South Carolina Driving Laws: A Complete Guide

Minimum Driving Age

• Beginner’s Permit: Available at 15 years old.
• Conditional License: Eligible at 15½ years old, after holding the beginner’s permit for at least 180 days and completing driver education and supervised driving requirements.
• Regular Driver’s License: Available at 16 years old, after meeting all prior requirements.

Learner’s Permit Rules

• Supervision: Permit holders must be accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older with at least one year of driving experience, seated in the front passenger seat.
• Holding Period: Must hold the beginner’s permit for at least 180 days before applying for a conditional license.
• Practice Hours:
  • 40 hours of supervised driving, including:
    • 10 hours at night

License Types

• Beginner’s Permit: For practicing with a licensed adult.
• Conditional License: Intermediate license with restrictions for drivers under 16.
• Special Restricted License: For drivers aged 16 to 17, allowing unsupervised driving with certain restrictions.
• Regular Driver’s License: Available at 17 years old, or earlier if criteria are met.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Required for operating commercial vehicles.
• Motorcycle License: Required for operating motorcycles; applicants must pass a motorcycle knowledge test and skills test.

Required Documents for Driving

To apply for a permit or license in South Carolina, applicants must provide:

• Proof of Identity: Such as a birth certificate or valid passport.
• Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card or approved document.
• Proof of South Carolina Residency: Two documents, such as utility bills, lease agreements, or school transcripts.
• Parental Consent: Required if under 18; parent or guardian must accompany the applicant or provide a notarized signature on the application.
• Driver Education Certificate: Required if under 17, showing completion of a state-approved driver education course.