Driver's Licenses and Auto Registration
Residents relocating to Hilton Head Island must convert to a South Carolina driver’s license within 90 days. A valid existing license, a social security card and $10 must be presented to the South Carolina Highway Department office. South Carolina automobile tags must be in place within 30 days of establishing residence. Car title, proof of insurance and inspection, a paid property tax receipt and a $17 fee are required to obtain new tags.
South Carolina Highway Department
PG. Box 385 • Sheridan Park
Bluffton, SC 29910
843-681-5739
Hours: Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm
In order to vote in South Carolina, a voter must be registered. Voters must register 30 days prior to an election. To register you must be a U.S. Citizen, 18 years of age and be a resident of Beaufort County. To register, contact the voter’s registration office:
Beaufort County Courthouse Annex
3 Town Center Court
Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
843-842-4221
Contact Town Hall, One Town Center Court, 843-842-8900.
Hunting & Fishing Licenses
A fishing license is required for freshwater and salt water fishing (from a boat only) for persons over 15 years of age. These licenses are issued by the South Carolina Wildlife and Marine Resources Department and are free of charge to residents over 65 who have lived in the state for at least a year. Fishing and Hunting licenses can be purchased at the Western Auto Store in Coligny Plaza (785-2429), at Wal-Mart (fishing only) (681-5363), or at D&J Bait and Tackle (681-2946).
Boat Licenses
Boat licenses are secured by boat dealers at the time a boat is purchased. If a boat is purchased out of state, or was previously licensed in another state, or purchased from a former owner, a transfer of title and a new license may be obtained at the Country Annex (843) 842-4221.
Public Boating Ramps
Cross Island Boat Landing
Located off Helmsan Way on the way to Palmetto Bay Marina, just past the Crossings park has deep water access. This launch ramp is the only such facility on the Island where boats can be launched at any tide level. There is no charge for using this facility. It includes ample parking for vehicles with trailers attached. Fishing is permitted from the dock, although boat traffic has precedence.
Marshland Landing
Located on Marshland road just before the Old Oyster Factory- This is a shallow access, good for kayaks, zodiacs, and limited draw boats. At high tide some larger boats can be launched.
Charles Haig Landing
Is situated on Pinckney Island (the island between Hilton Head & the mainland). This county-owned facility is the closest public boat access to Hilton Head Island. There are also nine full-service marinas on Hilton Head Island that provide daily and monthly dockage, hook-ups, provisions, and fuel for vessels up to, or exceeding, 150 feet. (see Marina section).