How to Get a Motorcycle License in South Carolina

There’s a freedom and excitement you get from riding a motorcycle that can’t be matched. In the state of South Carolina, you need a Class M license to legally operate a motorcycle. A lot of people may have a regular driver’s license but don’t have a clue on how to get a motorcycle license in South Carolina.

If you are wondering how to get a Class M license in South Carolina, we can guide you through some of the basic steps. Below is a general overview of how people get motorcycle licenses in the state. We’ve also included some information about motorcycle helmet laws, insurance requirements, state statutes on lane-splitting, and some important information about motorcycle accidents in South Carolina.

Former Congressman Joe Cunningham and his team hope that you enjoy the road safely and responsibly. If you get hurt while riding your motorcycle or a loved one gets seriously injured in a crash, our law office is ready to help—you can contact our Charleston office for a free consultation.

What Is the Process for Getting a Motorcycle License in South Carolina?

Generally, there are three main steps to getting a motorcycle license in the state. Keep in mind that your process can vary depending on your age, your experience on the road, and other factors. We encourage you to check with your local South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) location for more information.

Step 1: Get a Beginner’s Permit

If you are between the ages of 15 and 18, you will first need to get a beginner’s permit, which is contingent on passing a knowledge test regarding road safety, helmet laws, and other topics related to the operation of a motorcycle.

For people under 18 years old, you must have your beginner’s permit for at least 180 days before you can get your Class M license.

People 18 or older who lack a valid driver’s license of any kind will need a beginner’s permit to apply for a Class M license. Adults in this category must hold a beginner’s permit for at least 30 days before they apply for a motorcycle license.

If your motorcycle beginner’s permit expires before you get your Class M license, you will need to have your beginner’s permit renewed. In the state of South Carolina, you cannot have a motorcycle beginner’s permit renewed more than three times.

People 18 or older who have a valid driver’s license do not need a beginner’s permit to apply for a motorcycle license. These adults can move on to step 2.

Step 2: Apply for a Class M License

When applying for a motorcycle license, an adult must present the following documents to the their local DMV:

• A birth certificate
• Social security card
• Proof of state residency

For people under 18 years old, they must also have an authorized adult present to sign a Consent for Minor (SCDMV Form 447-CM) at the local DMV, unless the form has already been signed by a representative from an approved driver training school.

Step 3: Pass the Vision Test and Road Test

Before you get your license, you’re required to pass a mandatory vision test and a road test (which is sometimes called a skills test). You can schedule a road test at your nearest SC DMV location. Hours for these tests vary depending on location, so be sure to check with the DMV office near you about any matters regarding hours and scheduling.

You have three chances to pass the motorcycle license road test. Once you succeed, you’ll have your Class M license and can enjoy the open road.

What Happens If You Fail the Motorcycle License Road Test Three Times?

If you do not pass the road test within three tries, you’ll need to take a different route to receiving a Class M license.

Instead, you will need to take an SCDMV-authorized motorcycle safety course and then pass the test provided as part of that course.

You’ll then need to present the SCDMV with proof of completion of that course in order to get your Class M motorcycle license in South Carolina.

Do I Need to Renew My Motorcycle License in South Carolina?

Yes. A motorcycle license will be valid in the state of South Carolina for eight years, at which point it will need to be renewed.

If you have less than 5 points on your driving record in the last two years, you can renew your license with SCDMV online relatively quickly and pay the $25 fee for the renewed license. If you renew a license in person, you will also need to pass a vision test. It is also possible to renew your motorcycle license by mail.

If you have more than 5 points on your driving record within the last two years, you are required to pass a knowledge test in order to renew your motorcycle license.

Can I Renew an Expired Motorcycle License?

It depends.

If your motorcycle license has been expired for less than nine months, you can renew the license as if it had not expired.

If your motorcycle license has expired for nine months or more, you will need to go to the SCDMV in person to renew the license. You’ll need to bring supporting documentation and pass a vision, knowledge, and skills test.

We haven’t covered all of the requirements for license renewal in detail. For that information, visit the SCDMV page on license renewals.

Does My Motorcycle License Allow Me to Operate an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)?

You do not need a license to operate a four-wheeler. However, people under 15 years of age are prohibited from using an ATV without first completing an approved safety course. People ages 15 and younger must also wear a helmet and eye protection. Those who are 16 and younger also need to be accompanied by an adult while operating an ATV.

For more information on matters relevant to all-terrain vehicles, visit the SCDMV page on ATVs.

Do I Need a Motorcycle License to Drive a Moped in South Carolina?

No, but the SCDMV notes you do need a moped license (Glass G) or a valid driver’s license. If you need more information about licenses for scooters and mopeds, visit the SCDMV page on mopeds.

Are Motorcycle Licenses from Other States Valid in South Carolina?

The SCDMV has guidelines on driver’s licenses from other states, which also covers motorcycle licenses.

If you’re just visiting South Carolina, you can use your out-of-state driver’s license without an issue. For people coming into the state internationally, the SCDMV recommends obtaining an International Driving Permit from your country of origin.

