South Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements, Costs & Coverage Guide 2026
✓ Updated January 2026 – Based on Real South Carolina Quotes

South Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements & Costs

Complete guide to South Carolina car insurance requirements, average rates, and coverage options with current 2026 data. We’re a licensed insurance broker serving 34 states, not an insurance carrier—we help you compare multiple providers to find the best rates.

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Key Takeaways: South Carolina Auto Insurance Data

Data Source: All rates and statistics on this page are based on real first-party auto insurance quotes collected by our licensed agents in South Carolina. This is not national average data or advertised rates—these numbers reflect actual consumer quote activity in South Carolina during 2025-2026.

Average Monthly Rate in SC
$152
Based on real quotes from our licensed agents, South Carolina drivers pay an average of $152 per month for auto insurance
Liability vs Full Coverage
$149 vs $164
Liability-only averages $149/month while full coverage averages $164/month – a modest $15 difference in our SC data
Price Range Across Carriers
$148-$159
Rates vary by only $11 (8% spread) between the lowest (Progressive at $148) and highest (AssuranceAmerica at $159) in our South Carolina data
Violations Impact
2% Increase
Drivers with 1 violation average $154/month vs $151/month for clean records – a relatively small $3 difference in our SC quote data

South Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements

South Carolina law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. Understanding these requirements is essential for legal compliance and financial protection.

At A Plus Insurance, we work with multiple insurance providers to help you find the best coverage for your needs and budget.

Coverage Type Minimum Required What It Covers
Bodily Injury (per person) $25,000 Medical expenses and lost wages for one person injured in an accident you cause
Bodily Injury (per accident) $50,000 Total medical expenses and lost wages for all people injured in an accident you cause
Property Damage $25,000 Damage to another person’s vehicle or property in an accident you cause
Important: These are legal minimums. Most drivers benefit from higher coverage limits to protect against serious accidents. Consider 50/100/50 or 100/300/100 for better protection.

Optional but Recommended Coverage

While not legally required, these coverages provide crucial protection:

  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Protects you if hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage
  • Collision: Covers damage to your vehicle from accidents, regardless of fault
  • Comprehensive: Covers non-collision damage (theft, vandalism, weather, animals)
  • Medical Payments (MedPay): Covers medical expenses for you and passengers, regardless of fault

Learn more about different coverage types on our auto insurance guide, explore South Carolina car insurance options, or learn about non-owners insurance in South Carolina.

Average monthly auto insurance rate by state

Filters: Filters: State SC

Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset

SC
$131.01
  • Pricing ranges from $131.01 (SC) to $131.01 (SC) ... a spread of $0.00.
  • Based on real auto insurance quotes grouped into 1 company results, the average across this view is $131.01. The spread is about 0% from lowest to highest.
  • Rates can shift with coverage choices, Driver details, and vehicle factors ... use filters to compare similar coverage, then review the evidence table for context.

Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.

Evidence (records used)

This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.

record_idcall_idcall_datestatecityzipyearmakemodelagesexmaritalcoveragecarriermonthlyviolationsaccidentsdui
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 1995 CHEVROLET C1500 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 2008 DODGE CALIBER 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
841 20260112-1022-3179 2026-01-12 SC SPARTANBURG 29302 1998 CHEVROLET MALIBU 61 female single full_coverage AssuranceAmerica 163.99 0 0 0
840 20260113-1019-5786 2026-01-13 SC CHESNEE 29323 2007 CHRYSLER ASPEN LIMITED 32 female married liability_only AssuranceAmerica 154.42 1 0 0

How Violations & Risk Factors Affect Your South Carolina Rates

Your driving record and risk profile significantly impact insurance costs in South Carolina. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate rate changes and make informed decisions.

Understanding SR-22 Insurance in South Carolina

An SR-22 is not insurance itself, but a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurance company with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). You may need an SR-22 if you have:

  • DUI or DWI conviction
  • Multiple traffic violations in a short period
  • At-fault accident without insurance
  • License suspension or revocation
  • Conviction for driving without insurance
SR-22 Cost Impact: Drivers requiring SR-22 certification typically pay 50-80% more for auto insurance. The SR-22 filing itself costs $15-50, but the underlying violation causes the major rate increase. SR-22 is usually required for 3 years in South Carolina.

