Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for General Contractor 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
$104,040 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for General Contractor 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 $104,040, General Contractors in South Carolina earn 3% below the national median of $106,980. South Carolina ranks #25 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
$104,040Hourly estimate
$50.023% below national median
Difference: -$2,940
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#25 of 50 statesfor General Contractor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Massachusetts | $147,750 |
| #2 | Washington | $136,180 |
| #3 | Alaska | $135,630 |
| #4 | New York | $135,530 |
| #5 | Delaware | $135,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
General Contractor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $104,040 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $104,750 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $101,360 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 21 years |
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 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $70,800 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $45,950 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $48,910 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $60,050 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a General Contractor 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 General Contractor salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in South Carolina is $104,040. Salaries range from $68,470 (10th percentile) to $180,880 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
General Contractors in South Carolina earn 3% below the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $104,040.
How many General Contractors work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 4,750 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor 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 General Contractors 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 General Contractor license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.