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.
What you'll need
SCDMV Form 400 — Application for Certificate of Title
Form TI-004A — only if the title was lost, stolen, or destroyed
Your valid 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
1
Complete SCDMV Form 400
Fill out Form 400 — the Application for Certificate of Title. It's the same application used for a duplicate/replacement title.
2
If it was lost or stolen, add Form TI-004A
For a lost, stolen, or destroyed title, also complete Form TI-004A (Lost/Stolen or Destroyed Certificate of Title report).
3
Clear any lien first
If a lender is listed on the title, the lienholder is the titled party — you'll need a lien release from them before a duplicate can transfer to you.
4
Choose how to file
Online through the SCDMV EZ Online Duplicate Title service (fastest), in person at any SCDMV branch, or by mail to SCDMV Titles, PO Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29016-0024.
5
Pay the fee
The duplicate title fee is $15. Need it the same day? Add the $20 expedite fee at a branch ($35 total).
6
Receive your title
Same-day at a branch with the expedite fee; otherwise it's mailed, typically in about 7–10 business days.
Fees at a glance
Duplicate title$15
Same-day expedite (in person)+$20 ($35 total)
Mailed (standard)$15 · ~7–10 business days
Fees and forms are set by the SCDMV and can change — confirm current details at dmv.sc.gov.
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 to get it same-day. Online and mail requests are typically mailed within about 7–10 business days.
What form do I need for a duplicate title in SC?
SCDMV Form 400 (Application for Certificate of Title). If the title was lost, stolen, or destroyed, also file Form TI-004A.
What if my car still has a loan or lien?
The lienholder is the party on the title, so you'll need a lien release from your lender before a duplicate can be issued in your name. 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?
A clean SC title gets the best price, but MR. STAC buys most vehicles without a title in many situations. Call 843-933-4068 and we'll tell you what we can do for your car today.
No title? We still buy most cars.
Waiting on a duplicate title can take days — but you may not need it. MR. STAC buys most vehicles in South Carolina with or without a title. Get a real offer today.