Trade business resources for South Carolina.

In South Carolina, contractors who perform work on buildings and structures must be licensed through the Contractors' Licensing Board (CLB), which operates under the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). Licensing requirements are triggered by the value of the work being performed, with different thresholds and classifications applying to general contractors, specialty trades, and mechanical work.

State licensing board

South Carolina requires a General Contractor license for any project where the total cost of construction exceeds $5,000, with contractors classified by license group (Group I through Group V) based on the size of projects they are permitted to undertake. Specialty contractors—including electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and mechanical contractors—are licensed separately under the CLB's specialty trade categories, and must pass trade-specific exams and meet experience requirements; electrical and plumbing work generally requires licensure regardless of dollar amount due to public safety concerns. HVAC/mechanical contractors must hold a Mechanical Contractor license to perform heating, cooling, and refrigeration work. Roofing contractors are required to hold a General or Specialty Contractor license when the work exceeds $5,000. All license classes require proof of general liability insurance and, where applicable, workers' compensation coverage.

Business registration