Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your South Carolina driver's license in person at any DMV office, by mail, or online through the SCDMV website — but which route you take depends on how much time you have and whether your license is still valid. If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can renew by mail or online. If it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at a DMV office.

Before you start, gather your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current South Carolina address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

The renewal fee is $24 for a four-year license or $48 for an eight-year license. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card, depending on which renewal method you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the SCDMV website is the fastest option if your license expired within the last five years and you don't need a new photo.
  • Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and works for licenses expired within the last five years, but you'll need to send original documents.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license expired more than five years ago, and you'll receive your new license the same day.
  • You'll need your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address for any renewal method.
  • The renewal fee is $24 for a four-year license or $48 for an eight-year license, paid at the time of renewal.

Online renewal through the SCDMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you're renewing before your license expires or within five years of expiration. Go to the SCDMV website, select "Renew Driver's License," and enter your driver's license number and date of birth. The system will pull up your current information and ask you to confirm it or make changes.

You'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card during the online process. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You won't get a new photo — your current photo will be used on the renewed license. If you need a new photo or want to change your address, you'll need to renew in person or by mail instead.

Mail renewal for licenses expired within five years

To renew by mail, read the driver's license renewal form from the SCDMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill it out completely, including your current address. Attach a copy of your proof of Social Security number and proof of your current address, then mail everything to the address listed on the form along with a check or money order for the renewal fee.

Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your packet. Send your documents by certified mail if you want proof of delivery. Do not send original documents — send copies only, because the DMV will not return them. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide on the form.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. Find your nearest DMV office on the SCDMV website and check its hours — some offices have limited hours or are closed certain days. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and your payment (cash, check, debit card, or credit card).

At the office, you'll have a new photo taken and your information will be updated in the system. You'll receive your new license on the spot. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day. If you're renewing in person, you can also request a new address, update your name, or change other information on your license at the same time.

What happens if your license is already expired

If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can still renew by mail or online without going to a DMV office. If it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. In either case, you cannot legally drive with an expired license, so renew as soon as possible.

If you're stopped by law enforcement while driving with an expired license, you can face a ticket and fine. Some insurance companies may also deny a claim if you were driving with an expired license at the time of an accident. Renewing before your license expires avoids these problems entirely.

Renewing before your license expires

South Carolina allows you to renew your license up to six months before it expires. This is the safest approach because you'll have your new license in hand before the old one becomes invalid. If you renew online or by mail, your new license will arrive before your current one expires, so there's no gap in your driving privileges.

If you're planning a trip or know your license is expiring soon, renew early. Online renewal is the quickest method — you can complete it in a few minutes and your new license will arrive within a week or two.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my South Carolina license if I don't have a current address?

No, you need proof of a current South Carolina address dated within the last 60 days. If you're homeless or living temporarily, contact your local DMV office to discuss your options — some offices may accept alternative documents like a letter from a shelter or a temporary housing agreement.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You can renew in person, by mail, or online, but you'll need to include this document with your renewal packet or bring it to the DMV office.

How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?

Online renewal takes 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your packet. In-person renewal gives you your new license the same day.

Can I change my address when I renew?

Yes. If you renew online or by mail, you can update your address during the process. If you renew in person, you can change your address at the DMV office at the same time.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew a lost license by mail or online — you must go to a DMV office in person. Bring your proof of Social Security number and proof of your current address. The DMV will issue a replacement license with a new number.