Arrested for DUI
in South Carolina?
A DUI arrest in South Carolina is serious — but it doesn't have to define your future. Understanding the law is your first step. Get a free evaluation and connect with an experienced South Carolina DUI attorney who can fight for you.
- BAC limit: 0.08% (0.02% if under 21)
- 10 years lookback period for prior offenses
- You have 30 days to request a license hearing
31,628 defendants matched
South Carolina DUI Penalties by Offense
South Carolina uses a 10 years lookback period — prior convictions within that window escalate your penalties significantly.
First Offense
- Jail48 hours
- Fine$400
- License Suspension6 months
- Ignition InterlockYes
Second Offense
- ClassificationClass C Misdemeanor
- PenaltiesNot less than 5 days or more than 1 year and not less than $2,100
- Lookback Window10 years
Third Offense & Beyond
- ClassificationClass A Misdemeanor
- PenaltiesNot less than 60 days or more than 3 years and not less than $3,800
Aggravated DUI (BAC ≥ 0.15%): Higher BAC levels trigger enhanced penalties in South Carolina. If your BAC was significantly above the legal limit, you may face mandatory minimums, additional fines, or elevated charges. An experienced South Carolina DUI attorney can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case.
What Happens to Your License
South Carolina operates a two-track system — your license faces consequences from both the court and the DMV independently. You must act fast on both fronts.
- 30-Day Rule: You have just 30 days from your arrest to request an administrative hearing to contest your license revocation. Miss this window and your license is automatically revoked.
- 1st Offense Suspension: 6 months A restricted or hardship license for employment purposes may be available.
- Refusal Consequences: Refusing a chemical test triggers an automatic license revocation of 6 months under South Carolina's implied consent law — separate from any criminal penalties.
South Carolina DUI Defense Strategies
Even if you failed a breath test, that doesn't mean your case is lost. Experienced South Carolina DUI attorneys challenge charges on multiple grounds:
Special South Carolina DUI Circumstances
Under 21
South Carolina applies a strict BAC threshold of just 0.02% for drivers under 21. First refusal – Suspension 6 months; Subsequent refusal (within 3 years) – Suspension 1 year. A DUI on a young driver's record can affect college applications, employment, and insurance for years.
Commercial Drivers
CDL holders in South Carolina are held to a stricter 0.04% BAC standard while operating a commercial vehicle. A DUI conviction can result in a 1-year CDL disqualification for a first offense — and a lifetime ban for a second offense. Even an off-duty DUI in your personal vehicle can threaten your commercial license and livelihood.
Drug DUI
South Carolina law prohibits driving under the influence of any drug — including prescription medications and marijuana — not just alcohol. You do not need to be above a BAC limit for drug dui charges; impairment alone is sufficient. The same criminal penalties apply, and drug dui cases often involve more complex evidence that an experienced attorney can challenge.
Don't Face South Carolina's DUI System Alone
The 30-day deadline to protect your license is already counting down. Get your free evaluation now and find out exactly where you stand.
Get Your Free Evaluation NowFree consultation • No obligation • Available 24/7
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and reflects laws as reported by the NHTSA Digest of Impaired Driving Laws. DUI laws in South Carolina change frequently. This is not legal advice. Always consult a licensed South Carolina DUI attorney for guidance specific to your situation.