South Carolina DMV Services

🚗 1. When You Do It

• You should complete this process promptly after purchase; South Carolina requires title/registration generally within 45 days of purchase.

📄 2. Required Documents

🔹 A. Proof of Ownership / Title

New Vehicle

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) — provided by the dealer.
• Dealers usually prepare title paperwork for you.

Used Vehicle

• Current title signed over by the seller (proper assignment section completed).
  • Seller must include sale price, date, odometer reading, and signatures in the assignment area.
  • If the title doesn’t have space for all information, a separate bill of sale may be required.

Out‑of‑State Vehicle

• Out‑of‑state title (signed if a private sale).
• A Form 403 – Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Verification may be required to verify the VIN before titling.

🪪 C. Odometer Disclosure

• Required for vehicles 10 years old or newer.
• You must provide the odometer reading on Form 400 or an attached odometer disclosure statement.

🧾 D. Safety & Emissions (if applicable)

• Generally, no safety or emissions inspection is required at the time of initial registration for most vehicles in South Carolina.

🪪 E. Proof of Identification & Insurance

• Valid driver’s license or government‑issued ID
  — This doesn’t have to be South Carolina‑issued to title/ register.
• Proof of auto liability insurance
  — South Carolina requires proof of coverage to register the vehicle.

💰 3. Taxes 

• $500 sales tax
• Property taxes on the new vehicle are paid before the title and registration transfer and is paid directly to the county office

🪪 4. Vehicle Bought From a Dealer

• Most dealers will prepare and submit title and registration paperwork on your behalf.
• They will collect sales tax, title fees, and registration fees at the time of sale.

🏡 5. New Residents / Out‑of‑State Vehicles

If you bring a vehicle from another state when you move to South Carolina:

• Title and register it in South Carolina within your residency timeline (typically within 45 days of moving).
• Out‑of‑state title and current registration.
• Proof of insurance and ID.
• Pay taxes/fees as above.

📋 6. Checklist 

✔ Original title or MCO
✔ Copy of contract
✔ Original Odometer disclosure
✔ Copy of Driver’s License or EIN/FEIN number
✔ Proof of auto liability insurance
✔ Copy of property tax payment on the new vehicle
✔ Bill of sale or Purchase order
✔ Power of Attorney
✔ Color of vehicle