South Carolina Department of Education

Office of Educator Services
8301 Parklane Road
Columbia, SC  29223

(803) 896-0325
Email:
For correspondence:   certification@ed.sc.gov
For transcripts:   transcripts@ed.sc.gov
Website:  South Carolina Educator Licensure Reciprocity


Interstate reciprocity is available to those who hold

  • a standard certificate that is clear, renewable certificate with no disciplinary holds.
  • a current valid certificate that allows the applicant to serve in a public school located in the reciprocating state.

Note that experience is not reciprocal.  Experience must be evaluated for meeting South Carolina experience guidelines.

Application Process

  • Complete the online application (CATS application system)  prior to all following steps.
  • Submit the non-refundable fee.
  • Complete the fingerprinting process and criminal records review.
  • Submit an official transcript for a regionally accredited institution.
  • Submit a photocopy (front & back) of valid out-of-state teaching certificate.
  • Submit copies of content knowledge or pedagogical knowledge assessment/exam scores.
  • Submit verification of teaching experience forms completed by employer

Directions for submitting application materials.