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How to Get a Duplicate Car Title in South Carolina

By Viola Travers · Practical Services & Civic Guide

What you need to know about duplicate titles

A duplicate title is an official copy of your vehicle's ownership document. You may need one if your original title is lost, stolen, damaged, or if you simply need a second copy for a lender or buyer. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) issues duplicate titles through the mail or in person at a local DMV office.

The process is straightforward: you fill out a form, pay a fee, and submit it with proof of ownership. Most duplicate titles arrive within two to three weeks if you mail your request, or the same day if you go in person to an SCDMV office.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request a duplicate title by mail, online, or in person at any SCDMV office.
  • You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), current registration, and a valid ID to prove ownership.
  • The fee for a duplicate title is $10 if you request it in person or $15 if you request it by mail.
  • If your title was lost or stolen, you may need to sign an affidavit stating that fact, depending on how you submit your request.

How to request a duplicate title by mail

To request a duplicate title through the mail, complete Form 4031 (Application for Duplicate Title). You can download this form from the SCDMV website or request it by calling the SCDMV at 803-896-5000. Fill in your vehicle information, including the VIN, make, model, and year.

Include a copy of your current vehicle registration and a copy of a valid photo ID. If your original title was lost or stolen, you will also need to sign an affidavit in front of a notary public stating that the title is missing. Mail the completed form, copies, and the $15 fee (check or money order made payable to SCDMV) to the SCDMV address listed on the form.

The SCDMV will mail your duplicate title to the address on file with your registration. This process typically takes two to three weeks from the date they receive your request.

How to request a duplicate title in person

You can walk into any SCDMV office and request a duplicate title on the spot. Bring your current vehicle registration, a valid photo ID, and your VIN. If your original title was lost or stolen, you will need to complete an affidavit at the office; the SCDMV staff can help you with this.

Pay the $10 fee in cash, check, or debit card. The SCDMV will print your duplicate title while you wait, or mail it to you within a few business days depending on the office location and workload. Call ahead to confirm your local office's hours and whether they have walk-in service or require an appointment.

What to do if your title was lost or stolen

If your original title is missing, you must declare this when you request a duplicate. The SCDMV requires a signed affidavit stating that the title is lost or stolen. If you are requesting the duplicate by mail, you will need to have this affidavit notarized before sending it in. If you are requesting it in person, SCDMV staff can notarize the affidavit for you at the office, though some offices may charge a small notary fee.

Do not attempt to sign the affidavit yourself without a notary present. The SCDMV will reject unsigned or improperly notarized affidavits, which will delay your request.

Documents you will need

The exact documents required depend on how you submit your request, but the core items are the same:

  • Your vehicle identification number (VIN) — found on your registration, insurance card, or the dashboard of your vehicle.
  • A copy of your current vehicle registration.
  • A valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID).
  • An affidavit (notarized) if your original title was lost or stolen.

If you are requesting the duplicate on behalf of someone else, you will also need a power of attorney or written authorization from the vehicle owner, signed and notarized.

Fees and payment methods

The fee for a duplicate title is $10 if you request it in person at an SCDMV office, or $15 if you request it by mail. Payment methods vary by how you submit your request. In person, most offices accept cash, check, and debit card. By mail, send a check or money order made payable to SCDMV. Do not send cash through the mail.

Some SCDMV offices may also accept credit cards or online payment through the SCDMV website, but this varies by location. Check the SCDMV website or call 803-896-5000 to confirm payment options at your local office.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a duplicate title?

If you request it in person at an SCDMV office, you may receive it the same day or within a few business days by mail. If you mail your request, allow two to three weeks from the date the SCDMV receives it. Processing times can vary depending on office workload.

Can I request a duplicate title online?

The SCDMV does not currently offer a fully online duplicate title request system. You can download Form 4031 from the SCDMV website and mail it in, or visit an office in person. Some SCDMV offices may offer online scheduling for in-person appointments.

What if I need the duplicate title urgently?

Visiting an SCDMV office in person is your fastest option. You will receive your duplicate title the same day or within a few business days. Call ahead to confirm your local office's hours and whether they can process your request without an appointment.

Do I need the original title to get a duplicate?

No. If your original title is lost or stolen, you can still request a duplicate by completing an affidavit. The SCDMV will issue a new title based on their records of your ownership.

Who can request a duplicate title on my behalf?

Someone else can request a duplicate title for you if you provide them with a notarized power of attorney or written authorization. They will still need to bring your VIN, registration, and a valid photo ID along with your authorization document.