How much does a Registered Nurse (RN) license cost in South Carolina?

The estimated total cost is $375, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse (RN) license in South Carolina?

The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Registered Nurse (RN) license in South Carolina?

You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). N/A

Registered Nurse (RN) License in South Carolina

To become a registered nurse in South Carolina, you must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN. South Carolina is an NLC compact state with temporary licenses available for military spouses. Estimated costs are approximately $375. Contact the SC Board of Nursing for current fee details.

Exam: NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
Total Cost: $375 (est.)
Timeline: 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
Renewal: Every 2 years

Requirements

Registered Nurse (RN) registration in South Carolina

gold

Veterans Benefits

A temporary license is available to military and spouses until formal license approval

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $75
Exam Fee: $200
Renewal Fee: $75
Total Estimated Cost: $375

Licensing Agency

SC Board of Nursing

Website 8038964550 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse (RN) license in South Carolina. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$75

Exam Fee

$200

Renewal Fee

$75

Total Estimated Cost

$375

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($75)

Application FeeEst.$75

Exam FeeEst.$200

Total Estimated Cost$275

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the South Carolina licensing board.

Registered Nurse (RN) Salary in South Carolina

Entry Level

$64,200

Median

$79,900

Experienced

$102,040

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in South Carolina.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$75.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).

Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing in South Carolina: What to Know

South Carolina's COS listing provides minimal detail, directing applicants to contact the licensing agency. Temporary licenses are available for military spouses while awaiting formal approval. South Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The SC Board of Nursing oversees licensure. Charleston's Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Prisma Health in Greenville and Columbia, and McLeod Health in Florence are major employers. South Carolina's growing retirement population drives demand for geriatric nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Registered Nurse (RN) license cost in South Carolina?: The estimated total cost is $375, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse (RN) license in South Carolina?: The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Registered Nurse (RN) license in South Carolina?: You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). N/A