How do I complete a title transfer in South Carolina? South Carolina

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Titles provide proof of legal ownership for a vehicle and thus must be updated whenever you buy cars, sell cars, donate cars, or inherit cars. A bill of sale alone is not sufficient.

Fortunately, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) works hard to keep the title transfer process for used cars as simple as possible.

Complete a South Carolina Title Transfer

You have 45 days to obtain a title transfer for your vehicle. You will need to provide the following documents:

  • The car title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin properly assigned to you.
  • A completed Form 400, Application for Certificate of Title/Registration. This form contains the proper mailing address for the department, if you wish to apply for your title by mail instead of visiting the SC DMV branch office near you.
  • Paid vehicle property tax receipt. Taxes are payable at the county treasurer's office.
  • Liability insurance information, including your policy number.
  • Lienholder information, if you obtained an auto loan for your vehicle purchase.
  • Sales tax totaling 5% of the vehicle purchase price ($300 maximum), if applicable.
There is a $15 fee to obtain a new vehicle title. Additional vehicle registration fees will apply, unless you do not plan to drive your vehicle and wish to obtain a title only.

Learn the Vehicle History


To help make sure the buy car/sell car process is a smooth one, consider purchasing a vehicle history report (VHR). Whether you’re the buyer or seller, the VHR will give you the complete vehicle history, helping ensure that what you’re selling – or buying – is worth it.

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