Online Correctional Officer Training and Job Center

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Correctional Officer Requirements for South Carolina


The minimum requirements to become a Correctional Officer for the South Carolina Department of Corrections include being a United States citizen, at least 18 years old, obtained a high school diploma or GED, and have a valid driver’s license.

You will be disqualified if you have a criminal record. When filling out your application, you must report any crimes other than minor traffic violations.

Additionally, if you are hired, you need to be able to pass a physical exam and complete all SCDC academy and on the job training.

To apply, you can fill out the application here. You do not need an SCDC job position number on your application since the position is always open and correctional officers are continually hired by SCDC. Make sure to put “correctional officer” under job title.

After completing your application, e-mail it to [email protected]. You will receive a notice in the mail that your application has been received which will include a personal identification number (PIN) and instructions for how to apply for online positions.

All new SCDC employees are required to attend a one week, 40-hour Employee Orientation course, mandated by South Carolina state law. It is compliant with the American Correctional Association Standards for Accreditation. You will learn about SCDC personnel issues and OSHA workplace standards.

SCDC training is in accordance with the Certified Law Enforcement Executive (CLEE) requirements. Correctional Officer Certification is a five-week, 172-hour training academy. Instruction will emphasize firearms and self-defense training. You will also be tested on your physical agility.

For more information, please visit the SCDC website.

One Response to Correctional Officer Requirements for South Carolina

  1. Elizabeth Patrick July 2, 2013 at 4:41 pm #

    I am a third year college student obtaining my degree in psychology and criminal justice my career goal is to work with crisis teens and youth either in probation or a group home/detention situation however in order to get started I was told I may have to start with corrections . I draw my disability though that is another reason I am going into a field that is mainly office /paper work and dealin with the court – passing background and drug test wouldn’t be a problem the physical test may be…

    – I am willing to relocate for the right job – but have no prior work experience in this field

    Thank you