Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SC
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Carolina
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Carolina, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which typically takes 12 to 18 months. After graduation, applicants must pass the NCLEX-PN examination and submit an application with a $70 fee to the South Carolina Board of Nursing. South Carolina is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), enabling LPNs with a multi-state license from another compact state to practice there. A criminal background check is also a mandatory requirement for licensure.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in South Carolina
| Detail | South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | South Carolina Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $70 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | A criminal background check is required. Competency for renewal can be met through various options, including 30 contact hours of continuing education, national certification/re-certification, completion of an academic nursing program, or employer verification of competency. South Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). |
Source: South Carolina Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in South Carolina
The median licensed practical nurse salary in South Carolina is $59,050 per year, which is 5.3% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $48,140 |
| 25th | $52,180 |
| 50th (median) | $59,050 |
| 75th | $62,760 |
| 90th (experienced) | $69,910 |
South Carolina employs approximately 8,740 licensed practical nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook
AI Impact on Licensed Practical Nurses
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.51/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in South Carolina Worth It?
Factors to consider: South Carolina's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.