Moving to South Carolina: car title and registration costs
Moving to South Carolina with a car you own: title and registration come to about $305.00 for a $20,000 car you have owned over a year (estimate). Register within 45 days of moving (South Carolina Code of Laws (scstatehouse.gov)).
Tax on the car itself: $250.00.
Estimate of government charges. The DMV or county office calculates the final amount.
Your own numbers
Set up for: moving to South Carolina · Different situation?
Every line for a new resident
| Line | Group | Amount | Set by |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure Maintenance Fee for a vehicle previously registered in another state | State & local tax | $250.00 | South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Title | Title | $15.00 | South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Biennial registration, most passenger cars (owner under 64) | Registration & plates | $40.00 | South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles |
| County vehicle property tax | Yearly taxes | you fill in | South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles |
Deadlines
- Register a newly purchased vehicle within: 45 days (South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles)
- New residents: license and register a vehicle moved into SC within: 45 days (South Carolina Code of Laws (scstatehouse.gov))
Sales tax when you move
- Infrastructure Maintenance Fee for a vehicle previously registered in another state: One time per vehicle. Not charged to active-duty military, their spouses and dependents.
Checklist before the DMV visit
- Your out-of-state title (or the lender's details if there is a loan) and current registration
- Proof of insurance that meets the state's requirements
- Your new driver license or ID, and proof of your new address
- Odometer reading; some states also need a VIN or safety/emissions inspection
- Proof of sales tax you paid when you bought the car, if it was recent (several states credit it or exempt you)
After that: yearly renewal
See registration and title fees in South Carolina for the yearly cost.
Sources
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles: Fees
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles: Moving To SC - Vehicle
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles: Buying or Selling a Car
- South Carolina Code of Laws (scstatehouse.gov): Title 56 Chapter 3 - Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicles (incl. 56-3-210, 56-3-620, 56-3-627, 56-3-645, 56-3-660, 56-3-840)
FAQ
How long do I have to register my car after moving to South Carolina?
New residents: license and register a vehicle moved into SC within: 45 days, per South Carolina Code of Laws (scstatehouse.gov).
Do I pay sales tax when I bring my car to South Carolina?
One time per vehicle. Not charged to active-duty military, their spouses and dependents.
How much does it cost to register an out-of-state car in South Carolina?
About $305.00 for a $20,000 car owned over a year (estimate of title and registration).