Updated April 2026
Minimum Coverage Requirements in South Carolina
After a DUI or serious violation in South Carolina, your current insurer will typically non-renew your policy at the end of the term rather than cancel it immediately—this gives you 30 to 60 days to secure replacement coverage, but you must act quickly. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) requires an SR-22 filing for most DUI convictions and suspensions, which proves you carry continuous liability coverage for 3 years. Not all carriers offer SR-22 filings, so you'll likely need a non-standard auto insurance policy from a carrier that specializes in high-risk drivers.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in South Carolina?
After a DUI or serious violation in South Carolina, expect your premium to increase 80–200% depending on the offense, your prior history, and the carrier. A DUI typically triggers the highest increases—drivers who paid $100/month for standard coverage often face $250–$400/month with a non-standard carrier offering SR-22 filings. Rates begin to normalize 3–5 years after the violation, assuming no additional incidents during that period.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type—DUI convictions carry the highest surcharges, often 150–200% increases, while speeding violations typically result in 20–50% increases
- Time since violation—the first year after a DUI or suspension shows the steepest premiums; rates begin to drop after 3 years if no new violations occur
- Carrier availability—South Carolina has fewer non-standard carriers in rural counties, limiting competition and keeping rates higher outside metro areas like Charleston and Columbia
- Prior insurance history—drivers with a lapse before the violation face compounded surcharges, sometimes adding another 30–50% to the base high-risk rate
- Age and gender—young male drivers with DUIs face the highest premiums, often exceeding $500/month for full coverage
- County—urban counties like Richland and Charleston have more carrier options and slightly lower high-risk rates than rural areas with limited underwriting capacity
See how much your violation actually affects your rates
Not every carrier surcharges the same way. Compare quotes from carriers that rate violations differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
A certificate filed by your insurer with the SCDMV proving you carry continuous liability coverage. Required for 3 years after most DUI convictions and suspensions in South Carolina.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage from carriers that specialize in high-risk drivers with DUIs, violations, or suspensions. Often the only option for drivers who need SR-22 filings after standard insurers non-renew.
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Policies designed for drivers with DUIs, multiple violations, or suspensions. Premiums run 2–3 times higher than standard rates due to elevated risk.
Liability Insurance
Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. South Carolina requires 25/50/25 minimums, but higher limits reduce financial exposure after a violation.
