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South Carolina Car-Selling Guide

How to Sell a Car Without a Title in South Carolina

Lost, damaged, or never received your South Carolina title? You still have legal ways to sell. Here's how it works in 2026, based on official South Carolina rules — plus the fastest way to just get a cash offer.

South Carolina keeps this simple — one form replaces a lost title, and the state doesn't use bonded titles. Here's how to replace it and sell.

Path 1 — Most vehicles

Get a duplicate title

Complete Form 400 (Title Application) with the $15 fee — online, by mail (SCDMV Titles, Blythewood), or in person. Need it fast? Same-day expedited duplicates are available in person only at a branch. If there's a lien, the duplicate goes to the lienholder.

Good to know

No bonded titles here

South Carolina does not use bonded titles — there's no surety-bond process. The state treats you as the legitimate owner and simply issues a duplicate via Form 400. After you sell, file the Notice of Vehicle Sold (Form 416) to protect yourself until the buyer completes the transfer.

Skip the paperwork

Not sure which path fits your car?

Tell us the year and condition — we'll tell you exactly what's needed and make a real cash offer, with free towing at pickup.

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South Carolina Essentials

Selling in South Carolina — the essentials

The quick reference for signing your car over the right way in South Carolina.

Where to sign
Sign the title in the seller section and record the odometer.
Notary
No — notarization is not required.
License plates
Return your plates to the state to stop registration fees.
Good to know
South Carolina plates stay with the seller and should be returned to the DMV.
Before You Sell

A quick checklist

Three things worth confirming before you hand over the keys.

  • Check for a lien. Any recorded lien must be released before a clean title can issue.
  • Keep a bill of sale. A written record — buyer and seller info, vehicle details, price, and date — protects you.
  • Match the name. The seller's name should match the title record.
Ready when you are

Ready to sell your South Carolina car?

Running or not, title or no title — get a real cash offer in about two minutes, with free towing.

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This guide is general information based on South Carolina rules current as of 2026, not legal advice. Requirements can change and situations vary — confirm details with the official state source (official South Carolina DMV page) before acting.

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