S.C. Code Ann. § 12-21-2500

The hearing before the circuit judge shall be had upon the exceptions and objections so served upon the department and the case shall be disposed of as provided by law for appeals from the courts of magistrates. Or, if the circuit judge should decide that the ends of justice would be better attained, he may hear the full controversy de novo and render judgment in accordance with the law and facts. Serving notice of appeal upon the department shall not act as a supersedeas unless the appellant shall file with the department a good and sufficient bond to be approved by the department, conditioned upon the faithful observance of the requirements of this article and for the payment of any costs that may be lawfully taxed. And the costs and disbursements shall be the same as are provided in cases of appeals to the circuit courts from magistrates' courts.