Key Takeaways
- South Carolina Department of Insurance (SCDOI) regulates insurance activities in the state
- Director of Insurance is APPOINTED by the Governor with Senate confirmation (not elected)
- Pre-license education is NOT REQUIRED but highly recommended for exam success
- Pearson VUE administers licensing exams - Life exam has 85 questions, 120 minutes
- Passing score: 70% on state licensing examination
- Fingerprinting required since January 1, 2017 through IdentoGO (\$50.50 fee)
Last updated: January 2026
South Carolina Department of Insurance
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The South Carolina Department of Insurance (SCDOI) is the primary regulatory authority for insurance in the state.
Regulatory Authority
South Carolina Department of Insurance (SCDOI)
The SCDOI is responsible for:
- Regulating insurance companies operating in South Carolina
- Licensing insurance producers and adjusters
- Reviewing and approving insurance rates and policy forms
- Investigating consumer complaints
- Enforcing insurance laws and regulations
- Monitoring insurer solvency
SCDOI Leadership
| Position | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Director of Insurance |
| Selection | APPOINTED by the Governor |
| Confirmation | Requires South Carolina Senate confirmation |
| Term | Serves at pleasure of the Governor |
| Status | Cabinet-level position since 1995 |
Key Point: South Carolina's Director of Insurance is appointed, not elected. The SCDOI became a Cabinet-level department in 1995, led by a director appointed by the Governor.
South Carolina Insurance Code
South Carolina insurance law is contained in Title 38 of the South Carolina Code of Laws:
| Chapter | Subject |
|---|---|
| Chapter 1 | Insurance Department |
| Chapter 5 | Licensing of Producers |
| Chapter 43 | Life Insurance |
| Chapter 57 | Accident and Health Insurance |
| Chapter 71 | Health Maintenance Organizations |
Contact Information
- Address: 1201 Main Street, Suite 1000, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: (803) 737-6160
- Email: consumers@doi.sc.gov
- Website: doi.sc.gov
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Test Your Knowledge
How is the South Carolina Director of Insurance selected?
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Test Your Knowledge
Which agency regulates insurance in South Carolina?
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