Getting Started
Do I qualify to get my SC real estate license?
To qualify you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be lawfully present and eligible to work in the United States. No prior real estate experience is required!
Do I need a college degree?
No! However if you have a four year degree with a major in real estate or a law degree, you may be exempt from pre-licensing courses. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
I have a criminal conviction. Can I still get a SC real estate license?
A criminal record does not automatically prevent you from being licensed. Certain convictions may require an appearance before the SC Real Estate Commission for a hearing. We recommend contacting the SC Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific situation before enrolling.
I am licensed in another state. Can I get a SC license?
South Carolina currently has reciprocal licensing agreements with Georgia and North Carolina. The requirements differ between the two states, and applicants must meet the specific terms of the applicable agreement.
Licensees from other states may still apply for a South Carolina license, but South Carolina prelicensing education and examination requirements may apply. Visit the South Carolina Real Estate Commission’s Applications and Requirements page for the most current instructions.
What courses do I need to get my SC real estate license?Getting your SC real estate license requires completing two pre-licensing courses totaling 90 hours:
Both units are required before your license can become active.
How much do the courses cost?SC Real Estate Academy's pre-licensing program consists of two units:
Both courses are taught by an active Broker-in-Charge with real world experience!
How long does the pre-licensing program take?
Unit I is 60 hours and Unit II is 30 hours for a total of 90 hours of instruction. SC Real Estate Academy schedules classes on weekday evenings and Saturdays, giving you valuable study time between sessions so you're never rushed through the material.
Can I take classes while working full time?
Absolutely , that's exactly who we designed our schedule for! Our evening and weekend classes allow you to keep your job while working toward your real estate license at a pace that sets you up for success.
Is the class in person, virtual or both?
We offer both in person and live virtual classroom options so you can choose what works best for your lifestyle.
How small are the classes?
We intentionally keep our class sizes small so every student gets personal attention from the instructor. You're never just a number at SC Real Estate Academy!
What is on the SC real estate exam?
The SC real estate exam has two sections — a national portion with 80 questions and a South Carolina state specific portion with 40 questions. You must pass both sections to receive your license.
When can I take the SC real estate exam?
You are eligible to apply to take the SC real estate exam after completing Unit I. You do not have to wait until Unit II is complete before taking the exam.
What if I fail the exam?
Don't give up! SC Real Estate Academy offers an 8 Hour Exam Boot Camp for $99 designed specifically to help students who need extra preparation. We hold boot camps every month so you won't have to wait long to get back on track!
How hard is the SC real estate exam?
The exam requires solid preparation but our students are well equipped because our course is specifically built around what you need to know to pass. Our spaced class schedule gives you time to study between sessions which leads to better retention and exam readiness.
What happens after I pass the exam? Here's how the full process works step by step:
The smart move is to complete Unit II while waiting for your exam date or results so everything is ready the moment you pass! SC Real Estate Academy offers Unit II — ask us about upcoming dates!
Do I need a brokerage after I get my license?
Yes, all new agents must affiliate with a licensed brokerage to activate their license. If you don't have a brokerage yet you can apply with your license in inactive status and activate it once you find one. Interested in joining Sweet T Realty? Ask us about our agent opportunities!
What if I'm not ready to actively sell real estate after getting licensed?
No problem. You may keep your license on inactive status until you are ready to affiliate with a South Carolina brokerage. An inactive license must still be renewed by its expiration date, but continuing education is not required while the license remains inactive. An inactive licensee cannot practice real estate or receive referral fees.
But here's another option worth considering — Sweet T Realty's Referral Division allows you to keep your SC real estate license active and earn referral income without actively representing buyers and sellers. Referral Division members receive 80% of referral fees, with no MLS dues, association fees, or E&O insurance required through Sweet T Realty. It's an option for licensees who want to remain active and generate income through real estate referrals without practicing traditional real estate sales. Visit our Referral Division page to learn more!
How many continuing education hours do I need in SC?
SC licensed agents must complete 10 hours of continuing education every two years. This includes 4 hours of the mandatory core course and 6 hours of elective courses. SC Real Estate Academy offers continuing education courses — ask us about upcoming dates!
Still have questions?We'd love to hear from you! Call us at 803-834-3731, email us at class@screacademy.com, or use the inquiry form on our website. SC Real Estate Academy is located at 638 Pine Ridge Drive Suite D, West Columbia, SC 29172.
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