South Carolina SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
Find SR-22 Coverage NowSouth Carolina at a Glance
25/50/25
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Required
Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy
$100
State license reinstatement fee
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
The state also requires uninsured motorist coverage at the same 25/50/25 limits unless waived in writing. SR-22 filing is triggered by DUI convictions, accumulating 12 or more points within 12 months, at-fault accidents without insurance, refusing a chemical test, or driving with a suspended license. These minimums may not provide adequate protection for high-risk drivers facing higher liability exposure.
Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability
SR-22 Certificate Filing
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
Cost Overview
$327–$355/mo
Typical monthly rate in South Carolina, drivers with an SR-22 after a DUI
Rate data: ValuePenguin and NerdWallet, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- Credit-based insurance score: South Carolina allows credit history in underwriting; poor credit combined with violations can double premiums
See What Your SR-22 Should Really Cost
Find SR-22 Coverage NowIf your license is suspended
Route Restricted Drivers License (DL-127); separate Provisional License for first-offense DUI/DUAC
application fee $100.
A coverage lapse is reported
The state acts on a lapse after 20 days.
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need SR-22 in South Carolina after a DUI?
South Carolina requires SR-22 filing for 3 years following a DUI conviction, starting from the date of filing with the DMV. The clock restarts if your coverage lapses at any point during those 3 years. Most carriers will remove the SR-22 automatically after 3 years of continuous coverage, but you should verify filing removal with the South Carolina DMV.
What happens if my SR-22 insurance lapses in South Carolina?
Your insurance carrier is legally required to notify the South Carolina DMV within 10 days of any policy cancellation or lapse. The DMV will immediately suspend your license and restart the full 3-year SR-22 requirement from the date you refile with a new policy. You must pay reinstatement fees, file a new SR-22, and maintain continuous coverage for the restarted 3-year period.
Do I need SR-22 for a suspended license in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina typically requires SR-22 filing to reinstate a suspended license if the suspension resulted from DUI, accumulating 12+ points in 12 months, uninsured at-fault accident, or refusing a chemical test. You must maintain the SR-22 for 3 years from reinstatement. Contact the South Carolina DMV to confirm your specific reinstatement requirements, as some administrative suspensions may have different filing rules.
Coverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Required certificate proving you maintain minimum liability coverage following DUI, license suspension, or other serious violations. Filed by your carrier with the South Carolina DMV and must remain active for 3 years.
Non-Owner SR-22 Policy
Liability coverage for drivers who need SR-22 filing but do not own a vehicle. Provides legal compliance and maintains continuous coverage during license suspension or reinstatement periods.
High-Risk Liability Coverage
Bodily injury and property damage coverage for drivers with violations, accidents, or DUIs on record. Rates reflect increased risk but provide essential protection against lawsuits exceeding policy limits.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage to pay your medical bills and vehicle damage. South Carolina mandates this coverage at 25/50 limits unless declined in writing.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an at-fault accident regardless of who caused the crash. Required by lenders if your vehicle is financed or leased.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers theft, vandalism, weather damage, and animal collisions. Required by lenders and recommended for vehicles worth more than $5,000 to avoid total loss without reimbursement.