South Carolina DUI Laws & Penalties (2026)
South Carolina requires IID for all DUI offenses and has a 10-year lookback period. First offenses may be expunged after 5 years.
South Carolina DUI Penalties
1st Offense
2nd Offense
BAC Limits in South Carolina
📜 Expungement
DUI expungement is available in South Carolina. Waiting period: 5 years (first offense only).
Expungement Guide →💰 Estimated Total Cost
A first DUI in South Carolina typically costs $10,000-$25,000+ including fines, attorney, classes, IID, and insurance increases.
Calculate Your Cost →Find a DUI Attorney in South Carolina
Connect with experienced DUI lawyers in Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and across South Carolina.
South Carolina DUI Deep Dives
🚨 First Offense Penalties
Complete guide to what happens on your first DUI in South Carolina.
🍺 BAC Limit
Legal BAC limits for standard, commercial, and under-21 drivers.
💰 DUI Cost
Full cost breakdown: fines, attorney, classes, insurance, and more.
🔧 Ignition Interlock Cost
IID installation, monthly fees, and provider comparison.
🚫 License Suspension
Suspension length, restricted license options, and reinstatement steps.
🧮 Cost Calculator
Estimate your total DUI cost with our interactive tool.
Official Sources & References
- 📋 S.C. Code § 56-5-2930 — South Carolina DUI statute
- 🚗 South Carolina DMV — License suspension, reinstatement, IID requirements
- 📊 NHTSA Impaired Driving Data
- 🛡️ MADD — Mothers Against Drunk Driving
DUIFinders.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Information is for general purposes only. Consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina for advice specific to your situation.
South Carolina DUI FAQ
What is the BAC limit in South Carolina?
The legal BAC limit in South Carolina is 0.08% for regular drivers, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for drivers under 21.
What are the penalties for a first DUI in South Carolina?
A first DUI in South Carolina is a Misdemeanor. Penalties include 48 hours–30 days jail, $400 in fines, and 6-month suspension license suspension.
Is an ignition interlock device required in South Carolina?
Required for all offenses
Can a DUI be expunged in South Carolina?
Yes, DUI expungement is available in South Carolina. Waiting period: 5 years (first offense only).
What is the lookback period for DUI in South Carolina?
South Carolina uses a 10-year lookback period to determine if an offense counts as a repeat offense.