South Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements & Rates
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.
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South Carolina at a Glance
25/50/25
Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)
At-fault
The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause
Required
Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy
Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 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.
Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Collision Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage
Cost Overview
about $114/mo
Average car insurance spending in South Carolina
Rate data: NAIC Auto Insurance Database, 2023
What Affects Your Rate
- 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.
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Compare Auto Rates for FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Is South Carolina a no-fault state for car insurance?
No, South Carolina is a tort state, meaning the driver who causes an accident is financially responsible for resulting damages. Injured parties can file claims against the at-fault driver's liability insurance and sue for damages beyond policy limits if necessary. This differs from no-fault states where each driver's own insurance covers their injuries regardless of fault.
What is an FR-10 form in South Carolina?
The FR-10 is a financial responsibility filing your insurance company submits electronically to the South Carolina DMV proving you carry at least minimum required coverage. It serves as the state's proof-of-insurance system. If your policy lapses or is canceled, your insurer notifies the DMV, which can suspend your registration and license until you obtain new coverage and file a new FR-10.
Coverage 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.