Visiting SC

Do I need an SC driver's license?

If you are a permanent resident of another state, you can use your home driver’s license to drive in South Carolina.

For example, if you're visiting this state from New York, you may drive in this state with your valid out-of-state license as long as you live in New York.

If you move to SC, you must get an SC license. 

Upon being issued an SC identification card or driver's license, any driver's licenses and ID cards previously issued to you by another state or province will be cancelled.

International Visitors

If you're visiting from a non-English speaking country, you're strongly advised to get an International Driving Permit from your home country.  An International Driving Permit serves as a translation to be used with your valid driver's license. It is not an actual license, but it translates your foreign language license into English and allows law enforcement officers to read your license.

If you have any questions, contact the SCDMV.