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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 transfer your license

You can transfer a valid driver's license from another state to South Carolina without retaking the written or road test. You will need to visit a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office in person, bring your current out-of-state license and proof of residency, and pay a fee. The process takes about 30 minutes if you have all documents ready.

South Carolina will not accept online or mail-in transfers. You must appear at an SCDMV office with your documents, have your photo taken, and receive your new license on the spot or within a few days if the office needs to mail it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an SCDMV office in person with your current out-of-state license and proof you live in South Carolina.
  • You do not need to retake the written or road test if your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended or revoked.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement), and payment for the license fee, which varies by license type and duration.
  • Your new South Carolina license will be issued the same day or mailed to you within a few business days.

Documents to bring to the SCDMV office

Bring your current out-of-state driver's license, even if it is expired. You will also need one document that proves you live in South Carolina. The SCDMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number on it. If you do not have your Social Security card, you can bring a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form instead. You will also need to know your date of birth and current address.

Bring payment for the license fee. A regular driver's license costs $24 for a four-year license or $36 for an eight-year license. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at most offices.

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

If your out-of-state license expired fewer than five years ago, you can still transfer it without retaking the tests. Bring the expired license to the SCDMV office along with your other documents. The office will issue you a new South Carolina license.

If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, you cannot transfer it. You will need to contact the state that suspended or revoked your license to find out why and what you must do to restore it. Once your license is restored in that state, you can then transfer to South Carolina. If you are unsure whether your license is suspended, contact the SCDMV or the motor vehicle department in the state that issued your license.

Finding an SCDMV office near you

The SCDMV operates offices in most South Carolina counties. You can find the office nearest you on the SCDMV website at scdmv.org. The website lists office addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation. Some offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm hours before you visit.

Some SCDMV offices are busier than others. If you want to avoid a long wait, visit early in the morning or on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Avoid the end of the month and the first week of the month, when offices tend to be crowded.

Changing your name or address on your license

If you have changed your name since your out-of-state license was issued, bring a document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SCDMV will update your name on your new South Carolina license at no extra cost.

If you have moved since arriving in South Carolina, you do not need to update your address before transferring your license. The SCDMV will use the address you provide when you visit the office. If you move again after receiving your South Carolina license, you can update your address online through the SCDMV website or at any SCDMV office.

License classes and endorsements from other states

South Carolina recognizes most driver's license classes from other states, such as Class D (regular passenger vehicle) or Class CDL (commercial). When you transfer your license, your class will transfer as well. If your out-of-state license has endorsements—such as a motorcycle endorsement or hazmat endorsement—those will also transfer to your South Carolina license.

If you want to add a new endorsement or change your license class after transferring, you will need to pass the written test and road test for that endorsement or class. Contact your local SCDMV office to schedule the tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to surrender my out-of-state license?

Yes. When you transfer your license to South Carolina, the SCDMV will take your out-of-state license and keep it. You will receive only your new South Carolina license. If you want a copy of your out-of-state license for records, ask the SCDMV office to make a photocopy before they take it.

How long does a South Carolina license last?

A regular driver's license is valid for four or eight years, depending on which option you choose when you pay the fee. A commercial driver's license is valid for four years. You can renew your license before it expires by visiting an SCDMV office or renewing online through the SCDMV website.

What if I moved to South Carolina but still have an out-of-state address on my license?

You can still transfer your license with an out-of-state address on it. Bring proof of your South Carolina address (such as a utility bill or lease) to the SCDMV office. The office will issue your new license with your current South Carolina address.

Can I transfer a license from a country outside the United States?

No. South Carolina only transfers licenses from other U.S. states. If you have a license from another country, you will need to take the written test and road test to obtain a South Carolina license. Contact your local SCDMV office for information about scheduling tests.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Bring another document with your Social Security number instead, such as a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form. If you do not have any document with your Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you visit the SCDMV office.