South Carolina operates separate licensing boards for commercial and residential HVAC contractors, potentially requiring two licenses for contractors serving both markets. No continuing education is required for renewal.
Commercial: minimum 2 years of experience in a supervisory role within the past 5 years. Residential: minimum 1 year under a residential builder or HVAC contractor within the preceding 5 years.
Yes — both tracks require a Trade Exam plus Business Management and Law Exam, administered by PSI.
None required for commercial or residential HVAC contractors in SC
Yes — South Carolina has reciprocity with Georgia, Texas, and others. North Carolina has a Technical Examination Waiver Agreement with SC for the trade exam.
Reciprocity agreements can change. Always verify current status directly with South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation before relying on reciprocity for licensure.
South Carolina's dual-board system means contractors may need two separate licenses to work across both commercial and residential segments. No CE requirement makes renewal straightforward.
EPA 608 Certification — Required in All 50 States
Regardless of South Carolina's state licensing rules, any technician who purchases, handles, or works with regulated refrigerants must hold EPA Section 608 certification. This is a federal requirement under the Clean Air Act that no state law can waive. EPA 608 Universal (covering Type I, II, and III) is the most versatile credential for most HVAC roles.
Browse EPA 608 Universal jobs in South CarolinaNew listings matching your preferences, delivered daily — free.
Every listing on HVACJobs.IO shows the actual salary — no "competitive pay" guessing.
Last verified: 2026 · Always confirm current requirements with your state licensing board before starting work or submitting an application.
South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) — Contractor's Licensing Board (commercial) and Residential Builders Commission (residential)
Visit official board website