You have 45 days. According to the SCDMV, anyone who permanently moves to South Carolina with a valid out-of-state license must apply for an SC driver's license or ID within 45 days, and must also transfer vehicle registration within 45 days. You turn in your old license, pass a vision test, and pay the fee.
Last updated: October 2026
What do you need to get an SC driver's license as a new resident?
The SCDMV moving to SC page (as of October 2026) says you must:
- Bring the required identity, residency and Social Security documents listed by the SCDMV
- Surrender your out-of-state license or ID (or provide a driving record from that state if you do not have it)
- Pass a vision test
- Pay the fee. An eight-year license is $25.
If your out-of-state license has been expired nine months or more, you also have to pass the knowledge and road tests.
Is the deadline the same for registering your car?
Yes, vehicle registration also has a 45-day deadline. The SCDMV says you have 45 days to transfer your vehicle registration to South Carolina, and its late-registration schedule for new residents adds penalties after day 45. The SCDMV vehicle page lists the steps.
What order should you do things in after moving to Myrtle Beach?
The vehicle steps have to happen in a specific order, so it helps to plan them:
- Update your auto insurance to your SC address with a company licensed in SC
- Contact your county auditor with your VIN and current registration. A vehicle property tax bill is generated.
- Pay that bill at the county treasurer and keep the original paid receipt
- Visit the SCDMV with the title application (Form 400), your out-of-state title or registration, ID, insurance information, the paid tax receipt, and the fees
New-to-SC vehicles also pay a $250 Infrastructure Maintenance Fee per the SCDMV (as of October 2026). Our 15 things to know before moving to Myrtle Beach covers the rest of your first-month checklist.
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Do you need an SC license if you only live here part of the year?
The SCDMV says people moving here temporarily, such as military members or students, do not need an SC license as long as they keep a valid out-of-state license. Snowbirds should look at where their permanent residence is and talk with a tax adviser, because residency affects your license, your vehicle registration, and your property tax rate.
Why does residency matter for your property taxes?
In South Carolina, an owner-occupied primary residence can be taxed at a 4% assessment ratio instead of 6%. Counties ask for proof that the home is your legal residence, and an SC driver's license and SC vehicle registration at that address are commonly part of the application. Our 4% vs 6% guide explains it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I miss the 45-day deadline?
For vehicles, the SCDMV charges late-registration penalties on a set schedule after day 45. For licenses, you are expected to apply within 45 days of becoming a resident.
How much is an SC driver's license?
An eight-year license is $25 per the SCDMV as of October 2026.
Do I have to take a driving test when moving to South Carolina?
Usually not. You pass a vision test. Knowledge and road tests are required only if your out-of-state license has been expired nine months or more.
Can I register my car before I get my SC license?
Yes in some cases. The SCDMV accepts out-of-state licenses as identification for titling and registering.
Where is the SCDMV near Myrtle Beach?
Use the office locator on the SCDMV website for current locations and hours.
How Our Team Can Help
If you are moving to the Grand Strand, we can line up your home search around your move date and point you to the local offices you will need. Call or message the Secure Home Finder Team and we will walk you through it, then send you homes that fit.
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