South Carolina Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
South Carolina requires that you have your headlights on whenever you are using your windshield wipers.
Valid out of state permits to carry concealable weapons held by a resident of a reciprocal state must be honored.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 30 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 60 mph |
| Interstates | 70 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | Yes |
| Aircraft | No |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Equipment | Yes |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $1,000 must be reported immediately to the local authorities and within 15 days to the Department of Public Safety, P.O. Box 1498, Columbia, SC 29216-0001.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law with both security-type and future proof-type.
Minimum limits: $15,000/30,000/5,000 and $1,000 medical/1,000 uninsured motorists.
South Carolina has unsatisfied judgment funds law and uninsured motorists law.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- South Carolina does not have an administrative license suspension law, but does have an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 90-day driver's license suspension.
- Loaded handguns may be carried in a closed glove compartment; rifles and shotguns may be loaded while in the trunk or passenger area with some exceptions.
- Studded tires are permitted in snow and ice conditions.
- Tire chains are not required.
- South Carolina has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all front seat occupants and for all rear seat occupants if the vehicle is equipped with shoulder straps.
- South Carolina has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 6 years of age. Adult safety belt may be used for children ages 4-6 in the front seat and 1-6 in rear seat.
- South Carolina has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law for persons under 21 years of age.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 803/896-7839
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: None