Learner’s Permit Restrictions and Regulations in South Carolina

1. What is the minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


In South Carolina, the minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit is 15 years old.

2. How many hours of supervised driving must be completed before applying for a driver’s license in South Carolina?


In South Carolina, teenagers must complete fifty hours of supervised driving (ten of which must be at night) before applying for a driver’s license.

3. Does South Carolina require a vision test for a learner’s permit?


Yes, South Carolina requires a vision test for a learner’s permit.

4. How long is a learner’s permit valid for in South Carolina?


A learner’s permit in South Carolina is valid for two years.

5. Are there any restrictions on nighttime driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


Yes, there are restrictions on nighttime driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina. Drivers with a learner’s permit must be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years old or older, and no driving is permitted between midnight and 6 a.m.

6. Are there any limitations on passengers when driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


Yes, there are limitations on passengers when driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina. Drivers with a learner’s permit are only allowed to drive with a licensed driver aged 21 or older sitting in the front seat. Additionally, the driver must have held their license for at least one year.

7. What documents must be presented to apply for a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


In order to apply for a learner’s permit in South Carolina, applicants must present documents that prove their age, identity, and South Carolina residency. These documents may include a valid U.S. passport or U.S. birth certificate, a Social Security card, two documents that prove South Carolina residency (such as a utility bill or school report card), and proof of parental or guardian consent (if applicable).

8. Is there an additional fee for a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


Yes, there is an additional fee for a learner’s permit in South Carolina. The fee is $2.50.

9. What is the process to renew a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


In order to renew a learner’s permit in South Carolina, the applicant must:

1. Visit a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person to apply for the renewal.

2. Bring proof of identity, such as an unexpired South Carolina driver’s license or ID card, as well as a Social Security number.

3. Pass the written test if it has been more than one year since the initial permit was issued.

4. Pass a vision exam if it has been more than one year since the initial permit was issued.

5. Pay the applicable fee.

6. Receive the new learner’s permit.

10. What are the requirements for taking the written exam when applying for a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


In order to apply for a learner’s permit in South Carolina, applicants must be at least 15 years old and must provide proof of identity, residency, and parental consent (if under 18). The written exam consists of 25 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as road signs, traffic laws, and safety. Applicants must also pass a vision test in order to obtain a learner’s permit.

11. Are there any restrictions on cell phone use while driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


Yes, in South Carolina, drivers under the age of 18 with a learner’s permit are prohibited from using any type of handheld communication device, including cell phones, while driving.

12. Are there any restrictions on seatbelt usage while driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


Yes, any person with a learner’s permit operating a vehicle in South Carolina must wear a safety belt at all times while the vehicle is in motion. Passengers under the age of 18 must also wear a safety belt while in the vehicle.

13. How long is an applicant required to hold a learner’s permit before applying for a driver’s license in South Carolina?


In South Carolina, an applicant must hold a learner’s permit for at least 180 days before applying for a driver’s license.

14. Does South Carolina offer any type of driver education courses to help applicants prepare for a learner’s permit exam?


Yes, South Carolina offers driver education courses to help applicants prepare for a learner’s permit exam. These courses typically include both classroom and practical instruction, and some may also include online instruction.

15. What are the rules regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs while driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


In South Carolina, it is illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substances. Anyone operating a vehicle with a learner’s permit must not have any alcohol or drugs in their bloodstream regardless of their age. Additionally, anyone under the age of 21 is prohibited from driving with any amount of alcohol in their bloodstream. It is important to note that South Carolina has an implied consent law, which requires drivers to submit to chemical tests if suspected of driving under the influence.

16. Does South Carolina require applicants to take an actual driving test before being issued a driver’s license?


Yes, South Carolina requires applicants to take a driving test before being issued a driver’s license.

17. Is insurance required to obtain or renew a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


No, insurance is not required to obtain or renew a learner’s permit in South Carolina.

18. Are there any special requirements when applying for a learner’s permit if the applicant is under 18 years old in South Carolina?


Yes. Applicants under the age of 18 must provide proof of enrollment in or completion of an approved Driver’s Education course and proof of identity, date of birth, South Carolina residency, and Social Security number. Teens must also have an adult sponsor present who will co-sign the application and must pass a vision exam.

19. Is formal driver training required before applying for a driver’s license in South Carolina?


Yes, formal driver training is required before applying for a driver’s license in South Carolina. All applicants under the age of 17 must complete a driver’s education course and pass a road skills test in order to obtain a license.

20. Is there an age restriction on digital device use while driving with a learner’s permit in South Carolina?


Yes, South Carolina has an age restriction on digital device use while driving with a learner’s permit. Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any type of digital device, including cell phones and tablets, while operating a motor vehicle.