South Carolina Car Title Transfer Cost Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate the cost of transferring a vehicle title in South Carolina. Fees are administered by South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV); the figures shown are the latest published amounts we could verify against the official source. County and dealer-specific charges are not included unless your state schedule lists them.
South Carolina title transfer cost — quick answer
Title fee
$15.00
flat statewide fee
Base registration
$40.00
statewide base (county fees extra)
Motor vehicle tax
5%
of purchase price (state minimums may apply)
Source: South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) — use the calculator below for your specific estimate.
Estimate your South Carolina title transfer cost
Enter the sale price to see an estimated total. Numbers update as you type. County and dealer-specific add-ons are not included — see What this excludes below.
Used only to remind you that your county may add local fees not shown here.
South Carolina title transfer fee breakdown
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title transfer fee | $15.00 |
| Base registration fee | $40.00 |
| State sales/use tax rate | 5% |
| Plate fee | Check official source |
| Weight / value-based components | South Carolina charges a flat $40 biennial registration for standard passenger vehicles (heavier vehicles pay more), plus a one-time Infrastructure Maintenance Fee of 5% of the purchase price, capped at $500, in lieu of sales tax. |
South Carolina charges a $15 title fee and $40 biennial passenger registration. Instead of sales tax it levies a 5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF) on the purchase price, capped at a maximum of $500.
What may change your final title transfer cost in South Carolina
Local fees, late penalties, lien-recording charges, and inspection or emissions requirements vary across South Carolina. Confirm the full set of charges with South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) before paying.
Official South Carolina sources
Related South Carolina resources
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to transfer a car title in South Carolina?
The South Carolina title transfer fee is $15.00, plus any applicable state sales/use tax (5%), registration fees, and county or local add-ons. Use the calculator above for an estimate; confirm the final number with South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) before paying.
Can you transfer a car title online in South Carolina?
As of 2026, South Carolina does not offer a fully online private-party title transfer — you generally complete it in person or by mail through South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). Related steps like paying fees, booking an appointment, or filing the seller's release of liability can often still be done online.
Last reviewed: 2026-01-01 · Reviewed by the Car Paperwork editorial team · Based on official South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) sources · Independent resource · Not legal advice