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What to Know Before Renting a Car in South Carolina

March 12, 2026 4 min read

Renting a car for the first time — or just new to renting in South Carolina? Here's everything you need to know before you book.

Age Requirements

In South Carolina, you must be at least 21 years old to rent a car. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge depending on the rental company. At Modern Rent A Car, we're upfront about all fees — no surprises at pickup.

Driver's License

You'll need a valid driver's license from your home state or country. International visitors should bring both their foreign license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) for the smoothest experience.

Insurance — What You Need to Know

This is where most renters get confused. Here's the breakdown:

  • **Your personal auto insurance** may already cover rental cars — check your policy before paying for extra coverage.
  • **Credit card benefits** — many cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) offer rental car collision coverage as a free benefit. Know your card's terms.
  • **Rental insurance add-ons** — if you don't have coverage elsewhere, purchasing a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) gives you peace of mind.

    • Fuel Policy

    We provide the car with a full tank and ask that you return it full. If returned below full, a refueling fee applies. Simple and fair.

    What to Bring at Pickup

  • Valid driver's license
  • Credit or debit card in the driver's name
  • Reservation confirmation

    • Inspecting the Car

    Before driving off, walk around the car and note any pre-existing damage on the rental agreement. Take photos for your own records. This protects you at return.

    Questions? Call us at (864) 804-9452 — we're happy to walk you through everything before your rental.

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