing landscape in South Carolina
As of May 26, 2024, South Carolina increased the minimum training requirement for massage therapists from 500 to 650 hours.
South Carolina Board of Massage Therapy
Applicants for a Residential Builder license need at least one year of experience and must post a $15,000 surety bond.
SC Residential Builders Commission
For 2024 EMT certification, South Carolina requires passing the NREMT exam and a state and federal criminal background check supported by fingerprints.
South Carolina Department of Public Health
Effective May 1, 2022, massage therapy continuing education hours are reported electronically to CE Broker for license renewal.
South Carolina Massage/Bodywork Board
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in South Carolina
South Carolina's cost of living is 4.5% below the national average, with housing being significantly more affordable.
Regional comparison: South Carolina vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs SC |
|---|---|---|
| SC | $37,220 | — |
| NC | $38,460 | +3% vs SC |
| GA | $37,680 | +1% vs SC |
| State | Required training hours | vs SC |
|---|---|---|
| SC | 650 hours | — |
| NC | 650 hours | 0 hours |
| GA | 500 hours | -150 hours |
Healthcare in South Carolina
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $37,220 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $47,320 |
| EMT | Required | $40,370 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $61,820 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $41,160 |
| Medical Coder | No | $54,280 |
| Paramedic | Required | $53,550 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $42,120 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $39,010 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $69,600 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $82,360 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $77,740 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $62,160 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $84,340 |
Skilled Trades in South Carolina
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $51,130 |
| Electrician | Required | $58,740 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $56,610 |
| Plumber | Required | $53,940 |
| Welder | No | $49,980 |
Personal Care & Wellness in South Carolina
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $43,630 |
| Barber | Required | $32,900 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $33,700 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $58,000 |
Professional & Business in South Carolina
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $76,560 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $53,880 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $61,350 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $56,580 |