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South Carolina Assisted Living Administrator — Requirements & Free Practice

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Community Residential Care Facility Administrator

License to practice as a community residential care facility administrator.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Licensure by endorsement
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet one accepted combination: (1) non-health-related associate degree or LPN licensure plus one year and at least 384 hours of supervised onsite CRCF work; (2) health-related associate degree plus nine months and at least 288 hours; (3) baccalaureate or higher plus six months and at least 192 hours. Work includes supervisory and direct resident-care responsibilities under a licensed CRCFA.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
NAB validation of the minimum education and experience for HSE is an accepted qualification under R.93-70(A)(2)(b). HSE is not a license and grants no additional statutory privilege under R.93-50(H).
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
National score transfer
Already have passed NAB CORE and NAB RC/AL; request NAB score release to the Board. Prior passage remains an examination requirement because the examinations are currently offered.
Prior license
Hold an active administrator license from another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent standards; be otherwise qualified and supply verification directly from every current or former licensing jurisdiction.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
State examination
Take and pass the SC-RC/AL examination; the Board instructions state a passing scaled score of 38.
Licensure by examination
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet one accepted combination: (1) non-health-related associate degree or LPN licensure plus one year and at least 384 hours of supervised onsite CRCF work; (2) health-related associate degree plus nine months and at least 288 hours; (3) baccalaureate or higher plus six months and at least 192 hours. Work includes supervisory and direct resident-care responsibilities under a licensed CRCFA.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
NAB validation of the minimum education and experience for HSE is an accepted qualification under R.93-70(A)(2)(b). HSE is not a license and grants no additional statutory privilege under R.93-50(H).
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Reactivation from inactive status with continuing education
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board instructions
The 05/2022 Reactivation Requirements state: If continuing education cannot be attained, a written statement attesting to this must be submitted and an appearance before the Board or re-examination may be required. The examination is unnamed; the CE-based route in R.93-150(E) is retained.
Prior status
Hold an inactive administrator license.
Reactivation application
Submit the Board application, required fee, Statement of Practice Affidavit and proof of annual continuing education for every inactive year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after retirement of less than five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Post reactivation education
Provide another 14 hours within 90 days or the license automatically returns to retired status and administrator work must immediately cease.
Reactivation application
Submit the Board application, required fee, Statement of Practice Affidavit and six continuing-education hours in the preceding twelve months.
Retirement duration
Retired for less than five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure after lapse exceeding one year
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Continuing education or retesting
R.93-210(B) and Board reinstatement instructions allow the required continuing education for each year since expiration or retaking the national and state examinations. Examination passage remains required by § 40-35-45(D) and § 40-35-40; the examination route is complete and the CE alternative is retained as an applicant condition.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet one accepted combination: (1) non-health-related associate degree or LPN licensure plus one year and at least 384 hours of supervised onsite CRCF work; (2) health-related associate degree plus nine months and at least 288 hours; (3) baccalaureate or higher plus six months and at least 192 hours. Work includes supervisory and direct resident-care responsibilities under a licensed CRCFA.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
NAB validation of the minimum education and experience for HSE is an accepted qualification under R.93-70(A)(2)(b). HSE is not a license and grants no additional statutory privilege under R.93-50(H).
Lapse period
License lapsed for more than one year; submit an initial application and satisfy § 40-35-40 current qualifications under § 40-35-45(D).
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Statement of practice
Provide a statement of practice since expiration.
Reinstatement within one year of lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit reinstatement application, renewal and penalty fees, proof of continuing education and affidavit of no administrator practice during lapse under § 40-35-45(C).
Board instructions
The 07/10/2024 Board reinstatement packet says: If continuing education cannot be attained, a written statement attesting to this must be submitted and an appearance before the Board or re-examination may be required. This conditional re-examination slot is unnamed; the statutory CE-based reinstatement requirements control this completed route.
Lapse period
License lapsed for failure to renew; seek reinstatement within one year. It must not have been revoked or suspended.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of active license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete 18 hours of Board-approved continuing education for relicensure; at least 50% by live instruction. Excess credits may carry forward as R.93-200(E) provides. Hardship waiver, modification or extension is at Board discretion.
Current license
Hold the applicable license and renew by the Board deadline; the current renewal page specifies June 30 annually.
Military exemptions
Active duty military service exempts continuing education under § 40-1-610 and calendar-year license fees under § 40-1-620.
Renewal application
Submit the renewal application and fee; continued unlicensed practice after lapse may be sanctioned.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Immediate reinstatement after reversal of conviction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conviction reversed
For temporary suspension based on conviction, file the certificate showing reversal. Reinstatement is immediate and does not terminate pending disciplinary proceedings.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after voluntary surrender
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board approval
Board reinstatement requires a majority vote; surrender does not preclude discipline or conditions that must be met before reinstatement. Those individual Board terms remain applicant conditions; the defining provisions name no examination.
Prior surrender
Authorization was voluntarily surrendered during investigation and practice ceased.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Readmission after disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary order
The Board may issue a suspension order containing reinstatement provisions and prescribe conditions before readmission; comply with those individual terms. The defining rules name no examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Community Residential Care Facility Administrator — Inactive Status

