USA South Carolina Driver License

South Carolina Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Need a South Carolina Driver’s License? Whether you’re a new driver, new resident, or need to renew your license, this guide will walk you through the process with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV).

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How to Get a South Carolina Driver’s License

Step 1: Choose the License Type
Most people apply for a Class D license to operate a standard passenger vehicle. Other license types include motorcycle (Class M) and commercial (CDL).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Bring the following to your local SCDMV branch:

• Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. birth certificate or valid passport)
• Proof of Social Security number (SSN card, W-2, or 1099)
• Two documents showing South Carolina residency (e.g., utility bill, lease)
• Proof of legal presence (if applicable)

Step 3: Pass Required Tests
If you are applying for a first-time license, you must:

• Pass a vision screening
• Take a knowledge test (based on the SC Driver’s Manual)
• Pass a road test (schedule online or by phone)

Teen Drivers (under age 18) must:

• Start with a beginner’s permit at age 15
• Hold it for at least 180 days
• Complete 40 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night)
• Complete an approved driver’s education course

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New Residents: Transfer a License to South Carolina

If you recently moved to South Carolina, you must transfer your out-of-state license within 90 days of establishing residency.

Visit an SCDMV branch with:

• Your valid out-of-state driver’s license
• Proof of identity, Social Security, and SC residency
• Payment for the appropriate fee
• You may need to take a vision test (written and road tests are usually waived)

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Renewing a South Carolina Driver’s License

Most South Carolina driver’s licenses are valid for 8 years. You can renew:

• Online at SCDMVOnline.com
• In person at a local SCDMV office
• By mail (if eligible)

You may need a new photo and vision test in person if your license has expired or hasn’t been updated in over 10 years.

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South Carolina REAL ID

Beginning May 7, 2025, the federal government will require a REAL ID or passport to fly domestically or access federal buildings.

South Carolina’s REAL ID features a gold star in the upper-right corner.

To obtain a REAL ID, visit the SCDMV in person with:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of SSN
• Two SC residency documents

If you renew or get a new license, you can upgrade to a REAL ID at no extra cost.

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South Carolina Driver’s License Fees (2025)

Service	Fee (Approx.)
Class D License (8 years)	$25
Beginner’s Permit	$2.50
License Renewal	$25
REAL ID Upgrade	Included
Duplicate License	$10
Commercial or Motorcycle License	Varies

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Required Documents Checklist

• U.S. passport or birth certificate
• SSN card or W-2 form
• Two documents showing South Carolina residency
• Completed license application (available online or in office)

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SCDMV Services

• First-time license applications
• Learner’s permits and provisional licenses
• Out-of-state license transfers
• REAL ID upgrades
• License renewals and replacements
• Road tests and written exams
• Address and name changes

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For appointments, documents, and official updates, visit the South Carolina DMV website.