Nursing License Lookup - South Carolina CNA Registry

License Lookup Information

To verify a nurse’s license in South Carolina, individuals can use the nurse license lookup tool provided by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). This online tool allows for quick verification of the licensure status of registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in South Carolina. Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform a license lookup:

  1. Access the Lookup Tool: Go to the official website of the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). Navigate to the "Licensee Lookup" section which can be easily found on the homepage or under the 'Professionals' tab.

  2. Enter Search Criteria: On the license lookup page, you will need to enter specific information to find the nurse’s profile. You can search by various criteria such as the nurse’s name, license number, or other identifying details. Typically, entering the last name and the first name provides the most direct results.

  3. Perform the Search: After entering the information, click on the search button to proceed. The system will display a list of individuals matching your search criteria.

  4. Review the Results: From the list, find the specific nurse you are verifying. Click on their name to view detailed information about their license status.

  5. Verify License Details: On the nurse’s detail page, you can view important information such as the license type, status (active, inactive, expired, etc.), expiration date, and any disciplinary actions or sanctions if applicable.

  6. Documentation: If necessary, you can take a screenshot or print the details for your records as proof of verification.

Specific Regulations or Criteria Related to Nurse Licensure in South Carolina:

  • Renewal: In South Carolina, nurses must renew their licenses every two years. The renewal process often requires continuing education and adherence to professional conduct standards.

  • Continuing Education (CE): South Carolina requires registered nurses to complete continuing education units (CEUs) as part of the renewal process. The specific hours and types of acceptable education vary, so nurses should consult the LLR directly for current requirements.

  • Multistate Licensure: South Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. However, nurses are obligated to adhere to the laws and regulations of the state in which they are practicing.

  • Disciplinary Actions: The South Carolina Board of Nursing has the authority to take disciplinary actions against licenses if there are violations of standards. This can include suspension, revocation, or mandatory participation in remedial programs.

By using the official LLR website and following these steps, individuals can efficiently confirm the licensure status of a nurse in South Carolina, ensuring they meet the necessary legal and professional standards.

Registry Information

In South Carolina, individuals can access the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) registry online or by contacting the appropriate state department. This registry is maintained by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). It provides information on the status of a CNA’s certification, including whether it is active and in good standing. Here's how individuals can verify a CNA's certification status in South Carolina:

Online Verification

  1. Visit the Online Portal: South Carolina offers a specific website dedicated to verification of CNA certifications. You can visit the Pearson VUE or the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) website, which oversees the Nurse Aide Registry in partnership with Pearson VUE.

  2. Search for the CNA: You will need to enter specific details to search for a CNA. Typically, this includes the CNA’s name or certification number. Some systems may also ask for additional details to ensure accurate results.

  3. Review the Information: Once the search is completed, you’ll be able to see the CNA’s certification status, including any disciplinary actions or expiration details.

Phone Verification

Alternatively, if you prefer not to use the online tool or need additional support, you can contact the South Carolina DHEC or Pearson VUE directly over the phone. They can provide verification information and assist with any inquiries about the registry.

Requirements and Procedures Unique to South Carolina:

  • Renewal of Certification: In South Carolina, CNAs must renew their certification every two years. To renew certification, CNAs must have worked a minimum number of hours providing nursing-related services in a healthcare setting.

  • Continuing Education: South Carolina may require CNAs to continue their education periodically to maintain their certification. This often includes updates on healthcare policies, patient care standards, and safe handling procedures.

  • Reactivation: If a CNA's certification has lapsed or expired, they may need to undergo retraining and retesting depending on how long their certification has been inactive.

The South Carolina CNA registry is an essential resource for employers and families looking for verified and certified nursing assistants. It helps ensure that CNAs working in the state meet the requisite standards of knowledge and professionalism required for healthcare providers.

State-Specific Regulations

In South Carolina, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and nurses are regulated by the South Carolina Board of Nursing, which is a part of the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). Here’s a detailed overview of the requirements and regulations for these professions:

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)

  1. Certification Requirements: To become a CNA in South Carolina, individuals must complete a state-approved training program and pass the state-sanctioned competency examination.
  2. Training Program: The training program typically involves at least 100 hours, which includes both classroom and clinical instruction.
  3. Examination: After completing the training, candidates must pass the Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes both a written (or oral) exam and a skills evaluation.
  4. Registry: Successful candidates are then listed on the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry, which is managed by Pearson VUE. Being listed on the registry is essential for employment as a CNA in South Carolina.

Nurses (RN and LPN)

  1. Licensing Requirements: Both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are required to complete relevant nursing education and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN for registered nurses and NCLEX-PN for practical nurses).
  2. Continuing Education: Nurses are required to complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their licensure. The specifics of these requirements can vary, with details available from the Board of Nursing.

Recent Updates

  • Renewal Process: There have been updates in the renewal process, making it necessary for nurses and CNAs to renew their licenses every two years. This process can now be completed online through the LLR website.
  • Licensure by Endorsement: Nurses who are licensed in other states can obtain licensure in South Carolina by endorsement, provided they meet specific state requirements and have their fingerprints submitted for a background check.

Official Resources

For more detailed information and updates:

  • South Carolina Board of Nursing: Visit here
  • South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR): Visit here
  • South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry: Managed by Pearson VUE, detailed information about the registry and testing can be found on their official Pearson Vue page.

These resources will provide the most current and comprehensive information about the licensing procedures, regulations, and any recent changes important for CNAs and nurses in South Carolina.