Free South Carolina Car Bill of Sale
South Carolina abolished vehicle sales tax and replaced it with the Infrastructure Maintenance Fee — 5% of the price, hard-capped at $500, which rewrites the math on expensive cars: a $10,000 sedan and a $60,000 truck pay exactly the same $500, while everything under $10,000 pays the full 5%. The state publishes its own bill of sale (Form 4031), the transfer window is a relaxed 45 days at the SCDMV, and no safety or emissions inspection exists anywhere in the state. Budget instead for the county's annual vehicle property tax — the recurring cost that replaces the inspection hassle other states impose.
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South Carolina Car Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Sales Tax Details
South Carolina charges an Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF) of 5% of the sale price, capped at $500 per transaction. This replaces traditional sales tax on vehicles.
Inspection Requirements
SC does not require a safety or emissions inspection at time of sale.
South Carolina Car Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Complete SCDMV Form 4031 with VIN, year, make, model, odometer, sale price.
- Seller signs the title over to buyer.
- Buyer submits Form 4031 + title + proof of insurance to SCDMV within 45 days.
- Buyer pays the IMF (5%, max $500) + title and registration fees.
- Buyer obtains a 45-day temporary plate at time of purchase.
Common Pitfalls
- Confusing the IMF with traditional sales tax — SC's $500 cap makes it very favorable for higher-value vehicles.
- Not getting the 45-day temporary plate — driving without it is illegal.
- Missing the 45-day title transfer window.
- Forgetting that the IMF applies even on gifted vehicles (based on fair market value).
Pro Tip
SC car: Form 4031 + 45-day transfer + 5% IMF capped at $500.