South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 131 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION-STATE BOARD OF REGISTRATION FOR GEOLOGISTS
Here’s a detailed overview of South Carolina Code of Regulations, Chapter 131 – Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation: State Board of Registration for Geologists. Sources current as of March 28, 2025. (regulations.justia.com)
📘 Chapter 131 – Key Sections
131‑01: Definitions
Terms like applicant, subordinate, geologist‑in‑training, registrant, and continuing education are defined. (scstatehouse.gov)
131‑02: Officers of the Board
Annual election of chairman, vice-chairman, and other officers at the first meeting of each calendar year. (scstatehouse.gov)
131‑03: Meetings
The Board meets at least twice annually, plus additionally when called. A majority of serving members constitutes a quorum. Absenteeism policies may result in removal if unexcused. (scstatehouse.gov)
131‑04: Registration as Geologist‑in‑Training
Requirements include:
≥30 semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) in geology/geophysics from an accredited school,
Submitting application, transcript, and fee,
Passing a fundamentals exam,
Demonstrating good ethical character. (scstatehouse.gov)
131‑05: Registration as Professional Geologist
Requirements include:
Geology/geophysics degree (same thresholds as above),
Application and transcript submission,
Passing both fundamentals and practical exams,
≥5 years of full‑time professional geological experience (or active registration in an equivalent jurisdiction). (legalfix.com, scstatehouse.gov)
131‑06 to 131‑08: Examinations, Temporary Registration, Reciprocity
See full text—covers details on examination procedures, temporary licensure allowances, and registration by endorsement or reciprocity. (law.cornell.edu)
131‑09: Appeal
Applicants or registrants may appeal denial or revocation decisions according to § 40‑1‑160 and the Administrative Procedures Act. (scstatehouse.gov)
131‑10: Renewal & Reactivation
Biennial renewals due by June 30 of even‑numbered years with applicable fees and continuing education (CEC) credits.
Late renewals during a 6‑month penalty period require extra fee (150% of renewal) and proof of CEC; the registrant may not practice until renewal is complete.
Reactivation allowed for registrations expired ≤5 years with fees, documentation of CEC (up to 32 hours), and non-practice affidavit; those expired >5 years must reapply as new. (llr.sc.gov)
131‑11: Seals
Each professional geologist must have an official seal (embosser or rubber stamp) to authenticate documents. (casetext.com)
131‑12: Continuing Professional Competency
Registrants must earn 24 contact hours of approved CEC every two years, with up to 8 hours carryover.
Record‑keeping and proof requirements in place; certain exemptions may apply (e.g., military service, illness). (law.cornell.edu)
131‑13: Fees
Fees (non‑refundable) set in Chapter 10‑18 regulations and on the Board’s website. (scstatehouse.gov)
131‑14: Code of Ethics
Standards include honesty, integrity, protection of public welfare, compliance with law, avoidance of false claims, and reporting unsafe or illegal actions by others. (scstatehouse.gov)
131‑15: Complaints
Governs the procedures by which public complaints against registrants are handled. (See full regulation text.)
🛠️ Next Steps or Resources
You can access the full Chapter 131 PDF via the South Carolina Legislature’s site. (scstatehouse.gov)
For up-to-date details on fees, applications, meeting calendars, or forms, refer to the LLR Board of Geologists website. (llr.sc.gov)
✅ Summary
This regulation sets the structure for licensure, including definitions, application procedures for trainee/professional geologists, renewal cycles with continuing education, use of professional seals, ethical standards, and complaint handling. If you'd like help locating specific forms, interpreting a section, or reviewing requirements closely—for instance, examining how temporary registration works—just let me know!
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