What to bring to the South Carolina SCDMV permit test
Bring the right documents and you can take the knowledge and vision tests on the same visit. The official requirements change from time to time, so check the SCDMV's own page before you go.
For the learner's permit and knowledge test
- Original documents proving US citizenship, identity, date and place of birth (e.g. government-issued birth certificate)
- Social Security number
- Proof of current physical SC address (two proofs for REAL ID)
- Full document list: US Citizens' Checklist (Form MV-93); non-US citizens: Form MV-94
- Under 18: a qualified adult to sign consent at the branch (with picture ID)
Fees
- Knowledge test: $2 each
- Beginner's permit (original, renewal, duplicate, modified): $2.50
- 8-year driver's license: $25
- Special restricted license with waiver: $25
The vision test
20/40 or better; the minimum standard does not require more than 20/40 corrected in one eye. A corrective-lens restriction ('A') is added if lenses are needed to meet the standard. Certificates of Vision Examination from an eye care professional are valid 36 months.
Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them to see clearly.
For the road test
- Old license or beginner's permit (if you have one)
- A licensed driver
- Vehicle liability insurance information from a company licensed in SC
- Safe vehicle with valid plate, registration card and insurance card (rental: your name must be on the contract as insured)
- Ages 15-16: Form PDLA (Certification of School Attendance, Driver's Education and Driving Practice)
- Glasses or contacts if you wear them
After you pass: your permit
- Hold it for at least 180 days if 17 or younger (apply on the 181st day); at least 30 days if 18 or older (apply on the 31st day) before the road test.
- Log 40 hours of supervised driving, 10 of them at night.
- 6 a.m. to midnight: a licensed driver at least 21 with at least one year of driving experience must be in the front seat
- Midnight to 6 a.m.: you must be supervised by a qualified person defined in state law (such as a parent or guardian)
- Ages 15-16 applying for a first license: 40 hours of practice including 10 hours at night, driver education (8 hours classroom plus 6 hours driving), school enrollment with satisfactory attendance, and Form PDLA
- Under 18: a qualified adult must sign consent (Form 447-CM) at an SCDMV branch
- Six or more points while holding a beginner's permit, conditional or special restricted license means a suspension for excessive points (six months)
Before you go
Take a practice test or two the day before, and the exam simulator to check you can pass in the real format. Bring originals, not photocopies, unless the SCDMV says copies are accepted.
Questions
How old do I need to be to take the South Carolina permit test?
15.
How much does the South Carolina permit test cost?
$2.00 per knowledge test; $2.50 for the beginner's permit after passing.
Can I take the South Carolina permit test online?
The SCDMV gives the knowledge test in person: Knowledge test of traffic laws, road signs and driving safety rules, taken at any SCDMV branch (arrive before 4 p.m.) or, for first-time Class D permits/licenses, with an SCDMV-authorized One Stop Driver Training and Testing Program (third-party tester). Manuals, written material and electronic devices are not allowed; leaving the test area, talking to anyone, or bringing aids is an automatic fail.
Do I need an appointment?
Check the SCDMV's website: requirements for appointments differ by office and change often. Bring every document on the list above so you don't have to come back.
Source: South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, checked 2026-10-27.