Need SR-22 insurance? Learn more about SR-22 insurance in South Carolina and get quotes from providers who specialize in high-risk coverage.

SR22 vs non SR22 rate comparison

Filters: Geo_mode state, _show_summary , State SC

Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset

Liability only

Filters: Geo_mode state, _show_summary , State SC, Coverage liability_only

StateNon SR22 avg monthlySR22 avg monthlyDollar difference
SC$126.29

Last updated: 2026-02-04 00:26:03

Download CSV (evidence)

Full coverage

Filters: Geo_mode state, _show_summary , State SC, Coverage full_coverage

StateNon SR22 avg monthlySR22 avg monthlyDollar difference
SC$163.99

Last updated: 2026-02-04 00:26:03

Download CSV (evidence)

Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.

Evidence (records used)
Record ID Agent Agent NPN State City ZIP Age Sex Marital Status Currently Insured Prior Carrier Vehicle Year Vehicle Make Vehicle Model Coverage Package Carrier Quoted Monthly Premium SR22 Required DUI Flag DUI Count Accidents Count Violations Count Created At
1275 Lauren McKenzie 19081764 SC LIBERTY 29657 58 female single yes NATIONAL GENERAL INS 1995 CHEVROLET C1500 liability_only Progressive 69.160000 no no 0 0 0 2026-02-03 21:58:34
1275 Lauren McKenzie 19081764 SC LIBERTY 29657 58 female single yes NATIONAL GENERAL INS 2008 DODGE CALIBER liability_only Progressive 69.160000 no no 0 0 0 2026-02-03 21:58:34
1041 Ruby Finley 21453504 SC ROCK HILL 29730 58 female married yes All Other Standard Companie 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.830000 no no 0 0 0 2026-01-29 17:16:51
1041 Ruby Finley 21453504 SC ROCK HILL 29730 58 female married yes All Other Standard Companie 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.830000 no no 0 0 0 2026-01-29 17:16:51
1041 Ruby Finley 21453504 SC ROCK HILL 29730 58 female married yes All Other Standard Companie 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.830000 no no 0 0 0 2026-01-29 17:16:51
1041 Ruby Finley 21453504 SC ROCK HILL 29730 58 female married yes All Other Standard Companie 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.830000 no no 0 0 0 2026-01-29 17:16:51
841 Ruby Finley 21453504 SC SPARTANBURG 29302 61 female single no AssuranceAmerica 1998 CHEVROLET MALIBU full_coverage AssuranceAmerica 163.990000 no no 0 0 0 2026-01-26 15:23:58
840 Ruby Finley 21453504 SC CHESNEE 29323 32 female married yes All Other Standard Companies 2007 CHRYSLER ASPEN LIMITED liability_only AssuranceAmerica 154.420000 no no 0 0 1 2026-01-26 15:21:26

How DUI Affects Your South Carolina Insurance Rates

A DUI conviction has severe consequences for auto insurance in South Carolina:

  • Rate Increase: Average increase of 60-100% for 3-5 years
  • SR-22 Requirement: Mandatory filing for minimum 3 years
  • Limited Options: Many standard insurers will not cover DUI drivers
  • Long-term Impact: DUI stays on your record for 10 years in South Carolina

After a DUI, you’ll need to obtain coverage from high-risk or non-standard insurance providers. Rates gradually decrease as time passes without additional violations, but expect elevated premiums for several years.

Common Traffic Violations and Rate Impacts in South Carolina

Violation Type Typical Rate Increase Duration of Impact
Speeding (15+ mph over) 20-30% 3 years
At-fault accident 30-50% 3-5 years
Reckless driving 40-70% 3-5 years
DUI/DWI 60-100% 5-10 years
Driving without insurance 50-80% 3 years
Good News: Maintaining a clean driving record for 3-5 years can significantly reduce rates. Many insurers offer accident forgiveness and safe driver discounts.

