How to Correctly Fill Out a South Carolina Vehicle Title
Filling out a car title correctly in South Carolina is crucial to ensure the smooth transfer of ownership. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you fill out the title accurately, along with helpful resources for each point.
1. Fill Out the Seller’s Information
The seller must complete the appropriate sections on the title certificate. This includes the full name, address, and signature of the seller. The date of sale should also be included.
For more information on seller obligations, visit the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV)
2. Include the Odometer Reading
South Carolina law requires the seller to provide the current odometer reading at the time of sale. Make sure this is accurate as false information can lead to penalties.
Learn more about odometer disclosure laws here.
3. Fill Out the Buyer’s Information
The buyer must provide their full name and address in the buyer section of the title. The buyer's signature is also required to finalize the title transfer.
More on title transfer processes can be found here.
4. Enter the Sales Price
Enter the agreed sales price of the vehicle. This is important for tax purposes when the buyer registers the vehicle in their name.
For guidance on vehicle tax calculations, check here.
5. Disclose Any Liens (if applicable)
If there are any existing liens on the vehicle, they must be disclosed on the title. The lienholder’s information should be clearly listed.
For more on handling liens, check here.
6. Provide a Bill of Sale (optional but recommended)
Although a bill of sale is not legally required in South Carolina, it’s a good idea to complete one for record-keeping purposes.
You can find a template for a bill of sale here.
7. Submit the Title for Transfer
Once all sections are completed, the title must be submitted to the SCDMV for processing. You can do this by mail or in person.
Find your nearest SCDMV office.
Following these steps will ensure that your vehicle’s title is filled out correctly and the transfer of ownership goes smoothly. Be sure to double-check all information for accuracy.
