South Carolina · Utility

Moving to South Carolina? Here's what to know about getting your license

If you're new to South Carolina, you'll typically need to transfer your out-of-state license within a set time window. The fees, identification documents, and whether you need to retake the knowledge test depend on where you're coming from.

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Documents you'll need

Acceptable identity documents

South Carolina requires original documents proving U.S. citizenship, identity, and date and place of birth when you apply for a first-time beginner's permit, driver's license, or identification card. The U.S. Citizen's Checklist (SCDMV form MV-93) lists the acceptable documents. Non-citizens use the International Customers' Checklist (form MV-94) and must apply at a branch office that processes international applications. Bring originals, not photocopies.

Source: South Carolina Driver's Manual, Section 1: The Driver's License, p. 1-4

Acceptable residency documents

Provide proof of your South Carolina address alongside your identity and Social Security documents. The SCDMV's U.S. Citizen's Checklist (form MV-93) and International Customers' Checklist (form MV-94), both available at dmv.sc.gov, list the acceptable residency documents. Bring originals.

Source: South Carolina Driver's Manual, Section 1: The Driver's License, p. 1-4

SSN proof requirements

Provide proof of your Social Security number when you apply for a first-time beginner's permit, driver's license, or identification card. The U.S. Citizen's Checklist (SCDMV form MV-93) lists the acceptable SSN-proof documents.

Source: South Carolina Driver's Manual, Section 1: The Driver's License, p. 1-4

Vision test required at issuance

yes

Source: South Carolina Driver's Manual, Section 1: The Driver's License, p. 1-15; Section 3, p. 3-1 to 3-2

See full Required Identification Documents detail →

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