Liability only vs full coverage by company

Filters: State SC

Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset

Liability only Full coverage
AssuranceAmerica
$154.42
$163.99
Progressive
$121.61

Across these carriers, liability only averages $138.01 per month, while full coverage averages $163.99. The largest gap in this view is $9.57 for AssuranceAmerica.

Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.

Evidence (records used)

This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.

record_idcall_idcall_datestatecityzipyearmakemodelagesexmaritalcoveragecarriermonthlyviolationsaccidentsdui
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 1995 CHEVROLET C1500 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 2008 DODGE CALIBER 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
841 20260112-1022-3179 2026-01-12 SC SPARTANBURG 29302 1998 CHEVROLET MALIBU 61 female single full_coverage AssuranceAmerica 163.99 0 0 0
840 20260113-1019-5786 2026-01-13 SC CHESNEE 29323 2007 CHRYSLER ASPEN LIMITED 32 female married liability_only AssuranceAmerica 154.42 1 0 0

Cheapest auto insurance companies

Filters: Filters: State SC

Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset

AssuranceAmerica
$159.21
Progressive
$121.61
  • Pricing ranges from $121.61 (Progressive) to $159.21 (AssuranceAmerica) ... a spread of $37.60.
  • Based on real auto insurance quotes grouped into 2 company results, the average across this view is $140.41. The spread is about 31% from lowest to highest.
  • Rates can shift with coverage choices, Driver details, and vehicle factors ... use filters to compare similar coverage, then review the evidence table for context.

Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.

Evidence (records used)

This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.

record_idcall_idcall_datestatecityzipyearmakemodelagesexmaritalcoveragecarriermonthlyviolationsaccidentsdui
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 1995 CHEVROLET C1500 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 2008 DODGE CALIBER 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
841 20260112-1022-3179 2026-01-12 SC SPARTANBURG 29302 1998 CHEVROLET MALIBU 61 female single full_coverage AssuranceAmerica 163.99 0 0 0
840 20260113-1019-5786 2026-01-13 SC CHESNEE 29323 2007 CHRYSLER ASPEN LIMITED 32 female married liability_only AssuranceAmerica 154.42 1 0 0

Explore more detailed guides for specific South Carolina insurance topics and coverage options:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the minimum auto insurance requirements in South Carolina?
South Carolina requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. This is the legal minimum to drive in South Carolina, though most financial advisors recommend higher limits for better protection.
How much does auto insurance cost in South Carolina?
Auto insurance costs in South Carolina vary widely based on location, driving record, age, vehicle, and coverage level. On average, liability-only coverage costs significantly less than full coverage. Urban areas like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville typically have higher rates than rural counties due to accident frequency and theft rates. The best way to find your actual cost is to compare quotes from multiple providers.
Is South Carolina a no-fault insurance state?
No, South Carolina is an at-fault state. This means the driver who causes an accident is responsible for damages through their liability insurance. The at-fault driver’s insurance pays for injuries and property damage to other parties. This is why adequate liability coverage is crucial in South Carolina.
What happens if I get caught driving without insurance in South Carolina?
Driving without insurance in South Carolina results in serious penalties: fines, suspension of your driver’s license and vehicle registration, potential SR-22 requirement for future coverage, and significantly higher insurance rates when you reinstate coverage. South Carolina takes uninsured driving very seriously, and penalties increase for repeat offenses.
Do I need SR-22 insurance in South Carolina?
You need SR-22 insurance in South Carolina if you’ve had a DUI/DWI, multiple serious traffic violations, an at-fault accident without insurance, or your license was suspended or revoked. The SR-22 is a certificate your insurance company files with the SCDMV proving you carry the required minimum coverage. It’s typically required for 3 years and increases your insurance rates by 50-80%.
How does a DUI affect my car insurance rates in South Carolina?
A DUI in South Carolina typically increases your insurance rates by 60-100% and remains on your driving record for 10 years. You’ll need to file an SR-22 for at least 3 years, and many standard insurance companies won’t cover you, forcing you to seek high-risk insurers. Rates gradually decrease over time if you maintain a clean record, but expect elevated premiums for 5-10 years.
Should I get more than the minimum coverage in South Carolina?
Yes, most insurance experts recommend purchasing more than South Carolina’s minimum 25/50/25 coverage. These minimums may not cover all damages in a serious accident, leaving you personally liable for the difference. Consider at least 50/100/50 or 100/300/100 coverage, plus uninsured motorist coverage, to protect your assets. The additional cost is usually modest compared to the increased protection.
How often should I shop for new car insurance rates in South Carolina?
You should compare car insurance quotes every 6-12 months, even if you’re satisfied with your current provider. Insurance rates change frequently based on market conditions, and you may qualify for new discounts or find better rates elsewhere. Life changes like marriage, moving, or buying a home can also significantly affect your rates. Shopping around regularly can save South Carolina drivers $400 or more annually.

