Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by SC Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in South Carolina, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Assistant 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 board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$45,930 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the SC Board of Dentistry.
Salary Insights in South Carolina
With a median salary of 45,930, Dental Assistants in South Carolina earn 3% below the national median of 47300. South Carolina ranks #34 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,186Median annual salary
$45,930Hourly estimate
$22.083% below national median
Difference: -$1,370
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#34 of 50 statesfor Dental Assistant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Minnesota | 64,630 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 57,960 |
| #3 | Oregon | 57,720 |
| #4 | Washington | 57,040 |
| #5 | Alaska | 55,950 |
Nearby States Comparison
Dental Assistant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $45,930 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $48,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $45,600 | Specific course 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 | 29 | 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.
Official Licensing Agency
SC Board of Dentistry
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 202, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964599
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,980 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $69,990 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $52,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $81,710 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant 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 Dental Assistant salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in South Carolina is 45,930. Salaries range from 36920 (10th percentile) to 58570 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in South Carolina earn 3% below the national median of 47300, with a state median of 45,930.
How many Dental Assistants work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 5380 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to South Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Assistants in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Dentistry.