How to Get a Duplicate Car Title in South Carolina
Lost, damaged, or never received your title? South Carolina lets you order a replacement from the SCDMV with one form. Here's exactly what to file, what it costs, and the fastest way to get it — plus what to do if you're selling the car and don't have the title at all.
- SCDMV Form 400 — Title Application (by mail or in person; or apply online)
- Acceptable photo ID, such as your SC driver's license or ID
- $15 title fee (add $20 to get it same-day at a branch)
- A lien release from your lender, if a loan is on the title
Step by step
- 1Choose how to applyOnline at dmv.sc.gov, in person at any SCDMV branch, or by mail to SCDMV Titles, PO Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29016-0024.
- 2Complete SCDMV Form 400By mail or in person, fill out Form 400 — the Title Application. It's the same application used for a duplicate/replacement title.
- 3Clear any lien firstIf a lender is listed on the title, the lienholder is the titled party — the duplicate goes to them, and you'll need a lien release before it can be issued to you.
- 4Pay the feeThe duplicate title fee is $15. Need it the same day? Add the $20 expedite fee in person at a branch ($35 total). Don't mail cash.
- 5Receive your titleSame-day at a branch with the expedite fee. Online and mail requests are mailed to you; SCDMV doesn't publish how long that takes.
Selling the car? See what it's worth first
If the car is going to be sold anyway, get the offer before you spend time at the DMV. A car that's 12 model years or older and can't run may be sold with an SCDMV form instead of the title, and we tell you which paperwork applies to yours.
A few short questions about the car. Pickup is included in the offer, and you're paid at pickup by cash, check, Zelle or Cash App. Or call 843-625-4676, Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.
Every answer makes your offer more accurate.
Where is the car parked?
Common questions
How much is a duplicate title in South Carolina?
The SCDMV duplicate title fee is $15. If you need it the same day at a branch, there's an additional $20 expedite fee, for $35 total.
Can I get a replacement title the same day?
Yes — apply in person at any SCDMV branch and pay the $20 expedite fee. Online and mail requests are mailed to you; SCDMV doesn't publish how long that takes.
What form do I need for a duplicate title in SC?
SCDMV Form 400 (Title Application) if you apply by mail or in person. You can also apply online at dmv.sc.gov.
What if my car still has a loan or lien?
The lienholder is the party on the title, so the duplicate goes to them and you'll need a lien release from your lender. If the payoff is more than the car is worth, call us — we can sometimes help.
Do I even need a title to sell a junk car?
In most cases, yes. South Carolina allows a scrap sale without a title only if the title is lost or damaged (or the car was abandoned on your property), the car is 12 model years or older, it has no license plate on it, and it has no engine or can't run at all. Then you sign an SCDMV form in place of the title. Call 843-625-4676 and we'll tell you which applies to your car.
Waiting on a duplicate can take a while. If your car is 12 model years or older and doesn't run, an SCDMV form may take the place of the title. Get a real offer today and we'll tell you which paperwork you need.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. MR. STAC is not affiliated with the SCDMV. Official source: SCDMV — Replace a Title.