South Carolina Drunk Driving Laws

For convicted drunk drivers in South Carolina, the level of punishment is determined by the level of drunkenness. State law specifies three categories of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and three levels of punishment to go with them.

As in most states, a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher constitutes driving under the influence (DUI) in South Carolina. Exceeding 0.10 percent brings the next level of punishment; exceeding 0.16 percent, the highest level.

First Conviction May Include Public Service Option

For a first DUI conviction, the fine levels are $400, $500, and $1,000; jail times are 48 hours to 30 days, 72 hours to 30 days, and 30 to 90 days. At each level, an offender receiving the minimum sentence can substitute the same amount of time in community service. A six-month suspension of driving privileges is also included.

A second DUI conviction brings fines of $2,100 to $5,100, $2,500 to $5,500, or $3,500 to $6,500, dependent on BAC level. Jail times for the three levels are five days to one year, 30 days to two years, and 90 days to three years, with no public service option. Driving privilege suspension is for one year.

Subsequent convictions bring larger fines, as well as longer jail terms and driving suspensions.

Repeat Offenders Subject to Rehab Program and Ignition Lock

Multiple DUI convictions may also require participation in an alcohol or drug rehabilitation program and installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender's vehicle. The IID, a bit larger than an average cell phone, is wired into the car's ignition system on the steering column. If a breath sample blown into a tube attached to the device exceeds a preprogrammed BAC level, the car will not start.

If you've been arrested for DUI in South Carolina, contact an experienced DUI attorney. You have rights as a defendant, and your attorney will help you take full advantage of those rights. If you are convicted, your attorney will fight to see that your punishment is just.