South Carolina Driving: 13 Laws You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Although it seems anyone with a driver’s license should be aware of fundamental traffic laws, some laws are not familiar to many drivers.

Traffic laws vary from state to state, but drivers should be aware of the laws in the state where they primarily reside. Here’s a rundown of 13 South Carolina driving laws you might not be aware of:

1. If another person is waving at you to pull onto a roadway and you are unable to see what cars, motorcyclists, pickup trucks, or pedestrians are coming, you can be held liable for possibly being at fault if an accident occurs. According to Section 56-5-2745, always ensure that you can see the roadway is clear before pulling out and stopping. 
2. South Carolina law doesn’t specifically prohibit a driver from riding with a dog in their lap, but it’s a bad idea. In an accident, a dog could be smashed between you and the airbag, which could injure you and kill the dog. Having your precious pet sit on your lap could cause a distraction, which may lead to serious injuries if a car wreck does occur.
3. All drivers are required to share the road with bicyclists. Just think of them as slower cars with two wheels. They still have to be treated like any other vehicle on the road to avoid accidents. Likewise, bicyclists using the roads are required to follow the same “road rules” as cars, such as stopping at stop signs and signaling turns. 
4. Be careful as to what you advertise on your car. According to Section 56-5-388, vulgar or obscene bumper stickers or decals could land you a misdemeanor conviction and a fine of up to $200. While it may be humorous to some, it may be offensive to others.
5. Although the Hands-Free Act has been effective since September 1st, 2025, you may wonder if you can still use headphones and earbuds while driving in South Carolina. According to the law, using an earpiece or a smart watch for audio music, taking a call, or for navigation is not prohibited. However, it can limit your awareness of events happening in and around your car, such as brakes squealing in an accident or horns honking in warning. 
6. Turning your blinker on just as you are turning is NOT ok. According to Section 56-5-2150,  you must signal at least 100 feet before making your turn so cars behind you are aware of the upcoming turn. Failing to signal at least 100 feet before turning can earn you a fine.
7. If your blinker goes out, it is legal to use hand turn signals the same as you would your regular blinker. According to Section 56-5-2170, you must hold your left arm straight out to signal a left turn, hold your hand up towards the sky for a right turn, or hold your arm and hand facing down towards the ground to signal a stop. 
8. South Carolina’s Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act prohibits holding a mobile device to text, email, use apps, or watch videos. Put your devices down while driving or risk a fine, starting in February 2026. 
9. Did you know that if your windshield wipers are on, you’re required to have your headlights on too? According to Section 56-5-4450, there are specific times, like thirty minutes before sunrise and thirty minutes after sunset, when lights must be turned on. Lights and windshield wipers work together to ensure visibility through the rain, which can cause reduced visibility.
10. According to Section 56-5-2745, it is 100% illegal to pull straight out of a place of business onto a public roadway without stopping. Even if there is no stop sign, it is still your responsibility to completely stop and make sure the roadway is clear before pulling out. 
11. If you are the driver of a car, it is illegal to watch a video or movie. According to the new Hands-Free Act, watching a YouTube video, Instagram Reel, TikTok Video, or movie on your cellphone while it’s docked on your dashboard phone mount, in your lap, or in your hand  is ILLEGAL.
12. Open containers of alcohol are strictly PROHIBITED inside a vehicle. According to Section  61-4-110, it is unlawful to have beer or wine possession in an open container, unless safely stored in the vehicle’s trunk or another luggage compartment.
13. Most people know this one, but just a reminder: Seatbelts are the law in South Carolina. If you aren’t wearing your seatbelt, you can be fined if law enforcement pulls you over. 

There are many other driving laws in South Carolina, but these are just a few that may have slipped your mind. If you question whether something you are doing while driving is illegal, chances are, it is. Stay safe, South Carolinians, and abide by all traffic laws to ensure everyone’s safety!