South Carolina Driving Theory Test FAQ

How many questions are on the South Carolina permit knowledge test, and what score do I need to pass?

The SCDMV knowledge test is 30 multiple-choice questions, and you need to answer at least 80% correctly (24 of 30) to pass.

How old do I need to be to get a South Carolina beginner's permit?

You must be at least 15 years old, and you'll need to pass both the vision test and the knowledge test at an SCDMV branch (or a One Stop Driver Training third-party tester).

What does it cost to get a South Carolina beginner's permit?

SCDMV's published fee schedule lists a $2.00 knowledge-test fee plus a $2.50 permit fee once you pass -- $4.50 total.

What do I need to bring to my South Carolina permit test appointment?

Bring original documents proving US citizenship or lawful presence, your identity, date and place of birth, Social Security number, and SC address, plus your old license or permit if you have one.

How long must I hold my beginner's permit before I can move up to my next license?

You must hold the beginner's permit at least 180 days (regardless of age) before applying for a conditional license, special restricted license, or a first regular license -- eligible starting on day 181.

What happens if I fail the South Carolina skills (driving) test?

You must wait two business days to retest after a first failure, seven calendar days after a second failure, and 30 calendar days after a third failure or more, regardless of age or driving experience.

Do I have to take driver's education to get my first South Carolina license as a teen?

Yes, if you're 15 or 16: you must complete eight hours of classroom instruction and six hours of driving instruction, on top of the 40-hour supervised practice-driving requirement, before your first license.

Can I take the South Carolina knowledge and skills test somewhere other than an SCDMV branch?

Yes -- SCDMV-authorized One Stop third-party testers can administer the knowledge and/or skills tests for a first-time regular or motorcycle license, so you do not have to test at a branch office.

How long does a South Carolina beginner's permit or license stay valid?

A beginner's permit is valid until the applicant is eligible to move to the next license stage; a regular driver's license, once renewed online or by mail, is issued for eight years at a time.

Do I need to visit an SCDMV branch when I turn 17 to get my full license?

No -- full, unrestricted driving privileges are granted automatically at 17, or after one violation-free year on a conditional or special restricted license, with no branch visit required.