← South Carolina alcohol laws›Open Container Law

South Carolina Open Container Law (2026)

Restricted: South Carolina makes an open container of beer or wine in a moving vehicle unlawful unless it is stored in the trunk or luggage compartment, out of the passenger area.

RestrictedVerified May 31, 2026

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South Carolina makes an open container of beer or wine in a moving vehicle unlawful unless it is stored in the trunk or luggage compartment, out of the passenger area. It is a misdemeanor (S.C. Code 61-4-110).

Official source: scstatehouse.gov →

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Open Container Law in states bordering South Carolina

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

GeorgiaRestricted
In Georgia, no person may consume an alcoholic beverage or possess an open alcoholic beverage container in the passenger area of a motor vehicle that is on the roadway or shoulder of a public highway (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-253). …
Verified Jul 30, 2026 · Source: law.georgia.gov · Full Georgia rule →
North CarolinaRestricted
North Carolina prohibits possessing an open or unsealed alcoholic beverage — one no longer in the manufacturer's unopened container — or consuming alcohol in the passenger area on a highway or its right-of-way. The glove compartment counts as passenger area (NCGS 20-138.7).
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: ncleg.net · Full North Carolina rule →

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