Get a replacement license at your local SCDMV office with your Social Security number and proof of residency
South Carolina replaces lost driver's licenses at any Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office. You do not need to retake the written or road test — the DMV will issue a duplicate of your current license with the same class and restrictions. The process takes about 30 minutes in person, and you'll leave with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to you.
You can also order a replacement online through the SCDMV website if you want to skip the office visit, though you'll still need to pick up your temporary license in person or wait for mail delivery. The online option costs the same as the in-person route and takes the same amount of time overall.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and payment to any SCDMV office — no appointment needed in most locations.
- The replacement fee is $10 for a standard license, and you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and a plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license was suspended, revoked, or expired more than five years ago, the DMV will not issue a duplicate and you'll need to reapply as a new driver.
- The online replacement option works only if your license is current and valid — you cannot use it if your license was suspended or expired.
What documents you need to bring
You must bring your Social Security number (written down or memorized) and one form of proof of residency. Proof of residency means a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current South Carolina address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance policy all work. A driver's license with an old address does not count as proof of residency.
Bring a payment method for the $10 fee. SCDMV offices take cash, debit cards, and credit cards. If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with a valid ID.
You do not need to bring your old license if it's lost — the DMV can look up your record by your name and Social Security number. If you have your old license, bring it anyway; the DMV will destroy it and issue the replacement.
Where to go and how long it takes
Find your nearest SCDMV office on the official website at scdmv.org. The site lists all 38 regional offices, their hours, and phone numbers. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations offering Saturday hours. No appointment is required at most offices, though a few high-traffic locations recommend calling ahead to check wait times.
Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning (before 10 a.m.) and mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday) typically have shorter lines. If you go during lunch or late afternoon, expect to wait 45 minutes to an hour. You'll receive a number when you arrive, and the DMV will call you when it's your turn.
The actual transaction at the counter takes 5 to 10 minutes. You'll answer a few questions, have your photo taken (they use your existing photo on file), sign the back of your temporary license, and pay the fee. You'll walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days.
When you'll receive your plastic card
The SCDMV mails your replacement plastic license to the address on your temporary license. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you visit the office. If you don't receive it within two weeks, call the SCDMV at 803-896-5000 to check the status.
Your temporary paper license is valid for driving during the entire 30-day waiting period. You can use it for traffic stops, rental cars, and any situation where you'd normally show your plastic license. Keep it in your wallet until the plastic card arrives.
Replacing your license online
The SCDMV website allows you to order a replacement online at scdmv.org under "Online Services." You'll need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The online form takes about 10 minutes to complete.
After you submit the online order, you must still visit an SCDMV office to pick up your temporary license and have your photo taken. You cannot skip the in-person step. Schedule this visit within 30 days of placing your online order, or the order will expire. The plastic card will be mailed to you after your in-person visit, following the same 7 to 10 business day timeline.
The online option saves you time filling out paperwork at the office, but it does not reduce the total time to get your replacement. Use it only if you prefer to fill out the form at home before going to the DMV.
What happens if your license was suspended or expired
If your license was suspended or revoked, the SCDMV will not issue a duplicate. You'll need to resolve the suspension first — this usually means paying outstanding fines, completing a required course, or waiting out a suspension period. Call the SCDMV at 803-896-5000 to find out why your license was suspended and what you need to do to restore it.
If your license expired more than five years ago, the DMV treats it as inactive and will not replace it. You'll need to reapply as a new driver, which means taking the written test and road test again. You can schedule these tests through the SCDMV website or by calling the office.
If your license expired within the last five years, you can still get a replacement. The DMV will issue a new license with the same class and restrictions, and you won't need to retake any tests.
Using your temporary license while you wait
Your temporary paper license is a legal driving document in South Carolina and is recognized by law enforcement, rental car companies, and banks. You can use it to drive, board a domestic flight, or open a bank account. Some businesses may ask for additional ID, but the temporary license satisfies the legal requirement.
Keep your temporary license in your wallet at all times while driving. If you're stopped by police, show them the temporary license along with your vehicle registration and proof of insurance. Do not drive without it — you need some form of valid license to operate a vehicle legally.
If you lose your temporary license before the plastic card arrives, return to the SCDMV office and request a replacement temporary license. There is no additional fee, and the process takes about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement license if I don't have proof of residency?
No, proof of residency dated within the last 60 days is required. If you don't have a utility bill or lease, ask your bank for a recent statement, check your insurance policy, or contact your landlord for a letter on letterhead confirming your address. Some SCDMV offices will accept a notarized statement of residency if you have no other documents.
What if I lost my Social Security card too?
You don't need the physical card — you only need to know your Social Security number. Write it down before you go to the DMV office. If you don't know your number, you can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request it, though this may take several days.
Do I have to go to the DMV office in my county?
No, you can visit any SCDMV office in the state. The DMV system is statewide, so your record is accessible at every location. Choose whichever office is most convenient to you.
How much does a replacement license cost?
The replacement fee is $10. This is the same price whether you order online or visit in person. The fee covers the plastic card and temporary license.
What if my address changed since I got my current license?
The replacement license will have your current address on file at the DMV, but the plastic card will be mailed to the address you provide at the office. Make sure to give the DMV your correct current address so the card reaches you.