An overview of South Carolina's bicycle laws, reviewed and cited to primary sources. Use the sections below to jump to a specific rule, or the Sources block at the end for the full citation list.
This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change — verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
South Carolina is unusual in expressly granting sidewalk cyclists pedestrian status statewide: SC Code § 56-5-3450 provides that a person propelling a vehicle by human power on or along a sidewalk has all the rights and duties of a pedestrian. Local governments may still prohibit sidewalk riding by ordinance — Charleston, Columbia, and Myrtle Beach each restrict it in designated downtown districts.
South Carolina's DUI statute (SC Code § 56-5-2930) applies only to a person operating a 'motor vehicle' under the influence. Because a bicycle is not a motor vehicle in South Carolina, the DUI statute does not reach bicycle riders. An impaired cyclist who creates a hazard may instead be cited under public-disorderly-conduct or reckless-operation statutes.
Lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front.
Rear requirement
Rear reflector or light
Rear spec
Red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the Department of Public Safety, visible from 50 to 300 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful upper-beam headlamps. A red rear lamp visible from 500 feet may be used in addition to the reflector.
SC Code § 56-5-3430(B) permits riding two abreast on paths or roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. On other roadways persons riding bicycles may not ride more than two abreast and may not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.
Bicycles are prohibited on Interstate highways in South Carolina under SCDOT regulations governing limited-access facilities. I-26, I-77, I-85 and I-95 are closed to bicycle traffic; cyclists must route on parallel US, SC and county routes.