How to Get a Car Title in South Carolina: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you planning to purchase or already own a vehicle in South Carolina? Knowing how to get a car title is a crucial step to make your car ownership legal in the state. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know to get a car title in South Carolina.

The process of getting a car title may seem complicated and overwhelming, but don’t worry. We’ve broken it down into simple steps to make it easier for you. From gathering required documents to receiving your title and registration, we’ll walk you through the entire process.

By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to get a car title and registration for your vehicle in South Carolina with ease. So, let’s get started!

If you’re ready to get your car title in South Carolina, keep reading to find out how you can do it step-by-step. You don’t want to miss any crucial information that can help you make your car ownership legal in the state. Let’s dive in!

Gather Required Documents

Before you can apply for a car title and registration in South Carolina, you’ll need to gather a few important documents. Proof of insurance is required in order to register your vehicle, so make sure you have an active policy that meets South Carolina’s minimum coverage requirements. You’ll also need to bring your driver’s license or another form of government-issued identification. Additionally, you’ll need to have the vehicle’s original title, which should be signed over to you by the previous owner.

Another important document to gather is a bill of sale, which serves as proof of ownership and may be required when applying for a title. If you bought the vehicle from a dealer, they should provide you with a bill of sale. However, if you bought the vehicle from a private seller, you may need to create your own. This document should include the vehicle’s make and model, the date of sale, the purchase price, and the signatures of both the buyer and the seller.

In addition to the above documents, you’ll need to bring a completed Application for Certificate of Title and Registration. This form can be downloaded from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles website, and it asks for basic information about the vehicle, such as the make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN). You’ll also need to provide your personal information, such as your name, address, and phone number.

It’s important to note that the specific documents you’ll need may vary depending on your situation. For example, if you’re applying for a title for a vehicle that was previously registered out of state, you may need to provide additional documentation. Before heading to the DMV, be sure to check the South Carolina DMV website or call their customer service line to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork.

Vehicle Title

1. Proof of Ownership: Before you can get a car title in South Carolina, you need to prove that you own the vehicle. If you purchased the car from a dealership, you should have the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin. If you bought it from a private seller, you need a bill of sale or a notarized statement from the seller that verifies the transfer of ownership.

2. Application for Certificate of Title and Registration: You must fill out the application completely, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and odometer reading. You can download the application from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or get a copy from your local DMV office.

3. Payment: You will need to pay a fee for your car title, which varies depending on the age of your vehicle. You can pay with cash, a personal check, or a money order. Be sure to check with your local DMV office to determine the exact fee for your vehicle.

4. Additional Requirements: If you have a lien on your vehicle, you must provide proof that the lien has been satisfied. You will also need to provide proof of insurance and a valid driver’s license or ID card.

Once you have all the necessary documents, you can take them to your local DMV office to apply for your car title. The DMV will process your application, and if everything is in order, you will receive your car title in the mail in a few weeks. With your car title in hand, you can legally prove ownership of your vehicle and sell it or use it as collateral for a loan.

Driver’s License or Identification Card

1. Valid driver’s license or identification card: You’ll need to provide a valid South Carolina driver’s license or identification card to prove your identity.

2. Out-of-state license or identification card: If you don’t have a South Carolina driver’s license or identification card, you can use an out-of-state license or identification card to prove your identity.

3. Expired license or identification card: If your license or identification card has expired, you’ll need to renew it before you can use it to prove your identity.

4. Valid U.S. passport: If you don’t have a valid South Carolina driver’s license or identification card, you can use a valid U.S. passport to prove your identity.

5. Military ID: If you’re a member of the military, you can use your military ID to prove your identity.

6. Permanent Resident Card: If you’re not a U.S. citizen but are a legal resident, you can use your Permanent Resident Card to prove your identity.

Make sure that the identification you provide is valid and up-to-date. If your identification is expired, you’ll need to renew it before you can use it to get a car title in South Carolina.

Payment for Fees

Before you can receive your South Carolina car title, you will need to pay several fees. These fees are associated with titling, registering, and licensing your vehicle in the state. Make sure to budget for these fees when purchasing a vehicle or transferring ownership to ensure a smooth process. Accepted forms of payment vary, so make sure to verify what methods are accepted at your local DMV office.

The fees associated with getting a car title in South Carolina include a titling fee, registration fee, sales tax, and any applicable property taxes. The amount you owe will depend on the age and value of your vehicle. You can use the DMV’s online fee estimator to get an idea of what you can expect to pay.