Existing administrator license placed in inactive status; the holder affirms no administrator employment in South Carolina.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Renewal in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Board FAQ requires Board-approved continuing education to renew both inactive and active licenses; CRCFA 18 hours, dual 29 hours including 5 hours devoted to community residential care, with at least half through live instruction.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Renewal
Submit the renewal application and required fee, and satisfy applicable Board continuing-education requirements. Active military duty exempts continuing education and the calendar-year license fee under §§ 40-1-610 and 620.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Professional License — Military Spouse — Community Residential Care Facility Administrator

Temporary professional license for the spouse of an active-duty service member assigned to a duty station in the state under official orders; all state licensure requirements remain applicable.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Temporary professional licensure for a military spouse
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
All state requirements
Section 40-1-630(A) expressly preserves all state-law licensure requirements, including the CRCFA examinations; fingerprint reviews apply because ordinary licensure requires them.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet one accepted combination: (1) non-health-related associate degree or LPN licensure plus one year and at least 384 hours of supervised onsite CRCF work; (2) health-related associate degree plus nine months and at least 288 hours; (3) baccalaureate or higher plus six months and at least 192 hours. Work includes supervisory and direct resident-care responsibilities under a licensed CRCFA.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Expedited processing
LLR accepts a Military Spouse Expedited Licensure Request Form and requests licensure verification for every jurisdiction that issued a license, active or inactive.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
NAB validation of the minimum education and experience for HSE is an accepted qualification under R.93-70(A)(2)(b). HSE is not a license and grants no additional statutory privilege under R.93-50(H).
Military spouse
Married to an active-duty U.S. Armed Forces member assigned to a South Carolina duty station under official orders; provide marriage evidence and military orders.
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
National score transfer
Already have passed NAB CORE and NAB RC/AL; request NAB score release to the Board. Prior passage remains an examination requirement because the examinations are currently offered.
Prior license
Hold an active administrator license from another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent standards; be otherwise qualified and supply verification directly from every current or former licensing jurisdiction.
Prior license good standing
Hold a valid professional license in good standing from the qualifying outside jurisdiction and supply a certificate of good standing.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
State examination
Take and pass the SC-RC/AL examination; the Board instructions state a passing scaled score of 38.
Temporary term
Temporary professional license expires one year after issuance and cannot be renewed under § 40-1-630(C).

