In order to conduct business in South Carolina, businesses may need to first obtain specific licenses and permits. A business privilege license is required in many jurisdictions. Businesses may also have to register with the South Carolina Secretary of State's office and the South Carolina Department of Revenue.

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  • South Carolina overview
  • Business licenses by industry
  • Business licenses by county

In South Carolina, each county and municipality administers its own business licenses, permits, and registrations. Businesses may need to obtain a local business license in the municipality (city, town) or county where the business is physically located and where business is being conducted. In addition, there may be professional and other licensing requirements from the South Carolina Department of License, Labor, and Regulation and other state boards and agencies.

To learn more about the specific registration and licensing requirements in South Carolina, click on the South Carolina industry or county tabs for more information or to order the proper forms.

For more information, please contact CT Corporation for a consultation with a business licensing specialist.

 

Related solutions
  • How do I obtain a Reinsurance Brokerage License?

    In order to obtain a Reinsurance Brokerage (or Reinsurance Intermediary Broker) license an applicant must generally: (1) Complete a NAIC Uniform Individual Application to be registered with the National Insurance Producer Registry; and (2) Pay both the state license application and state license fee. For non-resident applicants, a certification from their home state is often required as well. However, different states have requirements that vary depending upon their respective jurisdiction.

    Some states have simplistic requirements. In Massachusetts an applicant must: (1) Complete an application form; and (2) Write a check made payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Division of Insurance, in the amount of $200.00. For non-resident applicants, a Certificate of Good Standing from your home state indicating you are licensed in good standing as a reinsurance broker is required as well. In Florida, an applicant must: (1) Complete an application for the license and submit appropriate fees. In addition, the applicant must be fingerprinted. Each person applying for the first time in Florida and qualifying for a license as a reinsurance broker shall attach a full detailed credit and character report for the 5-year period immediately prior to the date of application.

    Some states have stringent requirements. In Georgia, applicants need to file a Certification Application for Certified Reinsurer. The applicant must be domiciled and licensed to transact insurance or reinsurance in what is called a "Qualified Jurisdiction." A qualified jurisdiction is a jurisdiction that is 1) an accredited jurisdiction in accordance with the NAIC financial and standards accreditation program; 2) qualified by the Commissioner as a qualified jurisdiction in accordance with the standards set forth in Ga. Reg. § 120-2-78-.08(3)(b); or 3) is a jurisdiction that is designated as a qualified jurisdiction by the Reinsurance Task Force, or working group thereof, and published through the NAIC Committee Process. The application fee is $600 for the initial application, and $700 for an annual renewal. There is a litany of additional requirements for licensure as well.

    We will help you obtain all the licenses your reinsurance company needs. Our license experts will compile all applications for you and provided detailed instructions on how to apply and the fees associated with each application. CT Corporation can complete all applications for you and streamline the process. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • What is a business license?
    A business license is an approval or permit issued by a government agency that authorizes a business to operate within a specific jurisdiction. This license is often an additional requirement beyond the registration of a business at the state level. Whether a business is required to have a specific license depends on such factors as the nature of the business, types of products sold, and location.
  • How often do business licenses renew?
    Businesses are often reliant upon their own compliance tracking to stay on top of renewals. While the licensing jurisdiction may send a renewal notice, entities should not rely on this reminder method. CT Corporation has developed a Client License Information Center, CLiC, to help manage the renewal process and avoid delinquent charges and fines.
  • How long are business licenses valid?
    The term of a license is entirely dependent on the type of license. Some licenses are good for the life of the business while others must be renewed annually or every two years. However, laws can change frequently so businesses must stay abreast of changes that affect the term of their license.
  • What is a sales tax ID?
    Although Sales and Use Tax registrations would seem to be the most basic of business license filings, the requirements can vary from state to state, county to county and sometimes even by municipality. These applications can be confusing and time consuming. Contact CT Corporation for assistance.
  • What is an EIN?
    An EIN is a unique nine digit number assigned by the IRS is used to identify business entities and is also known by other names such as 'Federal Tax Identification Number' and 'Tax Identification Number (TIN)'.
  • Appraisal Management Company

    License Type:Appraisal Services Business License

    License Issued By:
    SC Real Estate Appraisers Board

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $1000 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $1,000 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Architectural Firm

    License Type:
    Architectural Firm License

    License Issued By:
    SC Board of Architectural Examiners

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $100 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Charitable Solicitation Registration

