Title Transfers

South Carolina gives you 45 days to register and tag your vehicle with the state. Titles in the state are done through the mail by using the address on the application.

Identification

You don't need a driver's license to own the title to a vehicle, but without a license, you'll need to provide a state-issued photo ID to complete the paperwork.

First-Time Titles

You will need to provide the following documentation with your application, some of which are available online using the free Adobe Reader:

• Completed Registration Application Form 400

• Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin or the current title signed over to you

• Your out-of-state title and registration if you've just moved to SC

• Receipt for your paid property taxes, which must be paid before you register your vehicle

• Proof of insurance―South Carolina requires a minimum of liability insurance be carried on each vehicle

• Lien information―if you have a loan on your vehicle, you will need to provide the name and address of the company or person who holds your loan

• Casual Sales Tax―South Carolina collects a tax on all newly purchased vehicles, 5% of the purchase price

• Title and registration fees. The title fee is $15; the registration varies depending on vehicle, but for passenger cars the fee is $24. If you are over the age of 65 or are disabled, your fee will only be $20.

Duplicate Titles

In the event that you lose your title, South Carolina will provide you with a duplicate. Simply complete a Form 400, including odometer and lien holder information. Mail it, along with the $15 fee, to:

• South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles

• P.O. Box 1498

• Blythewood, SC 29016-0040

Inheriting a Vehicle

When someone dies and leaves you a vehicle, you can obtain a new title and registration by completing Form 400. Depending on the circumstances, you may also need to complete Form 45-A for a temporary license plate. You'll need to apply in person and provide the completed forms and the following documentation:

• Inheritance Affidavit Form 4036, or the original court appointment if the will was probated

• The vehicle title, signed over to you by the executor of the estate or personal representative

• Paid property tax receipt

• Proof of insurance

Transferring a Vehicle Received as a Gift

When someone gives you a car, you'll need to register and title it in your name. Provide the following documents to your local DMV office:

• Form 400

• Current title

• Paid property tax receipt

• Proof of insurance

• Appropriate fees

Changes and Corrections

When your name or address changes, or if your license, title, or registration is incorrect, you'll need to complete Form 4057 within 10 days of the change or receipt of incorrect documents. Provide legal documentation of any changes, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Submit the form with the proper documents by mail to:

• S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles

• Alternative Media

• P.O. Box 1498

• Blythewood, SC 29016-0035

Adding or Removing Someone From Your Title

Adding someone to your vehicle title is a fairly simple process. Visit your local DMV office, taking the title and proper ID with you. At the office, you'll fill out the back of the title, listing yourself as "seller," then listing yourself and the person you wish to add as buyers.

You'll need to decide whether to list the vehicle ownership as an "and" or an "or." If you place "and" between the two names, both signatures will be required for any vehicle transaction. If you place an "or" between the names, either of you may conduct any vehicle transaction on your own, without the approval of the other.

Removing someone from your title is a bit more complicated, depending on whether the title is listed as an "and" or an "or" ownership. With "and," both parties involved will need to sign the vehicle as "seller," and then you'll need to sign it yourself as "buyer." With an "or" ownership, you can just list yourself as "seller" and then again as the sole "buyer."

For more information, including how to transfer a license plate and registration, refer to our Registration FAQs.