Starting a career in real estate can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating licensing requirements and educational prerequisites.
But trust us. You won’t regret getting your real estate license in South Carolina.
South Carolina’s growing real estate market offers excellent opportunities for new agents, but the path to getting licensed requires careful planning and preparation. The good news is that with the right guidance and dedication, you can successfully obtain your South Carolina real estate license and launch your career in this rewarding field in just a few months.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the licensing process, from completing your pre-licensing education to finding a sponsoring broker and activating your license.
Key Takeaways
- Educational Requirements: Complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education through approved providers, including Unit I (60 hours) and Unit II (30 hours).
- Examination Process: Pass both the national and South Carolina state portions of the real estate licensing exam after meeting educational requirements.
- Background Check Requirements: Submit fingerprints and undergo criminal background screening.
- Sponsoring Broker Necessity: Secure a sponsoring broker before your license can be activated for practice in South Carolina.
- Timeline Expectations: Allow 3-8 weeks for the complete licensing process, including education, testing, and background check processing.
Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements
Before you can sit for the South Carolina real estate exam, you must complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education. This requirement consists of two distinct courses that provide foundational knowledge for your real estate career.
The educational requirements break down into two units. Unit I requires 60 hours of coursework covering fundamental real estate principles, while Unit II adds another 30 hours focusing on South Carolina-specific laws and practices. Together, these courses prepare you for both the national and state portions of your licensing exam.
Choosing approved courses and providers
South Carolina maintains strict standards for pre-licensing education providers. Only courses approved by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission count toward your licensing requirements.
Note: Superior School of Real Estate will be launching its approved South Carolina pre-licensing courses in Fall 2025, giving aspiring agents a new, trusted educational option.
Popular approved providers offer various learning formats to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Online courses provide flexibility for working professionals, while in-person classes offer direct interaction with instructors and fellow students. Some providers also offer livestream options that combine the convenience of online learning with real-time instruction.
Tips for choosing a pre-licensing course
- Consider Your Schedule: Pick a course that fits your personal commitments and availability.
- Online Courses: Great for flexible learning. Perfect if you have irregular work hours or family responsibilities.
- In-Person Classes: Offer a structured, engaging environment with set schedules. Ideal for those who prefer traditional classroom settings.
- Watch for New Options: Superior School of Real Estate will be opening enrollment for both online and in-person South Carolina pre-licensing classes soon.
Remember that your education doesn’t end with licensing. The most successful agents commit to ongoing learning, professional development, and building strong relationships within their communities.
Step 2: Prepare for the Licensing Exams
The South Carolina real estate licensing exam consists of two portions: a national section covering general real estate principles and a state-specific section focusing on South Carolina laws and regulations. You must pass both portions to receive your license.
Recommended study resources and exam preparation
PSI Services administers the South Carolina real estate exam and provides candidate bulletins outlining exam topics and structure. These bulletins serve as valuable study guides, helping you understand what subjects to focus on during your preparation.
Your real estate school may include exam prep materials in its pre-licensing packages. Study South Carolina’s real estate laws, regulations, and related acts that appear on the state portion of the exam. Key documents include the SC License Law, SC Regulations, Residential Property Disclosure Act, Landlord Tenant Act, Time Sharing Plans Act, and Land Sales Practice Act.
Overcoming exam nerves and test-taking strategies
Create a structured study schedule that allows adequate time for both reviewing course materials and taking practice tests. Regular practice helps identify knowledge gaps and builds confidence in your test-taking abilities.
On exam day, arrive early and bring the required identification documents. Read each question carefully and eliminate obviously incorrect answers before selecting your response. If you’re unsure about a question, mark it for review and return to it after completing the rest of the exam.
Remember that you can retake the exam if you don’t pass on your first attempt. Contact the testing center to reschedule and use your initial experience to guide your additional study efforts.
Step 3: Get Fingerprinted and Complete a Background Check
South Carolina requires all real estate license applicants to undergo criminal background checks. This process involves both fingerprint-based FBI checks and Social Security number-based background screening.
The background check process typically takes three or more weeks to complete. Plan accordingly by initiating this step early in your application process, but only after submitting your initial application to the Real Estate Commission.
Understanding the fingerprinting process
Do not submit fingerprints or background check materials before submitting your licensing application. The Commission processes applications and documentation in a specific order and submitting materials out of sequence can delay your application.
The Commission cannot accept third-party background checks from other agencies or organizations. Even if you’ve completed fingerprinting for other professional licenses or permits, you must complete a separate background check specifically for your real estate license application.
If your background check reveals any criminal convictions, the Commission may request additional documentation or court dispositions. This can extend your processing timeline, so be prepared to provide complete and accurate information about any legal issues in your history.
