Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Public Safety
Police Officer Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for police officer 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 Police Officer in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Real Estate Commission
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,020 median (24% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for Police Officer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to SC Real Estate Commission and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Carolina
With a median salary of $58,020, Police Officers in South Carolina earn 24% below the national median of $76,290. South Carolina ranks #42 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
$58,020Hourly estimate
$27.8924% below national median
Difference: -$18,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPolice Officer Salary Ranking
#42 of 50 statesfor Police Officer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $115,400 |
| #2 | Washington | $102,640 |
| #3 | Illinois | $101,530 |
| #4 | Alaska | $100,300 |
| #5 | Colorado | $96,100 |
Nearby States Comparison
Police Officer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $58,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $58,030 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $56,350 | Degree required | State exam required | 2 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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
Official website verified
SC Real Estate Commission
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 201, PO Box 11847, Columbia, SC, 29211-1847
Phone: 8038964400
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $48,470 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $45,960 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $34,820 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Police Officer 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 Police Officer salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Police Officers in South Carolina is $58,020. Salaries range from $43,640 (10th percentile) to $78,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Police Officer salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Police Officers in South Carolina earn 24% below the national median of $76,290, with a state median of $58,020.
How many Police Officers work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 12,820 Police Officers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Police Officer 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 Police Officers in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Real Estate Commission. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/REC/.
How often do you renew a Police Officer license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.