Path for Out-of-State Certified Nursing Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for certified nursing assistant licensing in South Carolina. Plan on endorsement through South Carolina LLR.
CNAs certified in another state can often apply via endorsement (reciprocity) by providing registry verification from their home state.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in South Carolina.
- Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside South Carolina can add 2-4 weeks.
- License verification: South Carolina requires verification of your current out-of-state license before your file is complete.
- Compact status: No active compact route here. Plan on endorsement.
- Temporary license: The board lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
South Carolina Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in South Carolina.
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Step 1
Start the South Carolina application
Apply through the South Carolina LLR.
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Step 2
Send verification of your current license
South Carolina requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.
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Step 3
Send Proof of Training
Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
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Step 4
Send State Competency Exam Results
Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
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Step 5
Complete fingerprinting or background check
South Carolina requires fingerprinting or background screening on this path. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail.
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Step 6
Wait for board processing
Plan on about 2 to 4 Weeks for processing. South Carolina also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
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Step 7
Complete Training Program
Complete a state-approved CNA training program (typically 75-120 hours).
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $0
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- N/A
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $0
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $0
Temporary License
South Carolina offers a temporary or provisional license so you can start working while your full endorsement application is processing.
- Fee
- See board
- Duration
- See board
- Processing time
- See board
Required Documents
- Proof of Training: Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
- State Competency Exam Results: Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
Board Contact
- Board
- South Carolina LLR
- Department
- State Health Department
- Phone
- (803) 896-4550
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is N/A. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
South Carolina Certified Nursing Assistant Licensing FAQ
How much does South Carolina CNA endorsement cost?
There is no application fee for CNA endorsement in South Carolina. However, background check fees may apply.
Is a background check required?
Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in South Carolina.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to South Carolina?
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.
Can I start working in South Carolina while waiting?
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.