How to Get a Property & Casualty Insurance License in South Carolina

If you’re looking to launch a career in the insurance industry, getting your Property & Casualty (P&C) license in South Carolina is a smart first step. This license allows you to help individuals and businesses protect their assets—homes, cars, liability exposures, and more. Whether you’re just starting out or transitioning into a new field, here’s exactly how to get licensed in South Carolina.

What Is Property & Casualty Insurance?

Property & Casualty insurance includes policies that protect people and businesses from financial losses related to property damage and liability claims. That includes common policies like:

  • Auto insurance
  • Homeowners or renters insurance
  • Business liability insurance
  • Commercial property coverage

As a licensed P&C agent, you’ll help clients find the coverage they need and be there when the unexpected happens.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your P&C License

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before starting the process, make sure you meet South Carolina’s requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must have a valid Social Security number
  • Must not have been convicted of a felony involving dishonesty or breach of trust (unless a waiver has been granted)

2. Complete a State-Approved Pre-Licensing Course

South Carolina requires 20 hours of pre-licensing education for Property & Casualty insurance.

SCInsuranceSchool.com offers an approved online course that:

  • Is fully self-paced
  • Works on mobile and desktop devices
  • Includes interactive lessons and practice tests
  • Issues your completion certificate upon finishing

This course prepares you thoroughly for the state exam and fulfills all education requirements.

3. Schedule and Pass the Licensing Exam

After completing your course, you’ll take the South Carolina Property & Casualty Insurance Exam. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Format: Computer-based, multiple choice
  • Administered by: PSI Exams (in person or online)
  • Fee: Approximately $45
  • Passing score: 70%

4. Get Fingerprinted and Complete Background Check

The state requires a background check as part of the licensing process. To complete this step:

  • Schedule your fingerprints through IdentoGO
  • Results are automatically sent to the South Carolina Department of Insurance

This step ensures compliance with state regulations.

5. Apply for Your License

Once you’ve passed the exam and completed your background check, it’s time to apply for your license:

  • Apply through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) at www.nipr.com
  • Application fee is approximately $25

Your application will be submitted electronically to the South Carolina Department of Insurance.

6. Wait for Approval

After applying, the Department of Insurance will review your materials. If everything is in order, you’ll receive your official license—usually within a few business days. Once issued, you are fully authorized to sell Property & Casualty insurance in South Carolina.

Tips to Help You Succeed

  • Study with purpose. Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorizing facts.
  • Take multiple practice exams. Familiarity with the test format boosts confidence and performance.
  • Don’t wait to network. Building relationships early can help you find an agency position or start your own business.
  • Stay compliant. You’ll need to complete continuing education (CE) regularly to keep your license active.

Get Started Today with SCInsuranceSchool.com

We’re here to make the licensing process as smooth as possible. Our online pre-licensing course is designed specifically for South Carolina residents and includes everything you need to prepare, pass, and move forward with confidence.

Visit SCInsuranceSchool.com to enroll today and take the first step toward your insurance career.

Have questions? Reach out to us through our contact form—we’re happy to help.