Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant 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 Certified Public Accountant 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 Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$73,180 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 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 73,180, Certified Public Accountants in South Carolina earn 10% below the national median of $81,680. South Carolina ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$73,180Hourly estimate
$35.1810% below national median
Difference: -$8,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#41 of 50 statesfor Certified Public Accountant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 101,780 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 101,340 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 96,580 |
| #4 | California | 96,360 |
| #5 | Washington | 96,180 |
Nearby States Comparison
Certified Public Accountant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $73,180 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $80,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $80,100 | Degree required | Third-party exam 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
SC Board of Accountancy
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 201, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964770
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $84,190 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $99,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,900 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $40,160 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant 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 Certified Public Accountant salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in South Carolina is 73,180. Salaries range from $48,220 (10th percentile) to $131,550 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in South Carolina earn 10% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 73,180.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 15,250 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant 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 Certified Public Accountants in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Board of Accountancy. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Accountancy/.