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SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) bracelets are court-ordered devices that test your perspiration for alcohol 24/7. Here's what to expect if you're required to wear one in South Carolina.
$10-15
Daily Cost
Average range
$50-100
Install Fee
One-time
30-90 days
Typical Duration
Varies by case
Costs and requirements vary by county and monitoring provider. Verify with your court order and assigned monitoring company.
SCRAM CAM (Continuous Alcohol Monitoring) is an ankle bracelet that tests your perspiration every 30 minutes to detect any alcohol consumption. Unlike breathalyzers that test at specific times, SCRAM provides 24/7 monitoring—you cannot "time" your drinking to avoid detection.
SCRAM monitoring is commonly ordered in these situations
Courts commonly order SCRAM for second or subsequent DUI offenses to ensure no alcohol consumption during probation or pre-trial release.
First-time DUI with high BAC (0.15+) may receive SCRAM monitoring to demonstrate sobriety.
As an alternative to jail, judges may release defendants on bond with SCRAM monitoring to verify abstinence.
If you violate probation terms (especially alcohol-related), SCRAM may be added as an enhanced monitoring condition.
Family courts sometimes order SCRAM monitoring in custody disputes involving alcohol abuse allegations.
Some people choose SCRAM voluntarily to demonstrate sobriety to employers, family, or as part of rehabilitation.
SCRAM monitoring is typically administered through probation departments or court-approved monitoring companies.
Unlike ignition interlocks where you choose a provider, SCRAM monitoring is usually assigned by the court or probation department. Your monitoring provider will be specified in your court order.
Alcohol Monitoring Systems, Inc. (AMS) manufactures SCRAM devices and partners with local monitoring providers.
Visit SCRAM SystemsMany counties operate SCRAM monitoring through probation departments. Contact your South Carolina county probation office for local information.
Provider assigned based on your case jurisdiction
Typical costs for SCRAM monitoring
Charged whether you wear it or not
Usually weekly or bi-weekly
Plus weekly download fees
Typical pre-trial period
Common probation period
Many monitoring companies offer payment plans. If cost is a hardship, ask your attorney about indigency provisions or alternative monitoring options.
Understanding what causes violations helps you avoid serious consequences
The primary purpose of SCRAM. Even small amounts of alcohol will be detected through your skin.
Consequences: Immediate notification to court/probation, possible arrest warrant
Placing anything between the bracelet and your skin, or attempting to block the sensor.
Consequences: Treated as seriously as a positive alcohol reading
Cutting, removing, or disabling the bracelet triggers immediate alerts. The device is tamper-evident.
Consequences: Immediate warrant, additional criminal charges possible
Failure to report for scheduled downloads or failing to charge the device's modem.
Consequences: Warning, then possible violation if repeated
Products containing alcohol (hand sanitizer, perfume) applied near the bracelet may trigger false positives.
Consequences: Requires explanation; pattern of incidents is problematic
Practical tips for completing your monitoring period successfully
Information sourced from SCRAM Systems documentation, South Carolina court records, and probation department resources.
Last updated: January 2026
A DUI attorney can help you understand your monitoring requirements, potentially negotiate alternatives, or address violation allegations.