Provisional Community Residential Care Facility Administrator

Temporary administrator license for an unexpected vacancy while the applicant has not passed the required examinations.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Extension of provisional licensure
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet one accepted combination: (1) non-health-related associate degree or LPN licensure plus one year and at least 384 hours of supervised onsite CRCF work; (2) health-related associate degree plus nine months and at least 288 hours; (3) baccalaureate or higher plus six months and at least 192 hours. Work includes supervisory and direct resident-care responsibilities under a licensed CRCFA.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Examination timing
The provisional license can issue before examination passage. The current provisional instructions require timely registration after examination approval before the provisional application; the examinations remain involved in the route.
Extension request
Owner or facility board must request extension in writing before expiry, justify continued vacancy and delayed testing or additional study, and name the consultant administrator. Consultant services of at least 16 hours monthly are required. Board instructions limit extension to 180 days from first issuance and reject late or license-holder requests.
Failed examination consultant
A previous national or state examination failure requires a consultant with at least two years facility experience for at least 16 hours monthly beginning with provisional issuance. Two failures of the same required examination terminate the provisional license at the end of its period.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
NAB validation of the minimum education and experience for HSE is an accepted qualification under R.93-70(A)(2)(b). HSE is not a license and grants no additional statutory privilege under R.93-50(H).
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
Provisional term
Pay the provisional fee after approval. The license expires after 90 days or on issue of the initial license, whichever comes first. It is nontransferable, cannot be reapplied for at the same facility and is limited to two requests per license type; two provisional licenses of either individual type preclude a provisional dual license.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Unexpected vacancy
Meet pre-examination qualifications and be appointed to a facility unexpectedly without an administrator. Submit a complete application and owner or board-officer letter stating need, appointed administrator, facility address and anticipated appointment date.
Provisional licensure for an unexpected vacancy
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet one accepted combination: (1) non-health-related associate degree or LPN licensure plus one year and at least 384 hours of supervised onsite CRCF work; (2) health-related associate degree plus nine months and at least 288 hours; (3) baccalaureate or higher plus six months and at least 192 hours. Work includes supervisory and direct resident-care responsibilities under a licensed CRCFA.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Examination timing
The provisional license can issue before examination passage. The current provisional instructions require timely registration after examination approval before the provisional application; the examinations remain involved in the route.
Failed examination consultant
A previous national or state examination failure requires a consultant with at least two years facility experience for at least 16 hours monthly beginning with provisional issuance. Two failures of the same required examination terminate the provisional license at the end of its period.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
NAB validation of the minimum education and experience for HSE is an accepted qualification under R.93-70(A)(2)(b). HSE is not a license and grants no additional statutory privilege under R.93-50(H).
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
Provisional term
Pay the provisional fee after approval. The license expires after 90 days or on issue of the initial license, whichever comes first. It is nontransferable, cannot be reapplied for at the same facility and is limited to two requests per license type; two provisional licenses of either individual type preclude a provisional dual license.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Unexpected vacancy
Meet pre-examination qualifications and be appointed to a facility unexpectedly without an administrator. Submit a complete application and owner or board-officer letter stating need, appointed administrator, facility address and anticipated appointment date.

Community Residential Care Facility Administrator — Retired Status

Existing administrator license placed in retired status; the holder affirms no administrator employment in South Carolina.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Renewal in retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Renewal
Submit the renewal application and required fee, and satisfy applicable Board continuing-education requirements. Active military duty exempts continuing education and the calendar-year license fee under §§ 40-1-610 and 620.
Retirement qualification
Be at least 65 years old or have at least 20 years of licensure.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Retirement qualification
Be at least 65 years old or have at least 20 years of licensure.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Dual Nursing Home Administrator and Community Residential Care Facility Administrator

