❗️Quick Info: Upon moving to South Carolina, you have a 45-day window to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license and vehicle registration.
Welcome to the beautiful Palmetto State! South Carolina is home to rich historical landmarks, breathtaking coastlines, and a vibrant southern culture that residents love. As you settle in and familiarize yourself with the charming south, ensuring your driving and vehicle documents are up-to-date and in line with South Carolina guidelines is essential. To make the transition smoother, here’s a brief guide to help you out.
Process for Obtaining a License in South Carolina
- Head to a SCDMV office: Within 45 days of moving, check the hours & wait times, then head to your nearest SC DMV office.
- Documentation: Make sure to have your current driver’s license, proof of identity, date of birth, and citizenship (US Passport or birth certificate), Social Security card, two proofs of South Carolina residency, and any legal name change documents, if applicable. Ensure your license is valid and in good standing.
- Vision Exam: During your visit, you’ll undergo a vision test, and in if your out-of-state license is expired 9 months or more, pass a knowledge and road test.
- Cost: An eight-year driver’s license fee in South Carolina is $25.
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Vehicle Registration in South Carolina
❗️Before registering a vehicle in South Carolina, you must pay your property taxes with your county treasurer. After settling vehicle property taxes, follow these next steps:
- Timeframe: After establishing residency in South Carolina, you have 45 days to apply for a vehicle registration.
- Scheduling: No appointment is necessary; just head to your local SCDMV office.
- Documents: Bring along your completed Form 400 (Title and Registration Application), proof of South Carolina auto insurance, paid vehicle property tax receipt, your out-of-state vehicle title and/or registration (if you continue to make payments on your vehicle, provide the name and address of your lienholder), valid identification, and payment for the registration fees. If you lease, a power of attorney and the Form 400 must be signed by the lessor.
- Cost: Registration fees in South Carolina depend on the vehicle’s motor type and gross vehicle weight, a one-time $250 fee for vehicles previously registered in another state, and the Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF) or 5% of the purchase price not to exceed $500.
- Electric vehicles: $120 + registration fee
- Hybrids: $60 + registration fee
- Most passenger cars: $40 ($38 if 64, $36 if 65 and over or disabled)
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Fee |
| 1-4000 | $30 |
| 4001-5000 | $40 |
| 5001-6000 | $60 |
| 6001-7000 | $70 |
| 7001-8000 | $80 |
| 8001-9000 | $90 |
| 9001-10000 | $100 |
| 10001-11000 | $110 |
Emissions Testing in South Carolina
Breathe easy. South Carolina does not require emissions testing for vehicle registrations.
Conclusion
Relocating can come with its set of tasks, but armed with the right information, it becomes a breeze. As you drive through the picturesque landscapes of South Carolina, from the upstate mountains to the coastal plains, rest easy knowing you’re compliant with all driving regulations. Welcome, and enjoy your new journey in South Carolina!