    License Type:
    Charitable Solicitation Registration

    License Issued By:
    SC Secretary of State's Public Charities Section

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $0 to $51.85 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals/Reports

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a fee up to $51.85*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals/reports.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon gross revenue.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Department of State.
  • Collection Agency

    The State of South Carolina does not require a Collection Agency License. However, if your business is providing debt collection services in South Carolina, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Commercial Painter

    License Type:
    Commercial Painter License

    License Issued By:
    Contractors' Licensing Board

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Compounding Pharmacy

    License Type:
    Compounding Pharmacy License

    License Issued By:
    SC Board of Pharmacy

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $200 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $200 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Cosmetology

    License Type:
    Cosmetology License

    License Issued By:
    SC Board of Cosmetology

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $100 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Debt Management

    License Type:
    Debt Management License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Consumer Affairs

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $50 plus $100 per location and $40 per counselor *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, fees totaling $190 or more*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Durable Medical Equipment

    License Type:
    Durable Medical Equipment License

    License Issued By:
    SC Board of Pharmacy

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $200 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $200 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Electrical Contractor

    License Type:
    Electrical Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $260 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $260 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon License classification.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Employment Agency

    License Type:
    Employment Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Office of the SC Secretary of State

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $300 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $300 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Energy Broker

    The State of South Carolina does not require an Energy Broker License. However, if your business is providing energy brokering services in South Carolina, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Engineering Firm

    License Type:
    Engineering Firm License

    License Issued By:
    Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Surveyors

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $115 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $115 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Department of State and/or obtaining South Carolina Professional Engineer Licenses for certain individuals in your firm.
  • Fertilizer

    License Type:
    Fertilizer License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Plant Industry

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Fertilizer Product Registration

    License Type:
    Fertilizer Product Registration

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Plant Industry

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $60 to $400 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $60 to $400 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Franchise Registration

    License Type:
    Franchise Registration

    License Issued By:
    Business Opportunities Division of the SC Secretary of State's Office

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $100 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • General Contractor

    License Type:
    General Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent on your desired monetary limit.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State and/or passing an examination.
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  • Home Health Agency

    License Type:
    Home Health Agency License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Health and Environmental Control

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $100 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Home Improvement Contractor

    License Type:
    Home Improvement Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    SC South Carolina Residential Builders Commission

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is dependent upon contract limit.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • HVAC Contractor

    License Type:
    HVAC License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Labor

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Insurance Agency

    License Type:
    Insurance Agency License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Insurance

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $40 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $40 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State and/or obtaining an individual agent/broker license.
  • Mail-Order Pharmacy

    License Type:
    Mail-Order Pharmacy License

    License Issued By:
    SC Board of Pharmacy

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $420 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $420 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated. An additional Control Substances Registration fee may apply.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State and/or getting your pharmacist-in-charge licensed.
  • Manufactured Home Dealer

    License Type:
    Manufactured Home Dealer License

    License Issued By:
    SC Manufactured Housing Board

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $100 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Manufactured Home Installer

    License Type:
    Manufactured Home Installer License

    License Issued By:
    SC Manufactured Housing Board

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $100 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Manufactured Home Manufacturer

    License Type:
    Manufactured Home Manufacturer License

    License Issued By:
    SC Manufactured Housing Board

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $300 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $300 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Money Transmitter

    License Type:
    Money Transmitter License

    License Issued By:
    SC Money Services Division

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $2250 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $2,250 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Mortgage Broker

    License Type:
    Mortgage Broker License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Consumer Affairs

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $750 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $750 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Mortgage Lender

    License Type:
    Mortgage Lender License

    License Issued By:
    Consumer Finance Division of the SC Board of Financial Institutions

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $1000 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $1,000 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Pawnbroker

    License Type:
    South Carolina Pawnbroker License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Consumer Affairs

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $275 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $275 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Payday Lender

    License Type:
    Payday Lender License

    License Issued By:
    Consumer Finance Division of the SC Board of Financial Institutions

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $1500 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $1,500 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Pesticide Product Registration

    License Type:
    Pesticide Product Registration

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Pesticide Regulation

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $175 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $175 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is per product registered.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Pet Shop

    The State of South Carolina does not require a Pet Shop License. However, if your business is operating a pet shop in South Carolina, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Pharmacy

    License Type:
    Pharmacy License

    License Issued By:
    SC Board of Pharmacy

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $280 *, an inspection

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $280 fee*, an inspection, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated. An additional Controlled Substance Registration fee may apply.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State and licensing your Pharmacist-in-Charge.
  • Plumbing Contractor

