Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor 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 agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Marriage and Family Therapists • SC Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,720 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 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 50,720, Licensed Professional Counselors in South Carolina earn 14% below the national median of $59,190. South Carolina ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$50,720Hourly estimate
$24.3814% below national median
Difference: -$8,470
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#41 of 50 statesfor Licensed Professional Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 79,220 |
| #2 | New Mexico | 70,770 |
| #3 | Oregon | 69,660 |
| #4 | North Dakota | 66,450 |
| #5 | Utah | 65,920 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Professional Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $50,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $56,470 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $55,320 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Marriage and Family Therapists • SC Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 202, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964658
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 Assistant | $45,930 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor 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 Licensed Professional Counselor salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in South Carolina is 50,720. Salaries range from $34,730 (10th percentile) to $84,190 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in South Carolina earn 14% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of 50,720.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 4,680 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor 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 Licensed Professional Counselors in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is Marriage and Family Therapists / SC Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Counselors/.