South Carolina requires a state-level drinking water operator license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Health / Environmental Quality. The median salary is $48,612 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
South Carolina requires a drinking water operator to hold a state license. Operate and maintain drinking water treatment and distribution systems to ensure safe water supply. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Health / Environmental Quality.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | State-approved training + operator-in-training period |
| Experience Details | State-approved training + operator-in-training period |
South Carolina requires passing the South Carolina Drinking Water Operator Certification Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.
| Exam Name | South Carolina Drinking Water Operator Certification Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Drinking Water Operator Certification Exam |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Getting licensed as a drinking water operator in South Carolina takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years. Continuing education of 20 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $50 |
| License Renewal | $50 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 20 hours |
Drinking Water Operators in South Carolina earn a median salary of $48,612, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in South Carolina |
| National average | $53,420 |
Yes — South Carolina requires a state-level drinking water operator license. Operate and maintain drinking water treatment and distribution systems to ensure safe water supply.
The required exam is the South Carolina Drinking Water Operator Certification Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.
The median annual salary for drinking water operators in South Carolina is $48,612. The national median is $53,420.
South Carolina requires 20 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.