Driving Without a Valid License or on a Suspended License in South Carolina

South Carolina prohibits driving without a valid license and driving with a suspended or revoked license. Violating these laws can carry serious consequences, like jail, fines, additional license suspensions, and vehicle impoundment.

Driving Without a License Law

Every person who operates a motor vehicle on a South Carolina highway generally must possess and be able to display a valid driver's license. (S.C. Code §§ 56-1-20, 56-1-440 (2025).)

Penalties for Unlicensed Driving

Unlicensed driving (meaning the driver doesn't own a license) is a misdemeanor, punishable by a $50 to $100 fine or 30 days in jail. A second offense carries a $500 fine, 45 days in jail, or both. A third offense will result in 45 days to 6 months in jail. (S.C. Code § 56-1-440 (2025).)

Penalties for Driving Without a Valid License in Your Possession

All licensed drivers are required to possess, and upon request by a police officer, display a valid driver's license while driving. A violation is a misdemeanor, carrying a fine of up to $100 or a maximum of 30 days in jail. However, dismissal of the charge is possible if the driver presents a then-valid license before the court date. (S.C. Code §§ 56-1-190, 561-500 (2025).)

Exceptions to the Driver's License Requirement

Non-resident drivers with valid driver's licenses from their home states or countries can drive in the state without a South Carolina license. Drivers from other states must be at least 16 years old, and drivers from other countries that don't require licensing of drivers must be at least 18 years old. (Learn more about South Carolina's teen driving laws.) (S.C. Code § 56-1-30 (2025).)

Non-residents from countries that don't require driver's licenses may drive in South Carolina for up to 90 days. Federal government employees in government vehicles and farmers in farm machinery are exempt from licensing requirements. (S.C. Code § 56-1-30 (2025).)

Driving on a Suspended License

A person who operates a vehicle while on a suspended or revoked license could face jail time, fines, and extended license sanctions. The specific penalties depend on the number of prior offenses the driver has had within the last five years. (S.C. Code § 56-1-460 (2025).)

Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License

Generally, driving while suspended is a misdemeanor, punishable by:

• First offense: up to 30 days in jail and a $300 fine
• Second offense: up to 60 days in jail and a $600 fine
• Third offense: up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine (may serve on house arrest)

(S.C. Code § 56-1-460 (2025).)

Penalties for Driving on a DUI-Related Suspended License

A driver whose license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI (driving under the influence) offense will face increased penalties of:

• First offense: $300 fine and 10 to 30 days in jail
• Second offense: $600 fine and 60 days to 6 months in jail
• Third offense: $1,000 fine and 6 months to 3 years in jail

(S.C. Code § 56-1-460 (2025).)

Extended Sanctions for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License

If the driver was caught driving on a suspended license, the suspension will be extended for a like period (the same as the original suspension). However, a route-restricted license might be available to the driver. If the driver was cited for driving on a revoked license, the revocation will be extended for one year. A suspension due to failure to pay traffic tickets will only be extended for 30 days. (S.C. Code § 56-1-460 (2025).)

Penalties for Violating Conditions of a Restricted License

Drivers who violate the limitations of a restricted license are guilty of a misdemeanor. A violation carries a fine of up to $100 or a maximum of 30 days in jail. (S.C. Code § 56-1-170 (2025).)

Getting Help From a South Carolina Defense Attorney

Anytime you're accused of a crime, you should get legal assistance. An experienced defense attorney can educate you on the law and help you decide on how best to handle your situation.