Updated March 2026
State Requirements
South Carolina requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage at the same limits is also mandatory unless explicitly waived in writing. Drivers convicted of DUI, those with suspended licenses due to serious violations, or drivers involved in at-fault accidents without insurance must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility for 3 years. These minimums rarely cover the full cost of serious accidents, and high-risk drivers face significantly higher premiums even at minimum coverage levels.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance in South Carolina costs 60–220% more than standard rates depending on violation type, prior insurance history, and carrier availability. DUI convictions typically result in the highest premiums, averaging $3,600–$5,400 annually, while suspended license or multiple violations average $2,400–$4,200 annually. Rates decrease gradually as violations age off your record, typically dropping 15–25% after the first violation-free year.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type and severity: DUI convictions increase rates 110–220%, while suspended license violations increase rates 60–140%
- Years since violation: Premiums typically drop 15–25% after first violation-free year, with most violations aging off record after 3–5 years
- Prior insurance lapse duration: Coverage gaps over 30 days can increase rates 25–50% even after reinstatement
- ZIP code and population density: Charleston and Columbia high-risk drivers pay 20–35% more than rural areas due to higher accident frequency
- Vehicle type and age: High-performance or luxury vehicles can be uninsurable with some non-standard carriers or require specialty programs
- Credit-based insurance score: South Carolina allows credit consideration, which can increase premiums 30–60% for high-risk drivers with poor credit
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. South Carolina's 25/50/25 minimums can be exhausted quickly in serious accidents, leaving high-risk drivers vulnerable to lawsuits and wage garnishment.
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate filed by your carrier proving continuous coverage. Required for 3 years following DUI, suspension, or uninsured accident. Any lapse restarts the entire requirement period.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. Covers medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage up to your policy limits.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies specifically designed for drivers with violations, suspensions, SR-22 requirements, or lapses. Non-standard carriers specialize in high-risk profiles and offer more flexible underwriting than standard insurers.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an at-fault accident regardless of fault. Required by lenders on financed vehicles.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers theft, vandalism, weather damage, fire, and animal strikes. Does not cover collision or mechanical breakdown.
