South Carolina Car Insurance After Reinstatement
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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South Carolina at a Glance
25/50/25
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Required
Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy
$100
State license reinstatement fee
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in South Carolina
South Carolina operates under a tort system, meaning the at-fault driver's liability insurance pays for damages. The state requires proof of insurance at registration, traffic stops, and after any violation that triggers license suspension. Drivers reinstating their license after suspension must file SR-22 with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles before driving privileges are restored.
Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
SR-22 Certificate of Financial Responsibility
What Drivers Pay in South Carolina
$327–$411/mo
Typical monthly rate in South Carolina, high-risk drivers after a DUI
Rate data: ValuePenguin and Insurify, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- SR-22 filing duration: South Carolina requires 3-year filings for DUI and most major violations — your surcharge remains in effect for the full filing period.
- Lapse history during suspension: Drivers who maintained continuous coverage during their suspension period (through non-owner policies) qualify for better rates than drivers who let coverage lapse entirely.
- Vehicle value and coverage selection: Adding collision and comprehensive to a high-value vehicle can double your premium in the non-standard market.
- Time since reinstatement: Most non-standard carriers offer step-down discounts at 12 months and 24 months if you maintain continuous coverage with no additional violations.
Have Your Proof of Insurance Ready to Reinstate
Get My Post-Reinstatement QuoteIf your license is suspended
Route Restricted Drivers License (DL-127); separate Provisional License for first-offense DUI/DUAC
application fee $100.
A coverage lapse is reported
The state acts on a lapse after 20 days.
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need SR-22 filing in South Carolina after a DUI?
South Carolina requires SR-22 filing for 3 years after a DUI conviction, measured from your reinstatement date, not your conviction date. If you let your SR-22 policy lapse at any point during those 3 years, your license is automatically re-suspended and the 3-year clock restarts from your next reinstatement date.
Can I get my license back in South Carolina without SR-22 insurance?
No. South Carolina DMV will not reinstate your license after most suspensions until SR-22 filing is active and on file. The SR-22 filing must be submitted before you drive — driving without it is considered driving under suspension and triggers criminal penalties.
What happens if I move out of South Carolina during my SR-22 filing period?
Your SR-22 filing obligation moves with you, but the new state may call it SR-22 or FR-44 or Certificate of Financial Responsibility. You must notify South Carolina DMV of your move, obtain a license in your new state, and file proof of insurance there. If you cancel your South Carolina SR-22 before establishing filing in the new state, South Carolina will suspend your driving privilege record, which most states honor through interstate compacts.
Coverage Types
Post-Reinstatement SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files with South Carolina DMV proving you carry at least state minimum liability. The filing must remain active for 3 years after most suspensions — any lapse triggers immediate re-suspension.
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
Liability-only policy for drivers who don't own a vehicle but need SR-22 filing to maintain their license. Costs 40–60% less than standard SR-22 because there's no vehicle to insure.
Full Coverage After Reinstatement
Liability, collision, and comprehensive with SR-22 filing. Required if you have a loan or lease, and necessary if your vehicle is worth more than you can afford to replace out-of-pocket.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage from carriers that specialize in high-risk drivers. Most national standard carriers will not write policies immediately after suspension — non-standard carriers fill this gap.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays your medical bills and vehicle damage when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Optional in South Carolina but must be offered at policy inception.