Last verified: 23/09/2026
South Carolina at a glance
This guide explains Driver's License requirements in South Carolina, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.
Eligibility & Age Rules
<p>South Carolina uses a graduated licensing system for drivers under 18. Permit holders must complete the required supervised-driving period and driver education before advancing to the appropriate conditional or regular license stage.</p>
Costs, timing and validity
Beginner's permit: 15. A conditional license can be issued at 15 years 6 months after the required permit and supervised-driving period. A special restricted license is available at 16, and a regular driver's license follows the graduated licensing requirements.
A standard Class D driver's license is $25. A beginner's permit is $2.50 plus a $2 knowledge-test fee. Additional test or service fees can apply.
A standard Class D renewal is $25. Renewal and replacement transactions can include online service fees charged through SC.GOV.
A standard South Carolina driver's license is generally valid for 8 years. Certain limited or temporary credentials have different terms.
Documents and information to prepare
Use the official checklist linked on this page as the final authority. The items below describe the information this state commonly expects for this credential.
Applicants must provide acceptable proof of identity, date of birth, Social Security number, citizenship or lawful status, and South Carolina residency. REAL ID applicants need the additional documents required by SCDMV.
How to apply
Complete the appropriate beginner’s permit or license application, bring the required documents, pass the vision and knowledge tests, complete supervised driving and driver education when required, pass the road test, and pay the applicable fee.
Testing, Training & Restrictions
<p>Applicants complete vision, knowledge and road testing as required by the licensing stage. The road test is required for the applicable first-time licensing stages; transfer applicants may follow different rules.</p>
Renewal and ongoing requirements
<p>Eligible drivers can renew through SCDMV online services or at a branch. Applicants who need a new photograph, document update or other in-person service must follow the branch renewal process.</p>
Processing time
South Carolina uses centralized credential issuance. Applicants leave the branch with a temporary driving certificate when applicable, and the permanent credential is generally processed and delivered within 7β15 business days.