South Carolina SR‑22 Insurance
Filing Proof of Financial Responsibility in South Carolina
The State of South Carolina can require drivers who have lost their license due to a drunk driving arrest, been convicted of driving without insurance, or been caught driving without insurance to file proof of financial responsibility through an SR-22 certificate of insurance. Known as high-risk insurance coverage, an SR-22 form, shows that a driver will retain adequate insurance for a mandatory period. In most cases, you will have to maintain proof of financial responsibility (SR-22) for a minimum of three (3) years.
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South Carolina Minimum Liability Coverage
South Carolina law requires you to carry a mandatory minimum amount of liability coverage. Failure to carry the mandatory minimum can result in severe punishment, including the loss of your driving privileges, high fines, and the requirement to carry SR22 insurance. The mandatory minimum liability coverage in South Carolina are:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 property damage
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in South Carolina
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety has implanted several laws regarding impaired driving. Under state law, a person may not drive a “motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol to the extent that the person’s faculties to drive are materially and appreciably impaired.” Additionally, you will be inferred that you were driving under the influence if your blood alcohol content was 0.08 percent or higher.
Penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol include a fine of up to $400, not including assessments and surcharges, imprisonment for 48 hours to 30 days, and a license suspension of up to six (6) months. The penalties increase significantly for a second or subsequent South Carolina DUI conviction.
South Carolina Ignition Interlock Device Program
The South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services require some DUI offenders to participate in the state's Ignition Interlock Device Program. In order to be eligible for the program, a DUI offender must install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). All persons convicted of a second or subsequent drunk driving charges as well as first-time offenders with a Breath Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.15 percent or higher are required to complete the program. To be eligible for the program, you must enroll in the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program. After having your device installed by a certified manufacturer, you may apply for your Ignition Interlock Restricted License.
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DUI Penalties in South Carolina
| Offense | BAC Level | Jail Time | Fine(s) | Driver's License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Offense | Below .10 | 48 hours to 30 days | $400 | Jail time or fine will apply, not both |
| 2nd Offense | Below .10 | 5 days to 1 year | $2,100 to $5,100 | DMV will suspend drivers license for all offenses but additional penalties apply for refusal or BAC above .15 |
| 3rd Offense | Below .10 | 60 days to 3 years | $3,800 to $6,300 | DMV will suspend drivers license for all offenses but additional penalties apply for refusal or BAC above .15 |
| 1st Offense | .10 to .16 | 72 hours to 30 days | $500 | Jail time or fine will apply, not both |
| 2nd Offense | .10 to .16 | 30 days to 2 years | $2,500 to $5,500 | DMV will suspend drivers license for all offenses but additional penalties apply for refusal or BAC above .15 |
| 3rd Offense | .10 to .16 | 90 days to 4 years | $5,000 to $7,500 | DMV will suspend drivers license for all offenses but additional penalties apply for refusal or BAC above .15 |
| 1st Offense | Above .16 | 30 to 90 days | $1,000 | Jail time or fine will apply, not both |
| 2nd Offense | Above .16 | 90 days to 3 years | $3,500 to $6,500 | DMV will suspend drivers license for all offenses but additional penalties apply for refusal or BAC above .15 |
| 3rd Offense | Above .16 | 6 months to 5 years | $7,500 to $10,000 | DMV will suspend drivers license for all offenses but additional penalties apply for refusal or BAC above .15 |
FAQs About DUI and SR-22 in South Carolina
An SR-22 is a certificate that proves you have the minimum required auto insurance coverage mandated by your state. It's often required for drivers who have been convicted of serious driving offenses like DUIs or driving without insurance.
The duration of SR-22 insurance requirements varies by state and the offense. Typically, it's required for a minimum of three years, but it can be longer depending on the circumstances. During this period, the insurance company will keep the state updated on your car insurance policy renewals and cancellations to ensure you maintain consistent coverage. Breathe Easy can help you understand the specific duration needed in your case.
When you are done selecting your insurance plan, Breathe Easy can connect you with an Intoxalock representative for further assistance. They will answer any questions you have and help you get set up with an installation appointment at a convenient time.
Get a Free South Carolina SR-22 Insurance Quote
Contact Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions today for your free South Carolina SR-22 Insurance quote. Our experienced agents can help you with all of your licensing needs. Let us find you affordable high-risk insurance rates and get your driving privileges reinstated. Our state agents can assist you with enrolling in an Alcohol and Drug program and finding a certified Ignition Interlock provider. Contact Breathe Easy today at 844-580-7525 to get a free quote and get back on the road.
