How to Renew Your South Carolina Driver's License

Where and how to renew your South Carolina driver's license

You can renew your South Carolina driver's license in person at any DMV branch, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the SCDMV website for a limited renewal period. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how long you want it renewed for, and whether you need to update your photo or address.

In-person renewal at a DMV office takes about 30 minutes on average and lets you renew for up to 10 years. Mail renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address, name, or other key information in the past five years. Online renewal through the SCDMV portal works only for people renewing a license that is not yet expired and who do not need a new photo.

Key Takeaways

South Carolina driver's licenses expire on your birthday, and you can renew up to one year before that date.
In-person renewal at a DMV office requires your current license, proof of residency, and payment; it takes about 30 minutes and produces a license valid for up to 10 years.
Mail renewal is only an option if your license is not expired, your address has not changed, and you have not updated your name or other details in five years.
Online renewal through the SCDMV website is the fastest option but works only for unexpired licenses and does not include a new photo.
You must bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, along with proof of your current address, to any in-person renewal.

In-person renewal at a South Carolina DMV office

Visiting a DMV branch is the most common renewal path and the only option if your license is expired, if you need a new photo, or if you have changed your name or address. Bring your current driver's license, your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number (such as a W-2 or tax return), and proof of your current South Carolina address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days.

The renewal fee is $24 for a four-year license or $48 for a ten-year license. You will take a new photo at the office unless you are renewing by mail or online. The new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

To find the DMV office nearest you and check current wait times, visit the SCDMV website and use the office locator tool. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to book an appointment online or by phone. Booking ahead often cuts your wait time significantly.

Mail renewal for unexpired licenses

You can renew by mail only if your current license is not expired, your address has not changed since your last renewal, and you have not updated your name or other personal information in the past five years. Complete the mail renewal form (Form DL-43) and mail it to the address listed on the form along with your current license and the renewal fee of $24 for four years or $48 for ten years.

Mail renewal takes longer than in-person or online renewal — typically 10 to 15 business days after the SCDMV receives your form. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. You can continue driving on your current license during this time.

If any of your information has changed — your address, name, or other details — you must renew in person instead. Mail renewal also does not include a new photo, so your current photo remains on your license.

Online renewal through the SCDMV website

The SCDMV offers online renewal for people whose licenses are not yet expired and who do not need a new photo. You will need your current license number, your date of birth, and your Social Security number. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs $24 for a four-year renewal or $48 for ten years.

Pay by credit card or debit card during the online process. Your new license is mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access, but it does not allow you to update your photo, address, or name.

What to do if your license is expired

If your South Carolina driver's license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DMV office, a written test, and a driving test. The process is more involved and takes longer than a standard renewal.

If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still renew it using any of the three methods (in-person, mail, or online). You do not need to retake the written or driving test. However, if you choose mail or online renewal, your new license will still be mailed to you, and you cannot drive legally until it arrives.

Timeline and what to expect after you renew

South Carolina driver's licenses expire on your birthday. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your expiration date. Renewing early gives you time to receive your new license before your current one expires.

After you submit your renewal — whether in person, by mail, or online — your new license is mailed to the address on file. In-person and online renewals typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewals take 10 to 15 business days after the SCDMV receives your form. You can drive on your current license during this waiting period as long as it has not expired.

If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the SCDMV by phone or through their website to check the status. Keep your renewal confirmation or receipt until your new license arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my South Carolina license if I have moved out of state?

No. You must be a South Carolina resident to hold a South Carolina driver's license. If you have moved to another state, you need to obtain a license from that state. If you are temporarily out of state but still a South Carolina resident, you can renew by mail or online if you meet the other requirements.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current license, proof of your name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), your Social Security card or document showing your number, and proof of your current address. Mail and online renewal do not allow name changes.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?

A new photo is taken automatically during in-person renewal. If you renew by mail or online, your current photo stays on your license. If you want a new photo but are otherwise may be able to access for mail or online renewal, you can renew in person instead to get a fresh photo.

How long is a renewed South Carolina driver's license valid?

You can choose to renew for four years ($24) or ten years ($48) during in-person renewal. Mail and online renewal also offer both options. Your new license expires on your birthday in the year you choose — either four or ten years from the renewal date.

What if I lost my current license before renewing?

You cannot renew by mail or online without your current license number. Visit a DMV office in person and bring your Social Security card or document showing your number, proof of your address, and payment. The office will issue a replacement license and can renew it at the same time if your expiration date has not passed.

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.