Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$29,120 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in South Carolina
With a median salary of 29,120, Cosmetologists in South Carolina earn 17% below the national median of $35,250. South Carolina ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$29,120Hourly estimate
$14.0017% below national median
Difference: -$6,130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#45 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $29,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $36,140 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $30,790 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Carolina | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
SC Board of Cosmetology
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 201, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964588
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $37,300 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $35,810 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $62,830 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $25,980 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in South Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in South Carolina is 29,120. Salaries range from $18,990 (10th percentile) to $60,740 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in South Carolina earn 17% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 29,120.
How many Cosmetologists work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 3,290 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to South Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Cosmetology.