Driver’s License Points System in South Carolina

1. How many points are assessed for a reckless driving violation in South Carolina?


In South Carolina, a reckless driving violation can result in 4 points being assessed on your license.

2. What is the penalty for driving with a revoked license in South Carolina?


In South Carolina, driving with a revoked license is considered a criminal offense and could result in a fine of up to $500 and/or imprisonment for up to 30 days.

3. Does South Carolina have a mandatory suspension for exceeding 12 points on a driver’s license?


Yes, South Carolina has a mandatory suspension for exceeding 12 points on a driver’s license. The suspension period is 6 months for a first offense and 12 months for subsequent offenses.

4. Is there a grace period for paying fines and fees associated with driver’s license points in South Carolina?


No, there is no grace period for paying fines and fees associated with driver’s license points in South Carolina. Fines and fees must be paid in full before the points can be removed from a driver’s license.

5. Are points added to a driver’s license for certain minor traffic violations in South Carolina?


Yes, points are added to a driver’s license for certain minor traffic violations in South Carolina. The number of points varies depending on the violation, and more serious violations may result in a suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.

6. How long are points from violations active on a driver’s license in South Carolina?


In South Carolina, points from violations are active on a driver’s license for three years.

7. How often does South Carolina assess points on a driver’s license for moving violations?


In South Carolina, points are assessed on a driver’s license for moving violations according to the severity of the violation. Most moving violations carry two points, while more serious violations, such as reckless driving and DUI, carry more points. Points remain on a driver’s record for a period of three years.

8. Is there an appeal process available for drivers who receive too many points on their licenses in South Carolina?


Yes, drivers who receive too many points on their licenses in South Carolina may appeal the points by submitting a Point Reduction Appeal Form to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. The form can be found online or at any SCDMV branch.

9. How many points are assessed for failing to yield to pedestrians in South Carolina?


Failing to yield to pedestrians in South Carolina can result in a three-point penalty on your driver’s license.

10. Does South Carolina have any provisions to reduce the number of points on a driver’s license?


Yes, South Carolina provides a Driver Improvement Program for drivers to reduce the number of points on their license. Drivers can complete a defensive driving course to have three points removed from their driving record.

11. Are there any good driver discounts available in South Carolina based on low point totals?


Yes, there are several good driver discounts available in South Carolina based on low point totals. Drivers with a total of 7 or less points on their license may qualify for a Good Driver Discount. This discount can lower your auto insurance premiums by up to 10% depending on the insurance company. Additionally, drivers with a total of 4 or less points on their license may qualify for an even greater discount of up to 25%.

12. What is the penalty for driving with an expired license in South Carolina?


The penalty for driving with an expired license in South Carolina is a fine of up to $200, possible jail time of up to 30 days, and 3 points on your license.

13. Is there a community service option available to drivers who receive too many points in South Carolina?


Yes, South Carolina offers a community service option for drivers who receive too many points. Drivers can complete a defensive driving course and attend an alcohol and drug awareness program to reduce their points. If a driver is convicted of a serious traffic violation, they may be required to perform community service in addition to the other penalties associated with the violation.

14. Does South Carolina have any programs or incentives to encourage safe driving habits?


Yes. South Carolina offers a Defensive Driver Discount program through most auto insurance companies, which provides discounts to drivers who have completed an approved defensive driving course. South Carolina also offers several incentive programs to encourage safe driving habits and to reduce traffic fatalities, including the “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which rewards drivers for wearing a seat belt; the “One That Gets Away” program, which rewards drivers for refraining from distracted driving; and the Wear Your Life Jacket campaign, which encourages boaters to wear life jackets while out on the water.

15. Are there any specific laws regarding distracted driving in South Carolina?


Yes. In South Carolina, it is illegal to text message while operating a motor vehicle and drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any type of personal electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. Additionally, all drivers are prohibited from using any hand-held electronic device while operating a motor vehicle in a school or work zone.

16. Are points added to a driver’s license for certain violations involving alcohol or drugs in South Carolina?


Yes, points are added to a driver’s license for certain violations involving alcohol or drugs in South Carolina. For example, driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.08% is a violation that carries an automatic six (6) point penalty on the driver’s license.

17. Is there an online system available to track the number of points on a driver’s license in South Carolina?


Yes, South Carolina offers an online system called the Driver’s License Point System Check. This system allows drivers to check the number of points that have been assessed to their license.

18. Does South Carolina allow drivers to take defensive driving courses to reduce the number of points on their licenses?


Yes, South Carolina allows drivers to take defensive driving courses to reduce the number of points on their licenses. This is done through the Driving Point Reduction Program.

19. Are there any regulations regarding the use of dashboard cameras or other recording devices while driving in South Carolina?


Yes, there are regulations regarding the use of dashboard cameras or other recording devices while driving in South Carolina. Dashboard cameras must not obstruct the driver’s view of the road, and any recording device must not interfere with the driver’s ability to safely operate the vehicle. Additionally, drivers must ensure that the recording device does not interfere with the vehicle’s electronics and must turn off any recording device before starting the vehicle. In addition, South Carolina prohibits drivers from using a two-way radio or other transmission device while driving, except for emergency situations.

20. Is there an age limit for drivers who can receive points on their licenses in South Carolina?


Yes, drivers must be at least 16 years of age in order to receive points on their licenses in South Carolina.