South Carolina DMV
ID cards are free to get or renew at 17 and older. Contact the DMV through its online form.
Official page: dmv.sc.gov/driver-services/identification-cards
Getting ID and Documents Back in South Carolina: State ID and Birth Certificate
How to replace your ID in South Carolina: SC DMV ID card fees and papers, ordering a birth certificate from DPH Vital Records, and who can help with legal and paperwork hurdles.
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Hi friend. Without ID, almost everything gets harder. The good news is that a South Carolina ID card is free for most adults. The harder part is gathering the papers, so take it one step at a time.
Quick answers
How much is a South Carolina ID card?
An original ID card or a renewal is free for people 17 and older. Ages 5 to 16 pay $15. A replacement card costs $10 for any age, but if you are 17 or older and within one year of expiration, the replacement is free and processed as a renewal.
Official page: dmv.sc.gov/driver-services/identification-cards
What papers do I need for the ID card?
You need the SCDMV ID application (Form 447 NC), a Social Security number that matches Social Security records, your original birth certificate and other identity papers, and proof of a current South Carolina address from the last nine months. The DMV also lists checklists for citizens and for lawfully present non citizens.
Official page: dmv.sc.gov/driver-services/identification-cards
How do I get a South Carolina birth certificate?
In person at the State Vital Records Office, 2600 Bull St, Columbia, open 8:30 am to 5 pm. Call 803 898 3630. The search fee is $17, which includes one copy. Each extra copy is $3. By mail it is $12. You can also order online through GoCertificates or VitalChek, which add processing fees.
Official page: dph.sc.gov/public/vital-records/birth-certificates
What if I have no ID to order my birth certificate?
In person, you need a valid government, school or employer issued photo ID. For online orders, VitalChek runs an identity check that can help people who do not have ID. If that check fails, you must upload a valid ID. Ask a shelter case manager or legal aid about other options.
Official page: dph.sc.gov/public/vital-records/birth-certificates
Who can help me with the paperwork?
One80 Place lists a legal team that helps clients with benefits, tenant issues and getting an ID. Transitions in Columbia lists legal aid and Homeless Court, and gives mail delivery and phone access. South Carolina Legal Services takes calls at 888 346 5592.
Official page: one80place.org/programs
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Bunkly tip: Harvest Hope asks for a photo ID at its pantries, so an ID also helps you get food. Take a photo of your papers with your phone and keep it backed up.
Who to call in South Carolina
Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.
DPH Vital Records, Columbia
State office at 2600 Bull St. Search fee $17 in person. Open 8:30 am to 5 pm.
Official page: dph.sc.gov/public/vital-records/birth-certificates
One80 Place
A legal team that helps clients get benefits, settle tenant issues and obtain an ID.
Official page: one80place.org/programs
Transitions Homeless Center
Legal aid and Homeless Court, mail delivery and phone access, at 2025 Main Street.
Official page: transitionssc.org/get-help
South Carolina Legal Services
Free civil legal help for eligible residents. Call the intake line and follow the prompts.
Official page: sclegal.org/contact-us
National Runaway Safeline, 1 800 RUNAWAY
Can connect young people with resources to get IDs, birth certificates and other vital papers.
Official page: 1800runaway.org
More help in South Carolina
Housing help in South Carolina (rent, eviction, utilities)Find Help in South Carolina: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, Medicaid and IDEmergency Shelter Tonight in South Carolina: Columbia, Charleston, Greenville and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in South Carolina: SNAP, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in South CarolinaFree Job Help and Job Training in South Carolina: SC Works, Job Corps and MoreFree and Low Cost Health and Mental Health Care in South CarolinaDomestic Violence Help, Safety and Housing in South CarolinaHelp for Veterans in South Carolina: Housing, Crisis Support and BenefitsHelp for Youth and Young Adults in South Carolina: Safe Places, Support and TrainingFree and Low Cost Phone and Internet Help in South CarolinaFree Legal and Tenant Help in South Carolina: Evictions, Benefits and CourtHow to Make Blessing Bags in South Carolina: Safe Food, Water and Heat Tips
Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
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