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SC / OFFICIAL RESOURCE GUIDE

The South Carolina
driver handbook.

Use the handbook as your source of truth. This page helps you find it, understand what to look for, and turn reading into focused practice.

Open the official handbook
START HERE

Your reading path.

  1. 01
    Road signs & signals

    Recognize the message before you reach the sign.

  2. 02
    Right of way

    Work through intersections, turns, and shared spaces.

  3. 03
    Safe driving

    Build space, awareness, and good decisions.

  4. 04
    Parking & stopping

    Know where and how to leave your vehicle safely.

  5. 05
    Rules of the road

    Understand lane choices, passing, and road markings.

STATE CHECKLIST

Before your appointment.

South Carolina’s beginner’s permit starts at age 15 and requires vision and knowledge tests.

A beginner’s permit holder may drive 6 a.m.–midnight with a licensed driver at least 21 who has one year of experience in front.

The permit must be held at least 180 days before the next licensing step.

Permit eligibility, documents, fees, and appointment details can change. Confirm those details with South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles before you go.