South Carolina Title Transfer Fee Calculator
Transferring a vehicle title in South Carolina costs $15 in title fees — but the real cost of a private-party purchase is usually the tax: 5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee capped at $500 — the cheapest big-ticket vehicle tax in the country. Budget the tax on top of the title and plate fees, and transfer within the state's deadline to avoid penalties.
Your purchase
- Tax on sale5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee capped at $500 — the cheapest big-ticket vehicle tax in the country.$500.00
- Title fee$15.00
Estimate only — actual fees are set by your state and county at the time of registration. Data last reviewed 2026-07-16. This state's full local formula is not yet implemented; see the notes below the calculator.
Good to know
- Tax treatment pending source-verification sweep — verify exemptions (family transfers, gifts) with the state before relying on this.
What determines title transfer registration cost in South Carolina?
- Purchase price (tax basis)
- Title fee ($15)
- Tax on private-party sales
- Plate transfer vs. new plates
Frequently asked questions
How much does a title transfer cost in South Carolina?
The title fee itself is $15. 5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee capped at $500 — the cheapest big-ticket vehicle tax in the country. Use the calculator above with your purchase price for the full picture.
Do I pay sales tax on a private-party car purchase in South Carolina?
Yes — 5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee capped at $500 — the cheapest big-ticket vehicle tax in the country.
More South Carolina calculators
Title Transfer calculators for other states
Official South Carolina resources
Estimates here are informational — the state is the only source of an official quote.
Data last reviewed 2026-07-16.