Renewal Frequency and Age Requirements
- Drivers age 65 and older must renew their license every five years.
- Drivers under 65 may renew for five years by mail, or for ten years in person at a DMV office.
Vision Test Requirements
- A vision test is generally not required at every renewal for seniors.
- Vision screening is only mandatory if:
- You are applying for a beginner’s permit or a new driver’s license.
- You moved out of South Carolina and are returning to the state.
- The vision test can be conducted at the DMV or by a licensed eye care professional. If done externally, a completed Report of Vision Screening form must be submitted.
Written and Road Tests
- A written or road test may be required at the discretion of DMV personnel, especially if there are concerns about driving ability or if there are significant violations on your record.
- If your license has expired for over nine months, you must retake the written and driving exams.
Renewal Methods
- In-person renewal is available to all seniors.
- Online and mail renewal options are available if you meet the following criteria:
- U.S. citizen
- No conditional or situational license
- License not expired for more than nine months
- No more than five points in violations in the past two years
- Social Security and DMV records match
- License not suspended or revoked
- Not a convicted violent offender
- Last renewal was done in person
- Submission of a vision exam form completed by a licensed eye care professional.
Fees
- The renewal fee for seniors is $25 plus an administrative fee.
Possible Restrictions
- The DMV may place restrictions on a senior’s license (such as requiring corrective lenses) based on test results or medical information.
- The DMV accepts reports from law enforcement or DMV staff about potentially unsafe drivers, but there is no formal process for family or friends to report concerns.
Disabled Parking Placards
- Seniors with impaired mobility may qualify for a disabled parking placard or license plate with certification from a medical practitioner.
Table
| Requirement | Seniors (65+) |
|---|---|
| Renewal interval | Every 5 years |
| Vision test | Only in special cases |
| Written/road test | Discretionary |
| Renewal methods | In-person, online, mail |
| Fee | $25 + admin fee |
| Possible restrictions | Yes, if needed |
Seniors in South Carolina must renew their driver’s license every five years, with vision and other tests required only in specific circumstances. Renewal can be done in person, online, or by mail if eligibility criteria are met, and the standard fee applies. The DMV may impose restrictions if necessary for safety.
Sources
[1] https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/license-renewal-for-seniors-in-south-carolina-what-you-need-to-know/
[2] https://zutobi.com/us/sc-car/driver-guides/south-carolina-drivers-license-renewal
[3] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/south-carolina-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
[4] https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals
[5] https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table