Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Supreme Court of South Carolina • Office of Bar Admissions
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$104,160 median (31% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 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 104,160, Lawyers in South Carolina earn 31% below the national median of $151,160. South Carolina ranks #39 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
$104,160Hourly estimate
$50.0831% below national median
Difference: -$47,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#39 of 50 statesfor Lawyer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 197,790 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 179,050 |
| #3 | New York | 177,210 |
| #4 | Delaware | 172,710 |
| #5 | Colorado | 167,970 |
Nearby States Comparison
Lawyer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $104,160 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $124,880 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $126,240 | Degree required | State 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 58 | 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.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Supreme Court of South Carolina • Office of Bar Admissions
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $84,190 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $73,180 | 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 |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer 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 exams are required for Lawyers in South Carolina?
South Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in South Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in South Carolina.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in South Carolina is 104,160.
How does the Lawyer salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Lawyers in South Carolina earn 31% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 104,160.
How many Lawyers work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 7,270 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to South Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Lawyers in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is Supreme Court of South Carolina / Office of Bar Admissions. Review agency details at https://barapplication.sccourts.org/admissionToPractice.cfm.