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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 South Carolina eligibility requirements for Lawyer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Supreme Court of South Carolina~Office of Bar Admissions and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $124,880 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $126,240 | Degree required | 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $46,890 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $73,180 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $99,680 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer 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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.