In South Carolina, a title is legally required to transfer vehicle ownership. However, for vehicles that will be crushed or recycled (not resold), there is more flexibility. SC Code § 56-19-530 allows licensed salvage dealers to purchase vehicles in certain situations without a clean title. Call us at 843-933-4068 to discuss your specific situation.
Apply for a duplicate title through the SCDMV using Form 400 (Application for Certificate of Title). The fee is $15 (add $20 for same-day at a branch). Bring a valid SC ID. Mailed titles take about 7-10 business days. See our full step-by-step duplicate title guide. If you need cash faster, call us — we may be able to work with a notarized bill of sale in some cases.
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.
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 843-933-4068 for specific guidance.