Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Healthcare
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for mental health and substance abuse social workers 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 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Board of Social Work Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$41,750 median (30% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to SC Board of Social Work Examiners and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Carolina
With a median salary of $41,750, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in South Carolina earn 30% below the national median of $60,060. South Carolina ranks #50 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
$41,750Hourly estimate
$20.0730% below national median
Difference: -$18,310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Salary Ranking
#50 of 50 statesfor Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | $80,230 |
| #2 | Connecticut | $78,820 |
| #3 | Minnesota | $77,100 |
| #4 | California | $75,320 |
| #5 | Oregon | $71,830 |
Nearby States Comparison
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $41,750 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $56,730 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $50,810 | Specific course 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Carolina | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is 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 Social Work Examiners
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 202, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964664
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|---|---|---|---|
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers 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 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in South Carolina is $41,750. Salaries range from $29,230 (10th percentile) to $64,650 (90th percentile).
How does the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in South Carolina earn 30% below the national median of $60,060, with a state median of $41,750.
How many Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 650 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers 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 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Board of Social Work Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/SocialWorkers/.
How often do you renew a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.