Expunged charges typically don’t need to be reported, but if they appear on your background check, you may need to provide expungement documentation to the Commission. Pardoned convictions must still be reported and may require supporting pardon paperwork.
Step 4: Submit Your Application and Documentation
Once you’ve completed your education and background check requirements, you can submit your licensing application to the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. This step requires careful attention to detail and complete documentation.
Complete the primary application form thoroughly and accurately, as errors or omissions can delay processing. You’ll also need to submit your Exam Application and obtain an Examination Eligibility Letter before scheduling your licensing exam.
Securing a sponsoring broker
Before your license can be activated, you must have a sponsoring broker. If you don’t have a sponsoring broker when your license is issued, it will be placed on inactive status. Inactive licenses cannot be used to practice real estate, so securing your broker relationship is crucial for beginning your career.
Start researching potential sponsoring brokers early in your licensing process. Consider factors like company culture, commission structure, training programs, and growth opportunities when evaluating potential employers. Many successful agents interview with multiple brokerages before making their final decision.
Application submission requirements
Submit your completed application and supporting documentation to:
South Carolina Real Estate Commission
110 Centerview Drive
Columbia, SC 29210
Include copies of required documents such as your high school diploma or GED, Social Security card, and educational certificates.
The Commission processes applications in the order received and communicates primarily through email. Monitor your email regularly for correspondence from [email protected], and check your junk mail folder to ensure you don’t miss important communications.
Step 5: Obtain Your License and Start Practicing
After successfully completing all requirements and passing your exams, the Commission will issue your South Carolina real estate license. The testing center submits exam scores directly to the Commission office, typically within 48 hours of your test completion.
Once your license is issued, you can verify its status using the South Carolina Real Estate Agent License Lookup Tool. This verification system allows you to confirm your license number and status, which you’ll need when working with clients and other real estate professionals.
Transitioning into practice
Your license activation depends on having an active sponsoring broker relationship. Once you’ve secured a position with a licensed Broker-in-Charge or Property Manager-in-Charge, you can begin practicing real estate in South Carolina.
Consider joining local real estate associations and networking groups to build professional relationships and stay current on industry trends. Many successful agents also pursue additional certifications and designations to enhance their expertise and marketability.
Develop systems for managing client relationships, maintaining transaction records, and staying compliant with South Carolina real estate regulations. Your sponsoring broker can provide guidance on best practices and help you navigate your first transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Real Estate License in South Carolina
How long does the entire licensing process take?
The complete process typically takes 6-8 weeks, depending on how quickly you complete your education, schedule your exam, and process your background check. The background check alone can take three or more weeks to complete.
Can I take pre-licensing courses from other states?
No, you must complete pre-licensing courses approved by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. While some providers offer online courses that serve multiple states, ensure your chosen course is specifically approved for South Carolina.
What happens if I fail the licensing exam?
You can retake the exam by contacting the testing center to reschedule. There’s no limit on how many times you can retake the exam, but you may need to complete additional education if your course certificate expires.
Do I need a college degree to become a real estate agent?
South Carolina doesn’t require a college degree for real estate licensing. However, applicants with law degrees or real estate degrees from accredited institutions may be exempt from pre-licensing education requirements.
How much does it cost to get licensed?
Total costs vary but typically include education fees ($400-800), exam fees, background check costs, and application fees. Factor in additional expenses for study materials and potential exam retakes when budgeting for your license.
Can military spouses get expedited licensing?
Yes, South Carolina offers expedited licensing for military spouses. Complete the Military Spouse Expedited Licensure Request Form for specific information about this process.
Take Your First Step Toward Your Real Estate Career
Becoming a real estate agent in South Carolina requires dedication and careful planning, but the process is entirely achievable when you follow the proper steps. From completing your 90-hour education requirement to finding the right sponsoring broker, each milestone brings you closer to launching your new career.
Exciting News! Superior School of Real Estate, a leader in real estate education, will soon be offering South Carolina pre-licensing courses. This means you’ll soon have access to the high-quality instruction our students in North Carolina have come to trust.
Why Choose Superior School of Real Estate for Your South Carolina Pre-Licensing Courses?
- Expert-Led Instruction: Learn from experienced, highly qualified instructors who are invested in your success and provide practical insights into the real estate industry.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Our pre-licensing courses are designed to cover all the essential topics you need to pass your licensure exam and excel in your real estate career.
- Flexible Learning Options: Whether you prefer in-person classroom settings or online courses, we have the courses you need and want.
- Proven Track Record: Superior School of Real Estate has helped thousands of students achieve their goals and build successful careers in real estate.
- Student Support: From enrollment to exam preparation, we ensure you have the tools, resources, and support needed to earn your real estate license in South Carolina.
Stay tuned for updates on Superior School of Real Estate’s official launch in South Carolina in Fall 2025!
