How to Title a Private Car Sale in South Carolina
Last verified: October 2026 against SCDMV sources
When you buy a car from a private seller in South Carolina, you title and register it at the SCDMV within 45 days and pay a one-time Infrastructure Maintenance Fee instead of sales tax.
Here is the order to do it in, what it costs, and what to bring.
Step by step
- 1
Complete the back of the title
Fill in the buyer’s name and address, any lienholder, the odometer reading, the sales price, the date of sale, and both signatures. If the title has no space for the price, bring a bill of sale.
- 2
Fill out Form 400
Complete the Title Application (SCDMV Form 400). If you do not have an SC license or ID, also complete the Statement of Vehicle Operation (Form TI-006C).
- 3
Pay the county property tax
To get plates, contact your county office to have a property tax bill generated, pay it, and bring the paid receipt in your name to the SCDMV.
- 4
Register within 45 days
South Carolina requires you to register within 45 days of the purchase. Late penalties start at $10 from day 46 and rise to $75 after 135 days.
- 5
Pay the IMF and fees
The IMF is 5% of fair market value, up to $500. Fair market value is the price less any trade-in, or a used-vehicle guide value less any trade-in.
The title is $15. Registration for most passenger cars is $40 for two years; electric vehicles add $120 and hybrids $60.
What to bring
- The title, completed and signed by you and the seller
- A bill of sale, if the title has no space for the price
- Title Application (SCDMV Form 400)
- Paid county property tax receipt
- Payment for the IMF, $15 title, and registration