SOUTH CAROLINA DMV INFORMATION

OBTAINING A SOUTH CAROLINA DRIVER'S LICENSE

-If you have a valid driver's license or ID from another state and permanently move to South Carolina, you MUST apply for a SC license or ID. 

-You MUST turn in your out-of-state license or ID when you get your SC license or ID 

-You will then have 45 days to transfer your vehicle registration to South Carolina. 

-If you are moving from out-of-state and do not have your out-of-state license or ID, you MUST provide a driving record from that state as proof of driving. 

-If your out-of-state license is expired by 9 months or more, you MUST PASS the knowledge, road, and vision tests to obtain a new SC license. 

REGISTERING YOUR VEHICLE IN SOUTH CAROLINA

Before you may register your vehicle it is advised that you obtain your SC driver's license. You MUST pay any property taxes with your county treasurer before you can transfer your vehicle's title and registration to South Carolina. 

-You will need to contact your vehicle insurance provider and update them with your new SC address and the company MUST be licensed to do business in SC. 

-Contact your county's auditor's office and give them the VIN of the vehicle you're registering. You will need the last registration card or title issued for the vehicle. 

-Bring the last title or registration card to your county auditor's office and they will generate a property tax bill for the vehicle. You MUST pay the property tax bill to the county treasurer before you can finish registering your vehicle in SC. 

-You MUST bring the original paid property tax receipt to the SCDMV. 

WHAT TO BRING TO SCDMV

1. Completed Title Application (SCDMV Form 400) 

 - Can be found on SCDMV website 

2. Out-of-state vehicle title and registration 

- If there is a lien on your vehicle, you must bring the name and address of the company that holds the lien. You will need your most recent registration. 

3. Acceptable Identification 

- This includes a valid SC or out-of-state beginner's permit, driver's license, or identification card, a valid passport with visa, Employment Authorization Document, or a permanent residency card 

4. Liability insurance company information 

5. Power of Attorney 

-A Power of Attorney is needed if you're leasing your vehicle and if the Title of Application (SCDMV Form 400) is signed by the lessee (registrant) on behalf of the lessor (title holder) 

6. Original paid vehicle property tax receipt from your county treasurer's office 

7. $250 Infrastructure Maintenance Fee 

8. Title and registration payment 

***All this information was taken from the SCDMV website***