Updated March 2026
State Requirements
South Carolina mandates minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25). Drivers with DUI convictions, suspensions for point accumulation (12 points in 12 months), driving without insurance, or at-fault accidents while uninsured must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required at matching liability limits unless rejected in writing. High-risk drivers often need policies from non-standard carriers willing to file SR-22 and accept suspended or recently reinstated licenses.
Cost Overview
High-risk drivers in South Carolina pay premiums 90–250% above standard rates depending on violation type, with DUI convictions causing the steepest increases. Carriers classify drivers as non-standard based on major violations, multiple at-fault accidents, lapses in coverage, or SR-22 requirements, limiting options to specialty insurers or the state's assigned risk pool. Rates decline gradually as violations age off your record—most violations impact rates for 3–5 years, while DUIs remain surchargeable for up to 7 years in South Carolina.
What Affects Your Rate
- DUI convictions increase premiums 110–180% for 5–7 years in South Carolina
- At-fault accidents with injuries add 60–90% surcharges for 3–5 years
- SR-22 filing requirement signals high risk, limiting carrier options to non-standard market
- Lapses in coverage longer than 30 days add 20–40% to renewal premiums
- Point accumulation above 6 points triggers non-standard classification and rate increases
- Urban areas like Charleston and Columbia see 15–25% higher premiums due to accident frequency
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles - SR-22 Requirements
- South Carolina Department of Insurance - Minimum Coverage Laws
- South Carolina Code of Laws Title 56 - Motor Vehicles