Can I Use a GA Plumbing License in South Carolina?

If you’re a licensed plumber in Georgia looking to expand your work into South Carolina—or you’ve just relocated and hope your credentials still apply—you’re not alone. Many tradespeople ask: “Can I use a GA plumbing license in South Carolina?” The short answer? No—but there’s a clear path forward. In this guide, we’ll break down the licensing rules, reciprocity agreements (or lack thereof), and exactly what you need to do to legally work as a plumber in South Carolina.

Does South Carolina Accept Georgia Plumbing Licenses?

South Carolina does not automatically recognize plumbing licenses from Georgia. Unlike some professions with full reciprocity agreements, plumbing licensure is managed at the state level, and each state sets its own standards for education, experience, and exams.

According to the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR), all plumbing contractors must hold a South Carolina-specific license to perform plumbing work valued over $1,000 or involving permits. This includes installation, repair, or maintenance of plumbing systems.

“Even if you’ve held a valid plumbing license in Georgia for 10+ years, you must meet South Carolina’s licensing criteria before legally offering services there.”
— South Carolina LLR Licensing Guidelines, 2025

While this may seem frustrating, it ensures consistent safety and code compliance across state lines—especially since plumbing codes can differ slightly between regions.

What Is License Reciprocity—and Does It Apply Here?

License reciprocity occurs when one state accepts another state’s license based on comparable standards. However, South Carolina does not have a formal reciprocity agreement with Georgia for plumbing licenses.

That said, South Carolina does offer a streamlined application process for out-of-state plumbers who meet certain criteria. While you can’t “transfer” your GA license, your experience and training may count toward South Carolina’s requirements.

You can learn more about state-level occupational licensing frameworks on Wikipedia’s page on professional licensute in the United States.

South Carolina Plumbing License Requirements (Step-by-Step)

If you’re serious about working in South Carolina, here’s exactly what you need to do:

Step 1: Determine the Right License Type

South Carolina offers three main plumbing licenses:

• Residential Plumber License: For single-family homes (max 3 stories).
• Commercial Plumber License: For multi-family, industrial, or commercial buildings.
• Plumbing Contractor License: Required if you’re managing projects or hiring employees.

Most Georgia plumbers seek the Commercial Plumber License, as it aligns closely with GA’s General Contractor plumbing scope.

Step 2: Verify Your Experience

You must document at least 4 years (8,000 hours) of hands-on plumbing experience under a licensed plumber.

• Georgia experience counts, but you’ll need signed affidavits from employers or supervisors.
• Self-employment? Provide tax records, permits pulled, or client references.

Step 3: Pass the South Carolina Plumbing Exam

Administered by PSI Services, the exam covers:

• South Carolina Plumbing Code (based on the 2021 UPC with state amendments)
• Business & Law (for contractor applicants)
• Plan Reading & System Design

💡 Tip: The pass rate for first-time test-takers is ~62% (SC LLR, 2024 data). Consider a prep course focused on SC-specific codes.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Apply online via the SC LLR portal. Required documents:

• Completed application ($100–$150 fee)
• Proof of experience (notarized)
• Exam score report
• Liability insurance ($300,000 minimum)

Processing takes 2–4 weeks. Expedited review is not available.

Georgia vs. South Carolina Plumbing Licenses: Key Differences

While the experience requirements are similar, the exam content and code references differ significantly. Georgia uses a blend of IPC and state amendments, while South Carolina follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC).

Pros and Cons of Getting Licensed in South Carolina

✅ Pros:

• Expand your client base across state lines (Savannah, GA → Hilton Head, SC is only 45 miles!)
• Higher earning potential: SC commercial plumbers average $62,000/year (BLS, 2025).
• Legal protection: Avoid fines up to $500/day for unlicensed work.

❌ Cons:

• Time investment: 4–8 weeks for application + exam prep.
• Exam cost: $95–$120 (plus prep materials).
• No automatic recognition: You can’t “just show up and work.”

Still, for serious professionals, the ROI is clear—especially in fast-growing areas like Myrtle Beach and Greenville.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Assuming “similar” means “same”: Georgia’s plumbing code ≠ South Carolina’s. Skipping exam prep is risky.
2. Working without a license: Even minor repairs over $1,000 require licensing. Unlicensed work voids insurance claims.
3. Missing continuing education: SC requires 6 hours of CEU every 2 years—including 2 hours on SC laws.

FAQ: Can I Use a GA Plumbing License in South Carolina?

Q1: Can I do plumbing work in South Carolina with only a Georgia license?

No. South Carolina law requires a valid SC plumbing license for any plumbing work exceeding $1,000 or requiring a permit. Working without one risks fines, legal action, and project shutdowns.

Q2: Does South Carolina have reciprocity with any states?

South Carolina does not have formal plumbing license reciprocity with any state, including Georgia, North Carolina, or Florida. However, out-of-state experience is accepted if properly documented.

Q3: How long does it take to get licensed in South Carolina?

Typically 4–8 weeks, depending on how quickly you gather documents, schedule the exam, and pass. Plan ahead—don’t assume you can start work immediately after moving.

Q4: Can I take the South Carolina plumbing exam in Georgia?

Yes! PSI testing centers in Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta offer the SC plumbing exam. You must register specifically for the South Carolina version.

Q5: Do I need a separate license for residential vs. commercial work?

Yes. South Carolina issues separate licenses. If you do both, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate classification or hold dual licenses.

Q6: What if I only do small jobs under $1,000?

For plumbing work under $1,000 and not requiring a permit, a license is not required in South Carolina. However, local municipalities (like Charleston or Columbia) may impose stricter rules—always check with the city.

Conclusion

So, can you use a GA plumbing license in South Carolina? Not directly—but your Georgia experience is valuable and can help you qualify for a South Carolina license faster. With clear steps, solid documentation, and exam prep, you can legally expand your plumbing business across state lines.

Don’t let licensing confusion hold you back. Thousands of plumbers successfully navigate multi-state work every year. Now it’s your turn.

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