Official dual license; this survey records its CRCFA examination requirements and carries the nursing-home profession requirements as conditions.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Dual licensure by endorsement
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet a dual qualification combination: health-care baccalaureate or higher plus one year of nursing-home/related health-care administration and six months/192 hours of supervised CRCF work; non-health-care baccalaureate plus two years and six months/192 hours; or health-related associate degree plus three years and nine months/288 CRCF hours. Nursing-home practical experience is at least 36 hours weekly with onsite NHA supervision and at least six months in two required management, direct-care or support areas.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
HSE validation is an accepted qualification under R.93-70; it grants no additional statutory privilege. The dual endorsement instructions expressly accept an active HSE credential.
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
National score transfer
Already passed NAB CORE, NAB NHA and NAB RCAL; arrange official NAB score transfer. The Board requires both South Carolina examinations.
Other profession examinations
The dual license also involves the NAB Nursing Home Administrators Line of Service Examination and South Carolina Nursing Home Administrator examination. These are examinations of the nursing-home administrator profession and are retained as conditions under this survey contract, not defined or registered here. Passing scaled scores are 113 for NAB NHA and 38 for SC NHA.
Prior license
Hold current nursing-home and CRCFA administrator licensure in another jurisdiction meeting substantially equivalent standards, supply license verifications and be otherwise qualified.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Dual licensure by examination
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet a dual qualification combination: health-care baccalaureate or higher plus one year of nursing-home/related health-care administration and six months/192 hours of supervised CRCF work; non-health-care baccalaureate plus two years and six months/192 hours; or health-related associate degree plus three years and nine months/288 CRCF hours. Nursing-home practical experience is at least 36 hours weekly with onsite NHA supervision and at least six months in two required management, direct-care or support areas.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
HSE validation is an accepted qualification under R.93-70; it grants no additional statutory privilege. The dual endorsement instructions expressly accept an active HSE credential.
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
Other profession examinations
The dual license also involves the NAB Nursing Home Administrators Line of Service Examination and South Carolina Nursing Home Administrator examination. These are examinations of the nursing-home administrator profession and are retained as conditions under this survey contract, not defined or registered here. Passing scaled scores are 113 for NAB NHA and 38 for SC NHA.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Reactivation from inactive status with continuing education
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board instructions
The 05/2022 Reactivation Requirements state: If continuing education cannot be attained, a written statement attesting to this must be submitted and an appearance before the Board or re-examination may be required. The examination is unnamed; the CE-based route in R.93-150(E) is retained.
Prior status
Hold an inactive administrator license.
Reactivation application
Submit the Board application, required fee, Statement of Practice Affidavit and proof of annual continuing education for every inactive year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after retirement of less than five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Post reactivation education
Provide another 14 hours within 90 days or the license automatically returns to retired status and administrator work must immediately cease.
Reactivation application
Submit the Board application, required fee, Statement of Practice Affidavit and six continuing-education hours in the preceding twelve months.
Retirement duration
Retired for less than five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure after lapse exceeding one year
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Continuing education or retesting
R.93-210(B) and Board reinstatement instructions allow the required continuing education for each year since expiration or retaking the national and state examinations. Examination passage remains required by § 40-35-45(D) and § 40-35-40; the examination route is complete and the CE alternative is retained as an applicant condition.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet a dual qualification combination: health-care baccalaureate or higher plus one year of nursing-home/related health-care administration and six months/192 hours of supervised CRCF work; non-health-care baccalaureate plus two years and six months/192 hours; or health-related associate degree plus three years and nine months/288 CRCF hours. Nursing-home practical experience is at least 36 hours weekly with onsite NHA supervision and at least six months in two required management, direct-care or support areas.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
HSE validation is an accepted qualification under R.93-70; it grants no additional statutory privilege. The dual endorsement instructions expressly accept an active HSE credential.
Lapse period
License lapsed for more than one year; submit an initial application and satisfy § 40-35-40 current qualifications under § 40-35-45(D).
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
Other profession examinations
The dual license also involves the NAB Nursing Home Administrators Line of Service Examination and South Carolina Nursing Home Administrator examination. These are examinations of the nursing-home administrator profession and are retained as conditions under this survey contract, not defined or registered here. Passing scaled scores are 113 for NAB NHA and 38 for SC NHA.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Statement of practice
Provide a statement of practice since expiration.
Reinstatement within one year of lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit reinstatement application, renewal and penalty fees, proof of continuing education and affidavit of no administrator practice during lapse under § 40-35-45(C).
Board instructions
The 07/10/2024 Board reinstatement packet says: If continuing education cannot be attained, a written statement attesting to this must be submitted and an appearance before the Board or re-examination may be required. This conditional re-examination slot is unnamed; the statutory CE-based reinstatement requirements control this completed route.
Lapse period
License lapsed for failure to renew; seek reinstatement within one year. It must not have been revoked or suspended.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of active license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete 29 hours, including 5 devoted to community residential care of Board-approved continuing education for relicensure; at least 50% by live instruction. Excess credits may carry forward as R.93-200(E) provides. Hardship waiver, modification or extension is at Board discretion.
Current license
Hold the applicable license and renew by the Board deadline; the current renewal page specifies June 30 annually.
Military exemptions
Active duty military service exempts continuing education under § 40-1-610 and calendar-year license fees under § 40-1-620.
Renewal application
Submit the renewal application and fee; continued unlicensed practice after lapse may be sanctioned.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Immediate reinstatement after reversal of conviction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conviction reversed
For temporary suspension based on conviction, file the certificate showing reversal. Reinstatement is immediate and does not terminate pending disciplinary proceedings.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after voluntary surrender
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board approval
Board reinstatement requires a majority vote; surrender does not preclude discipline or conditions that must be met before reinstatement. Those individual Board terms remain applicant conditions; the defining provisions name no examination.
Prior surrender
Authorization was voluntarily surrendered during investigation and practice ceased.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Readmission after disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary order
The Board may issue a suspension order containing reinstatement provisions and prescribe conditions before readmission; comply with those individual terms. The defining rules name no examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Dual Nursing Home Administrator and Community Residential Care Facility Administrator — Inactive Status

