South Carolina License Renewal: What You Need to Know
In South Carolina, you can renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office. The method you choose depends on your license type, how much time remains before expiration, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Most renewals take 7 to 10 business days if you mail your documents, or are processed when ready if you renew online or in person.
Your South Carolina driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your license expires, which gives you flexibility in timing. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must visit an SCDMV office in person.
Key Takeaways
- South Carolina offers three renewal methods: mail, online through the SCDMV website, and in-person at any SCDMV office.
- You can renew online only if your license is still valid and you have not changed your address, name, or other personal information since your last renewal.
- Mail renewal requires sending your current license, a completed Form DL-43, and the renewal fee to the SCDMV; processing takes 7 to 10 business days.
- In-person renewal at an SCDMV office is the fastest option and is required if your license has expired or if you need to update your information.
- The renewal fee is $24 for a standard eight-year license, and you must provide proof of Social Security number and South Carolina residency.
Renewing Online Through the SCDMV Website
The online renewal option is the fastest and most convenient method if you meet the requirements. You can renew online at scdmvonline.com if your current license is still valid, your address has not changed, and you have not updated your name or other personal details since your last renewal. The process takes about 10 minutes and your new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
To renew online, you will need your current South Carolina driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover). The online renewal fee is $24. You cannot use online renewal if your license has expired, if you need to change your address, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL).
Renewing by Mail
Mail renewal is an option if your license is still valid and you do not need to change your address or personal information. To renew by mail, complete Form DL-43 (process for Renewal of Driver's License), which you can read from the SCDMV website or request by phone at 803-896-5000. Include your current driver's license, the completed form, and a check or money order for $24 payable to "SCDMV."
Mail your renewal packet to:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles P.O. Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016
Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the SCDMV receives your packet. Do not mail your original license if you need it for identification before your new license arrives — in that case, visit an SCDMV office in person instead. Keep a copy of your completed form and the mailing receipt for your records.
Renewing in Person at an SCDMV Office
In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, if you need to update your address, name, or other personal information, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license. Visit any SCDMV office with your current driver's license (or expired license if necessary), proof of Social Security number, and proof of South Carolina residency. The renewal fee is $24, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
Bring one document that proves your current address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you have changed your name since your last renewal, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Your new license is issued on the spot and is valid when ready.
SCDMV offices are located in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check current wait times on the SCDMV website. Many offices operate by appointment only, so call ahead or book online before you visit. Walk-in service is available at some locations, but appointment holders are served first.
Documents and Fees You Will Need
The documents required depend on which renewal method you choose. For online renewal, you need only your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. For mail renewal, send your current license, the completed Form DL-43, and payment. For in-person renewal, bring your current or expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return. Proof of South Carolina residency must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. If you do not have a document with your current address, bring two documents that show your name and an older address, plus a letter from a government agency confirming your new address. The renewal fee is $24 regardless of which method you choose.
| Renewal Method | Documents Required | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Current license number, last 4 SSN digits | $24 | 7–10 business days |
| Current license, Form DL-43, payment | $24 | 7–10 business days | |
| In Person | Current/expired license, SSN proof, address proof | $24 | when ready |
Special Situations: Address Changes, Name Changes, and Expired Licenses
If you have moved since your last renewal, you cannot renew online or by mail — you must visit an SCDMV office in person. Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days) along with your current or expired license. The renewal fee remains $24.
If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change. You can renew in person at any SCDMV office. If your license has already expired, you still pay the standard renewal fee of $24, but you cannot use mail or online renewal — in-person renewal is your only option. If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you cannot renew it — you must request a replacement instead, which also costs $24 and requires an in-person visit with proof of identity and Social Security number.
Timeline and When to Start Your Renewal
You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your license expires. The SCDMV recommends starting your renewal at least 30 days before expiration to allow time for mail delivery and processing. If you are renewing by mail, add an extra week to account for postal delays in both directions.
Check your license for the expiration date printed on the front. If you are unsure of your expiration date, call the SCDMV at 803-896-5000 or log into your account on scdmvonline.com. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must visit an SCDMV office when ready to renew in person. Driving with an expired license is illegal in South Carolina, so prioritize your renewal if your expiration date has passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my South Carolina license if it has already expired?
No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your license has expired. You must visit an SCDMV office in person with your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. The renewal fee is still $24, and your new license is issued when ready.
How long does it take to receive my renewed license in the mail?
Mail and online renewals take 7 to 10 business days from the date the SCDMV receives or processes your request. This does not include time for postal delivery to your address. In-person renewal is when ready — you receive your new license on the spot.
Do I need an appointment to renew my license in person at an SCDMV office?
Many SCDMV offices operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. Check the SCDMV website or call your local office to find out the policy. Booking an appointment online or by phone is recommended to avoid long wait times.
What if I moved and my address on my license is outdated?
You must renew in person at an SCDMV office and bring proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease. You cannot update your address by mail or online renewal.
Can I renew my commercial driver's license (CDL) online or by mail?
No, commercial driver's licenses must be renewed in person at an SCDMV office. Bring your current CDL, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and the $24 renewal fee.