If you are making South Carolina your new home and permanent residence, you’ll need to get a South Carolina driver’s license. This must be done within 45 days of moving to the state.

For those making the move, Joe and his team welcome you to a great place to live and raise a family. For more information about IDs and licenses, visit the SCDMV page on moving to South Carolina.

Other Important SC Motorcycle Laws to Keep in Mind

For your safety, our team would like you to consider these highlighted motorcycle laws from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS). Some key points that are worth mentioning involve helmet laws and lane splitting.

Helmets Are Mandatory for Anyone Under 21 Years Old

Per SC Code of Laws § 56‐5‐3660, anyone riding a motorcycle who is under 21 years old must wear a helmet, though the helmet must be one that is approved by the Department of Public Safety.

In addition, SC Code of Laws § 56‐5‐3670 notes that goggles and face shields are mandatory for anyone under 21 years old.

Lane-Splitting Is Prohibited in South Carolina

Per SC Code of Laws § 56‐5‐3640, motorcycles cannot ride two abreast in a lane. In addition, a motorcycle cannot use the lane divider to overtake and pass another vehicle.

This law protects motorcyclists for injury as well as drivers of cars, pickups, vans, and SUVs.

Auto Insurance Requirements

As noted by the South Carolina Department of Insurance (SCDOI), the state requires the following insurance coverage:

• A minimum of $25,000 per person for bodily injury
• A minimum of $50,000 for all persons injured in one accident
• A minimum of $25,000 for all property damage in one accident

In addition to the above, the state of South Carolina also requires you to carry uninsured motorists coverage equal to the 25/50/25 minimum amounts of liability coverage. 

There’s a Risk of Motorcycle Accidents Even with Safe Motorcyclists

Even if you’ve got your Class M license and are abiding by the rules of the road in South Carolina, there’s a risk of serious injury while you’re on your motorcycle.

According to numbers from the SCDPS Traffic Collision Fact Book, there were 2,086 motorcycle accidents in 2022. This total number included 342 serious injury crashes and 151 fatal collisions.

To put these numbers into further perspective, a motorcyclist was killed in a collision in South Carolina every 2.5 days.

Potential Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Some potential causes of serious motorcycle accidents include:

• Speeding – Excessive speed by motorcyclists and other motorists can cause serious crashes and catastrophic injuries.
• Distracted Drivers – Texting while driving and other actions that divert attention from the road can cause distracted drivers to hit a motorcyclist.
• Vehicle Blind Spots – Many motorcycle accidents are the result of motorists not checking their blind spots before merging or turning.
• Driver Fatigue – If a motorcyclist or other motorist is tired while operating a vehicle, their reaction times and decision-making skills may be impaired.
• Reckless Drivers – Swerving, tailgating, frequent lane changes, and other reckless behaviors behind the wheel could put the safety of everyone on the road at risk.
• Drunk Driving – Operating a car or motorcycle under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or any controlled substances can lead to risky or erratic behavior while on the road.
• Vehicle or Part Defects – Issues with the design or manufacturing of a motorcycle could make it unsafe to ride. The same is true of defective tires or issues with repairs and maintenance.
• Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, debris in the road, lack of warning signs, and other hazardous conditions on the road could contribute to a serious motorcycle crash.
• Poor Weather Conditions – Rain, snow, fog, ice, and other adverse weather conditions can contribute to dangerous driving conditions.

Again, Joe and his team encourage anyone on a motorcycle, in the lowcountry or upstate, to exercise caution and common sense while out on the road.

How Joe Cunningham Law Can Help You After a Motorcycle Crash

Joe developed a people-first approach to solving problems in the U.S. House of Representatives. He brings the same focus on individuals and their needs when practicing personal injury law here in Charleston, SC.

• Experience Representing Defendants in Accident Cases – Joe started his legal career representing defendants in personal injury cases. He knows how lawyers on the other side of the table think, and can use that knowledge to build a stronger case for you.
• Knowledge of How Insurance Companies Operate – The team at Joe Cunningham Law knows how insurance companies operate and the strategies they use to lowball settlement payments. We can leverage this knowledge to negotiate better settlements.
• Free Case Reviews – You’ve already got medical bills and other expenses to worry about after a serious crash. You shouldn’t have to worry about paying to speak with a lawyer just to find out if you have a case. A free case evaluation from Joe allows you to be heard without shouldering more expenses.
• Contingency Fee Representation – If our law firm works on your case, we’ll do so on a contingency fee basis. That means we only get paid if we can negotiate a favorable settlement or secure damages for you in court. If we don’t win, you don’t pay.

Get a Free Consultation with Joe Cunningham – How To Get a Motorcycle License in South Carolina

Joe and his team are ready to help you if you’ve been seriously hurt in a motorcycle crash or if you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal accident. He proudly represented South Carolina while serving in Congress, and he’s ready to fight for you and your family. To request a free consultation, contact our personal injury law firm in Charleston, SC.