    License Type:
    South Carolina Plumbing Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Labor

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $175 to $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $175 to $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Private Investigation Agency

    License Type:
    Private Investigation Agency License

    License Issued By:
    SC Law Enforcement Division

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Private Security

    License Type:
    Private Security License

    License Issued By:
    SC Law Enforcement Division

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Professional Engineer

    License Type:
    Professional Engineer License

    License Issued By:
    Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Surveyors

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $65 or $75 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $65 or $75 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may including registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Residential Painter

    License Type:
    South Carolina Residential Painter License

    License Issued By:
    Residential Builders Commission of the SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $100 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Roofing Contractor

    License Type:
    Roofing Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    SC Licensing and Regulation Department

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Annual Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Sales Tax ID

    License Type:
    Sales Tax ID

    License Issued By:
    Department of Revenue

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $50 *

    Other Requirements:
    Tax Returns

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $50 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Secondhand Dealer

    The State of South Carolina does not require a Secondhand Dealer License. However, if your business is dealing in secondhand goods in South Carolina, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Solar Contractor

    License Type:
    South Carolina Solar Contractor License

    License Issued By:
    SC Contractors' Licensing Board

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $350 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $350 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Staff Leasing Agency

    License Type:
    Staff Leasing Agency License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Consumer Affairs

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $2000 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $2,000 fee*, and extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Talent Agency

    License Type:
    Talent Agency License

    License Issued By:
    Secretary of State

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $300 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $300 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Tattoo Parlor

    License Type:
    Tattoo Parlor License

    License Issued By:
    Division of Health Licensing of the SC Dept of Health & Environmental Control

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $525 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $525 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Telemarketing

    The State of South Carolina does not require a Telemarketing License. However, if your business is soliciting to consumers in South Carolina, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

  • Title Agency

    License Type:
    South Carolina Title Agency Business License

    License Issued By:
    SC Department of Insurance

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $40 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $40 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Tobacco Retail

    License Type:
    Tobacco Retail License

    License Issued By:
    Department of Revenue

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $5000 bond *

    Other Requirements:
    Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $5,000 bond*, extensive supporting documentation, and periodic renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State and/or obtaining a Sales Tax ID.
  • Tobacco Wholesale

    License Type:
    Tobacco Wholesale License

    License Issued By:
    Department of Revenue

    Other Requirements:
    Tax Returns

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Unemployment Tax ID

    License Type:
    Unemployment Tax ID

    License Issued By:
    Department of Employment and Workforce

    Other Requirements:
    Tax Returns

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Wholesale Drug Distributor

    License Type:
    Wholesale Drug Distributor License

    License Issued By:
    SC State Board of Pharmacy

    Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
    $280 to $700 *

    Other Requirements:
    Biennial Renewals

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, a $280 to $700 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    *This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  • Withholding Tax ID

    License Type:
    Withholding Tax ID

    License Issued By:
    Department of Revenue

    Other Requirements:
    Tax Returns

    Notes:
    To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of South Carolina requires an application, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
    Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.

    **Prerequisites may include registering with the South Carolina Secretary of State.

Business Licenses in South Carolina (SC) Counties

The following counties in South Carolina require a basic business license. Click on the county name below to learn more :
  • Beaufort

    Jurisdiction:

    Beaufort County, SC

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the Department of Finance

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Dorchester

    Jurisdiction:

    Dorchester County, SC

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the Business License Department

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Horry

    Jurisdiction:

    Horry County, SC

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the County Treasurer

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

  • Marion

    Jurisdiction:

    Marion County, SC

    License Type and Issuing Authority:

    Business License issued by the County Treasurer

    Other Requirements:

    Annual Renewals

Notes:

The county may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites prior to submission.

All other South Carolina Counties, not listed above, do not issue Basic Business Licenses. However, your business may be required to obtain a Basic Business License at the state or local level or comply with other licensing laws, based on your business activity and location.

Note: The above refers only to basic business licenses, which are required for any type of business operating within the county. For information regarding industry specific licenses issued in South Carolina, contact us today!

Let CT Corporation take care of the paperwork for you! We will prepare and file your application, and we will follow up with the State until you have received your South Carolina state license. As licensing experts, we will streamline the entire licensing process, making it as painless as possible.

For more information, please contact a CT Corporation licensing specialist.

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