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by Armando Martinez
License Plate Transfer Process in South Carolina
In South Carolina, license plates are issued to the vehicle owner. The seller will be responsible for removing their plates once the vehicle sale is completed. The buyer will have the option to transfer license plates from another vehicle registered in the state of South Carolina, if they choose, otherwise new license plates will be issued during the registration process.
Transfer Process for Buyers
As a buyer, you have 45 days from the date of purchase to complete the registration on your vehicle. If you are planning to transfer your existing South Carolina license plates to your new vehicle the vehicle, you'll need to take the following steps:
1. Obtain your seller’s title, a bill of sale from the seller that includes the vehicle's make, model, year, and VIN.
2. Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and bring the bill of sale, proof of insurance, and your driver's license or other government-issued ID.
3. Pay the required transfer fee, which is $10.
Transfer Process for Sellers
As a seller, you are responsible for removing the license plate from the vehicle before handing it over to the buyer. If you want to transfer the license plate to another vehicle you own or purchase a new one, you can do so by following these steps:
1. Visit your local DMV office and bring the vehicle's title or registration, proof of insurance for the new vehicle, and the old license plate.
2. Pay the required transfer fee, which is $10.
3. If you don’t plan to transfer your license plates, you can surrender them in person at a SC DMV office or by mail to the address listed on the Application to Replace License Plate or Expiration Year Decal. You’ll need to complete the form and submit it along with your license plates. You may be eligible for a refund, consult the SC DMV for more information.
Property Tax Refunds on Surrendered Plates
If you surrender your license plates to the DMV, you may be eligible for a refund of the property taxes paid as part of your vehicle registration fees.
To get the process started, complete an Application to Replace License Plate or Expiration Year Deca. Mail the completed form to the address on the form.
Seller Notification to DMV
When you sell the vehicle, you must notify the SCDMV. You must complete the Notice of Vehicle Sold (SCDMV Form 416) and drop it off at any branch office or mail it to the address below:
SCDMV
Mail-in Registration
PO Box 1498
Blythewood, SC 29016-0036
Note: Completing this form does not show a legal transfer of ownership. It is intended for the protection of the last registered owner until the actual transfer of ownership is completed by the person you sold the vehicle to.
License Plate Fees and Taxes
In South Carolina, license plate fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the type of license plate. Here are the fees you can expect to pay:
- Standard license plate and registration fee: $40
- Personalized license plate: $55
- Specialty plate: varies, depending on the type of plate
- State Tax: assessed at the time of registration
It's important to note that these fees are subject to change, so be sure to check with your local DMV office for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth license plate transfer process when buying or selling a used car in a private party sale in South Carolina. Don't forget to obtain a bill of sale and proof of insurance, and check with your local DMV office for any additional requirements. Happy buying or selling!
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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