Penalties for driving without insurance in South Carolina
If you’re caught driving without valid proof of insurance
in South Carolina, you may face a driver’s license suspension, fines, and even jail time. Furthermore, you’ll have to file an SR-22 certificate of financial responsibility
for three years, which will drive up your insurance premiums. First offense: Driving without insurance in South Carolina
Driver’s license and registration suspension until you provide proof of insurance
$600 uninsured motorist fee; up to $200 in fines, 30 days in jail, or both
$5 fee per day (up to $200) for each day you went without insurance
$200 reinstatement fee and SR-22 filing requirement for three years
Second offense: Driving without insurance in South Carolina
License and registration suspension
$200 reinstatement fee and SR-22 filing requirement for three years
Subsequent offenses: Driving without insurance in South Carolina
45 days to six months in jail
License and registration suspension
$200 reinstatement fee and SR-22 filing requirement for three years
FAQs
What are the minimum requirements for auto insurance in South Carolina?
South Carolina drivers must carry the following minimum amounts of automobile insurance:
$50,000 of bodily injury liability per accident
$25,000 of bodily injury uninsured motorist coverage per person
$50,000 of bodily injury uninsured motorist coverage per person
$25,000 of property damage uninsured motorist coverage
Do you have to have car insurance to get a driver’s license in South Carolina?
Yes—the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires that you show proof of insurance before it will issue a driver’s license. If you do not have a vehicle or live in a household with a vehicle, you’ll mark that on the second page of your application for a permit, license, or ID.
Is South Carolina a no-fault state for insurance?
No—South Carolina is an at-fault state. That means the at-fault driver is responsible for covering the medical expenses and repair costs for the other parties after an auto accident.
Does South Carolina require proof of insurance?
Yes—you must carry proof of insurance with you at all times when operating a motor vehicle in South Carolina. If a law enforcement officer stops you and you’re unable to provide proof of insurance, you'll likely receive a ticket, and you must provide proof of insurance within 30 days to avoid a license suspension.
What happens if you don’t have car insurance in South Carolina?
If you don’t have car insurance in South Carolina, you could face a variety of consequences, including:
Fines ranging from $100 to $600 for the first offense
License and registration suspension
An SR-22 form requirement for three years