In South Carolina your first permit is the beginner's permit. You get it by passing a vision test and a knowledge test based on the South Carolina Driver's Manual.
The test
- Multiple-choice questions on South Carolina traffic laws, road signs and safe driving.
- The free South Carolina mock tests on PassDriveTest use 30 questions with 24 needed (80%). Check the current format with SCDMV.
- The test costs $2; the beginner's permit costs $2.50 once you pass.
Where to take it
- At an SCDMV branch. Arrive before 4 p.m. to take the knowledge test.
- Or at a participating driver training school: some have SCDMV-authorised testers who can give the knowledge test instead of a branch.
A study plan that works
- Read the South Carolina Driver's Manual (free on dmv.sc.gov) and try SCDMV's practice test.
- Learn the signs on the South Carolina road signs tab.
- Take full mock tests and review every wrong answer.
- Aim for 27 or more out of 30 on several different mock tests.
Rules for beginner's permit holders
- From 6 a.m. to midnight, drive with a licensed adult aged 21 or older with at least one year of driving experience.
- From midnight to 6 a.m., drive only with a parent or legal guardian.
- Ages 15 and 16 practice at least 40 hours, including 10 at night.
- If you are 17 or under, hold the permit 180 days before the road test.
Take a free South Carolina mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.