North Carolina → South Carolina
Transferring your teaching license from North Carolina to South Carolina
Transfer pathway available — expect South Carolina exams + likely an interim license
North Carolina and South Carolina both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect South Carolina's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 1,800 open teaching jobs in South Carolina →License transfer finder
Your current credential (North Carolina)
- Issuing authority
- North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI)
- License type
- Lateral Entry License or Residency License (3 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- North Carolina participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with equivalent licenses may receive an NC license; content exams may still be required.
South Carolina certification
- Issuing authority
- South Carolina Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Initial Teaching Certificate (3 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; PACE allows immediate classroom entry with completion over 3 years
- South Carolina reciprocity policy
- South Carolina participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a South Carolina certificate after evaluation; content exams may be required.
Exams typically required in South Carolina
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on South Carolina's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification area
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your North Carolina credential is current. South Carolina will request a verification of your active Lateral Entry License or Residency License from North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
- Apply through South Carolina Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any South Carolina-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but South Carolina may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to South Carolina districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 1,800 active openings — browse South Carolina teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in South Carolina with a North Carolina teaching license?
North Carolina and South Carolina both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect South Carolina's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
What exams are required to teach in South Carolina?
South Carolina typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to South Carolina take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; PACE allows immediate classroom entry with completion over 3 years.
Who issues teaching licenses in South Carolina?
Teaching licenses in South Carolina are issued by South Carolina Department of Education.