South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 90 - DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES

23 Jun 2025 --
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Here’s a detailed overview of Chapter 90 – Department of Motor Vehicles from the South Carolina Code of Regulations, updated as of the latest version effective May 24, 2024

📘 Chapter Structure & Major Articles

Article 1 – Motorist Insurance Identification Database (§ 90‑001 to 90‑012)

Establishes the SC Automobile Liability Insurance Reporting (SC‑ALIR) System:

Requires insurers and agencies to report auto liability coverage/cancellations electronically via SC‑ALIR (FTP, VAN, web)

Transactions include notice of cancellation/refusal to renew, daily compliance reporting, and optional transaction types per updates

“No activity” reports are required monthly if no cancellations occur

Article 2 – Driver Training Schools (§ 90‑100 to 90‑121)

Regulates both passenger and commercial driver training schools:

Defines terms such as “Behind the Wheel,” “Field Training,” and “Catalog” (§ 90‑100)

Adopts FMCSA’s Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards for commercial instruction, effective Feb 7, 2022 (§ 90‑101)

Licensing requirements (§ 90‑102): permanent SC facility, valid license for instructors and applicants, liability insurance, records retention for 3 years

Instructor qualifications and permit rules ensure instructors carry a valid driving instructor permit during instruction

Article 3 – Driver Training Schools [Repealed] (§ 90‑160 to 90‑186)

Earlier driver school regulations now integrated or replaced under updated Article 2

Article 4 – Self‑Insurers (§ 90‑400)

Outlines the criteria for individuals or entities that self-insure motor vehicle liability in lieu of traditional insurance. (Details in full text.)

Article 5 – Billing Accounts (§ 90‑500 to 90‑503)

Regulates billing account systems administered by DMV for collections, fees, and monitoring.

✅ Key Compliance Requirements

SC‑ALIR Reporting: Insurers/agencies must report coverage, renewals, and daily compliance; critical for managing suspensions and compliance enforcement.

Driver School Licensing: Requires SC-based location; 21+ years; valid SC or equivalent license; certified instructors; insurance disclosures; adherence to FMCSA ELDT rules

Instructor Standards: Mandatory permits, proof of liability coverage, and ongoing compliance with renewal and cancellation updates .

Self-Insurance & Billing: Ensures financial responsibility mechanisms are in place for self-insurers and proper account management by DMV.