Updated March 2026
State Requirements
South Carolina operates as a tort state, meaning the at-fault driver is financially responsible for damages in an accident. All drivers must carry proof of insurance in the form of an FR-10 filing submitted by their insurer to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. Uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory at the same limits as your liability policy unless you decline it in writing, a requirement unique to relatively few states.
Cost Overview
South Carolina insurance rates reflect the state's mix of urban density in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, hurricane exposure along the coast, and an uninsured motorist rate near 11%. The tort liability system means at-fault drivers bear full financial responsibility, which elevates the cost and importance of adequate liability limits.
What Affects Your Rate
- Drivers in Charleston and Myrtle Beach pay 15–25% more than rural areas due to higher collision frequency and coastal storm risk.
- South Carolina's approximately 11% uninsured motorist rate increases the likelihood of filing an uninsured motorist claim, which can raise premiums after a claim even when you're not at fault.
- Credit-based insurance scores significantly impact rates in South Carolina — drivers with poor credit may pay 50–80% more than those with excellent credit for identical coverage.
- Coastal zip codes from Hilton Head to North Myrtle Beach see elevated comprehensive premiums due to hurricane and flooding exposure, even if flood damage itself is excluded from auto policies.
- DUI convictions in South Carolina trigger SR-22 filing requirements and rate increases of 80–150% for three years following the offense.
- Young drivers under 25 in South Carolina typically pay $180–$280/month for full coverage, reflecting statewide accident rate patterns for this age group.
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
The foundation of your policy and the only coverage South Carolina requires. Covers injury and property damage you cause to others, but nothing on your own vehicle or your own injuries after an at-fault accident.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, comprehensive, and enhanced uninsured motorist coverage into one package. Protects both your financial liability and your vehicle's value.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision damage including theft, vandalism, hail, flooding, falling objects, and animal strikes. Pays the actual cash value of your vehicle minus your deductible.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Steps in when you're hit by a driver with no insurance or a hit-and-run driver. South Carolina requires this at your liability limits unless you decline it in writing.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after a crash with another car or object, regardless of who caused the accident. Required by lenders but optional once your car is paid off.
SR-22 Insurance
Not a separate coverage type but a certificate your insurer files with the South Carolina DMV proving you carry at least minimum liability. Required after DUI, reckless driving, or driving uninsured.