• Titling fee: This fee is charged to transfer ownership and establish a new title for the vehicle. The fee is $15 plus any applicable sales tax.
• Registration fee: The registration fee is based on the vehicle’s weight and ranges from $24 to $120. If you transfer your license plate from your old vehicle to your new one, you’ll pay a $10 transfer fee.
• Sales tax: You will need to pay sales tax on the purchase price of your vehicle. The rate is 5% for South Carolina residents and 6% for non-residents.
• Property taxes: You may also owe property taxes on your vehicle. These taxes are based on the vehicle’s value and are paid to your county tax assessor’s office.

It’s important to note that payment for fees can vary depending on your specific situation. Be sure to check with your local DMV office to determine exactly what fees you will need to pay and what payment methods are accepted.

Fill Out the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration

Step 1: Obtain the Application
To fill out the application for a certificate of title and registration, you must obtain the form. You can get the form at any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office or download it from the SCDMV website.

Step 2: Complete the Application
When filling out the application, you will need to provide your personal information, vehicle information, and information about any liens on the vehicle. Double-check that all information is correct and complete.

Step 3: Provide Your Signature
You must sign the application in front of a notary public or a SCDMV employee. Be sure to bring proper identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

Step 4: Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents
Once the application is complete and signed, you need to submit it along with the required documents to the SCDMV. Keep copies of all the documents for your records.

Vehicle Information

When filling out the application for a certificate of title and registration, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your vehicle. This includes the make, model, year, vehicle identification number (VIN), and current odometer reading. It’s important to ensure that all of this information is accurate and up-to-date, as errors or omissions can cause delays or complications in the title and registration process.

Additionally, if your vehicle was purchased from a dealership, you’ll need to provide a completed Form 400 from the dealership, along with the application for certificate of title and registration. If your vehicle was previously titled in another state, you’ll need to provide the previous title, along with the application.

If you have any questions about the information required for the application, or if you’re unsure about how to fill out certain sections, don’t hesitate to contact the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles for assistance.

Owner Information

Step 1: Enter the owner’s full name, address, and telephone number.

Step 2: Provide the owner’s driver’s license number or state-issued identification card number.

Step 3: If there is more than one owner, provide the information for each additional owner.

Make sure all information is accurate and up to date. Any errors or inconsistencies may delay the processing of your application.

Lienholder Information (if applicable)

Lienholder Name	Contact Number	Account Number
XYZ Bank	555-555-5555	12345678
ABC Credit Union	555-123-4567	98765432
LMN Finance	555-999-8888	45678912

If you have a lienholder on your vehicle, it’s important to provide their information when registering your vehicle. This ensures that the lienholder receives notice of any potential issues or changes to the vehicle’s registration status.

Make sure to double-check that you have the correct contact information for your lienholder before submitting it to the DMV. Providing accurate information can help avoid any delays or complications in the registration process.

If you’re unsure whether or not you have a lienholder on your vehicle, you can check your vehicle title or contact your financing institution for more information. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to registering your vehicle.

Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents

Once you’ve completed all of the necessary steps for registering your vehicle, it’s time to submit your application and supporting documents to the DMV. This typically involves mailing in your application and any required documents, or bringing them in person to your local DMV office.

Before you submit your application, make sure you have all of the necessary documents, such as your vehicle title, proof of insurance, and any necessary fees. It’s important to follow all instructions carefully and provide accurate information to avoid any delays in processing your application.

Once your application and documents have been received, the DMV will review your application and determine whether or not your vehicle is eligible for registration. If everything is in order, you will receive your vehicle registration and license plates in the mail within a few weeks.

Visit a DMV Office or Mail Your Application

After you have completed all of the necessary steps to register your vehicle, it’s time to submit your application and supporting documents. There are two ways to submit your application: visiting a DMV office or mailing your application.

If you choose to visit a DMV office, make sure you have all of the necessary documents with you, such as your vehicle title, proof of insurance, and any necessary fees. Be prepared to wait in line and bring some form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. Once you’ve submitted your application, you will receive a receipt confirming that your application has been received.

If you prefer to mail your application, make sure you follow all instructions carefully and provide accurate information. Make sure to include all necessary documents and fees, and allow enough time for your application to be delivered and processed. Once your application has been received, the DMV will review it and send your vehicle registration and license plates by mail.

