How to get general contractor license in south carolina

To become a general contractor in South Carolina, you will need to take and pass a business and law exam, as well as a trade exam. For those applying under a company, you may need to obtain a business license either at the local level or under the Secretary of State. Currently, there is not a formal education requirement to be considered for general contracting in the State of South Carolina. However, you must be at least over 18 and obtain your high school degree or equivalent to be considered.

For instance, if you can shadow a general contractor, take advantage of the opportunity. Since construction managers have to confront countless obstacles on a job site, you will want to be prepared before diving into the application process.

In South Carolina, all aspiring general contractors must apply for any or a combination of the following licenses:. Please note that electrical and plumbing contractors in the State will have a separate licensing and application process. Before you apply as a general contractor in South Carolina, here are some important requirements to note:. The most crucial part of the South Carolina general contractor licensing process will be the exam. You will be required to take and pass a business and law exam, as well as a technical exam, if applicable.

Besides the necessary exams, you will be required to provide documents alongside your license application. Depending on the type of license you need, licensing and application fees will vary. The cost also depends on the required technical exams per license, as well as the possibility of late renewal. Here is a breakdown of licensing and application fees per license type:. Send payment via money order or certified check and mail to:. Short answer: It depends on your project value and the nature of your contracting business.

To work legally in South Carolina, general, mechanical, specialty and manufactured housing contractors should hold a license. Residential specialty contractors can perform contracting works without a license if they will register with the SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations. Handymen are allowed to work in the following mentioned and related jobs:. Generally speaking, residential contractors complete less paperwork and pass the licensing examination easily due to the fact of fewer questions.

Search and verify licenses. Both Contractor license applications must come with documentation of experience and financial information. Residential Contractor licenses renew on July 1 of each even-numbered year. The licensing fee is due after passing the exam. This is for the same classification. There are many ways to prepare for the South Carolina general contractor exam.