SC Title Requirements for Selling a Vehicle
Do You Need a Title to Sell a Junk Car in SC?
In South Carolina, a title is legally required to transfer vehicle ownership, including to a scrap buyer. The exception is narrow: S.C. Code § 56-5-5945(E) lets an owner sell a vehicle to a demolisher without a title only if the title is lost, faulty or destroyed (or the vehicle was abandoned on the owner's property) and the vehicle is 12 model years or older, has no valid license plate attached, and has no engine or is otherwise totally inoperable. The seller signs an SCDMV affidavit in place of the title, and the buyer must confirm with SCDMV that the vehicle isn't reported stolen. Call us at 843-625-4676 to talk through your situation.
What If I Lost My Title?
Apply for a duplicate title online at dmv.sc.gov, or with Form 400 (Title Application) by mail or at a branch. The fee is $15 (add $20 for same-day, in person only). Bring acceptable photo ID. Online and mail requests are mailed to you; SCDMV doesn't publish how long that takes. See our full step-by-step duplicate title guide. If your car fits the narrow exception above, the SCDMV affidavit takes the place of the title — call us and we'll check.
Vehicle Has a Lien
If your vehicle has an active loan or lien, the lienholder must sign off on the title before you can transfer it. Contact your lender to request a lien release. If the loan balance exceeds the vehicle value, call us — we can sometimes advance cash toward your payoff.
Title Not in Your Name
If you inherited a vehicle, received it as a gift, or are selling on behalf of a deceased relative, you'll need additional documentation. SC allows estate vehicle transfers with a death certificate and affidavit. Call 843-625-4676 for specific guidance.