SC DMV APPOINTMENTSSC License Renewal Guide
Three ways to renew your South Carolina driver's license: online, by mail, or in-person. Here's how to pick the best option for you.
Quick Summary
When to Renew
- Your license expires on your birthday - check the expiration date on your card
- SC DMV sends a reminder about 60 days before expiration
- You can renew up to 6 months early - don't wait until the last minute
Warning: There is NO grace period to drive with an expired license in South Carolina. If your license expires, you cannot legally drive until you renew it.
Option 1: Renew Online
The most convenient option if you're eligible. Do it from your couch.
Renew at scdmvonline.com
Cost: $25 | Delivery: Up to 15 business days
You CAN renew online if:
You CANNOT renew online if:
Option 2: Renew by Mail
Same eligibility as online, but you mail a check instead of paying online.
How to renew by mail:
- 1. Write a check or money order for $25 payable to "SCDMV"
- 2. Include your full name, date of birth, and driver's license number
- 3. Mail to:SCDMV
PO Box 1498
Blythewood, SC 29016-0035 - 4. Mail at least 3 weeks before your expiration date
Same eligibility rules as online renewal. If you can't renew online, you can't renew by mail either.
Option 3: Renew In-Person
Walk into any SC DMV branch. No appointment needed. Get your new license the same day.
What to bring:
Your current SC driver's license
Even if it's expired
Insurance information
Know the name of your insurance company
If your address has changed:
Bring 2 proofs of your new SC address (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
If upgrading to REAL ID:
Bring all REAL ID documents (see our REAL ID guide)
Note: If you have more than 5 points on your driving record in the past 2 years, you'll need to pass a written knowledge test when renewing in-person.
Vision Test Requirements
A vision screening is required for all license renewals. Here's how it works:
In-Person Renewal
You'll take a quick vision test at the DMV. It's just reading letters on a screen - takes about 30 seconds. Bring your glasses or contacts if you need them to see.
Online/Mail Renewal
Your eye doctor can submit a vision certificate electronically to SC DMV. It must be dated within the last 36 months. Ask your optometrist if they can do this.
What If My License Is Expired?
Expired less than 9 months
You can renew normally using any method (online, mail, or in-person). Just pay the standard $25 fee. No tests required.
Expired 9 months or more
You must go to a DMV branch in person and:
- • Bring identity documents (like getting a new license)
- • Pass a vision test
- • Pass a written knowledge test
- • Pass a road skills test
Basically, you're starting over as if you never had a license.
Remember: Driving with an expired license is illegal in SC. There's no grace period. If you're pulled over, you could get a ticket.
Fees
| License Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Regular license (8 years) | $25 |
| REAL ID license (8-10 years) | $25-$28 |
| License for age 65+ (5 years) | $9 |
| Motorcycle endorsement add-on | $5 |
Payment: Cash, check, money order, or debit/credit card accepted at DMV branches. Online renewal accepts cards only.
Upgrading to REAL ID
Renewal is a great time to upgrade to REAL ID if you haven't already. You'll need to go in-person and bring additional documents.
Documents needed for REAL ID upgrade:
- Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security number
- 2 proofs of SC address
- Name change documents (if applicable)
Quick Comparison
| Online | By Mail | In-Person | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $25 | $25 | $25 |
| Time to receive | ~15 days | ~3 weeks | Same day |
| CDL eligible? | No | No | Yes |
| Non-citizens eligible? | No | No | Yes |
| Can upgrade to REAL ID? | Sometimes | No | Yes |
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