Existing administrator license placed in inactive status; the holder affirms no administrator employment in South Carolina.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Renewal in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Board FAQ requires Board-approved continuing education to renew both inactive and active licenses; CRCFA 18 hours, dual 29 hours including 5 hours devoted to community residential care, with at least half through live instruction.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Renewal
Submit the renewal application and required fee, and satisfy applicable Board continuing-education requirements. Active military duty exempts continuing education and the calendar-year license fee under §§ 40-1-610 and 620.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Professional License — Military Spouse — Dual Nursing Home Administrator and Community Residential Care Facility Administrator

Temporary professional license for the spouse of an active-duty U.S. armed forces member assigned to a duty station in South Carolina under official orders; all state licensure requirements must be met.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Temporary professional licensure for a military spouse
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
All state requirements
Section 40-1-630(A) expressly preserves all state-law licensure requirements, including the CRCFA examinations; fingerprint reviews apply because ordinary licensure requires them.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet a dual qualification combination: health-care baccalaureate or higher plus one year of nursing-home/related health-care administration and six months/192 hours of supervised CRCF work; non-health-care baccalaureate plus two years and six months/192 hours; or health-related associate degree plus three years and nine months/288 CRCF hours. Nursing-home practical experience is at least 36 hours weekly with onsite NHA supervision and at least six months in two required management, direct-care or support areas.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Expedited processing
LLR accepts a Military Spouse Expedited Licensure Request Form and requests licensure verification for every jurisdiction that issued a license, active or inactive.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
HSE validation is an accepted qualification under R.93-70; it grants no additional statutory privilege. The dual endorsement instructions expressly accept an active HSE credential.
Military spouse
Married to an active-duty U.S. Armed Forces member assigned to a South Carolina duty station under official orders; provide marriage evidence and military orders.
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
National score transfer
Already passed NAB CORE, NAB NHA and NAB RCAL; arrange official NAB score transfer. The Board requires both South Carolina examinations.
Other profession examinations
The dual license also involves the NAB Nursing Home Administrators Line of Service Examination and South Carolina Nursing Home Administrator examination. These are examinations of the nursing-home administrator profession and are retained as conditions under this survey contract, not defined or registered here. Passing scaled scores are 113 for NAB NHA and 38 for SC NHA.
Prior license
Hold current nursing-home and CRCFA administrator licensure in another jurisdiction meeting substantially equivalent standards, supply license verifications and be otherwise qualified.
Prior license good standing
Hold a valid professional license in good standing from the qualifying outside jurisdiction and supply a certificate of good standing.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Temporary term
Temporary professional license expires one year after issuance and cannot be renewed under § 40-1-630(C).

