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After a DUI in South Carolina, you'll likely need an ignition interlock device to drive legally. Here's what you need to know about requirements, costs, providers, and how to complete your IID period without violations.
6-12 mo
1st Offense
Typical duration
1-3 years
2nd+ Offense
Enhanced requirement
$70-150
Monthly Cost
Average range
IID requirements can vary by county and judge. Always confirm your specific requirements with your court order or South Carolina DMV.
South Carolina requires ignition interlock devices in most DUI cases. Here's a breakdown by offense level.
| Offense Type | IID Required | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st DUI (BAC < 0.15) | 6-12 months | May be required or optional depending on court | |
| 1st DUI (BAC 0.15+) | 12-18 months | Mandatory for high BAC | |
| 2nd DUI | 1-2 years | Always mandatory | |
| 3rd+ DUI | 2-5 years | Extended requirement, possible permanent | |
| Refusal to Test | 12-24 months | Mandatory in most states |
* Durations are typical ranges. Judges may impose longer requirements. South Carolina uses a 10-year lookback period for prior offenses.
Under certain conditions, you may be able to drive an employer-owned vehicle without an interlock. Requirements typically include:
Employer exemptions are being phased out in many states and may have been modified since this page was updated. Verify current South Carolina law with the DMV or your attorney before driving any vehicle without an interlock. Violations can result in criminal charges.
These providers are approved by the state and have installation locations throughout the area. Compare costs and services before choosing.
| Provider | Locations | Coverage | Get Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intoxalock | 4,500+ nationwide | South Carolina approved | Compare |
| Smart Start | 2,200+ nationwide | South Carolina approved | Compare |
| LifeSafer | 1,700+ nationwide | South Carolina approved | Compare |
Links marked with "Compare" may be affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Follow these steps to get your IID installed and start driving legally.
After your DUI conviction or administrative suspension, you'll receive documentation specifying your IID requirement duration and any conditions.
South Carolina requires you to use a state-certified IID provider. Major providers include Intoxalock, Smart Start, and LifeSafer, all with locations in South Carolina.
Installation typically takes 1-2 hours. Bring your court order, drivers license, vehicle registration, and payment. The technician will wire the device into your vehicle.
The technician will train you on proper blow technique, rolling retests, and what triggers a violation. Most failures are due to improper technique, not actual alcohol.
Return to the service center every 30-60 days for calibration. Missing a calibration appointment is a violation that can extend your requirement.
Once your IID period is complete, get documentation from your provider and the court/DMV. Don't remove the device until you have official authorization.
Often included in monthly fee
Charged for failed tests or missed calibrations
Varies by provider and duration
Common issues and how to handle them
Information sourced from South Carolina DMV, state statutes, and IID provider documentation. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Last updated: January 2026
An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand your IID requirements, potentially reduce your interlock period, or address violations.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links to IID providers. We may earn a commission if you install through our partners, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our free educational content.