Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker 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 Social Worker 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
SC Board of Social Work Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$91,940 median (32% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 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 91,940, Social Workers in South Carolina earn 32% above the national median of $69,480. South Carolina ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$91,940Hourly estimate
$44.2032% above national median
Difference: +$22,460
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#9 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | 109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | 104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $91,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $63,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $92,750 | Specific course 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 | 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
SC Board of Social Work Examiners
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 202, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964664
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 Social Worker 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 Social Worker salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in South Carolina is 91,940. Salaries range from $37,160 (10th percentile) to $113,550 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Social Workers in South Carolina earn 32% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 91,940.
How many Social Workers work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 500 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker 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 Social Workers 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/.