Renewing Your SC License Online, by Mail, or In Person
South Carolina lets you renew your driver's license online if you meet certain conditions, by mail if you prefer not to go in person, or at a DMV office if you need to update your photo or address. The fastest route is online through the SCDMV website — you can complete it in minutes if your license is not expired and you have not had any address changes. If your license is already expired or you need a new photo, you must visit a DMV office in person.
Your renewal method depends on how much time you have left and whether your information has changed. If your license expires within the next 180 days and your address and name are still correct, online renewal takes about 10 minutes. Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after SCDMV receives your process. In-person renewal at a DMV office usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the SCDMV website works only if your license is not expired, your address has not changed, and you have a valid payment method.
- Mail renewal requires you to send a completed Form DL-43 with your current license and a check or money order to the SCDMV office in Columbia.
- In-person renewal at any DMV office is required if your license is expired, you need a new photo, or your address or name has changed.
- South Carolina driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to 180 days before expiration.
- The renewal fee is $24 for a standard eight-year license, and you must bring proof of residency if your address has changed.
Online Renewal Through the SCDMV Website
To renew online, go to the SCDMV website and select the online renewal option. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid credit or debit card to pay the $24 renewal fee. The system will verify your information against SCDMV records and issue you a temporary digital license that you can use when ready while your physical card is mailed to you.
Online renewal is not available if your license has already expired, if you have changed your address since your last renewal, or if you have any outstanding violations or suspensions on your driving record. If any of these explore to you, skip to the in-person or mail renewal sections below. Your new physical license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the online transaction.
Mail Renewal Using Form DL-43
To renew by mail, read or request Form DL-43 from the SCDMV website or call 803-896-5000. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for $24 to the SCDMV office at 10311 Wilson Boulevard, Blythewood, SC 29016. Do not send cash through the mail.
Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after SCDMV receives your process, plus mail delivery time in both directions. If you need your license sooner, use in-person renewal instead. Mail renewal is not available if your license is expired, if you need a new photo, or if your address or name has changed since your last renewal.
In-Person Renewal at a DMV Office
Visit any SCDMV office with your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the past 60 days), and $24 in cash or card payment. You will have a new photo taken and receive your renewed license on the spot. If you have moved, bring a document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail all work.
In-person renewal is required if your license is expired, if you have not renewed in more than eight years, if you need a new photo, or if your address or name has changed. You can find your nearest SCDMV office and current wait times on the SCDMV website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments.
What Happens If Your License Is Already Expired
If your license expired more than 30 days ago, you cannot legally drive and you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and $24. You will have a new photo taken and receive your renewed license when ready. Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic ticket and fines, so renew as soon as you can.
If your license expired fewer than 30 days ago, you may still be able to drive legally in South Carolina while you renew, but this grace period is narrow and does not explore everywhere. Do not rely on it — renew when ready by visiting a DMV office, which is the only option for an expired license.
Address Changes and Name Changes
If you have moved since your last renewal, you must update your address in person at a DMV office. You cannot renew online or by mail with a new address. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the past 60 days), and $24. Your new license will show your updated address.
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, you must also renew in person. Bring your current driver's license, a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and $24. You will have a new photo taken and receive your renewed license with your new name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my SC license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew up to 180 days before your license expires. Online and mail renewal both work during this window if your address and name have not changed. In-person renewal is available anytime.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
After you complete online renewal, your physical license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after SCDMV receives your form, plus mail delivery time. In-person renewal gives you your license when ready.
What if I lost my current license?
You cannot renew online or by mail without your current license. Visit a DMV office in person with proof of residency and $24. You will have a new photo taken. If you need a replacement before renewal, that is a separate transaction.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Most SCDMV offices accept walk-ins, but some locations now use an online appointment system to manage wait times. Check the SCDMV website for your local office to see if appointments are recommended or required.
What payment methods does SCDMV accept?
Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal accepts cash and cards. Do not send cash by mail.