Driving Without Insurance 

Insurance companies notify the SCDMV if you're a vehicle owner and you cancel your insurance policy. If you do not have current insurance when the SCDMV receives this notification, you will receive a letter that requires you to have the insurance company electronically verify insurance coverage within 20 business days.

If the SCDMV does not receive verification within 20 days, the following will happen:

• Your driving privilege, license plate, and vehicle registration(s) of the vehicle(s) listed on the policy will be suspended.
• You may have to pay up to $400 to reinstate your driving and registration privileges.

While under suspension, you may not drive or register any vehicle without insurance. If you do not return your plate to the SCDMV, a law enforcement officer will take it from you.

What should I do to protect myself?

All registered vehicles must be insured. Maintain your insurance coverage and do not let your policy lapse. If you turn in your license plate and registration to an SCDMV branch before you cancel the insurance, you will not be penalized.

I received a ticket for not having insurance. What do I do? 

If you were found guilty and you were driving a vehicle you do not own, your driver's license will be suspended for 30 days and you will be required to pay a $100 reinstatement fee.

If you were found guilty and you were driving a vehicle that you own, your license and registration will be suspended until the SCDMV receives the $700 uninsured motorist fee. You must get your insurance company to file a Certificate of Insurance (SR-22) for three years starting with the date of suspension.