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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in South Carolina

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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in South Carolina

How to Obtain Your South Carolina Nursing License by Examination

Step 1: Educational Requirements

To be eligible for RN licensure in South Carolina, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program. Acceptable programs include:

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
  • Accelerated BSN programs for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree

Out-of-state graduates must ensure their transcripts meet South Carolina's educational standards.

Step 2: Application Process

Begin by registering for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) through Pearson VUE, with a $200 fee.

Submit the following to the South Carolina Board of Nursing:

  • Completed online application
  • Proof of legal name (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
  • Social Security card or Resident Alien registration
  • Notarized signature affidavit with a passport-sized photo
  • Verification of lawful presenceStability Healthcare

Graduates from South Carolina programs must have their Certificate of Endorsement sent directly from their school. Out-of-state graduates should have official transcripts mailed or emailed directly from their institution to the Board.Vivian Health

Step 3: Criminal Background Check

After submitting your application, the Board will provide instructions for completing a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

Step 4: Temporary Graduate License

Eligible applicants may apply for a temporary graduate license, allowing supervised practice while awaiting NCLEX results. Requirements include:

  • Completion of an accredited nursing program
  • Submission of a complete application and fee
  • Registration for the NCLEX
  • No prior NCLEX failures
  • No felony convictions or pending charges

This temporary license is valid until the permanent license is issued, the application is denied, or the NCLEX is failed.

Step 5: Taking the NCLEX

The NCLEX-RN assesses your readiness to practice safely and effectively. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you may retake the exam every 45 days, up to one year from your initial attempt.

Obtaining Your South Carolina Nursing License by Endorsement

If you're licensed in another state and moving to South Carolina, you can apply for licensure by endorsement. Steps include:

  • Submit an online application with the required fee
  • Provide verification of your current license through NURSYS or directly from your state board
  • Complete a criminal background check as instructed by the Board
  • Demonstrate continued competency through one of the following:
    • 30 contact hours from a Board-recognized continuing education provider
    • Certification or recertification by a national certifying body recognized by the Board
    • Completion of an academic program in nursing or a related field recognized by the Board
    • Employer certification verifying competency and hours practicedSCDLLRrnmobility.comNursePractitionerLicense.com

You may also apply for a 60-day temporary license while your application is processed, provided you have an active license from another state.

Renewing Your South Carolina Nursing License

Renewal Timeline

All South Carolina nursing licenses expire on April 30 of even-numbered years. The renewal period opens on February 1 of the renewal year. Nursing CE Central

Continuing Competency Requirements

To renew your license, you must meet one of the following within the two years preceding renewal:

  • Complete 30 contact hours from a Board-recognized continuing education provider
  • Maintain certification or recertification by a national certifying body recognized by the Board
  • Complete an academic program in nursing or a related field recognized by the Board
  • Obtain employer certification verifying competency and hours practiced
  • Documentation should be retained for at least four years in case of audit but does not need to be submitted unless requested.

Renewal Fees

  • RN/LPN Renewal: $75
  • APRN Renewal without Prescriptive Authority: $105
  • APRN Renewal with Prescriptive Authority: $145

Late renewals may incur additional fees.

Contacting the South Carolina Board of Nursing

Additional Resources

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