South Carolina SR-22 & High-Risk Auto Insurance
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
Get SR-22 Quotes NowSouth Carolina at a Glance
25/50/25
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Required
Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy
$100
State license reinstatement fee
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
State Requirements
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.
Liability Insurance
SR-22 Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Collision Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage
Cost Overview
$27–$37/mo
Typical monthly rate in South Carolina, non-owner policies
Rate data: Insure.com and MoneyGeek, 2026
What Affects Your Rate
- SR-22 filing requirement signals high risk, limiting carrier options to non-standard market
- Point accumulation above 6 points triggers non-standard classification and rate increases
Get Your SR-22 Even Without a Car
Get SR-22 Quotes NowIf your license is suspended
Route Restricted Drivers License (DL-127); separate Provisional License for first-offense DUI/DUAC
application fee $100.
A coverage lapse is reported
The state acts on a lapse after 20 days.
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need SR-22 in South Carolina after a DUI?
South Carolina requires 3 years of continuous SR-22 filing from the date of license reinstatement after a DUI conviction. Any lapse in coverage during this period restarts the clock and triggers immediate license suspension. You must maintain the SR-22 even if you don't own a vehicle by purchasing a non-owner SR-22 policy.
Can I get car insurance in South Carolina with a suspended license?
Yes, several non-standard carriers in South Carolina will write policies for suspended licenses, especially if you need SR-22 filing to reinstate. You cannot legally drive until your license is reinstated, but maintaining continuous coverage prevents lapses that would extend your SR-22 requirement. Non-owner SR-22 policies cover you once your license is restored.
Which insurance companies offer SR-22 in South Carolina?
Non-standard carriers operating in South Carolina that file SR-22 include Bristol West, The General, Direct Auto, and Progressive's non-standard division. Standard insurers like State Farm and GEICO typically decline drivers requiring SR-22 or non-renew existing policies after major violations. If no voluntary market carrier accepts you, the South Carolina Reinsurance Facility assigns coverage through participating insurers at higher rates.
How long does a DUI affect insurance rates in South Carolina?
DUI convictions remain surchargeable on South Carolina insurance policies for 5–7 years depending on the carrier. Most insurers apply maximum surcharges for the first 3 years, then gradually reduce penalties as the conviction ages. After 7 years, the DUI no longer impacts rates, but it remains on your driving record permanently and can be considered during underwriting for major violations.
Coverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 is a certificate filed by your insurer proving continuous coverage to the South Carolina DMV after major violations. The filing itself costs $15–$50, but underlying premiums range from $2,200–$5,400 annually due to non-standard carrier placement.
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident. South Carolina's 25/50/25 minimum leaves significant exposure—serious accidents frequently generate $100,000+ in claims.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by drivers without insurance, covering your medical bills and vehicle damage. South Carolina requires UM coverage at matching liability limits unless you reject it in writing.
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
Provides liability coverage and SR-22 filing for drivers who don't own a vehicle but need to maintain filing requirements. Covers you when driving borrowed or rental vehicles.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage. Required by lenders if you finance a vehicle, providing complete protection despite high-risk premiums.
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Coverage from non-standard carriers willing to insure drivers with DUIs, suspensions, or major violations. Often the only option when standard insurers decline or non-renew policies.