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South Carolina Auto Insurance Rates & Requirements

South Carolina requires 25/50/25 minimum liability coverage — $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. Average premiums range from $135–$165/month for minimum coverage and $220–$275/month for full coverage, based on available industry data; individual rates vary.

Damaged red car on crash test platform showing impact deformation to front end and wheel area

Updated March 2026

State Requirements

South Carolina operates under a traditional at-fault tort liability system, meaning the driver responsible for a crash pays for damages. The state requires all drivers to carry proof of financial responsibility, enforced through random verification requests from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. South Carolina also mandates uninsured motorist coverage at the same limits as your bodily injury liability unless you reject it in writing — a requirement unique among southeastern states.

Cost Overview

South Carolina auto insurance rates vary significantly by location, with coastal counties paying higher premiums due to hurricane exposure and urban centers like Charleston and Columbia seeing elevated rates from accident density and vehicle theft. The state's roughly 9.4% uninsured motorist rate also contributes to higher uninsured motorist coverage costs compared to neighboring North Carolina.

Minimum Coverage
Meets South Carolina's 25/50/25 liability requirement plus mandatory uninsured motorist coverage. Does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
Standard Coverage
Includes 100/300/100 liability limits, uninsured motorist at matching limits, and collision and comprehensive with a $500 or $1,000 deductible. Recommended for most drivers with vehicles worth more than $5,000.
Full Coverage
Provides 250/500/100 liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist at matching limits, collision and comprehensive with a $500 deductible, and optional rental reimbursement and roadside assistance.

What Affects Your Rate

  • Charleston County drivers pay 15–25% more than Upstate averages due to higher hurricane risk and coastal storm frequency.
  • Drivers under age 25 in South Carolina face premiums approximately 70–90% higher than those aged 35–55 with clean records.
  • A single at-fault accident can increase premiums by 25–40% for three to five years, depending on severity and insurer policy.
  • Vehicles with high theft rates — such as older Honda Accords and pickup trucks — carry comprehensive premiums 20–30% above the state average.
  • Credit-based insurance scores significantly affect South Carolina rates; poor credit can double premiums compared to excellent credit with identical driving history.
  • Rural counties like Oconee and Pickens typically see rates 10–18% below metro areas due to lower accident frequency and reduced theft risk.

Compare Auto Insurance Rates in South Carolina

Coverage Options

Find Your City in South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina cityscape and street view

Charleston

urban
Columbia, South Carolina cityscape and street view

Columbia

urban
North Charleston, South Carolina cityscape and street view

North Charleston

suburban
Wooden pier extending over water at sunset with marsh grasses in foreground and orange sky

Mount Pleasant

suburban
Park walking path with bench and small dog among tall trees and fallen leaves

Rock Hill

suburban
Greenville, South Carolina cityscape and street view

Greenville

urban
Suburban street with houses and orange tile roofs during golden hour lighting

Summerville

suburban
Evening street scene with glowing street lamps, parked cars, and landscaped flower beds in downtown area

Spartanburg

urban

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

  • South Carolina Department of Insurance (scdoi.sc.gov)
  • South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles - Financial Responsibility Requirements
  • Insurance Information Institute - Uninsured Motorists 2024 Data

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