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The South Carolina DMV 400 form is an essential document for individuals seeking to apply for a vehicle title or registration in the state. This form serves various purposes, including applying for a new title, transferring an existing title and plate, or simply requesting a title without registration. It is crucial to complete the form accurately, as any strikeovers, erasures, or use of correction fluid is not permitted. The application can be submitted by mail to the designated address, and the title will be sent to the address on record with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). To ensure that the title reaches the correct location, applicants are encouraged to verify and, if necessary, update their mailing address through the SCDMV website or by contacting their Customer Call Center. The form is divided into several sections, each requiring specific information, such as vehicle details, odometer readings, owner information, lien details, and sales tax exemptions. Additionally, it includes a certification of insurance and an option to donate to Donate Life SC. By completing the DMV 400 form, individuals take a significant step toward ensuring their vehicle is legally registered and titled in South Carolina.

Form Sample

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles

Title and/or Registration Application

No *strikeovers, *erasures (*VIN / Odometer), correction tape, or correction fluid is acceptable on this form.

400

Rev. 07/2025

South Carolina and Federal law dictate that motor vehicle and driver’s license records maintained by the SCDMV may be disclosed in certain situations. For details on the disclosure of personal information and the types of information disclosed, go to the SCDMV website www.scdmvonline.com/Privacy.

Applications are accepted at SCDMV branch offices or can be mailed to: SCDMV, 10311 Wilson Blvd., Blythewood, SC 29016-0038.

Applications for apportioned plates are submitted to SCDMV Motor Carrier Services branch offices, or mailed to SCDMV, 10311 Wilson Blvd., Blythewood, SC 29016-0027. Visit our website www.scdmvonline.com for a complete list of required documents and fees.

SECTION 1 – REQUIRED FOR ALL TRANSACTIONS

TRANSACTION TYPE

TITLE SPECIFIC INFORMATION

 

SPECIAL VEHICLE TYPE (if applicable)

TITLE

RECORD TRANSFER ON DEATH (must complete Form TOD-1)

MOPED

REGISTRATION NEW

EXPEDITE (only title transactions, only in branch offices, additional $20.00 fee)

LOW SPEED VEHICLE

PLATE TRANSFER ______________

RECORD LIEN

DUPLICATE TITLE

LEASE

 

VEHICLE INFORMATION

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN)

 

 

 

MAKE

 

 

MODEL

 

 

 

 

YEAR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BODY STYLE

 

 

 

GAS

DIESEL

 

EMPTY WEIGHT

 

 

MOPED – ENGINE CCs OR WATTAGE

 

 

 

 

 

HYBRID or

ELECTRIC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OWNER/LESSEE INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your complete name is required on all title and registration documents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEW PRIMARY OWNER/LESSEE COMPLETE LEGAL NAME (LAST, FIRST, MIDDLE)

 

CUSTOMER NO., DL NO., SSN, OR FEIN

DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEW CO-OWNER/LESSEE COMPLETE LEGAL NAME (LAST, FIRST, MIDDLE)

SHARED OWNERSHIP

 

CUSTOMER NO., DL NO., SSN, OR FEIN

DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AND or OR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRIMARY OWNER’S/LESSEE RESIDENCE ADDRESS (APT. NO. IF APPLICABLE)

 

CITY

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS (IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE)

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

UPDATE VOTER

Unless you indicate otherwise, the addresses above will be used by the State Election Commission to update your voter registration:

REGISTRATION

 

Do not update my residence address.

Do not update my mailing address.

 

 

 

 

 

ADDRESS WHERE VEHICLE IS HOUSED (IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE)

 

 

CITY

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SC

 

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

TEMPORARY ADDRESS (IF APPLICABLE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPIRATION

OF TEMPORARY ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEASING COMPANY INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Complete only for a leased vehicle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEASING COMPANY NAME

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER

 

CONTACT PERSON

 

 

CUSTOMER NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 2 – ONLY REQUIRED FOR TITLE TRANSACTIONS

ODOMETER MILEAGE

Federal and state law requires that you state the mileage when transferring ownership. Failure to complete or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment.

I STATE THAT THE ODOMETER NOW READS(MILES NOT KILOMETERS, NO TENTHS) AND TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE THAT IT

REFLECTS THE ACTUAL MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE DESCRIBED ABOVE UNLESS ONE OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS IS CHECKED:

DO NOT CHECK ONE OF THE FOLLOWING UNLESS IT APPLIES.

EXEMPT

I CERTIFY THAT TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE THE ODOMETER READING REFLECTS THE AMOUNT OF MILEAGE IN EXCESS OF ITS MECHANICAL LIMITS.

