Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator 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 Private Investigator in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
There is some indication that this license exists in South Carolina, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$53,890 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 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 53,890, Private Investigators in South Carolina earn 3% above the national median of $52,370. South Carolina ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$53,890Hourly estimate
$25.913% above national median
Difference: +$1,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#15 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Oregon | 77,320 |
| #2 | Maryland | 74,360 |
| #3 | Illinois | 73,070 |
| #4 | Minnesota | 72,070 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 68,290 |
Nearby States Comparison
Private Investigator licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $53,890 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $55,190 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $44,590 | 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 | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
There is some indication that this license exists in South Carolina, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
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 Private Investigator 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 Private Investigators in South Carolina?
South Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in South Carolina?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in South Carolina.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in South Carolina is 53,890. Salaries range from $37,840 (10th percentile) to $100,450 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in South Carolina earn 3% above the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 53,890.
How many Private Investigators work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 650 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to South Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Private Investigators in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is There is some indication that this license exists in South Carolina, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts.