South Carolina Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025
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South Carolina Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in South Carolina requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for South Carolina as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in South Carolina Real estate broker license required. South Carolina business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission (SCREC).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 90 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + South Carolina state exam
Application fee: $75
License fee: $90
Exam note: 3 years experience required before broker exam eligibility
Continuing Education 10 hours per 2 years required to maintain active South Carolina broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in South Carolina South Carolina's manufacturing (BMW, Boeing), tourism, and healthcare sectors generate M&A activity. Business brokerage uses the SC real estate broker license. South Carolina Securities Division oversees M&A-related securities. FINRA registration is appropriate for mid-market M&A advisors working above $10M.
Industry Certifications (Optional but Career-Critical)
CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) — International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
M&AMI (M&A Master Intermediary) — IBBA, for deals $5M+
CMAP (Certified M&A Professional) — AM&AA
Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) — FINRA, for larger M&A advisory
Series 82 (Private Securities Offerings Representative) — FINRA
How to Get Started as a Business Broker in South Carolina 1. Complete 90 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + South Carolina state exam 3. Obtain your South Carolina salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 90 hrs additional broker coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility