Titling a Side-by-Side in South Carolina

Trying to figure out how to officially title your side-by-side in South Carolina can feel like navigating a maze, especially with all the different rules for ATVs, UTVs, and now street-legal options. It's easy to get frustrated trying to understand if you even need a title, what paperwork you'll need, and where to go. This comprehensive guide is here to cut through the confusion, walk you through every step of titling your side-by-side in the Palmetto State, and help you understand the recent changes that might affect you.

Understanding Side-by-Side Titling in South Carolina

The world of off-road vehicles, particularly side-by-sides, has its own unique set of rules in South Carolina that often leaves owners scratching their heads. Unlike cars, where titling and registration are non-negotiable from day one, side-by-sides operate under a slightly different framework. It's crucial to grasp these foundational distinctions to ensure you're compliant, protected, and ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.

The Basics of Titling vs. Registering

When you're talking about vehicles, "titling" and "registering" are two distinct actions, though they often go hand-in-hand for street vehicles. For a side-by-side in South Carolina, the difference is particularly significant. A title is essentially a legal document that proves who owns the machine. It’s like the deed to your house, establishing your property rights. This is fundamentally about ownership. For many years, side-by-sides, much like traditional ATVs, fell into a category where obtaining a title was generally considered optional, particularly if they were strictly used for off-road purposes on private land. This meant many owners bought and sold machines with just a bill of sale, relying on informal agreements.

"Registration," on the other hand, is about getting permission from the state to operate your vehicle in certain public areas. Think of it like getting a license plate for your car. Until recently, traditional off-road side-by-sides did not have a registration process in South Carolina because they weren't allowed on public roads anyway. This changed dramatically with the introduction of street-legal UTV registration, creating a new layer of compliance for owners wanting to take their side-by-sides beyond the trail and onto specific public roads. The confusion often stems from these two concepts blurring, especially when the vehicle can now serve dual purposes.

Why Titling Your Side-by-Side Matters Even if Optional

Even though [South Carolina Titles Are Optional] for many off-road machines, getting a title for your side-by-side is a really smart move, and frankly, I highly recommend it. While the law might not force you to get one if you’re only riding on private property, having that official piece of paper offers a level of security and clarity that you simply won't get otherwise. Imagine if your beloved side-by-side, which represents a significant investment, is stolen. Without a title, proving ownership to law enforcement or an insurance company can become an absolute nightmare. A title acts as irrefutable proof, making it much easier to recover your machine or make an insurance claim.

Beyond theft, consider the resale value and ease of future transactions. When you decide to sell your side-by-side, a buyer will almost always prefer a machine with a clear title. It instantly signals legitimacy and peace of mind. Without it, you might find yourself fielding endless questions, struggling to prove you’re the rightful owner, or worse, having to accept a lower price because of the added risk for the buyer. Lenders, too, typically require a title if you plan to finance your purchase or use your side-by-side as collateral. It’s a small upfront effort that pays dividends in protection, value, and hassle-free ownership down the line.

What Changed Recently for Street-Legal UTVs

The landscape for side-by-side owners in South Carolina shifted significantly with the passage of [South Carolina Act 164 and Street UTVs]. This legislation brought about the possibility of legally operating certain UTVs on public roads, marking a huge departure from previous restrictions. Before this, most side-by-sides were confined to private land or designated off-road trails. The new law created a specific category for "street-legal UTVs," allowing them to be titled and registered for road use, complete with a license plate. This is a game-changer for many who want to use their machines for short trips to the store, commuting on secondary roads, or simply connecting trails without having to trailer their rig.

However, this newfound freedom comes with a set of specific requirements. Not every side-by-side qualifies; there are clear specifications regarding weight, width, safety equipment (like turn signals, seat belts, and headlights), and engine size. If your side-by-side meets these criteria, you can apply for both a title and a special "street-legal UTV" registration. This means going through the DMV process not just for ownership documentation, but for the necessary permits to legally cruise on public asphalt. The change has definitely added a layer of complexity but also a lot of exciting new possibilities for side-by-side enthusiasts across the state.

Required Documents for a South Carolina Side-by-Side Title Application

Gathering the correct paperwork is often the most daunting part of any DMV transaction, and titling a side-by-side is no exception. Missing just one crucial document can send you home empty-handed, prolonging the process and your frustration. Whether you're buying a brand-new machine from a dealer or picking up a well-loved used model from a private seller, knowing exactly what to bring will save you immense time and stress.

New Machine Purchases: The Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)

When you purchase a brand-new side-by-side from a dealership, the most important document you'll receive for titling purposes is the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, or MCO. Think of the MCO as the "birth certificate" for your side-by-side. It's issued by the manufacturer and certifies the vehicle's specifications, its unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and that it hasn't been titled before. [South Carolina Requires an MCO for a New Machine] because it establishes the chain of ownership from the factory to the first retail buyer – you! Without this document, the DMV won't be able to issue you an initial title.

Your dealership is typically responsible for providing you with the MCO, and sometimes they even handle the initial title application on your behalf. Always double-check this when you complete your purchase. If you're handling it yourself, ensure the MCO is properly signed over to you by the dealer. It should clearly indicate your name as the purchaser. Along with the MCO, you'll need a completed [South Carolina Form 400 Explained], which is the state's all-purpose application for title and registration. You'll also need proof of your identity (like a driver's license), proof of South Carolina residency, and funds to cover the titling fee and any applicable sales tax. It’s a good idea to make copies of everything before you head to the DMV.

Used Machines: The Assigned Title and Bill of Sale

Buying a used side-by-side from a private seller introduces a different set of documents. The cornerstone of this transaction is the existing title, which the previous owner must properly "assign" to you. This means they sign the back of their title, transferring ownership into your name. [South Carolina Assigned Titles for Used Machines] are the legal mechanism for this transfer. Make absolutely sure that the seller's signature on the title matches their name printed on it, and that all necessary fields (like the sale date and odometer reading, if applicable) are filled out. An improperly assigned title is one of the most common reasons title applications get rejected.

In addition to the assigned title, you'll need a comprehensive Bill of Sale. Even if the state doesn't always mandate it for purely off-road machines, a well-drafted bill of sale is your best friend in a private transaction. It should include the full names and addresses of both buyer and seller, the side-by-side's VIN, the purchase price, the date of sale, and signatures from both parties. This document serves as proof of the transaction, especially for sales tax purposes, and can be invaluable if any disputes arise later. You can find templates for bills of sale online, or utilize services like LawDepot to create a legally sound document that covers all your bases. Bringing these two documents, along with your ID and payment, will put you in a strong position for a smooth titling process.

Dealing with No Paperwork or Lost Titles

Sometimes, you might find yourself in a situation where the side-by-side you're acquiring, or already own, simply doesn't have a title or the title is lost. This can happen with older machines, or if previous owners never bothered to get one because it was optional. [South Carolina Title Without a Bill of Sale] can be a particularly tricky situation, as it leaves a gap in the chain of ownership. If the previous owner never titled it, you might be able to use a series of bills of sale going back to the original owner or even the MCO, if you can track it down. This often requires more legwork and potentially a visit to the DMV to discuss your specific circumstances.

If you're dealing with a lost title from a previous owner, they should ideally apply for a duplicate title before selling the machine to you. If that's not possible, or if your title is lost, you'll need to fill out a form for a duplicate title application. In extreme cases, where no original title or clear chain of ownership can be established, South Carolina offers processes like a bonded title. This is a more complex route that typically involves purchasing a surety bond to protect against claims of prior ownership. It’s always best to try and work backward to establish a clear paper trail, and consulting with the DMV about your unique situation is the first step when facing a "no paperwork" scenario. A thorough bill of sale, perhaps generated using a reliable service like LawDepot, can become even more vital in these situations, providing crucial details even if a title is absent.

Step-by-Step Process for Titling Your Side-by-Side

Getting your side-by-side officially titled in South Carolina doesn't have to be a bewildering ordeal. By breaking it down into manageable steps, you can navigate the process efficiently and avoid common delays. Preparation is truly your best friend here, ensuring you have everything you need before you even set foot in the DMV.

Preparing Your Documents and Information

The first, and arguably most important, step is thorough preparation. Before you even think about heading to the DMV, gather all the necessary documents and information. For a new side-by-side, this means your Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO), a completed [South Carolina Form 400 Explained], and proof of identity and residency. For a used side-by-side, you'll need the properly assigned title from the previous owner, a comprehensive bill of sale (which you might generate with a tool like LawDepot for clarity), and your identity/residency proof. Make sure the VIN on all documents matches the VIN on your machine exactly. Any discrepancies will cause immediate rejection.

