Reinstating a Driver's License in South Carolina
How to check your South Carolina license status, what gets a license suspended, reinstatement steps and fees, and hardship licenses.
Short answer: The SCDMV's License Reinstatement page offers online quick links to pay reinstatement fees and verify payment plan eligibility; for questions about a specific suspension, call 803-896-5000 or visit an SCDMV branch. SCDMV, License Reinstatement
| Checking and reinstating a license | The SCDMV's License Reinstatement page offers online quick links to pay reinstatement fees and verify payment plan eligibility; for questions about a specific suspension, call 803-896-5000 or visit an SCDMV branch. For DUI/DUAC and Felony DUI violations dated on or after May 19, 2024, an ignition interlock device is required to clear the suspension. A provisional license (first-offense DUI/DUAC, with ADSAP enrollment), a route-restricted license (Form DL-127), or a temporary alcohol license may be available for $100 each. Source: SCDMV, License Reinstatement |
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| License suspension | Grounds include accumulating 12 or more points (three to six months), DUI or unlawful alcohol concentration convictions, refusing a chemical test or testing at 0.15 or more, and, for drivers under 21, an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or more. Suspensions for unpaid tickets or no insurance, and reinstatement fees, were not confirmed. |
| Hardship or restricted license | During a points suspension, a person who is employed or enrolled in college and lives more than one mile from work or school may apply for a special restricted driver's license to drive only to and from work or school and in the course of work or school, with set times and routes. The fee is $100. After a DUI, driving is generally through an ignition interlock restricted license. |
Where to get help in South Carolina
More South Carolina traffic tickets & dui
- DUI Laws in South Carolina
- How Driver Points Work in South Carolina
- Paying or Contesting a Traffic Ticket in South Carolina
- All South Carolina traffic tickets & dui rules
FAQ
How do I check if my license is suspended and get it reinstated in South Carolina?
The SCDMV's License Reinstatement page offers online quick links to pay reinstatement fees and verify payment plan eligibility; for questions about a specific suspension, call 803-896-5000 or visit an SCDMV branch. For DUI/DUAC and Felony DUI violations dated on or after May 19, 2024, an ignition interlock device is required to clear the suspension. A provisional license (first-offense DUI/DUAC, with ADSAP enrollment), a route-restricted license (Form DL-127), or a temporary alcohol license may be available for $100 each.
What gets your license suspended in South Carolina?
Grounds include accumulating 12 or more points (three to six months), DUI or unlawful alcohol concentration convictions, refusing a chemical test or testing at 0.15 or more, and, for drivers under 21, an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or more.
Can you get a hardship license in South Carolina?
During a points suspension, a person who is employed or enrolled in college and lives more than one mile from work or school may apply for a special restricted driver's license to drive only to and from work or school and in the course of work or school, with set times and routes. The fee is $100. After a DUI, driving is generally through an ignition interlock restricted license.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.