Sanford also named Marcia Adams of Irmo to serve as acting director of the DMV. Adams has served as principal administrator of the agency for the past four years. Her appointment must be confirmed by the Senate.
Under the law, drivers could get tag renewal stickers and registrations from county treasurers' offices or private entities that could charge a service fee more than the standard $24 for the transaction.
Drivers' license expiration dates would be extended from five to 10 years for most people. The agency also can contract with public and private entities to administer driving tests.
The law takes effect immediately.
The change comes as DMV is making reforms. Beginning this summer, the DMV Web site will offer driver records, points status and pending registration information as well as a service that will allow people to pay their driver's license reinstatement fees online. The agency also will open busy offices on Saturdays.