RN Warehouse

South Carolina nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

South Carolina is a compact state (since January 2018). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in South Carolina in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in South Carolina, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 2 years
RN CE hours per cycleNone set
RN endorsement fee$100
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
When it expires
April 30 of even-numbered years (window Feb 1 - Apr 30); next expiration Apr 30, 2028
Renewal fee
$75
Continuing education
No set number of CE hours. The state may require other proof of competence (such as practice hours or a certification) or specific courses; check the board's renewal page.
Required CE topics
None found on the board's pages.
Endorsement fee
$100
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Available. Temporary license $10 extra ($110 total with application), up to 60 days unless extended (SC Code 40-33-36)
How to apply
Apply via LLR eServices; proof of legal name; Nursys verification; continued competency in past 2 years; fingerprint background check after board sends instructions. Multistate needs residency declaration and proof.

Moving or traveling

Moving to South Carolina from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

South Carolina Board of Nursing (SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation)

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Renewal · Endorsement · CE rules
This page summarizes South Carolina's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email [email protected].

Sources