How to Replace Your South Carolina Driver's License

What You Need to Do to Get a Replacement License in South Carolina

You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged South Carolina driver's license by visiting a DMV office in person with proof of identity and residency. The replacement process takes about 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. The fee is $10 for a replacement license, which is less than the cost of a new license.

South Carolina does not allow online or mail-in replacement requests. You must appear at a DMV office yourself — you cannot send someone else on your behalf. If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police first, though this is not required by the DMV.

Key Takeaways

Bring a valid photo ID and proof of your current South Carolina address to any DMV office to replace your license in person.
The replacement fee is $10, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready while your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 days.
South Carolina DMV offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with some locations offering extended evening hours.
If your license was stolen, file a police report first so you have documentation, though the DMV does not require it to issue a replacement.
Your replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license unless you also renew it at the same time.

Documents and Proof You Must Bring

You need two things: a valid photo ID and proof of your current address in South Carolina. For photo ID, bring your passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license. If you don't have a photo ID, you can bring a combination of documents like a Social Security card, birth certificate, and bank statement — ask the DMV office what combination they accept before you go.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current South Carolina street address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A PO box does not count as proof of address; you must provide a physical street address.

If you've changed your name since your original license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Without it, your replacement license will still show your old name.

Where to Go and How Long It Takes

Find your nearest DMV office on the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles website. The state has regional offices in most counties, and you can visit any office — you don't have to go to the one in your county. Call ahead or check online to confirm the office is open, since some locations have limited hours or occasional closures.

Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some stay open until 6 p.m. on certain days. A few offices offer Saturday hours. Bring your documents and be ready to wait; busy offices can have lines, especially on Fridays and early in the month.

The entire process — checking in, providing your information, taking your photo, and paying the fee — usually takes 20 to 40 minutes. You'll walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail; if it doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact the DMV to report it.

Fees and Payment Methods

A replacement license costs $10. The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most offices. Some smaller offices may accept cash only, so call ahead if you're unsure.

If you're replacing your license because it was stolen and you want to change your address at the same time, you pay only the $10 replacement fee — there's no additional charge for the address change. However, if you want to renew your license (extend its expiration date) while you're there, that costs extra and requires a vision test.

What Happens If Your License Was Stolen

If your license was stolen, file a report with your local police department. You don't need the police report to get a replacement from the DMV, but having one protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license fraudulently. Keep a copy of the report for your records.

When you go to the DMV to replace it, tell the staff that your license was stolen. They will note this in their system. Your replacement license will have a new number, so the old stolen license becomes invalid when ready once your new one is issued.

Renewing vs. Replacing: What's the Difference

A replacement is what you get when your license is lost, stolen, or damaged. It costs $10 and keeps the same expiration date as your original. A renewal is what you do when your license is about to expire or has expired. It costs more and requires a vision test.

If your license is damaged but not lost or stolen, you can still get a replacement for $10. You don't have to renew it unless it's also expiring soon. However, if your license is expiring within the next few months, you may want to renew it at the same time you replace it — ask the DMV staff whether it makes sense for your situation, since you'll pay both fees but only visit once.

If You're Out of State or Can't Visit an Office

South Carolina does not offer remote replacement options. You must visit a DMV office in person. If you're temporarily out of state, you can wait until you return to South Carolina to replace your license, or you can visit a South Carolina DMV office during a trip home.

If you're a South Carolina resident living abroad or far from any DMV office, contact the DMV directly to ask about your options. In rare cases, they may be able to work with you, but there is no standard process for this situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my temporary paper license to drive?

Yes. Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and works the same as your plastic license for driving, traffic stops, and identification. Keep it in your wallet until your permanent card arrives. If your permanent card doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact the DMV.

What if I lost my license and don't have any photo ID?

You can bring a combination of non-photo documents like your birth certificate, Social Security card, and a utility bill. Call your local DMV office first to confirm which documents they'll accept, since the combination can vary by location.

Do I need to take a new photo for my replacement license?

Yes. The DMV will take a new photo of you when you explore for your replacement. You cannot use your old photo. Wear something you're comfortable with and avoid wearing a hat or sunglasses.

Will my replacement license have a different number?

If your license was stolen, your replacement will have a new number. If it was lost or damaged, the DMV may issue a new number or keep the same one — ask the staff when you explore. Either way, your old license becomes invalid once your replacement is issued.

How much does it cost to replace a damaged license?

A replacement for a damaged license costs $10, the same as replacing a lost or stolen license. You don't pay extra because of the damage.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.