Additionally, have your payment ready. You’ll need to pay the titling fee and any applicable sales tax. While specific prices change, [What a South Carolina ATV Title Costs] gives you an idea of the core fee. Remember that South Carolina has a sales tax cap for vehicles, including side-by-sides, which can save you a significant amount on higher-priced machines. It’s wise to have either a debit card, credit card, or check ready, as cash might not be accepted for larger sums at all locations. Finally, make copies of everything for your records before you submit the originals. This serves as a backup and a reference for your application details.

Visiting the South Carolina DMV Office

Once your documents are in order, your next step is to visit a local South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. [South Carolina Title Applications at the DMV] are handled in person for most initial titling scenarios. Check the DMV's website for office hours and any specific appointment requirements. Some offices, especially in busier areas, might require you to schedule an appointment online, which can save you a lot of waiting time. Be prepared for potential wait times even with an appointment, as DMV offices can get busy.

When you arrive, take a number for the "Titles" or "Vehicle Services" line. Present your complete package of documents to the clerk. They will review everything, verify your identity, and process your payment. Be ready to answer any questions they might have about your purchase or the machine itself. If everything is correct, they will issue you a receipt. For standard processing, you'll typically receive your physical title in the mail within a few weeks. However, if you're in a hurry, inquire about the [South Carolina Expedite Fee of $20], which allows you to pay an extra fee to get your title processed faster, sometimes even on the same day if all conditions are met.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid During the Application

Navigating the DMV can be straightforward if you're prepared, but it's easy to stumble over common pitfalls. One of the biggest issues is incomplete or incorrect paperwork. Double-check that all signatures are present, dates are filled in, and the VIN on your documents precisely matches the VIN on your side-by-side. Even a single transposed digit can lead to rejection. Another common problem arises from discrepancies in names or addresses. Ensure your ID matches the name you’re using on the application, and that your proof of residency is current.

Another pitfall, especially with used machines, is dealing with an improperly assigned title from the previous owner. If the seller didn't sign in the correct spot, or if there's white-out used on the title, the DMV will likely reject it. It’s always best to inspect the title thoroughly before you finalize a private sale. Finally, be mindful of any outstanding liens on a used machine. If the previous owner still owes money on the side-by-side, the lender will have a lien on the title, and you won't be able to get a clean title until that lien is satisfied and released. Always perform a lien check if buying used, and if in doubt about any of these issues, consider creating a solid, detailed purchase agreement using a platform like LawDepot to protect yourself.

Special Scenarios for Side-by-Side Titling

While the standard titling process covers most purchases, life often throws us curveballs. What happens when you buy from a friend without a formal title, inherit a machine, or need to deal with a loan? South Carolina has procedures for these unique situations, but they often require extra steps and specific documentation to ensure a legal transfer of ownership.

Titling a Side-by-Side After a Private Sale

Buying a side-by-side from a private seller is a common way to get a good deal, but it also means you are responsible for ensuring the titling process is done correctly. The most ideal scenario is when the seller provides you with a properly assigned title in their name. You'll take this, along with a bill of sale, to the DMV. However, sometimes the seller might not have a title because it was never required for their off-road use, or it's simply lost. If the seller never had a title, you might need to use their original Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) if they still possess it, along with a chain of bills of sale from previous owners back to the MCO.

If the seller has lost their title, they should ideally apply for a duplicate title first. Once they receive it, they can then properly assign it to you. If that's not feasible, or you're left without any form of title, you might be looking at a bonded title process. This involves obtaining a surety bond equal to the value of the side-by-side, which protects the state and any potential previous owners from claims against your new title. It’s a more involved process and often requires a DMV consultation. Always secure a detailed bill of sale, even if the title is absent, and consider using a service like LawDepot to draft a comprehensive sales agreement that clearly outlines the terms and condition of the sale, including any known title issues. This document can be critical evidence of your purchase.

Titling an Inherited or Gifted Side-by-Side

Receiving a side-by-side as a gift or through inheritance is a wonderful gesture, but it comes with its own set of titling requirements. If you've inherited a side-by-side, you'll need to provide documentation showing you are the legal heir or beneficiary. This usually involves presenting a copy of the death certificate, a copy of the will (if one exists), and possibly a court order or an affidavit of inheritance, especially if the estate is small. [South Carolina Title After the Owner Dies] explains this in more detail. The specific forms can vary depending on whether the estate went through probate. The executor of the estate, or the person designated by the will, will typically sign the existing title over to you.

For a gifted side-by-side, the process is simpler but still requires documentation. The donor (the person giving you the machine) needs to sign over their existing title to you, indicating "gift" as the purchase price on the bill of sale. Even though no money changed hands, a bill of sale stating "$0.00" or "gift" is crucial for the DMV to process the title transfer and properly assess sales tax (or acknowledge its exemption). Both parties will need to sign this bill of sale, which could be easily created using an online legal document service like LawDepot, ensuring it clearly states it's a gift. Remember, even gifted vehicles can sometimes be subject to certain fees, so be prepared for those.

Titling a Side-by-Side with a Lien or Multiple Owners

Financing your side-by-side often means there will be a lien placed on its title until the loan is fully paid off. A lien is a legal claim by the lender (like a bank or credit union) against your property, ensuring they get paid if you default on the loan. When you apply for a title for a financed machine, the lender will usually be listed as the lienholder on the title. Once you pay off your loan, the lender will send you a lien release document, which you'll then need to submit to the DMV to get a "clean" title with no lien listed. Always keep this release document safe!

If you're titling a side-by-side with multiple owners, such as a spouse, family member, or business partner, you'll need to decide how you want the ownership recorded. The most common options are "and" or "or." If the names are joined by "and" (e.g., "John Doe AND Jane Doe"), both individuals must sign off on any future transactions involving the title. If the names are joined by "or" (e.g., "John Doe OR Jane Doe"), either owner can sign off on transactions independently. The choice depends on your personal preference and level of trust between owners. Make sure all owners are present with their IDs or have provided proper power of attorney when submitting the application.

Costs and Fees Associated with Side-by-Side Titling

Understanding the financial aspect of titling your side-by-side in South Carolina is essential for budgeting and avoiding any surprises at the DMV counter. While the state strives for transparency, different fees, taxes, and optional services can add up. Knowing what to expect for each line item can make the process smoother.

The Standard Titling Fee

The foundational cost you'll encounter when titling your side-by-side is the state's official titling fee. This is a relatively modest, flat fee charged by the South Carolina DMV for processing the paperwork and issuing the legal title document. [What a South Carolina ATV Title Costs] will give you the exact figure, but typically, it's a small amount compared to the overall cost of your machine. This fee covers the administrative effort of establishing your ownership and recording your vehicle in the state's database. It applies whether you're titling a new side-by-side or transferring a title from a previous owner.

It's important to remember that this fee is separate from any registration costs, property taxes (which ATVs and UTVs are exempt from in South Carolina if used off-road), or sales tax. It's simply the cost to get that piece of paper that proves you own your rig. While it's a mandatory fee, it's usually one of the least expensive parts of the ownership process. Always ensure you have the correct amount, or a payment method accepted by the DMV, to avoid delays when you submit your application.

Understanding South Carolina Sales Tax and the Cap

Here's where the costs can get a bit more substantial, but with a unique South Carolina benefit: sales tax. When you purchase a side-by-side, whether new from a dealer or used from a private seller, you are generally subject to South Carolina's state sales tax rate on the purchase price. However, and this is crucial, South Carolina has a maximum sales tax cap for vehicles, which includes side-by-sides. This means that while the standard sales tax rate applies, the total amount of sales tax you'll pay is capped at a specific dollar amount, regardless of how expensive your side-by-side is. This cap can represent significant savings, especially on high-value machines.

For example, if the cap is $500, and your side-by-side costs $15,000, you wouldn't pay the full percentage on $15,000; you'd only pay $500. It's a fantastic benefit for vehicle owners in the state. This cap also applies to used side-by-sides purchased in a private sale, provided you have a bill of sale documenting the purchase price. If you trade in another vehicle, the trade-in value is typically subtracted from the purchase price before the sales tax is calculated. Always verify the current sales tax rate and the cap amount, as these figures can change over time. It's a good idea to factor this into your budget right from the start.

Expedited Services and Other Potential Costs

Beyond the standard titling fee and sales tax, you might encounter or opt for additional costs. The most common additional fee is for expedited title service. If you're in a hurry and need your physical title in hand quickly, South Carolina offers an option to pay an extra fee, typically [South Carolina Expedite Fee of $20], to speed up the processing time. Instead of waiting weeks for your title to arrive in the mail, you might be able to walk out of the DMV with it the same day, assuming all your paperwork is in order. This can be a lifesaver if you need the title for a quick resale, to secure financing, or for any other urgent reason.

Other potential costs, especially if you're dealing with special circumstances, might include fees for duplicate titles if yours is lost, or the cost of a surety bond if you're pursuing a bonded title. If you purchased your side-by-side from a dealer, you might also see "dealer documentary fees" or "freight charges" on your invoice, though these are part of the purchase price and not DMV fees. While not a direct titling cost, if you plan to make your side-by-side street-legal, you'll also incur separate registration fees. It's wise to consider all these potential costs when planning your side-by-side purchase and titling process.

Beyond Titling: Registration for Street-Legal UTVs

For many years, the discussion around side-by-sides in South Carolina revolved solely around titling (or the lack thereof) and off-road use. However, a significant shift in state law has opened up new possibilities for UTV owners who wish to extend their adventures beyond private trails and onto public roads. This involves not just titling, but a completely separate registration process, which is important to understand.

Distinguishing Off-Road Titling from Street UTV Registration

It's critical to draw a clear line between simply titling your side-by-side for ownership purposes and registering it for street-legal use. As we've discussed, titling establishes who legally owns the machine; for off-road side-by-sides, this has historically been optional in South Carolina. Many riders chose not to title if their machine was strictly used on private land or designated off-road trails. There was no corresponding "registration" for these purely off-road machines because they were never intended for public roads, and thus, the state didn't need to track their on-road activity. [South Carolina Has No Off-Road ATV Registration], for instance.

However, "street-legal UTV registration" is an entirely different beast. This is a specific program that allows certain side-by-sides, provided they meet stringent safety and equipment criteria, to be issued a license plate and legally driven on designated public roads. This registration is mandatory for any UTV operator who wants to use their machine on state-maintained roads, even if only for short distances. This is a separate application process that comes after you've titled the machine, essentially giving it a "license to drive." It creates two distinct pathways for side-by-side owners: one for pure off-road use, and another for those who want the added flexibility of road access.

The New Rules for Street-Legal UTVs Act 164

The ability to register UTVs for street use in South Carolina is a direct result of [South Carolina Act 164 and Street UTVs], a landmark piece of legislation that reshaped the landscape for side-by-side owners. This Act, effective in recent years, specifically outlines the conditions under which a UTV can be considered "street-legal." It's not just a matter of deciding you want to drive it on the road; your machine must meet a very specific set of requirements designed to ensure safety for both the UTV operator and other road users.

These requirements typically include being equipped with headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, a horn, a rearview mirror, and seat belts. There are also stipulations regarding the UTV's maximum width, weight, and engine size. Crucially, [South Carolina Street UTV Registration Arrives] with age and license requirements for operators, as well as specific road types and speed limits where these vehicles can legally operate. For instance, they are generally restricted to roads with speed limits of 55 mph or less and are typically prohibited from interstates. This act provided a much-needed legal framework, ending the ambiguity that previously surrounded UTVs venturing onto public thoroughfares.

Requirements and Process for Street UTV Registration

If your side-by-side meets the specifications outlined in Act 164 and you've already obtained a title for it, you can then proceed with the street-legal UTV registration process. The steps involve another visit to the DMV, but this time with a focus on fulfilling the registration criteria. You'll need to submit the [South Carolina Form 400 Explained] again, indicating that you're applying for "registration only" for a street-legal UTV. You'll also need to provide proof that your vehicle meets all the required safety equipment standards. This might involve a visual inspection by a DMV clerk or a signed affidavit from you.

Furthermore, [South Carolina Insurance Proof at Registration] is a mandatory requirement. Just like with a car, your street-legal UTV must carry minimum liability insurance coverage to protect against financial responsibility in case of an accident on public roads. You'll need to provide proof of this insurance at the time of registration. The fees for street-legal UTV registration are distinct from the titling fee and are typically assessed biennially (every two years). Once approved, your side-by-side will be issued a unique license plate, which must be displayed on the rear of the machine. This plate signifies that your UTV is officially recognized and permitted for road use within the defined parameters of South Carolina law.

Maintaining Your South Carolina Side-by-Side Title

Getting your side-by-side titled is a significant step, but proper title management doesn't stop there. Over the years, you might experience changes in your life that necessitate updating or replacing your title. Knowing how to handle these situations ensures your ownership documents remain accurate and valid, saving you headaches down the road.

Updating Your Title After a Move or Name Change

Life happens, and sometimes that means moving to a new address or changing your name (for example, after marriage or divorce). When these changes occur, it's important to update your South Carolina side-by-side title to reflect the correct information. While South Carolina generally doesn't require you to immediately re-title a vehicle for a simple address change, it's a good practice to ensure all your official records are consistent, especially if you also hold a street-legal UTV registration that requires current address information for mailings and renewals. For an address change, you typically need to update your driver's license first, and then you can update your vehicle records.

A name change, however, is a more formal process. If your legal name changes, you will need to apply for a corrected title to reflect your new name. This usually involves presenting proof of the name change (like a marriage certificate or court order) along with your current title and a new [South Carolina Form 400 Explained] application. There will typically be a small fee for issuing a corrected title. Keeping your title accurate with your current legal name is crucial for any future transactions, such as selling the side-by-side or using it as collateral, as discrepancies can cause significant delays.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged Title

It happens to the best of us: you misplace an important document, or it gets damaged. If your South Carolina side-by-side title is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition, you'll need to apply for a duplicate. This is a relatively straightforward process designed to provide you with a replacement official document. You'll need to complete a specific form for a duplicate title application, which is usually found on the South Carolina DMV website or at any DMV office.

You'll need to provide information about your side-by-side, including its VIN, and confirm your identity. There is a nominal fee for a duplicate title. It's a good idea to process this as soon as you realize your title is missing, rather than waiting until you need it for a transaction. Having a clear, valid title in your possession is essential for proving ownership, especially if you ever need to sell your machine or report it stolen. Delaying this process can lead to more complications and stress down the line.

What to Do When Selling Your Titled Side-by-Side

When the time comes to sell your titled side-by-side, having a clear and accurate title will make the process much smoother. The key step is properly assigning the title to the new owner. This involves signing the back of your existing title in the designated seller's section, filling in the date of sale, the sale price, and the new owner's name and address. Ensure that you fill in all required fields completely and legibly. It’s also wise to complete a separate, detailed bill of sale for both your records and the buyer's. This document should include the VIN, purchase price, date, and signatures of both buyer and seller. You can easily find templates online or use services like LawDepot to create a professional bill of sale.

Once the title is properly assigned, you hand it over to the buyer. They will then be responsible for taking the assigned title and bill of sale to the DMV to transfer the ownership into their name. Make sure you remove your license plate if your side-by-side was street-legal, as plates are typically tied to the owner, not the vehicle. Finally, notify your insurance company that you've sold the machine so you can adjust or cancel your coverage. Proper documentation and immediate action ensure a clean break from your ownership responsibilities and prevent any potential issues arising from future use of the machine by the new owner.

Table: Key Titling Requirements for South Carolina Side-by-Sides

Here's a quick overview of the essential documents and considerations for titling your side-by-side in South Carolina, depending on whether it's a new or used purchase.

Aspect	New Side-by-Side (from Dealer)	Used Side-by-Side (Private Sale)
Primary Ownership Document	Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)	Properly Assigned Title from Previous Owner
Required Application Form	South Carolina Form 400	South Carolina Form 400
Proof of Transaction	Dealer's Bill of Sale/Purchase Agreement	Buyer/Seller Bill of Sale (recommended, especially if no title)
Identity & Residency Proof	Valid SC Driver's License or ID, Proof of SC Residency	Valid SC Driver's License or ID, Proof of SC Residency
Sales Tax Implications	Full SC sales tax on purchase price, subject to state cap	Full SC sales tax on purchase price, subject to state cap
Titling Fee	Standard SC Titling Fee	Standard SC Titling Fee
Lien Information	Lender listed on title if financed	Must ensure prior liens are satisfied & released
Considerations for No Title	Dealer handles most initial paperwork	May require bonded title, extensive paperwork, or MCO if available
Optional Services	Expedited Title Processing	Expedited Title Processing

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Laws, prices and regulations vary by location and change over time. Consult a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation.