Second Career Home Inspector

Home › Free state guide › South Carolina

How to become a home inspector in South Carolina

South Carolina requires a license. See the education, field training, exam, insurance and application steps.

South Carolina

License required
  1. Confirm the current rulesThe regulator is: South Carolina Labor, Licensing and Regulation, Residential Builders Commission. Rules change, so read the board's current requirements and application before you spend money.
  2. Complete the educationEducation: Not listed. Choose a provider the board approves. This course is a study aid and does not replace approved pre-licensing hours.
  3. Complete the field trainingField training: One year under a licensed inspector, or 50 residential inspections.
  4. Pass the examExam: The South Carolina home inspector exam or NHIE.
  5. Arrange insurance and paperworkInsurance: Confirm the insurance requirement with the commission. Gather ID, proof of education and any background check the board asks for.
  6. Apply for your licenseSubmit the application and fees to the regulator and wait for approval. Do not take paid inspections until you are cleared to.
  7. Keep it currentRenewal and continuing education: Two-year renewal cycle.
  8. Use the modules to prepareWork through the modules and the final exam in this course to learn the systems, standards and report writing the exam and the job rely on.

Search for “South Carolina home inspector licensing” to find the board's own page. More on the NHIE regulations page.

Want to learn the material too?

The full guide has 17 modules covering every major system of a home, a separate quiz for each, and a 200-question practice exam.

See the full course

This guide summarizes publicly available information as of October 2026 and is not legal advice. Requirements, hours, fees and insurance minimums change and sources differ. Always confirm with your state's licensing board before you enroll or apply. Not affiliated with ASHI, any state board or any exam provider.