Provisional Dual Administrator License

Temporary administrator license for an unexpected vacancy while the applicant has not passed the required examinations.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Extension of provisional licensure
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet a dual qualification combination: health-care baccalaureate or higher plus one year of nursing-home/related health-care administration and six months/192 hours of supervised CRCF work; non-health-care baccalaureate plus two years and six months/192 hours; or health-related associate degree plus three years and nine months/288 CRCF hours. Nursing-home practical experience is at least 36 hours weekly with onsite NHA supervision and at least six months in two required management, direct-care or support areas.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Examination timing
The provisional license can issue before examination passage. The current provisional instructions require timely registration after examination approval before the provisional application; the examinations remain involved in the route.
Extension request
Owner or facility board must request extension in writing before expiry, justify continued vacancy and delayed testing or additional study, and name the consultant administrator. Consultant services of at least 16 hours monthly are required. Board instructions limit extension to 180 days from first issuance and reject late or license-holder requests.
Failed examination consultant
A previous national or state examination failure requires a consultant with at least two years facility experience for at least 16 hours monthly beginning with provisional issuance. Two failures of the same required examination terminate the provisional license at the end of its period.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
HSE validation is an accepted qualification under R.93-70; it grants no additional statutory privilege. The dual endorsement instructions expressly accept an active HSE credential.
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
Other profession examinations
The dual license also involves the NAB Nursing Home Administrators Line of Service Examination and South Carolina Nursing Home Administrator examination. These are examinations of the nursing-home administrator profession and are retained as conditions under this survey contract, not defined or registered here. Passing scaled scores are 113 for NAB NHA and 38 for SC NHA.
Provisional term
Pay the provisional fee after approval. The license expires after 90 days or on issue of the initial license, whichever comes first. It is nontransferable, cannot be reapplied for at the same facility and is limited to two requests per license type; two provisional licenses of either individual type preclude a provisional dual license.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Unexpected vacancy
Meet pre-examination qualifications and be appointed to a facility unexpectedly without an administrator. Submit a complete application and owner or board-officer letter stating need, appointed administrator, facility address and anticipated appointment date.
Provisional licensure for an unexpected vacancy
Ait alternative
A Board-approved CRCFA AIT program is an alternative qualifying experience pathway under R.93-80: baccalaureate or higher, three months; health-related associate degree, six months; non-health-related associate degree or LPN, nine months. Candidate registration and a training permit, approved preceptor and curriculum, progress records and satisfactory final evaluation are required. Degree completion is required for licensure.
Application documents
Submit the Board application, required application and licensure fees, government identification, Social Security card, notarized lawful-presence affidavit, NPDB self-query, official transcripts sent directly by the institution, employment training verification when applicable, and name-change documentation when applicable.
Application expiry
Applications are valid for one year from receipt; restart with required documentation and fees if incomplete at that time.
Credit report
Provide a current TransUnion, Equifax or Experian credit report dated no more than 30 days before the application date.
Criminal history
No conviction relevant to CRCF administration, including financial misconduct or physical violence; submit SLED and FBI fingerprint reviews after receiving Board processing instructions. S.C. Code § 40-1-140 limits conviction-based denial and requires the stated hearing protections.
Education experience
Meet a dual qualification combination: health-care baccalaureate or higher plus one year of nursing-home/related health-care administration and six months/192 hours of supervised CRCF work; non-health-care baccalaureate plus two years and six months/192 hours; or health-related associate degree plus three years and nine months/288 CRCF hours. Nursing-home practical experience is at least 36 hours weekly with onsite NHA supervision and at least six months in two required management, direct-care or support areas.
Examination approval
Board approval and Examination Approval Notice are required before NAB registration; register within the stated 30 days, then test within the 60-day authorization window. After three failures petition the Board.
Examination timing
The provisional license can issue before examination passage. The current provisional instructions require timely registration after examination approval before the provisional application; the examinations remain involved in the route.
Failed examination consultant
A previous national or state examination failure requires a consultant with at least two years facility experience for at least 16 hours monthly beginning with provisional issuance. Two failures of the same required examination terminate the provisional license at the end of its period.
Fitness
Reputable and responsible character and physical and mental health sufficient to perform administrator duties, subject to the statutory restrictions on generic character terms in § 40-1-140.
Hse alternative
HSE validation is an accepted qualification under R.93-70; it grants no additional statutory privilege. The dual endorsement instructions expressly accept an active HSE credential.
Military training
Military education, training and experience must be applied in the most favorable manner toward qualifying under § 40-1-640, subject to satisfactory evidence and all other licensure and examination requirements.
Minimum age
At least 21 years old.
National core
The currently offered NAB CORE (Core of Knowledge) Exam is required, with a passing scaled score of 113; it has no registered version in the supplied national context and is recorded here pending nationwide registration.
Other profession examinations
The dual license also involves the NAB Nursing Home Administrators Line of Service Examination and South Carolina Nursing Home Administrator examination. These are examinations of the nursing-home administrator profession and are retained as conditions under this survey contract, not defined or registered here. Passing scaled scores are 113 for NAB NHA and 38 for SC NHA.
Provisional term
Pay the provisional fee after approval. The license expires after 90 days or on issue of the initial license, whichever comes first. It is nontransferable, cannot be reapplied for at the same facility and is limited to two requests per license type; two provisional licenses of either individual type preclude a provisional dual license.
South carolina nha alternative
A South Carolina licensed nursing home administrator who has practiced for two or more years need not complete supervised onsite CRCF work experience under R.93-70(A)(2)(a).
Unexpected vacancy
Meet pre-examination qualifications and be appointed to a facility unexpectedly without an administrator. Submit a complete application and owner or board-officer letter stating need, appointed administrator, facility address and anticipated appointment date.

Dual Nursing Home Administrator and Community Residential Care Facility Administrator — Retired Status

Existing administrator license placed in retired status; the holder affirms no administrator employment in South Carolina.

