Social Work Licensure Compact in South Carolina

This state has compact-related legislation moving or under Commission review, but it is not a confirmed member on the Commission’s list.

Passed compact legislation but with material language changes, per ASWB, and is not listed as a member on the Commission’s jurisdictions page. Treated as pending Commission acceptance — not a confirmed member — pending primary confirmation.

The compact is not operational anywhere yet — no multistate licenses or practice privileges are being issued. As of October 31, 2026, no multistate licenses or practice privileges are being issued. The Commission's July 2026 update says multistate licenses are not yet available and estimates its data system for completion in Spring 2027; ASWB (May 2026) said implementation was likely within 9–12 months. Verify the current launch status with the Commission before relying on it.

A multistate license (the compact “privilege”) is intended to let a social worker who holds a license in good standing in their compact home state practice in other member states without obtaining a separate license in each one — similar to how the nursing and physical-therapy compacts work.

Final eligibility rules are still being written by the Commission and are not yet in force. Based on the model legislation and analogous compacts, a social worker will generally need an active, unencumbered license in their home (residence) member state, must meet the education and examination requirements for the relevant practice level (bachelor’s, master’s, or clinical), and is expected to clear a background check. Specifics may change — always confirm with your home-state board and the Commission.

South Carolina has compact-related activity but is not a confirmed member yet. Track the legislation and the Commission’s member list; nothing can be applied for until the state is a member and the compact is operational.