I CERTIFY THAT THE ODOMETER READING IS NOT THE ACTUAL MILEAGE. WARNING ODOMETER DISCREPANCY.

LIEN INFORMATION

ELT provider must include ELT customer Number.

CUSTOMER NO. OR FEIN

LIENHOLDER NAME (FIRST LIEN)

DATE OF LIEN CONTACT PERSON

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

CUSTOMER NO. OR FEIN

LIENHOLDER NAME (SECOND LIEN)

DATE OF LIEN

CONTACT PERSON

PHONE NUMBER

MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles

Title and/or Registration Application

No *strikeovers, *erasures (*VIN / Odometer), correction tape, or correction fluid is acceptable on this form.

400

Rev. 07/2025

SECTION 2 – CONTINUED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PRIOR TITLE STATE

PRIOR TITLE NUMBER

DATE FIRST OPERATED IN SC

ENERGY EFFICIENT MANUFACTURED/MOBILE HOME?

YES

NO

IMF/SALES TAX

Vehicles purchased from individuals and titled in South Carolina are subject to IMF or sales tax unless exempt. The fee is 5% of the sales price up to a maximum of $500.00. Mobile homes are calculated differently.

The vehicle was transferred from:

MY PARENT

MY SPOUSE

MY CHILD

MY BROTHER/SISTER

MY GRANDPARENT

MY GRANDCHILD

The vehicle was transferred to me as:

LEGAL HEIR

BENEFICIARY

DISTRIBUTEE

 

 

 

I am active-duty Military

 

 

 

 

 

 

The vehicle was a bonafide gift

 

 

 

 

 

 

PURCHASE INFORMATION

*Gross capitalized cost is the original cost of the vehicle not including taxes, interest, or cab customizing and is used to calculate the road use fee for vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 26,001 lbs. or more. Leave blank if this does not apply to your vehicle.

SELLER OR DEALER NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

DEALER NO.

SALES TAX NO.

NEW or

USED

DATE OF PURCHASE

SALES PRICE

*GROSS CAPITALIZED COST

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TRADE-IN AMOUNT

TRADE-IN VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 3 – ONLY SECTION 3 – ONLY REQUIRED FOR REGISTRATION TRANSACTIONS FOR REGISTRATION

SELECT DESIRED TRANSACTION

NEW PLATE

TRANSFER

PLATE NUMBER TO TRANSFER

EXCHANGE

NEW PLATE TYPE

 

PLATE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT (GVW)

TO INCREASE GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT

NEW GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT:

 

COMMERCIAL or

NON-COMMERCIAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISCLOSURE

Required only for vehicles 26,000 lbs. or greater and bus common carriers

The Department must obtain the Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) when a vehicle is registered with a GVW of more than 26,000 pounds or a bus common carrier (SC Code §56-3-240).

SSN or FEIN

INSURANCE CERTIFICATION

A vehicle must be insured with liability insurance coverage through a company licensed to do business in South Carolina, when it is registered, and it must remain insured while registered.

I (WE) DECLARE THAT THIS VEHICLE IS INSURED WITH:

INSURANCE COMPANY

SECTION 4 – REQUIRED FOR ALL TRANSACTIONS

DONATE LIFE SC

YES, I WISH TO DONATE $5.00, MORE OR LESS, TO DONATE LIFE SC.

AMOUNT OF DONATION:

$

SIGNATURE OF OWNER

I DECLARE THAT I AM THE OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE. I REQUEST THAT A SOUTH CAROLINA CERTIFICATE OF TITLE AND/OR REGISTRATION BE ISSUED. THE VEHICLE IS SUBJECT TO THE LIENS NAMED AND NO OTHERS. IF REGISTERING A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE OVER 10,000 lbs., I CERTIFY THAT I AM FAMILIAR WITH THE FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS AND/OR FEDERAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REGULATIONS. UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY, I CERTIFY ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED IS TRUE AND CURRENT.

OWNER

DATE

CO-OWNER

DATE

SIGNATURE OF OWNER(S) MAY BE SIGNED IN INK BY OWNER OR AUTHORIZED AGENT (ATTACH POWER OF ATTORNEY IF APPLICABLE). ELECTRONIC OR DIGITAL SIGNTURES ARE ACCEPTABLE.

FAILURE TO REGISTER WITHIN 45 DAYS OF THE DATE OF PURCHASE OR THE DATE OF OPERATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA WILL RESULT IN A PENALTY FEE IN ADDITION TO THE REGULAR TITLE AND/OR REGISTRATION FEE(S). THE LATE PENALTY FEE SCHEDULE IS AS FOLLOWS:

46 - 60 DAYS LATE - $10.00

61 - 75 DAYS LATE - $25.00

76 - 135 DAYS LATE - $50.00

OVER 135 DAYS LATE - $75.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

THIS SECTION FOR SHORT-TERM RENTAL

THIS SECTION FOR DMV USE ONLY

 

COMPANIES AND DEALERS ONLY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE ABOVE VEHICLE IS FOR:

 

 

______________________________

_______________________

_______________

DEALER RESALE

 

 

SHORT-TERM RENTAL USE BY A LICENSED DEALER

 

PROCESSED BY AND OFFICE #

PLATE NUMBER/ SP-45

BRAND

Document Specifications

Fact Name Details
Form Purpose The SC DMV 400 form is used for applying for a title and registration for vehicles and mobile homes in South Carolina.
Submission Method Applications can be mailed to the SCDMV at P.O. Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29016-0024.
Corrections Policy No strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid are allowed on this form to ensure clarity and accuracy.
Odometer Disclosure Federal and state law mandates that the mileage be accurately stated when transferring ownership, with penalties for false statements.
Sales Tax Information New vehicle purchases in South Carolina are subject to a 5% sales tax, capped at $500, unless exempt.
Insurance Requirement Vehicles must have liability insurance coverage when registered, and penalties apply for non-compliance.
Donation Option The form allows applicants to donate $5.00 or more to Donate Life SC, promoting organ donation awareness.
Signature Requirement Owners must sign the form under penalties of perjury, affirming the accuracy of the information provided.
Late Registration Penalties Failure to register within 45 days of purchase incurs penalties ranging from $10 to $75, depending on the delay.
Governing Law This form is governed by South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically Section 56-3-240 regarding vehicle registration.

Steps to Filling Out Sc Dmv 400

Completing the SC DMV 400 form requires careful attention to detail. This form is essential for applying for a vehicle title in South Carolina. Ensure all information is accurate and legible, as any errors may delay the processing of your application.

  1. Obtain the SC DMV 400 form from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles website or a local DMV office.
  2. Check the appropriate box at the top of the form to indicate whether you are applying for a new title and registration, title and plate transfer, or title only.
  3. In Section A, fill in the vehicle information, including the vehicle identification number, make, model, year, and weight. Provide the address where the vehicle is housed if it differs from your residential address.
  4. Enter the date of purchase and the date the vehicle was first operated in South Carolina. Indicate whether the vehicle is energy efficient and specify the fuel type.
  5. In Section B, state the odometer mileage. If applicable, check the appropriate box to indicate if the mileage is exempt or if there is an odometer discrepancy.
  6. Section C requires owner information. Fill in the names, contact details, and addresses for both the primary owner and any co-owner.
  7. Complete Section D if there is a second lien on the vehicle. Provide the lienholder's name and contact information.
  8. In Section E, indicate if the vehicle purchase is subject to sales tax or if you qualify for an exemption. Provide any necessary details about previous ownership or tax credits.
  9. Section F requires the seller or dealer information, including name, address, and sales price of the vehicle.
  10. If applicable, fill out Section G to certify that the vehicle is insured. Provide the name of the insurance company.
  11. In Section H, indicate if you wish to donate to Donate Life SC and specify the amount.
  12. Finally, sign and date the form in Section I. Ensure that both the owner and co-owner sign if applicable.

After completing the form, review it for accuracy. Mail the form to the address provided on the form or submit it in person at a DMV office. The title will be sent to the address on record with the SCDMV. It is advisable to verify and correct your mailing address before submitting the application.

More About Sc Dmv 400

What is the SC DMV 400 form used for?

The SC DMV 400 form is primarily used for applying for a title and registration for vehicles or mobile homes in South Carolina. Whether you're purchasing a new vehicle, transferring a title, or registering a leased vehicle, this form is essential for ensuring that your vehicle is properly titled and registered with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV).

How do I submit the SC DMV 400 form?

You can submit the SC DMV 400 form by mailing it to the SCDMV at P.O. Box 1498, 10311 Wilson Blvd., Blythewood, SC 29016-0024. Make sure to double-check that all the required fields are filled out correctly, as strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid are not acceptable on this form.

What information do I need to provide on the form?

The form requires several pieces of information, including the vehicle identification number (VIN), make, model, year, and the owner's information. You’ll also need to indicate the type of application (new title, title transfer, etc.) and provide odometer readings. Additionally, details about any liens on the vehicle must be included if applicable.

What if my vehicle is leased?

If your vehicle is leased, you must complete the leasing company information section on the form. This includes the leasing company’s name, contact person, and address. It’s important to provide accurate details to ensure that the title and registration are processed correctly.

Are there any fees associated with the SC DMV 400 form?

Yes, there are several fees associated with the SC DMV 400 form. The title fee is $15, while an expedited title fee is $20. If you're transferring a title, there’s a $10 transfer fee. Additionally, sales tax or an infrastructure maintenance fee may apply, which is typically 5% of the selling price, capped at $500.

What happens if I don’t register my vehicle on time?

If you fail to register your vehicle within 45 days of purchase or operation in South Carolina, you will incur penalty fees. These fees increase based on how late the registration is. For instance, if you're 46-60 days late, the fee is $10, and it can go up to $75 if you are over 135 days late.

Can I verify my mailing address with the SCDMV?

Yes, it’s important to ensure that your mailing address is correct before submitting the title application. You can verify and correct your mailing address on the SCDMV website or by calling their Customer Call Center at (803) 896-5000. This step helps prevent any delays in receiving your title.

What if I need to make changes after submitting the form?

Once the SC DMV 400 form has been submitted, making changes can be challenging. It's best to ensure all information is accurate before submission. If you realize a mistake after sending the form, contact the SCDMV directly for guidance on how to proceed.

How do I ensure my vehicle is insured while registered?

To comply with South Carolina laws, your vehicle must have liability insurance coverage when registered. The insurance must remain active throughout the registration period, regardless of whether the vehicle is being driven. You’ll need to provide the name of your insurance company on the form to confirm coverage.

Common mistakes

  1. Not checking the appropriate box for the type of application. This can lead to delays in processing.

  2. Failing to provide the correct Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This number must match the vehicle’s documentation.

  3. Leaving out important vehicle information, such as the make, model, or year. Each field must be filled out accurately.

  4. Using correction fluid or making strikeovers on the form. This is not allowed and can result in rejection of the application.

  5. Not providing the correct odometer reading. This must be stated clearly and accurately to comply with legal requirements.

  6. Omitting the primary owner’s legal name or incorrectly entering it. Full legal names are required for identification purposes.

  7. Failing to sign the application. The form must be signed in ink by the owner or authorized agent.

  8. Not including the correct payment for fees. Ensure that the total amount is calculated accurately and submitted.

  9. Neglecting to verify the mailing address with the SCDMV. The title will be mailed to the address on record, which may cause issues if it is incorrect.

Documents used along the form

The South Carolina DMV 400 form is essential for vehicle title applications, but it is often accompanied by several other documents. Each of these documents serves a unique purpose in the title application process. Below is a list of forms and documents commonly used alongside the DMV 400 form, along with brief descriptions of their functions.

  • Form 400-L: This form is used to report a second lien on the vehicle. It provides necessary information about the lienholder and is crucial for ensuring that all financial interests in the vehicle are documented.
  • Form 447: This is the application for a duplicate title. If the original title is lost or damaged, this form allows the owner to request a replacement title from the DMV.
  • Form 503: This form is required for the transfer of ownership for a vehicle that is being sold or given as a gift. It documents the sale price or value of the vehicle and the details of the transaction.
  • Sales Tax Exemption Certificate: If the vehicle qualifies for a sales tax exemption, this certificate must be submitted to verify the exemption status. It is essential for avoiding unnecessary tax payments during the title application process.
  • Proof of Insurance: A document confirming that the vehicle is insured is necessary when registering the vehicle. This proof must show that the vehicle has liability coverage as required by South Carolina law.
  • Power of Attorney: If someone other than the vehicle owner is completing the title application, a Power of Attorney form must be provided. This document grants the agent the authority to act on behalf of the owner.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: This statement is often required when transferring ownership of a vehicle. It certifies the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale and helps prevent odometer fraud.
  • Vehicle Bill of Sale: This document serves as proof of the sale transaction between the buyer and seller. It includes key details such as the vehicle identification number (VIN), sale price, and the parties involved.
  • Form 320: This is the application for a title for a vehicle that has been previously registered in another state. It provides necessary information about the vehicle's history and prior registration.
  • Military Exemption Form: For active duty military members, this form may be required to claim exemptions from certain fees or taxes when applying for a title or registration in South Carolina.

Understanding these additional forms and documents can streamline the title application process and ensure compliance with state regulations. Proper documentation not only facilitates a smoother transaction but also protects the rights and interests of all parties involved.

Similar forms

The South Carolina DMV Form 400 is quite similar to the Title Application Form used in many states across the U.S. This document serves the same purpose: to apply for a vehicle title and registration. Much like the SC DMV 400, these forms typically require detailed information about the vehicle, including its identification number, make, model, and the owner's personal details. The emphasis on accuracy is a common thread, as most states mandate that no alterations or corrections be made on the form, ensuring that the information submitted is clear and unambiguous.

