What You'll Pay for a South Carolina Vehicle Title

South Carolina title fees depend on the vehicle's age and whether you're transferring ownership

When you buy a vehicle in South Carolina, register it, or transfer ownership, the Department of Motor Vehicles charges a title fee. The amount you pay depends on whether the vehicle is new or used, and whether you're getting a title for the first time or replacing one. Most people pay between $10 and $30 for a title, though specialty titles cost more.

You cannot register a vehicle without a title, and you cannot sell a vehicle without transferring the title to the new owner. Understanding what each transaction costs helps you budget for the full cost of buying or selling a vehicle in the state.

Key Takeaways

• New vehicle titles cost $10, and used vehicle titles cost $15 in South Carolina.
• A duplicate or replacement title costs $10 if the original is lost, damaged, or stolen.
• Transferring a title to a new owner costs $15 and must happen within 30 days of purchase.
• You pay title fees at your county DMV office or through an authorized tag agent, along with registration and property tax.
• Electronic titles are available and cost the same as paper titles, but you cannot get a paper copy of an electronic title without paying an additional fee.

Title fees for new and used vehicles

A new vehicle title costs $10. This is the first title issued when a vehicle is registered in South Carolina for the first time. The manufacturer or dealer typically handles the paperwork, but you pay the fee when you complete registration at the DMV or tag agent.

A used vehicle title costs $15. You pay this fee when you buy a used vehicle from a private seller or dealer and need to transfer the title into your name. The seller must sign the title, and you submit it to the DMV along with proof of purchase and your identification.

If you buy a vehicle from out of state, you still pay the South Carolina title fee for a used vehicle ($15) when you register it here, even if the vehicle already has a title from another state.

Replacement and duplicate titles

A duplicate title costs $10. You need a duplicate if your title is lost, stolen, damaged, or faded to the point where it is unreadable. You cannot drive legally without proof of ownership, so getting a duplicate is necessary before you can sell the vehicle or transfer it to someone else.

To get a duplicate, bring your driver's license and vehicle identification number (VIN) to your county DMV office or an authorized tag agent. If the title was lost or stolen, some agents may ask you to sign an affidavit stating that fact. Processing usually takes one to two weeks.

If you have an electronic title and need a paper copy, the DMV charges an additional $5 fee beyond the duplicate title cost. Electronic titles are stored in the DMV system, so a paper copy is optional unless you plan to sell the vehicle to someone who needs the physical document.

Title transfer fees when selling or buying

When you buy a vehicle, the seller must transfer the title to you. The transfer fee is $15, and it is typically paid by the buyer, though the buyer and seller can agree otherwise. The seller signs the back of the title, provides their odometer reading, and gives you the signed title.

You then take the signed title to the DMV or tag agent within 30 days of purchase. Waiting longer than 30 days does not prevent you from transferring the title, but it may result in a late fee or penalty. Bring the signed title, proof of purchase (bill of sale), your driver's license, and proof of insurance.

If you are selling a vehicle, you do not pay a separate fee to release your ownership. The buyer pays the transfer fee when they register the vehicle in their name. Once the new title is issued, your liability ends.

Electronic titles and paper title conversions

South Carolina offers electronic titles, also called e-titles. They cost the same as paper titles ($10 for new, $15 for used or transfer) and are stored in the DMV database instead of mailed to you. Electronic titles are faster — you can receive confirmation the same day — and you do not have to worry about losing the physical document.

If you have an electronic title and later need a paper copy, the DMV charges $5 for a certified paper title. This is useful if you are selling the vehicle to someone who prefers a physical title or if you want a backup copy for your records.

You can also convert a paper title to an electronic title for $5. This is optional but can simplify record-keeping if you plan to keep the vehicle for many years.

Where to pay title fees and what to bring

You pay title fees at your county Department of Motor Vehicles office or through an authorized tag agent. Tag agents are private businesses licensed by the state to handle DMV transactions and are often faster than county offices, though they may charge a small service fee on top of the state fee.

For a new title, bring your bill of sale, proof of insurance, your driver's license, and the manufacturer's certificate of origin (for new vehicles). For a used vehicle title transfer, bring the signed title from the seller, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and your driver's license. For a duplicate title, bring your driver's license and VIN.

Title fees are separate from registration fees and property tax. South Carolina charges an annual registration fee based on the vehicle's age and weight, plus property tax on the vehicle's value. Budget for all three costs when buying a vehicle.

Title fees for specialty and salvage vehicles

Salvage titles, issued for vehicles that have been declared a total loss by an insurance company, cost $15 — the same as a used vehicle title. A salvage title stays with the vehicle permanently and must be disclosed to any future buyer. You cannot legally drive a salvage vehicle on public roads in most cases unless it has been rebuilt and inspected.

Rebuilt titles, issued after a salvage vehicle has been repaired and passes inspection, also cost $15. The rebuilt designation remains on the title even after repairs are complete, so buyers will know the vehicle's history.

Branded titles for vehicles with flood damage, odometer problems, or other issues also cost $15. These titles carry a permanent mark that alerts future buyers to the vehicle's history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a title without going to the DMV in person?

You can apply for a duplicate title by mail or online through the South Carolina DMV website, though processing takes longer than in-person service. For a first-time title or transfer, you typically must appear in person with the signed title and identification. Check your county DMV office for specific requirements, as some offices offer limited online services.

What happens if I do not transfer the title within 30 days of buying a vehicle?

You can still transfer the title after 30 days, but you may face a late registration penalty. The vehicle cannot be legally registered or driven without a title transfer, so delaying creates a gap in your legal ownership. Contact your county DMV to find out the current penalty amount and whether you can pay it when you transfer the title.

Do I have to pay the title fee if I inherit a vehicle?

Yes, you must pay a title fee to transfer an inherited vehicle into your name. Bring the original title, a death certificate, proof of your relationship to the deceased, and your identification to the DMV. The fee is $15 for a used vehicle title transfer. Some counties may require additional probate documents depending on the estate's size.

Can I sell a vehicle if I have lost the title?

You must get a duplicate title before you can legally sell a vehicle. The buyer needs a signed title to register the vehicle in their name. Get the duplicate ($10) from your county DMV or tag agent, then sign it over to the buyer. This process takes one to two weeks, so plan ahead if you are selling.

Is there a difference in cost between a paper title and an electronic title?

No, paper and electronic titles cost the same. The only additional fee is $5 if you want a paper copy of an electronic title later, or $5 to convert a paper title to electronic. Choose based on your preference — electronic titles are faster and safer from loss, while paper titles give you a physical document to keep.