Non-Owner Car Insurance in South Carolina (2026)

What to know about non-owner car insurance in South Carolina

Non-owner insurance is a type of car insurance for people without a car who still occasionally drive. It helps pay for the other driver’s medical bills and property damage if you cause an accident while driving a rented or borrowed vehicle.

For example, let’s say you borrow a friend’s car to get to work sometimes. If you cause an accident while driving it, your non-owner policy can help cover the other driver’s injuries and property damage, up to your policy limits. On average, non-owner insurance costs South Carolina drivers $61 per month.

Non-owner car insurance requirements in South Carolina

South Carolina doesn’t require most drivers to carry a non-owner car insurance policy. But if you need coverage and don’t own a vehicle, a non-owner car insurance policy can help you meet the state’s minimum coverage requirements.

It’s illegal to drive on South Carolina roads without a minimum amount of liability coverage. You’ll need at least $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability per accident.^[1] But you can buy a policy with higher coverage limits.

South Carolina also requires uninsured motorist coverage with limits of 25/50/25.

If a court finds you guilty of driving uninsured in a vehicle you don’t own, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) will suspend your driver’s license for 30 days.^[2] Plus, you’ll have to pay a $100 reinstatement fee to regain your driving privileges.

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Who should get non-owner car insurance in South Carolina?

If you have a driver’s license but don’t own a vehicle, it could make sense to get a non-owner car insurance policy. South Carolina doesn’t generally require drivers without a vehicle to buy non-owner insurance.

For example, non-owner insurance may make sense for:

• Drivers who regularly borrow vehicles

• Drivers who regularly rent vehicles but don’t want to pay for the rental company’s insurance

• Drivers who use car-sharing services

Hurricanes and tropical storms can bring significant flooding to South Carolina.^[3] Drivers of borrowed or rented vehicles should consider that liability insurance doesn’t cover physical damage to the vehicle.

A non-owner policy can help you maintain continuous coverage. If you need to insure a vehicle you own in the future, this prevents a lapse in coverage that could lead to higher rates on your next auto insurance policy.

SR-22 requirements in South Carolina

An SR-22 is a type of insurance form that your insurer files with the state. The document proves that your insurance policy meets the state’s coverage requirements.

When driving a vehicle you don’t own, it’s still critical to carry the minimum amount of car insurance. South Carolina law requires an SR-22 in situations involving license suspension, including after a conviction for driving a vehicle you own without insurance.

If the SCDMV requires an SR-22, your insurer must file it for three years from the date of your suspension. Insurers may charge higher premiums to people with a history of driving without insurance because their driving record and prior insurance coverage can affect rates.

Cost of non-owner car insurance in South Carolina

The national average for non-owner insurance is $46 per month, but South Carolina drivers pay significantly more, at $61 per month. In nearby North Carolina, drivers pay an average of $28 per month for a non-owner policy.

Compared with a liability-only or full-coverage policy in South Carolina, which average $160 and $256 per month, a non-owner policy is a more affordable option.

The table below compares the average costs for non-owner car insurance in South Carolina to the national average.

Non-Owner Car Insurance	Average Monthly Cost
South Carolina average	$61
National average	$46

Disclaimer: Table data is based on real-time South Carolina quotes from Insurify’s network of 500+ insurance partners. Actual rates may vary depending on the policyholder’s individual profile and coverage needs.

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How to get non-owner car insurance in South Carolina

If you need non-owner car insurance in South Carolina, use the steps below to find the best coverage.

1. Explore coverage options. Start by evaluating the various types of car insurance coverage to determine what you need. You’ll need a policy that meets South Carolina’s minimum liability and uninsured motorist coverage requirements. But you may want to consider purchasing higher coverage limits.

2. Compare quotes. Once you know what type of policy you want, take the time to get car insurance quotes from multiple insurance companies that operate in the Palmetto State.

3. Buy the policy. After weighing the costs and details of your policy options, select an insurer and buy a policy. Many South Carolina insurers allow you to pay up front or break the cost into monthly payments. If the SCDMV requires you to file an SR-22, make sure the insurer can file the form on your behalf.

After you get the coverage you need, make sure to keep proof of insurance with you when you’re behind the wheel. Stick to safe driving habits, as people with incidents on their driving record, like a driving under the influence (DUI) or speeding ticket, typically pay more for coverage.

Non-owner car insurance in South Carolina FAQs