Licensing authority: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators · Application information

Renewal in retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Renewal
Submit the renewal application and required fee, and satisfy applicable Board continuing-education requirements. Active military duty exempts continuing education and the calendar-year license fee under §§ 40-1-610 and 620.
Retirement qualification
Be at least 65 years old or have at least 20 years of licensure.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Already hold the applicable South Carolina administrator license.
No administrator employment
Affirm no employment as administrator of a nursing home or CRCF in South Carolina.
Retirement qualification
Be at least 65 years old or have at least 20 years of licensure.
Status application
Apply to the Board and pay the status renewal fee on or before license expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

NAB National Residential Care/Assisted Living Administrators Line of Service Exam (RC/AL)

Provider
National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB); delivered at Pearson VUE test centers
Format
Objective multiple-choice items with four answer choices, one correct; line of service exam taken after or together with the separately scored CORE exam
Exam questions
75 (60 scored, 15 non-scored pretest)
Time limit
1 hour 30 minutes seat time; 1 hour and 10 minutes to answer questions
Passing score
Scaled score of 113 on a 50-150 scale
Exam fee
RC/AL only $190; CORE and RC/AL combo $480 (effective 2/1/2026)
Examination outline
  • Domain 1: Care, Services, and Supports (75% of the RC/AL exam) (75%)
    • 1A1 Quality of Care: Medical and Nursing Care Practices
    • 1A2 Quality of Care: Medication Management and Administration
    • 1A4 Quality of Care: Nutrition and Hydration (e.g., specialized diets)
    • 1A6 Quality of Care: Rehabilitation and Restorative Programs
    • 1A7 Quality of Care: Care Recipient Assessment and Interdisciplinary Care Planning
    • 1A8 Quality of Care: Clinical and Medical Records and Documentation Requirements (e.g., storage, retention, destruction)
    • 1A11 Quality of Care: Transition of Care (e.g., admission, move-in, transfer, discharge, and move-out)
    • 1B1 Quality of Life: Psychosocial Needs (e.g., social, spiritual, community, cultural)
    • 1B2 Quality of Life: Person-Centered Care and Comprehensive Care Planning
    • 1B3 Quality of Life: Care Recipient Bill of Rights and Responsibilities
    • 1B4 Quality of Life: Care Recipient Safety (e.g., fall prevention, elopement prevention, adverse events)
    • 1B5 Quality of Life: Care Recipient (and Representative) Grievance, Conflict, and Dispute Resolution
    • 1B6 Quality of Life: Care Recipient Advocacy (e.g., Ombudsman, resident and family council)
    • 1B7 Quality of Life: Care Recipient Decision-Making (e.g., capacity, power of attorney, guardianship, conservatorship, code status, advance directives, ethical decision-making)
    • 1B8 Quality of Life: Care Recipient (and Representative) Satisfaction
    • 1B14 Quality of Life: Restraint Usage and Reduction
    • 1B15 Quality of Life: Foodservice (e.g., choice and menu planning, dietary management, food storage and handling, dining services)
    • 1B16 Quality of Life: Social Services Programs
    • 1B17 Quality of Life: Therapeutic Recreation and Activity Programs
    • 1C3 Ancillary Services: Transportation for Care Recipients
    • 1C8 Ancillary Services: Volunteer Programs
  • Domain 2: Operations (12% of the RC/AL exam) (12%)
    • 2A5 Financial Management: Revenue and Reimbursement (e.g., PDPM, PDGM, ACOs, HMOs, Medicaid, private payors)
    • 2B7 Risk Management: Scope of Practice and Legal Liability
  • Domain 3: Environment and Quality (13% of the RC/AL exam) (13%)
    • 3A2 Care Setting: Person-Centered Environment (e.g., home-like environment)
    • 3B3 Regulatory Compliance: Certification and Licensure Requirements for the Organization
    • 3B4 Regulatory Compliance: Regulatory Survey and Inspection Process
Examination sources

South Carolina Residential Care and Assisted Living (SC-RC/AL) Exam

Provider
Board-approved testing provider; registration through NAB
Format
Computer-based, multiple-choice examination
Exam questions
50 multiple-choice questions
Time limit
2 hours
Passing score
75% raw score under R.93-110(C); the Board application instructions state a passing scaled score of 38.
Examination outline
  • Regulation 60-84 — Standards for Licensing Community Residential Care Facilities
  • Title 40, Chapter 35 — Long Term Health Care Administrators
  • Chapter 93 — South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators
Examination sources