Another document that shares similarities with the SC DMV 400 is the Bill of Sale. This document is essential in the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. Just like the title application, a Bill of Sale includes details about the vehicle, such as its VIN, make, and model. It also captures the sale price and the names of both parties involved in the transaction. This document serves as proof of ownership and is often required when applying for a title, reinforcing the importance of maintaining accurate records during vehicle transactions.

The Odometer Disclosure Statement is another important document that aligns with the SC DMV 400. This statement is often required when a vehicle is sold or transferred to ensure that the mileage recorded is accurate. Similar to the SC DMV 400, it mandates that the seller provide truthful information about the vehicle's mileage, with penalties for any discrepancies. This document helps protect buyers from potential fraud, ensuring transparency in the vehicle's history.

The Application for Duplicate Title is also comparable to the SC DMV 400. This document is used when a vehicle owner needs to replace a lost or stolen title. Much like the title application, it requires the same vehicle information and owner details. The focus on accurate and complete information is crucial here, as the duplicate title serves the same legal purpose as the original, making it essential for vehicle ownership verification.

Finally, the Vehicle Registration Application is akin to the SC DMV 400 in its goal of officially registering a vehicle with the state. This form often requires similar information, such as the vehicle's identification number, owner details, and proof of insurance. The registration process is a critical step in ensuring that a vehicle is legally recognized by the state, just as the title application secures ownership rights. Both documents are vital in the lifecycle of vehicle ownership and operation.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the South Carolina DMV 400 form, it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide accurate information, especially regarding the vehicle identification number and mileage.
  • Do use blue or black ink to fill out the form.
  • Do sign the form in ink; electronic signatures are not acceptable.
  • Don't use correction fluid or make strikeovers on the form.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; all sections must be completed.
  • Don't forget to verify your mailing address with the SCDMV before submitting.
  • Don't submit the form without checking for any errors or missing information.

Following these guidelines can help avoid delays in processing your title application. Ensure that all details are correct and complete before sending in your form.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The SC DMV 400 form can have corrections made on it.
  • Many people believe they can make corrections on the form using strikeovers or correction fluid. However, this is not allowed. Any changes could lead to the rejection of your application.

  • Misconception 2: You can submit the form without verifying your mailing address.
  • Some individuals think that they can simply fill out the form and send it in without confirming their mailing address. It is essential to verify and correct your address with the SCDMV to ensure that the title is sent to the correct location.

  • Misconception 3: The form can be submitted in any format.
  • People often assume that they can submit the form via email or online. In reality, the SC DMV requires the form to be mailed to a specific address. Make sure to follow the submission guidelines carefully.

  • Misconception 4: Odometer readings are optional.
  • Some may think that stating the odometer reading is not necessary. However, federal and state law mandates that you provide accurate mileage information when transferring ownership. Failing to do so can result in serious penalties.

  • Misconception 5: You do not need insurance to apply for a title.
  • It is a common belief that insurance is not required when applying for a title. In fact, a vehicle must be insured with liability coverage if it is registered. This requirement is strictly enforced, and violations can lead to severe penalties.

  • Misconception 6: The application fee is the only cost involved.
  • Many people think that the title application fee is the only expense they will incur. In reality, there may be additional costs, such as sales tax or penalties for late registration, which can add up quickly.

  • Misconception 7: You can apply for a title at any time without consequences.
  • Some individuals believe they can take their time in applying for a title after purchasing a vehicle. However, there are deadlines. Failing to register within 45 days can lead to additional penalties, making it crucial to act promptly.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the SC DMV 400 form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth application process. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • No corrections are allowed. Strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid must not be used on the form.
  • Mailing address verification. Confirm your mailing address with the SCDMV before submitting the application to avoid delays.
  • Odometer mileage is mandatory. Accurately state the mileage to comply with federal and state laws.
  • Sales tax applies to new vehicles. A 5% sales tax or infrastructure maintenance fee is applicable unless exempt.
  • Insurance certification is crucial. Ensure the vehicle is insured with liability coverage when registered.
  • Signature requirement. The application must be signed in ink by the owner or authorized agent.
  • Fees are applicable. Be aware of the title fee, expedited title fee, and transfer fee when submitting the form.
  • Late registration penalties exist. Registering late incurs additional fees, so timely submission is important.
  • Use the correct sections. Complete the relevant sections based on whether the vehicle is new, used, or leased.

Following these guidelines will help facilitate a successful application process for vehicle title and registration in South Carolina.