South Carolina (SC)

Eligibility

Age: 18 (may register at 17 if turning 18 by election day)

ID Requirements

To Register: SC driver's license or state ID number, plus SSN. SC is one of five states that may collect the full 9-digit SSN (last 4 also accepted). First-time county mail registrants must submit proof of ID: photo ID or document showing name and county address (utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government document).

To Vote: Photo ID required (free voter registration card with photo available)

Registration Methods

• Online: Residents can submit a voter registration application electronically through the state's website, rather than by mail or in person.
• Mail: Residents can register to vote by completing a paper registration form and submitting it by mail to the appropriate election office.
• In Person: Residents can register to vote by visiting a designated government office, such as a county clerk's office or DMV, and completing a registration form on site.

Early Voting ⓘ

A period before Election Day during which voters can cast their ballots in person at designated polling locations. The length of the early voting period varies by state.

In-person absentee voting available at county election offices two weeks before election.

Mail-In / Absentee Voting ⓘ

A voting method where ballots are automatically mailed to all registered voters without requiring a specific request. States that use this approach conduct elections primarily or entirely by mail.

Absentee ballot available; excuse required.

Felony Voting Rules ⓘ

State laws governing whether and when people with felony convictions can vote. Policies range from no restrictions to permanent disenfranchisement, with most states restoring rights at some point after sentencing.

Rights restored upon completion of sentence, including prison, probation, and parole.

Documentation Needed

• Valid photo ID
• Proof of residency

Sources

• South Carolina Official Election Website
• Vote.org - South Carolina