Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Firefighter in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Board of Contractors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$45,960 median (23% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to SC Board of Contractors and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Carolina
With a median salary of $45,960, Firefighters in South Carolina earn 23% below the national median of $59,530. South Carolina ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,186Median annual salary
$45,960Hourly estimate
$22.1023% below national median
Difference: -$13,570
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#41 of 50 statesfor Firefighter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $93,490 |
| #2 | New York | $88,380 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $87,660 |
| #4 | California | $83,400 |
| #5 | Illinois | $79,080 |
Nearby States Comparison
Firefighter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $45,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $37,250 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $45,970 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Georgia | 25 | 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
Official website verified
SC Board of Contractors
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 306, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964686
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $48,470 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $58,020 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $34,820 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in South Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in South Carolina is $45,960. Salaries range from $29,220 (10th percentile) to $64,010 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Firefighters in South Carolina earn 23% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $45,960.
How many Firefighters work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 7,570 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter 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 Firefighters in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Board of Contractors. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Contractors.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.