Driving Without Insurance in South Carolina

Owning and driving (or allowing the driving of) an uninsured vehicle is a misdemeanor: first offense, a $100-$200 fine or 30 days in jail; second offense, a $200 fine and/or 30 days; third or later offense (within five years), 45 days to six months in jail. SCDMV suspends the owner's driver's license, registrations and plates until a reinstatement fee is paid; the statute sets the fee at $600, adjusted annually by the Department of Insurance, and SCDMV currently describes it as a $700 fee. A non-owner driver who knew the vehicle was uninsured has the license suspended for 30 days ($100 reinstatement fee). If insurance lapses and coverage is not verified within 20 business days of SCDMV's letter, the license, plate and registration are suspended, with up to $400 in fees to reinstate.

Proof of insurance must be kept in the vehicle at all times and shown on demand of a police officer; it may be shown on a mobile electronic device in a format issued by the insurer. SCDMV electronically verifies coverage when you register or renew, and insurers notify SCDMV when a policy is canceled. If ticketed for not showing proof, you must provide proof within 30 days to avoid a license suspension ($100 reinstatement fee if suspended).

An owner convicted of driving their own uninsured vehicle must have an insurer file a Certificate of Insurance (SR-22) for three years starting from the date of suspension.