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Childcare License in South Carolina: Cost, Steps & How to File

In South Carolina, get a childcare license is straightforward once you know the sequence. Costs range from $25 to about $2000, timelines run from 60 days to roughly 180 days depending on your specific situation. Here's the South Carolina-specific walkthrough.

Typical cost

$25–$2000

Timeline

60–180 days

Renewal

Annual, with unannounced inspections

Who needs it

in-home daycare providers and childcare centers

Steps to get a childcare license in South Carolina

Step 1: Determine license type based on capacity — family daycare (small, in-home, up to 6-14 kids depending on state) vs center (larger, commercial space)
Step 2: Complete state-required orientation and training (usually 15-40 hours)
Step 3: Complete pediatric CPR and first aid certification
Step 4: Pass fingerprint and background check for you and every adult in the home (or every staff member)
Step 5: Home safety inspection (fire, water temperature, medication storage, outdoor space, fencing)
Step 6: Immunizations up to date for you and your household
Step 7: Get childcare business liability insurance (many providers require this)

Required documents

CPR/first aid cert
Training completion cert
Background check clearance
Health/immunization records
Home safety inspection
Emergency plan

Where to file in South Carolina

Business filings: https://businessfilings.sc.gov
Secretary of State: https://sos.sc.gov
Tax authority: https://dor.sc.gov
Labor/workforce: https://dew.sc.gov

Heads up: The state fee is the floor. Third-party filing services will offer to handle this for you at 2-10× the state cost. If your setup is simple, filing yourself through the South Carolina portal is straightforward; if it's not (foreign qualification, complex ownership, non-US members), the extra service cost is often justified.

Related permits in South Carolina

Business License in South Carolina Employer Registration in South Carolina

Frequently asked questions

How much does a childcare license cost in South Carolina?

Typical cost ranges from $25–$2000. The exact fee depends on your specific business type, city, and any expedited processing you choose.

How long does it take to get a childcare license in South Carolina?

Most South Carolina applications complete in 60–180 days. Same-day or next-day processing is often available for an added fee at the state level.

Do I need a childcare license if I'm just starting a home business in South Carolina?

In most cases, yes — even home-based businesses in South Carolina are subject to the same state filing rules. Local rules (city and county) may add a home occupation permit on top.

This page reflects general South Carolina filing rules as of 2026. Fees and processing times change; verify the current amounts with the linked state agency before filing.