South Carolina SR-22 Insurance (2026): Cost & Cheapest Carriers After a DUI
After a South Carolina DUI or DUAC conviction, SCDMV requires an SR-22 for 3 years starting from the date of suspension. The filing fee is small; the premium surcharge is the real cost. Comparing carriers before you commit is the most effective way to reduce what you pay over the 3-year period.
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South Carolina SR-22 at a glance
| What it is | Certificate your insurer files with SCDMV proving you carry minimum liability coverage |
| How long | 3 years starting from the date of suspension (S.C. Code 56-9-620 allows cancellation after 3 conviction-free years) |
| Clock starts | Date of suspension — not conviction date. Confirm your exact start date with SCDMV. |
| Filing fee | $15–25 (the certificate; the premium surcharge is the real cost) |
| Typical premium, first DUI | ~$120–185/mo vs. ~$60–90 for a clean-record driver |
| Minimum liability limits | 25/50/25 ($25k bodily injury / $50k per crash / $25k property damage) |
| If it lapses | SCDMV notified → driving privileges affected → reinstatement required |
How much SR-22 costs in South Carolina
The filing fee is only $15–25. The real cost is the premium surcharge — a first-DUI South Carolina driver typically pays $120–185/month for minimum coverage, versus $60–90 with a clean record. Over 3 years the difference between the cheapest and most expensive carrier can exceed $2,500. Comparing at the start and at each annual renewal is the most effective way to reduce the total cost.
The 3-year clock starts at your suspension date — not conviction. South Carolina’s SR-22 period begins at the date of suspension, which may precede your conviction date. If your license was suspended administratively before your criminal case resolved, the clock may already be running. Confirm your exact start date with SCDMV so you know when the 3-year obligation ends.
Cheapest SR-22 carriers in South Carolina
| Carrier | Notes |
|---|---|
| State Farm | Often the most competitive standard carrier for a first DUI in South Carolina |
| Progressive Specialty | Strong non-standard market; frequently competitive after DUI |
| Allstate | Broad SC availability; competitive for single-offense records |
| Bristol West / Kemper Specialty | Non-standard carriers that routinely write SR-22 policies |
Availability and pricing depend on your driving record, county, and vehicle. Compare multiple carriers before buying.
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How to file an SR-22 in South Carolina
- Confirm your SR-22 start date with SCDMV — it begins at the suspension date, which may predate your conviction.
- Buy a policy from a carrier that writes SR-22s in South Carolina.
- Request the SR-22 filing — most carriers submit electronically to SCDMV, often same day.
- Keep the policy active without any lapse for the full 3 years. Confirm with your insurer before canceling or changing carriers.
Still need your interlock sorted? South Carolina is all-offender for DUI/DUAC convictions since May 19, 2024. The state uses a tiered point violation system and offers an IID Fund covering installation and standard monthly costs for qualifying indigent drivers. Three SCDPPPS-certified national providers serve the state. See South Carolina DUI interlock requirements, the IID Fund, and point system →
South Carolina SR-22 FAQ
How long do I need SR-22 in South Carolina?
3 years from the date of your suspension (S.C. Code 56-9-620). The clock starts at the suspension date — which may predate your conviction. Confirm your exact start date with SCDMV to know precisely when the obligation ends.
How much does SR-22 raise my insurance in South Carolina?
The filing fee is only $15–25. A first-DUI driver typically pays $120–185/month versus $60–90 for a clean record. Carriers vary significantly — comparing before you commit can save thousands over a 3-year period.
Do I need a car to get an SR-22 in South Carolina?
No. A non-owner SR-22 policy satisfies the SCDMV filing requirement without owning a vehicle. Compare non-owner SR-22 quotes →
What happens if my SR-22 lapses in South Carolina?
SCDMV is notified, your driving privileges are affected, and reinstatement fees apply. Set up autopay and confirm your renewal date each year — even a single gap affects your privileges.
Do I also need an ignition interlock in South Carolina?
Yes — if your offense date was May 19, 2024 or later, every DUI and DUAC conviction requires IID enrollment with SCDPPPS. The state uses a tiered point violation system. An IID Fund covers costs for qualifying indigent drivers. See our full South Carolina interlock guide.
Sources:
SCDPPPS — Ignition Interlock;
S.C. Code 56-5-2941; 56-9-620.
Last verified August 2026.
Advertising disclosure: We may be compensated when you request quotes through our links. Content is informational only — not insurance or legal advice. Verify requirements with SCDMV or a licensed insurance agent.