Becoming a real estate agent in South Carolina is an exciting career move. But before you start showing properties and closing deals, you need to get your license. This process involves education, exams, and background checks. If you’re wondering how long it all takes, this guide will walk you through each step of the timeline.
This post will break down the entire process of getting your South Carolina real estate license, from the initial coursework to finding a sponsoring broker. You’ll get a clear picture of the requirements, potential delays, and what you can do to move through the process as efficiently as possible. By the end, you’ll understand exactly what it takes to launch your new career.
Key Takeaways
- Complete Required Coursework: Start by finishing the 90 hours of pre-licensing education required by South Carolina law.
- Pass the State Exam: You must pass the South Carolina real estate salesperson exam to move forward in the licensing process.
- Submit Background Checks: Completing fingerprinting and background checks is essential to obtaining your license approval.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, you need to align with a licensed real estate brokerage firm.
- Plan for Potential Delays: Understanding the timeline and preparing for possible delays can help you stay on track and launch your career efficiently.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Real Estate License in South Carolina?
The time it takes to get a real estate license in South Carolina largely depends on how quickly you can complete your pre-licensing coursework and prepare for the exam. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
What’s the fastest way to get your South Carolina real estate license?
To expedite the process, you can take online pre-licensing courses, which often allow you to work at your own pace and finish the required 90 hours faster than traditional in-person classes. (The entire course is 90 hours, but you only need to complete the first 60 hours before taking the exam. The remaining 30 hours must be completed before you can get your license.)
Additionally, scheduling your state exam as early as possible and preparing thoroughly can reduce delays. Ensuring you have all the necessary documents ready for your license application will help you avoid setbacks. Finally, researching and connecting with potential sponsoring brokers in advance will streamline the final step once you’ve passed the exam.
With focus and organization, getting your real estate license in South Carolina can be a quicker and more efficient process.
Pre-Licensing Education Requirements
The first major step is to complete your pre-licensing education. South Carolina requires a total of 90 hours of coursework from an approved real estate school. This is divided into two parts.
Pro Tip: To complete your pre-licensing courses quickly, consider taking them online at your own pace.
The 90-hour breakdown
- Unit I Sales Course (60 hours): This foundational course covers the core principles of real estate. You’ll learn about property ownership, financing, contracts, and agency relationships. It gives you the essential knowledge needed to operate legally and ethically in the industry. This must be completed before you sit for the South Carolina real estate exam.
- Unit II Advanced Real Estate Principles (30 hours): This second course builds on what you learned in Unit I. It dives into more advanced topics like real estate ethics, fair housing laws, and practical applications you’ll face as an agent. This must be completed before you receive your license.
You must complete these courses at a school approved by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission (SCREC). Once you finish, your completion certificates are valid for five years.
Study options and time management
You have a few options for completing your coursework, each with its own timeline.
- In-person classes offer a traditional classroom setting with direct access to instructors.
- Live virtual classes provide a similar structured experience but from the comfort of your home.
- Self-paced online courses offer the most flexibility, allowing you to study whenever it fits your schedule. This is often the fastest route for motivated individuals.
To be eligible for a license, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Application and Background Check Timeline
After completing your education, the next step is to submit your license application and undergo a background check.
Application steps
To apply for your license, you’ll need to submit a completed application form along with several other documents. This includes a non-refundable $25 application fee, a copy of your signed social security card, proof of your high school diploma or equivalent, and a copy of a valid government-issued ID (like a driver’s license or passport). You’ll also need to provide your course completion certificates for the required real estate education.
The entire application package must be submitted within one year, or you’ll have to start the process over, including paying a new fee. You can apply online, which is generally the faster method.
The background check
A background check is required for all applicants in South Carolina and must be completed following instructions provided by the SCREC. Once your application is received, the Commission will email you with details on how to complete the two required background checks: a fingerprint-based check and a Social Security number check.
Do not start the background check process until you have received these instructions. Applications cannot be approved until both reports have been submitted and reviewed by the Commission.
Exam Preparation and Scheduling
With your education and application underway, your focus shifts to the South Carolina Real Estate Exam.
Effective study strategies
You must spend time outside of your regular coursework to study for the South Carolina real estate exam. Focus on both the national and state-specific sections of the test, as you need to pass both. Many students find crammer sessions or study groups helpful for reinforcing key concepts.
Scheduling your exam
Once your completed application has been received and approved by the state, you’ll be authorized to take the exam. The South Carolina Real Estate Exam is administered by PSI Testing Service, and you will receive a notification from PSI when you are eligible to register for the exam.
You are responsible for registering and scheduling your exam directly with PSI and paying the registration fee at that time. Exam-eligible applicants are encouraged to review the PSI Real Estate Candidate Information Bulletin to prepare effectively.
To pass, you must score at least 70% on both the national and state-specific portions. Remember to bring valid identification to the testing center. Once you complete the test, PSI will send your score report directly to the Commission office. You do not need to send it yourself.
Choosing a Sponsoring Broker
In South Carolina, you can’t practice real estate without activating your license under a sponsoring Broker-in-Charge (BIC). The BIC provides supervision and mentorship and assumes legal responsibility for your actions as an agent. Choosing the right brokerage is a key decision that will shape the beginning of your career. Look for a broker with a strong reputation, comprehensive training programs, and a culture that aligns with your professional goals.
You can start interviewing potential brokers while completing your coursework, so you’re ready to activate your license as soon as it’s issued. During interviews, ask about mentorship opportunities, lead generation, and commission splits to ensure the brokerage meets your needs.
Keep in mind that before your license can be issued, you’ll need to complete the following steps after passing your exam:
- Submit a $50 Initial Licensure Fee (or $25 for GA and NC reciprocity applicants).
- Provide a completed Supervision Attestation Form.
- Submit a certificate of completion for the Unit II Advanced Real Estate Principles Course, if applicable and not already provided.
Having your sponsoring broker and documentation ready will streamline the process and help you start your career without delays.
Getting Licensed: Final Steps
Once you pass the exam and secure a sponsoring broker, you’re in the home stretch.
The SCREC typically processes final applications within 3-5 business days after receiving all required documents. You may initially be issued a temporary license, which allows you to start practicing while you wait for your permanent license to arrive in the mail.
Comparative Analysis: South Carolina vs. Other States
How does South Carolina stack up against its neighbors? The 90-hour education requirement is similar to states like North Carolina. One key advantage is that South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with Georgia and North Carolina. This means if you already have a license in one of those states, the process to get licensed in South Carolina is much simpler. You’ll still need to pass the South Carolina portion of the state exam and complete the background check.
FAQs and Additional Considerations
Here are a few other things to keep in mind:
How much does it cost to get licensed?
The total cost can vary. Expect to spend between $550 to $800 on education, plus fees for the exam, application, and background check.
What if I’m from a state without reciprocity?
South Carolina has reciprocity with Georgia and North Carolina. Out-of-state applicants from non-reciprocal states must complete all pre-licensing education requirements and pass both the national and state portions of the exam.
How do I renew my license?
You must renew your license every two years. This involves completing 10 hours of continuing education, including a mandatory 4-hour core course on current laws and regulations.
Launch Your Real Estate Career
Getting your South Carolina real estate license can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your pace and how efficiently you navigate the steps. By understanding the process, you can set a realistic timeline and get your new career off to a strong start.
Ready to take the first step? Superior School of Real Estate now offers flexible, self-paced online courses in South Carolina. Our expert-driven instruction and unmatched exam prep resources are designed to help you succeed. With guidance from expert instructors, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge to not just pass the exam, but thrive in the industry.
