Expanding your real estate business into South Carolina might seem daunting, but the process is simpler than you think if you already hold a license in another state. South Carolina offers license reciprocity, allowing agents to obtain a license faster and with fewer requirements. This guide explains everything you need to know about the process, from eligibility to application steps.
Key Takeaways
- Know Your State’s Agreement: South Carolina has formal reciprocity only with Georgia and North Carolina. Georgia agents have full reciprocity with no exams or education required. North Carolina agents must pass the state-specific portion of the South Carolina real estate exam and may have to complete education requirements. Agents from other states must apply through endorsement.
- Get Your Paperwork Ready: You’ll need an active license, a Certification of License History, and a background check. Start early to avoid delays.
- Understand Exam Requirements: North Carolina agents must pass the state-specific portion of the South Carolina real estate exam. Georgia agents are exempt from exams and coursework.
- Plan for Continuing Education: Post-licensing and continuing education may be required based on your situation.
What Is South Carolina Real Estate License Reciprocity?
Real estate license reciprocity allows agents to skip some or all of another state’s pre-licensing education and exams, leveraging their existing license and experience. This opens doors to new markets, increases earning potential, and saves time and money.
Eligibility for South Carolina Reciprocity
To qualify, you must have an active real estate license in good standing. A Certification of Licensure from any state where you’ve held a license in the past five years is required.
Applying with a Georgia license
Georgia agents enjoy full reciprocity. No additional education or exams are needed.
Applying with a North Carolina license
Provisional Brokers: Must provide proof of 90 post-licensing hours from NC or the 90 pre-licensing hours from SC and pass the state-specific exam.
Brokers: Only the South Carolina state portion of the exam is required.
Application Process
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application:
- Gather Documents: Request a Certification of Licensure from your current state. It must be dated within six months of your application.
- Complete a Background Check: Schedule fingerprinting through the approved vendor.
- Submit the Application: Fill out the South Carolina Reciprocal Licensing Application and pay the $25 application fee.
- Take the Exam (If Required): North Carolina agents must pass the state exam portion.
- Pay the Licensing Fee: Once approved, pay the initial licensure fee: $25 for Georgia and North Carolina reciprocity applicants, or $50 for all other applicants.
Tips for Success
Start Early: Background checks can take weeks. Begin them alongside gathering other documents.
Check Name Consistency: Ensure your legal name matches across all documents to prevent delays.
Stay on Top of CE Requirements: Plan ahead to meet continuing education requirements and keep your license active.
Reciprocity vs. Endorsement
South Carolina has formal reciprocity only with Georgia and North Carolina. Agents from other states must apply through endorsement. If you hold an active license in another jurisdiction (or your license has been expired for less than six months), you will only be required to take the state exam portion. However, you must still meet all pre-licensing education requirements unless you qualify for an exemption such as holding a law degree or a bachelor’s degree or higher with a major in real estate.
Out-of-state agents without a South Carolina license can only conduct business by partnering with an in-state licensee. Obtaining a license removes this limitation, allowing you to work independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I transfer my out-of-state license to South Carolina?
Georgia agents can apply directly without exams. North Carolina agents must pass the state-specific exam (and may need to complete some courses). Agents from other states must follow the endorsement process, which typically requires only the state exam if your license is active or expired less than six months, though education requirements still apply.
Is there an exam waiver?
Yes, but only for agents from Georgia. North Carolina agents and agents from other states must take the state exam portion.
Contacting the South Carolina Real Estate Commission
For specific questions, reach out to the commission:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (803) 896-4400
Website: llr.sc.gov/re/
Expand Your Career with Superior School of Real Estate
Getting your South Carolina real estate license through reciprocity can open doors to new clients and opportunities. Georgia agents can complete the process quickly without exams, while North Carolina agents have a shorter path to licensure with only the state exam required.
Need help? Superior School of Real Estate offers South Carolina-specific courses, including exam prep. Enroll today to take the next step in your career!
