Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Columbia, SC

Complete permit and license guide for starting a real estate agent in Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.

$450 -- $1200 4–14 weeks to obtain license and begin practice 4 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Columbia / Richland County Requirements

1 requirement
1

City of Columbia — Business License (if operating a brokerage)

Individual real estate salespersons do not need a separate Columbia city license. If opening a brokerage in Columbia, a City of Columbia Business License based on gross receipts is required.

$75–$300/year (brokerage only)1–2 weeks
Official government source

South Carolina State Requirements

2 requirements
1

South Carolina Real Estate Commission — Salesperson License

South Carolina requires real estate salesperson applicants to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved school, pass the South Carolina Real Estate Salesperson Exam (administered by PSI), and apply to the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. You must work under a licensed broker.

$63 (exam fee) + $50 (license fee) + $300–$600 (pre-licensing education)4–12 weeks
Official government source
2

Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

Most real estate brokerages require agents to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects against claims of negligent acts or omissions in real estate transactions. Some states mandate it; most brokerages require it. Coverage typically starts at $100,000 per occurrence.

$300–$800/year1–5 business days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you operate as an LLC, corporation, or have employees. Free from the IRS. Even sole proprietors may benefit from obtaining an EIN to keep business and personal finances separate.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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