SC

South Carolina Voter Registration Guide

Current voter registration requirements, birth certificate ordering information, voter ID rules, deadlines, and official election office links for South Carolina.

No proof-of-citizenship requirementPhoto ID requiredChecked Jul 27, 2026 · re-check due
Interactive map of the United States showing proof-of-citizenship law status by state
Active Proof-of-Citizenship Law
Law on Books (Not Enforced)
No Requirement
Voter ID Requirement
In-person voters are asked to show a current and valid photo ID; voters without qualifying photo ID may vote a provisional ballot if they sign the reasonable impediment declaration
Online Registration
Available
Registration Deadline
The deadline to register to vote in any election in South Carolina is 30 days prior to Election Day
Proof of Citizenship Law
No proof-of-citizenship requirement
Status detailsNo enacted DPOC law as of July 2026. S. 128 (comprehensive DPOC bill) carried over by Senate Judiciary Committee in Jan 2026; could advance during 2025-2026 session. SC voters approved declaratory citizenship constitutional amendment in Nov 2024 but no implementing documentary proof-of-citizenship (DPOC) statute exists. SC Election Commission is operationally using the enhanced federal SAVE immigration-status database (unrelated to the SAVE Act) for citizenship verification of new registrants (access granted 2025).

What to Do Now

  1. 1Check if you have one of the accepted documents (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
  2. 2If your name has changed, get a passport in your current legal name
  3. 3Order your birth certificate now if you don't have one
  4. 4Verify your voter registration is current
  5. 5Keep originals safe — under the SAVE Act, photocopies would not be accepted

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need proof of citizenship to register to vote in South Carolina?

No. South Carolina does not currently require documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote. However, if the federal SAVE Act passes, all states would be required to collect proof of citizenship for voter registration. Getting your documents in order now is recommended.

How much does a birth certificate cost in South Carolina?

A certified birth certificate in South Carolina costs In-person/online expedited search fee is $17 and includes one certified copy; mail standard search fee is $12; each additional copy is $3 (online/phone vendor and shipping fees may apply). Processing times vary — check the state vital records office for current turnaround. Use the official South Carolina vital records office for current details: https://dph.sc.gov/public/vital-records/birth-certificates. Remember: you must order from the state where you were born, not where you currently live.

What voter ID do I need in South Carolina?

South Carolina's voter ID rules: In-person voters are asked to show a current and valid photo ID; voters without qualifying photo ID may vote a provisional ballot if they sign the reasonable impediment declaration. Check with your local election office or visit the South Carolina Secretary of State website for specific details on acceptable forms of identification.

Can I register to vote online in South Carolina?

Yes, South Carolina offers online voter registration. Visit your state's election office website to register or update your registration. Registration deadline: The deadline to register to vote in any election in South Carolina is 30 days prior to Election Day.