How much does SCRAM cost in South Carolina?

SCRAM monitoring in South Carolina typically costs $10-15 per day, plus $50-100 installation. For a 30-day period, expect total costs of $350-550. For 90 days, $950-1,450. You may also pay weekly download fees of $25-50.

How long will I need to wear a SCRAM bracelet in South Carolina?

SCRAM duration varies by case. Pre-trial monitoring typically lasts until your case resolves (weeks to months). Probation conditions may require 30-90 days or longer. Repeat offenders or serious violations may face 6-12 months of monitoring.

Can SCRAM detect drugs?

Standard SCRAM CAM bracelets only detect alcohol. However, SCRAM offers a separate "Remote Breath" device that can test for alcohol, and some jurisdictions use drug patch testing in combination with SCRAM. Ask your monitoring provider what you are being tested for.

What happens if I drink while wearing SCRAM?

SCRAM tests your perspiration every 30 minutes. If alcohol is detected, the data is transmitted to your monitoring company and reported to your supervising authority (court, probation officer). Consequences can include immediate arrest, bond revocation, probation violation charges, and additional jail time.

Can products like hand sanitizer trigger a false positive?

Theoretically yes, but SCRAM technology can distinguish between consumed alcohol and environmental exposure. However, avoid applying alcohol-containing products directly to or near the bracelet. If questioned about a reading, document any products you used that day.

Can I shower/swim with a SCRAM bracelet?

Yes, SCRAM bracelets are waterproof. You can shower normally. Swimming is generally allowed but extended submersion should be avoided. The bracelet cannot be removed for any reason without authorization.

Alcohol Monitoring

South Carolina SCRAM Bracelet Guide

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.

What Is a SCRAM Bracelet?

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.

How It Works

• Worn on ankle 24/7—cannot be removed
• Tests perspiration (transdermal) for alcohol
• Data uploaded via modem to monitoring center
• Tamper-evident with obstruction detection

Detection Window

• Tests every 30 minutes
• Detects alcohol 2-12 hours after consumption
• Even one drink will be detected
• Cannot be fooled or circumvented

When Do South Carolina Courts Order SCRAM?

SCRAM monitoring is commonly ordered in these situations

Repeat DUI Offenders

Very Common

Courts commonly order SCRAM for second or subsequent DUI offenses to ensure no alcohol consumption during probation or pre-trial release.

High BAC Cases

Common

First-time DUI with high BAC (0.15+) may receive SCRAM monitoring to demonstrate sobriety.

Pre-Trial Release Condition

Common

As an alternative to jail, judges may release defendants on bond with SCRAM monitoring to verify abstinence.

Probation Violation

Very Common

If you violate probation terms (especially alcohol-related), SCRAM may be added as an enhanced monitoring condition.

Child Custody Cases

Occasional

Family courts sometimes order SCRAM monitoring in custody disputes involving alcohol abuse allegations.

Voluntary Monitoring

Occasional

Some people choose SCRAM voluntarily to demonstrate sobriety to employers, family, or as part of rehabilitation.

SCRAM Providers in South Carolina

SCRAM monitoring is typically administered through probation departments or court-approved monitoring companies.

How to Get Set Up with SCRAM

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.

SCRAM Systems (Primary)

Alcohol Monitoring Systems, Inc. (AMS) manufactures SCRAM devices and partners with local monitoring providers.

Visit SCRAM Systems

County Probation

Many counties operate SCRAM monitoring through probation departments. Contact your South Carolina county probation office for local information.

Provider assigned based on your case jurisdiction

South Carolina SCRAM Costs

Typical costs for SCRAM monitoring

Typical Costs

Installation Fee(one-time)

$50-100

Daily Monitoring Fee(per day)

Charged whether you wear it or not

$10-15

Download/Check-in Fee(per visit)

Usually weekly or bi-weekly

$25-50

Removal Fee(one-time)

$0-50

30-Day Estimate

Plus weekly download fees

$435-635

Cost Estimates

30-Day SCRAM$435-635

Typical pre-trial period

90-Day SCRAM$1155-1505

Common probation period

Payment Options

Many monitoring companies offer payment plans. If cost is a hardship, ask your attorney about indigency provisions or alternative monitoring options.

What Triggers a SCRAM Violation?

Understanding what causes violations helps you avoid serious consequences

Alcohol Consumption

Major Violation

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

Tampering/Obstruction

Major Violation

Placing anything between the bracelet and your skin, or attempting to block the sensor.

Consequences: Treated as seriously as a positive alcohol reading

Bracelet Removal

Major Violation

Cutting, removing, or disabling the bracelet triggers immediate alerts. The device is tamper-evident.

Consequences: Immediate warrant, additional criminal charges possible

Missed Check-ins

Minor to Moderate

Failure to report for scheduled downloads or failing to charge the device's modem.

Consequences: Warning, then possible violation if repeated

Environmental Alcohol

May Be Excused

Products containing alcohol (hand sanitizer, perfume) applied near the bracelet may trigger false positives.

Consequences: Requires explanation; pattern of incidents is problematic

Living with a SCRAM Bracelet

Practical tips for completing your monitoring period successfully

Do's

•Charge the modem as instructed (usually nightly)
•Keep all scheduled check-in appointments
•Wear loose-fitting pants to accommodate the bracelet
•Document any environmental alcohol exposure
•Call your monitoring provider immediately with any issues
•Keep the bracelet clean and dry when possible

Don'ts

•Consume ANY alcohol—including cooking wine, kombucha, etc.
•Apply alcohol-based products near the bracelet
•Submerge the bracelet for extended periods
•Place anything between bracelet and skin
•Miss modem upload windows
•Try to tamper with or remove the device

Read Complete SCRAM Guide

South Carolina SCRAM FAQ

Sources & Official Resources

Information sourced from SCRAM Systems documentation, South Carolina court records, and probation department resources.

Last updated: January 2026

Facing SCRAM Monitoring in South Carolina?

A DUI attorney can help you understand your monitoring requirements, potentially negotiate alternatives, or address violation allegations.

Find South Carolina Attorney Complete SCRAM Guide