In South Carolina, a felony conviction does not permanently take away a person’s right to vote.
If you have completed your entire sentence—including any time in prison or jail, probation, and parole—you may be eligible to register and vote again. A pardon may also restore voting eligibility sooner.
It is important to know that voter registration is not automatic after a sentence is completed. If you were removed from the voter rolls because of a felony conviction, you must submit a new voter-registration application before you can vote. Register at least 30 days before an election.
Note: The voter-registration deadline for South Carolina’s November 3, 2026, election has passed. If you are not already registered, submit an application now so you are ready to vote in the next election.
You may be able to register online at SCVotes.gov if you have a South Carolina driver’s license or DMV-issued ID. You can also register by mail, email, fax, or in person through your county voter registration and elections office.
A pending criminal charge, by itself, does not take away your right to vote. If you are awaiting trial and have not been convicted, you may still be eligible to vote. Eligible voters who are being held in a jail or pretrial facility while awaiting trial may be able to vote by absentee ballot.
If you have completed your sentence but are unsure about your status, contact your county voter registration and elections office. Ask what steps or documents are needed to confirm your eligibility and register to vote.
Your voice matters. A past conviction does not have to silence it.