South Carolina DUI Costs (2026)
State-specific DUI cost calculators, law summaries, and guides for South Carolina.
Calculate your South Carolina DUI costOn our estimates, a typical first-offense DUI in South Carolina costs about $20,679, the 17th highest of the 50 states (median of our state estimates: $17,615). Use the calculators below for your own situation.
South Carolina DUI Key Facts
South Carolina DUI Calculators
South Carolina DUI FAQ
How much does a DUI cost in South Carolina?
Add up the fine ($400-$1,000), attorney fees (our estimate: $2,500-$10,000), insurance, ignition interlock, education, reinstatement and time off work, and our calculator puts a typical first-offense DUI in South Carolina at about $20,679, within a range of $11,132 to $32,130, using its default answers. Use the calculator for an estimate based on your own situation.
What is the legal DUI term in South Carolina?
South Carolina uses the term "DUI" for impaired driving offenses. The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for adults, with enhanced penalties at 0.16% BAC.
How long is your license suspended for a first DUI in South Carolina?
A first-offense DUI in South Carolina carries a license suspension of 180 days, and a second offense carries a license suspension of 1 year (365 days). Whether you can keep driving on a restricted license during that time is covered below.
Is an ignition interlock device required in South Carolina?
Yes. South Carolina requires an ignition interlock device for 6 months following a first DUI conviction. We estimate the monthly cost at about $100.
Does South Carolina require SR-22 insurance after a DUI?
Yes. South Carolina requires SR-22 high-risk insurance filing for 3 years following a DUI conviction. We estimate the typical premium increase at 70-110%.
When does a DUI become a felony in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, a DUI becomes a felony on the fourth offense within 10 years. Other factors, such as an injury, can also change how a case is charged; an attorney can tell you how they apply in South Carolina.
Can a DUI be expunged in South Carolina?
South Carolina does not allow DUI convictions to be expunged. Some states have other ways to limit who can see a record, such as sealing, which this site does not cover yet; an attorney in South Carolina can tell you whether any apply.
How long do you have to request a license hearing after a DUI arrest in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, you have 30 days from the date of the suspension notice to request a hearing on your license if you refused the test or your BAC was 0.15% or higher (S.C. Code § 56-5-2951(B)(1)). The notice you received at arrest gives the exact date.
How long does South Carolina have to charge you with a DUI?
South Carolina does not set a statute of limitations for DUI charges. There is no fixed deadline for the state to file a case, so charges can be brought at any time after the alleged offense.
Can you get a hardship or restricted license after a DUI in South Carolina?
South Carolina generally offers a hardship or restricted license that can let you keep driving for work, school, or treatment during part of a DUI suspension. Eligibility and conditions depend on your offense level and the court, so confirm the current rules for your situation.
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