South Carolina

South Carolina Motorcycle Licensing

Motorcycle License, Permits, Training & Insurance

The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of 5/6/2021. For the most up-to-date information, please visit https://www.scdmvonline.com/.

Operating a Motorcycle in South Carolina

In order to operate a motorcycle in the state of South Carolina you must:

  • Meet the state’s minimum age requirement
  • Obtain an South Carolina motorcycle license (you also need to obtain a motorcycle beginner’s permit)
  • Register your motorcycle with the state of South Carolina
  • Obtain insurance coverage that meets South Carolina state requirements

The minimum age requirement to operate a motorcycle in South Carolina is 15 years old.  For specific motorcycle licensing requirements and restrictions by age group, click here.

Getting a South Carolina Motorcycle License

According to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, in addition to meeting the requirements necessary to obtain a regular driver’s license, individuals must apply for a motorcycle license to operate a motorcycle. 

Find out how to obtain a South Carolina Motorcycle License here.

Motorcycle Education & Training in South Carolina

Motorcyclists should sign up for a motorcycle safety course. In South Carolina, it is not mandatory to complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain a South Carolina motorcycle license. To find an approved South Carolina Motorcycle training center, click here. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) website contains operator safety information.

South Carolina Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

If you’re riding a motorcycle, you will have many of the same requirements regarding registration, licensing and insurance as automobile drivers have in South Carolina. For information about South Carolina insurance requirements, visit https://www.doi.sc.gov/.

By now, you should have a good idea about how to proceed in obtaining a South Carolina motorcycle license. If you are a new resident in South Carolina, or you are a new rider and you’re shopping for motorcycle insurance, click here to get a quote in minutes.

Disclaimer: The materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should review the links within this article, or contact the relevant state agency, for complete and current information.

The SC DMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in South Carolina, make sure your coverage meets the state’s requirements.

To make sure you have the right coverage at the right price, come see what Rider can do for you.

Want to find out more about motorcycle coverage requirements in other states?

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