To transfer a car title in South Carolina after a private sale, the seller and buyer complete the first assignment on the back of the title. The buyer submits the signed title, SCDMV Form 400 and the applicable fees. A standard title costs $15. If you plan to drive the car, South Carolina requires you to register it within 45 days of purchase.
What You Need to Transfer a Car Title in South Carolina
- The original title signed over to the buyer. Check that the seller’s name and the vehicle identification number (VIN) match the title before paying.
- Completed Title Application (SCDMV Form 400). If you lack a South Carolina driver’s license or ID, include Form TI-006C.
- A signed bill of sale if the title assignment has no field for the price. Record the sale date, price and odometer reading as required.
- Lien release documentation if the title still shows a loan you’ve paid off. If a loan is active, arrange the payoff and title release with the lender.
- Payment for the title and any applicable Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF).
Where to Sign a South Carolina Car Title
Use the first assignment on the back of the title. Follow the printed labels for the seller and buyer signatures since the layout can vary. Enter the buyer’s legal name and address, sale price, sale date, odometer information and any applicable lienholder details. Both parties should review the entries before signing. Avoid handing over a title with the buyer’s name left blank.
What If You Sign the Title in the Wrong Place?
Stop before making any changes to the assignment. The SCDMV Title Error Acknowledgement (Form TEA-1) allows the seller to void an assignment with a mistake such as a signature on the wrong line, a misspelled name or an incorrect mileage entry. The seller then uses a secured bill of sale or completes the second assignment with the corrected information and signatures. Check with SCDMV before submitting paperwork if the original title was issued by another state.
How to Transfer a Title After a Private Sale
- Seller. Complete and sign the assignment, hand the title to the buyer and file a Notice of Vehicle Sold (SCDMV Form 416). The notice records the sale while the buyer completes the title transfer. Keep your plate for an eligible transfer or surrender it if it is still active.
- Buyer. Complete Form 400 and submit the signed title, any supporting paperwork and payment at an SCDMV branch or by certified mail to SCDMV, Titles and Registration, PO Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29016-0024.
- If you’ll drive the car. Arrange South Carolina liability insurance, pay county vehicle property tax and bring the paid receipt in your name. Pay the registration fee and obtain or transfer an eligible plate.
South Carolina Title Transfer Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Standard title | $15 |
| Expedited title at a branch | $35 total |
| IMF on most purchases | 5% of the purchase price, capped at $500 |
| Registration for most passenger cars | $40 |
| County vehicle property tax | Varies by vehicle and county |
For example, a $6,000 private-party purchase subject to IMF costs $315 for the title and IMF. If you also pay the standard $40 registration fee, the SCDMV total is $355 before county property tax.
Out-of-State Titles, Gifts and Inherited Vehicles
- Buying a car with an out-of-state title. Get the original title properly assigned to you and follow the issuing state’s signing requirements. Bring the assigned title and Form 400 to SCDMV.
- Moving to South Carolina with a car you already own. A typical passenger vehicle costs $305 to title and register, including the $250 IMF, before county property tax. Contact your lender if it holds the out-of-state title.
- Receiving a car as a gift. Complete the title assignment and Form 400. Ask SCDMV what documentation to bring and whether an IMF exemption applies to your transfer.
- Inheriting a car. The paperwork depends on how the title was held. A court-appointed personal representative generally provides proof of appointment and signs the assignment. If the title uses “and” or you aren’t listed as an owner, follow the Probate Court’s instructions.
Can You Sell a Car in South Carolina Without a Title?
For a normal private sale, ask the titled owner to get a replacement before completing the sale. A bill of sale alone generally won’t let the buyer title a car that requires a certificate of title.
South Carolina has a limited exception for disposal through a demolisher or secondary metals recycler under S.C. Code § 56-5-5670(E). For a titled owner with lost, damaged or defective paperwork, the vehicle must be lawfully in their possession, at least 12 model years old, have no valid plate attached, and have no engine or be completely inoperable. The recycler must verify eligibility and collect the required affidavit. This is a scrap disposal process.
How to Get a Replacement Car Title in South Carolina
Request a duplicate online through SCDMV’s replacement title service, or apply by mail or at a branch with Form 400, acceptable identification and the $15 fee. An in-person same-day duplicate costs $35 total when available. SCDMV sends the duplicate to the lienholder if a lien is on record. If the title was printed within the past 30 days, SCDMV applies a waiting period before issuing another copy.
Selling a Junk Car in South Carolina
If you’re selling a junk car in South Carolina, tell us whether you have the title and whether there’s a lien before scheduling pickup. Call JunkCarsUs at (855) 547-1550 or get an instant offer. We offer free towing, with same-day pickup where available.
FAQ
Can you transfer a car title online in South Carolina?
For a private-party purchase, SCDMV directs buyers to submit the signed title and application at a branch or by certified mail. Eligible owners can request a duplicate title online.
Do both owners have to sign a South Carolina car title?
When two names are joined by “and,” both owners must sign. When the title uses “or,” either listed owner can sign. Involve the lienholder if there is an active lien.
Do you need a bill of sale to transfer a title in South Carolina?
Bring a signed bill of sale if the title assignment has no place to record the sale price. Keep a copy of the signed paperwork for your records.
Can I get a South Carolina title without registering the car?
Yes. You can apply for a title only. If you plan to drive the vehicle, complete registration and obtain plates and insurance before driving.
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