Get Your Vehicle Inspected

If you’ve recently purchased a vehicle or moved to a new state, you’ll need to get it inspected before you can register it. The inspection ensures that your vehicle meets safety and emissions standards, which can vary depending on the state you’re in. Inspection requirements also vary based on the age and type of your vehicle, so be sure to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to find out what’s required.

During the inspection, a licensed technician will examine your vehicle’s brakes, tires, suspension, steering, lights, emissions, and other important safety features. If your vehicle doesn’t pass inspection, you’ll need to make repairs and have it re-inspected before you can register it. Some states also require an additional inspection if your vehicle has a salvage title or if you’re registering it for the first time.

You can typically get your vehicle inspected at a variety of locations, such as auto repair shops, dealerships, and state-run inspection stations. Some states also allow you to self-inspect your vehicle if you’re a licensed mechanic. The cost of an inspection can vary depending on the location and the type of inspection required.

Once your vehicle passes inspection, you’ll typically receive a sticker or certificate indicating that it’s compliant with state safety and emissions standards. This will be required when you register your vehicle with the DMV, so be sure to keep it in a safe place. With the inspection complete, you’re now ready to move on to the next step in the registration process.

Schedule an Appointment with a Licensed Inspection Station

Before you can register your vehicle, you must have it inspected. The inspection ensures that your car meets the safety and emissions standards set by your state. To schedule an appointment for your vehicle inspection, you will need to find a licensed inspection station near you. This can usually be done by contacting your local DMV or searching online.

When scheduling your appointment, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and documents. This may include your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and any applicable fees. You should also make sure that your car is in good working order before the inspection. This means checking your lights, brakes, tires, and other essential systems.

During the inspection, a licensed mechanic will perform a series of tests to determine if your vehicle meets the necessary safety and emissions requirements. If your car passes the inspection, you will receive a certificate of inspection that you can use to register your vehicle. If your car fails the inspection, you will need to have it repaired and re-inspected before you can register it.

Remember, getting your vehicle inspected is an important step in the registration process. Without a valid inspection certificate, you will not be able to register your vehicle and get the necessary tags and stickers. So make sure to schedule your appointment as soon as possible to avoid any delays.

Receive Your Title and Registration

After completing all the necessary steps, you should receive your title and registration within a few weeks. If you don’t receive them within the expected time frame, you can contact your local DMV office to check the status.

It’s important to keep your registration up to date by renewing it before it expires. You can typically renew your registration online or by mail, but some states require an in-person renewal.

If you ever need to sell your vehicle, you’ll need to sign over the title to the new owner. Be sure to follow the proper procedures in your state to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership.

Receive Your Title and Registration in the Mail

Once your vehicle has passed inspection and all necessary documents have been submitted, you will receive your new title and registration in the mail within a few weeks. It’s important to verify that all information on the documents is correct and up to date.

If you have not received your documents within a reasonable timeframe, you may need to contact your local DMV office to inquire about the status of your application. Be sure to have your vehicle information and any relevant application or tracking numbers available when you make the call.

Once you receive your title and registration, make sure to keep them in a safe place. You will need them if you plan to sell your vehicle or transfer ownership to another party in the future. Congratulations on successfully registering your vehicle!

Check Your Title and Registration for Accuracy

Once you receive your title and registration documents in the mail, it’s important to carefully review them for accuracy. Check that your name and address are spelled correctly, and that the make, model, and VIN number of your vehicle are all accurate.

If you notice any errors or discrepancies, contact your DMV immediately to have them corrected. Failure to do so could result in problems down the line, such as difficulty selling or transferring ownership of your vehicle.

Remember, your title and registration documents are important legal documents that prove ownership of your vehicle. Keeping them up-to-date and accurate is crucial for maintaining the value and integrity of your vehicle.

Display Your License Plate and Registration Sticker

Once you receive your license plate and registration sticker, you must display them properly on your vehicle. Failure to display them correctly could result in a citation from law enforcement.

First, affix the registration sticker to the upper right-hand corner of your license plate. Be sure to clean the area thoroughly before applying the sticker to ensure it adheres properly.

Next, attach your license plate to your vehicle in the designated location. The placement of the license plate varies by state, so be sure to consult your state’s regulations for the correct placement. Generally, the plate should be securely fastened to the front and/or rear bumper of the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions