You’re packing your belongings and getting ready to make the move to beautiful South Carolina. You’re about to count yourself among the lucky people who love where they live. But you may not be prepared for some practical issues. And one of the biggest practical issues is getting a driver’s license in South Carolina.
We’ve moved many people to South Carolina, and we know that how to switch their driver’s license is one of the questions people suddenly remember to ask as the move is almost over. So, we’re providing an outline below to give you some answers! That way, you can plan ahead on this important issue.
If You Have an Out-of-State License
If you move to South Carolina from another state and already have a license, you have to apply for a new license issued by the Palmetto State.
The process is not hard, but there are certain steps you must take. The first is to contact the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles and let them know you want to apply. You must visit a branch of the SCDMV and bring the following:
- Proof of identity, U.S. citizenship and date of birth. This can be done with a government-issued birth certificate or valid U.S. passport.
- Proof of Social Security number. You can do this with a Social Security card, a SSA-1099 Social Security Benefit Statement, a payroll stub that includes your name and the employer’s name or a W-2 Form that includes employer’s name, address and your name.
- Two proofs of current physical address in South Carolina. This can include a concealed weapons permit, voter registration card, state or federal tax records and school records. It also can include a utility bill, mortgage payment or insurance payment if less than 90 days old.
- Proof of legal name change, if applicable. If you’ve changed your name through marriage, for example, you’ll need a marriage certificate. A passport can work here, as well.
In addition to bringing these documents, you also must take a vision test and pay a fee. Right now, the fee is $25 for an eight-year license.
You must also turn in your out-of-state license once you get a new one in South Carolina. You also must register your car in the state within 45 days of moving to South Carolina.
If You Don’t Have a License
If you currently don’t have a driver’s license but want to get one in South Carolina, you will need to present a driving record from your previous state. If you have a driver’s license but it’s been expired for more than nine months, you must pass knowledge, road and visions tests to get a South Carolina license.
If you are only going to live temporarily in the state – maybe you are a university student or member of the Armed Forces – you do not have to get a South Carolina license. However, you do need to carry your valid, out-of-state license at all times.
Have a great move to South Carolina! For more information on getting a driver’s incense in the state, you can visit the SCDMV site.
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