South Carolina

South Carolina’s Teen Driver’s License and Insurance Requirements

South Carolina uses a graduated license system to promote young drivers to a valid license. The state has multiple youth licenses available depending on the needs and experience of the applicant.

South Carolina’s Cellphone-Use & Texting-While-Driving Laws

South Carolina’s distracted driving law makes it illegal to text message while driving. However, the state has no restrictions on using a cellphone for calls while operating a vehicle.

South Carolina’s Commercial Driver’s License Laws

To operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in South Carolina, the driver must have the appropriate commercial driver’s license (CDL). Different CMVs require different classes of CDLs and endorsements.

South Carolina’s Child Car Seat and Seatbelt Laws

South Carolina has laws mandating protection for children in cars. Drivers who don't ensure child passengers are properly secured face fines.

South Carolina Law on Passengers and Pets in Pickup Trucks

South Carolina has rules regarding seatbelts and child restraints inside vehicles as well as rules governing passengers riding in truck beds.

South Carolina’s Traffic Violation Point System

South Carolina uses a point system to manage problem drivers. Under that system each point serves as a demerit, and if you accumulate 12 or more points, you will have your license suspended.

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

South Carolina prohibits driving without a valid license—whether the person was driving on a license that was suspended or not reinstated or without ever having been issued a license.

Red Light and Stop Sign Tickets in South Carolina

If you get caught running a stop sign or red light in South Carolina, you’ll likely face fines and demerit points on your driving record. This article gives an overview of what the law prohibits and some specific consequences of a stop sign or red light violation.

South Carolina Speeding Tickets: The Law and Penalties

In addition to "absolute speed limits", South Carolina's "basic speeding law" prohibits driving at a speed greater than is "reasonable and prudent".

South Carolina's Reckless Driving Laws and Penalties

Reckless driving is a crime in South Carolina. Read about how the offense is defined and the penalties you'll be facing if convicted.

South Carolina's Reckless Vehicular Homicide Laws and Penalties

A motorist who drives recklessly and kills another person will likely face reckless vehicular homicide charges.