License suspension periods in South Carolina increase with each DUI within the lookback period:
First offense: 6 months; hardship: enrolment in the Ignition Interlock Device Program under § 56-5-2941 is the route to keep driving
Second offense: 1 year – 2 years (0.16+); hardship: Ignition Interlock Device Program
Third offense: 2 years – 4 years (0.16+); hardship: Ignition Interlock Device Program
Fourth+ offense: permanent revocation is possible at this level – permanent; hardship: limited; interlock program participation governs any return to driving
Refusing the chemical test
Under § 56-5-2951 the DMV suspends the licence of a driver who refuses testing OR who has an alcohol concentration of 0.15 or more. Within 30 days the driver may request a contested case hearing and either enrol in the Ignition Interlock Device Program under § 56-5-2941 or obtain a temporary alcohol licence for a $100 fee, held in trust pending the hearing.
Statute: S.C. Code § 56-5-2951
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