S.C. Code § 15-9-350
The acceptance by a nonresident of the rights and privileges conferred by the laws in force in this State permitting the operation of motor vehicles, as evidenced by the operation of a motor vehicle by such nonresident on the public highways, the streets of any incorporated municipality or the public roads of this State or anywhere within this State, or the operation by such nonresident of a motor vehicle on any such public highways, streets or public roads or anywhere within the State other than as so permitted or regulated shall be deemed equivalent to the appointment by such nonresident of the Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles or of his successor in office to be his true and lawful attorney upon whom may be served all summons or other lawful process in any action or proceeding against him growing out of any accident or collision in which such nonresident may be involved by reason of the operation by him, for him or under his control or direction, express or implied, of a motor vehicle on such public highways, streets or public roads or anywhere within this State. Such acceptance or operation shall be a signification of his agreement that any such process against him shall be of the same legal force and validity as if served on him personally.
S.C. Code § 15-9-350
2003 Act No. 51, Section 18 directed the Code Commissioner to substitute "Department of Motor Vehicles" for "Department of Public Safety".