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How to Transfer Your Driver's License to South Carolina

By Viola Travers · Practical Services & Civic Guide

What you need to do to get a South Carolina driver's license

You must visit a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office in person to transfer your license from another state. You cannot do this by mail or online. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of your South Carolina residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The SCDMV will issue you a new South Carolina license on the spot if everything is in order.

The process takes about 30 minutes at most offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You will pay a fee for the new license — the amount depends on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. Your out-of-state license becomes invalid once you receive your South Carolina license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must go to an SCDMV office in person; transfers cannot be completed by mail or online.
  • Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of South Carolina residency (such as a lease or utility bill), and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return).
  • The SCDMV issues your new license the same day if your documents are complete and correct.
  • You will pay a fee based on the license type and validity period you choose.

Documents you must bring to the SCDMV office

Your current out-of-state driver's license is your primary form of identification. If you no longer have it, bring a passport or state ID card instead.

Proof of South Carolina residency must show your name and a South Carolina address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you just moved and do not yet have a document in your name, bring an affidavit of residency — the SCDMV can provide this form at the office.

Proof of your Social Security number can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

If your name has changed since your out-of-state license was issued, bring a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SCDMV will not issue a license if the name on your application does not match the name on your proof of Social Security number.

Finding an SCDMV office and scheduling your visit

The SCDMV operates offices across South Carolina. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the SCDMV website at scdmv.org. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require you to book an appointment. Check your local office's policy before you go.

If your office requires an appointment, you can book one online through the SCDMV website or by calling the office directly. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, especially in busy areas, so plan ahead. Walk-in offices usually have shorter wait times early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Bring all your documents in one trip. If you forget something, you will have to return another day to complete the transfer.

License fees and validity periods

South Carolina charges different fees depending on the type of license you want and how long you want it to be valid. A standard driver's license costs less than a commercial license. You can choose a license valid for four years or eight years; the eight-year license costs more upfront but is cheaper per year.

The SCDMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Ask the office which payment methods they take before you arrive, as not all offices accept all forms of payment.

What happens if your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked

If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, you cannot transfer it to South Carolina. The SCDMV will check your driving record before issuing a new license. If a suspension or revocation is on file, the SCDMV will deny your transfer and explain why.

You may be able to resolve the issue in your previous state before transferring. Contact the motor vehicle department in the state where the suspension or revocation occurred to find out what steps you need to take. Once the issue is resolved, you can return to the SCDMV to complete your transfer.

Renewing your South Carolina license later

Once you have your South Carolina license, you can renew it by mail or online when it expires — you do not have to visit an office again unless you want to change your address, name, or other information on the license. The SCDMV sends renewal notices about 60 days before your license expires.

If you move to a different address within South Carolina, you must update your license. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at an SCDMV office, depending on what information you are changing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my South Carolina license after I transfer?

You receive your new license the same day you visit the SCDMV office, as long as all your documents are correct and complete. The office prints it while you wait. You can start using it immediately.

Can I drive on my out-of-state license while I wait for my South Carolina license?

No. Once you move to South Carolina, you are required by law to transfer your license within a certain time frame. Driving on an out-of-state license after you have established residency in South Carolina is illegal. Transfer your license as soon as you can after you move.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must have a Social Security number to get a South Carolina driver's license. If you do not have one, contact the Social Security Administration to apply. You cannot complete your license transfer until you have a number.

Do I have to take a written test or driving test to transfer my license?

No. The SCDMV does not require a written test or driving test for license transfers. You only need to provide your documents and pay the fee. However, if your out-of-state license has been expired for more than a certain period, the SCDMV may require you to take a test.

What if I lost my out-of-state license?

Bring a passport, state ID card, or other government-issued photo ID instead. The SCDMV will still issue you a South Carolina license. You do not need to replace your out-of-state license first.