Driver age average monthly by area

Filters: Filters: State SC

Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset

32
$154.42
58
$121.61
61
$163.99
  • Pricing ranges from $121.61 (58) to $163.99 (61) ... a spread of $42.38.
  • Based on real auto insurance quotes grouped into 3 company results, the average across this view is $146.67. The spread is about 35% from lowest to highest.
  • Rates can shift with coverage choices, Driver details, and vehicle factors ... use filters to compare similar coverage, then review the evidence table for context.

Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.

Evidence (records used)

This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.

record_idcall_idcall_datestatecityzipyearmakemodelagesexmaritalcoveragecarriermonthlyviolationsaccidentsdui
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 1995 CHEVROLET C1500 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 2008 DODGE CALIBER 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
841 20260112-1022-3179 2026-01-12 SC SPARTANBURG 29302 1998 CHEVROLET MALIBU 61 female single full_coverage AssuranceAmerica 163.99 0 0 0
840 20260113-1019-5786 2026-01-13 SC CHESNEE 29323 2007 CHRYSLER ASPEN LIMITED 32 female married liability_only AssuranceAmerica 154.42 1 0 0

Driver sex average monthly by area

Filters: Filters: State SC

Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset

female
$131.01
  • Pricing ranges from $131.01 (female) to $131.01 (female) ... a spread of $0.00.
  • Based on real auto insurance quotes grouped into 1 company results, the average across this view is $131.01. The spread is about 0% from lowest to highest.
  • Rates can shift with coverage choices, Driver details, and vehicle factors ... use filters to compare similar coverage, then review the evidence table for context.

Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.

Evidence (records used)

This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.

record_idcall_idcall_datestatecityzipyearmakemodelagesexmaritalcoveragecarriermonthlyviolationsaccidentsdui
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 1995 CHEVROLET C1500 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1275 20260203-1030-9973 2026-02-03 SC LIBERTY 29657 2008 DODGE CALIBER 58 female single liability_only Progressive 69.16 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2014 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
1041 20260129-0618-5199 2026-01-29 SC ROCK HILL 29730 2018 FORD ESCAPE SE 58 female married liability_only Progressive POP/SD/HO (from TurboRater) 147.83 0 0 0
841 20260112-1022-3179 2026-01-12 SC SPARTANBURG 29302 1998 CHEVROLET MALIBU 61 female single full_coverage AssuranceAmerica 163.99 0 0 0
840 20260113-1019-5786 2026-01-13 SC CHESNEE 29323 2007 CHRYSLER ASPEN LIMITED 32 female married liability_only AssuranceAmerica 154.42 1 0 0

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Jayleen Ridgeway - Marketing Manager

Jayleen Ridgeway

Marketing Manager

Data-driven marketing strategist specializing in insurance rate analysis, pricing trends, and consumer insights derived from real-world first-party data. With a background in SaaS technology, Jayleen leads all marketing and social media efforts while uncovering actionable trends from monthly, quarterly, and yearly insurance data.

Last Updated on by Jayleen Ridgeway

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