South Carolina Registered Nurse: CE & renewal requirements

No fixed CE-hour count — South Carolina uses a four-pathway competency model (30 CE hours is one option).

Biennial (licenses expire April 30 of even years). Meet one of four competency pathways each cycle.

Source: South Carolina Board of Nursing (LLR) · confirmed 2026-06. Requirements change — always verify with the board.

First renewal & exemptions

Four pathways: 30 CE contact hours; OR national certification/recertification; OR an academic nursing program; OR board-approved employer competency verification. New nurses are exempt for their first renewal.

If your license lapses

Non-compliance means non-renewal or denial; failing to produce documentation within 5 business days of an audit can suspend or cancel the license.

How CE is tracked

Attest at renewal; South Carolina tracks CE via CE Broker. Keep evidence at least 4 years.

Watch out: SC is NOT a flat '30 hours' state — that's one of four pathways. Hold a recognized national certification (or qualify via employer competency) and you need zero CE hours.

Are you on track? Check free

South Carolina doesn't use a single CE-hour number here, so enter the hour-based requirement that applies to your situation (or just track your renewal date). No signup.

Informational only, based on the numbers you enter — not legal or licensing advice, and not an official record. Confirm your exact requirement and current status with the South Carolina Board of Nursing (LLR).