South Carolina Vehicle Tax & Fee Calculator
Estimate your real out-the-door price in South Carolina with state tax, county surtax, title, and registration fees itemized.
South Carolina Out-the-Door Calculator
How South Carolina vehicle taxes and fees are calculated
South Carolina caps the total sales tax on a vehicle purchase at $500, regardless of price. This makes SC a bargain for buyers of expensive vehicles — a $200,000 vehicle pays the same $500 as a $20,000 car.
South Carolina vehicle tax quick-reference
| Vehicle tax rate | 5% state + local — capped at $500 totalCapped at $500 maximum tax on any single vehicle |
| Trade-in credit | Trade-in value deducted before tax is applied |
| Title fee | $15 |
| EV / hybrid fee | $120/yr EV road use fee |
| Tax authority | South Carolina Dept. of Motor Vehicles |
South Carolina sales tax on vehicles
This calculator uses the 5% state + local — capped at $500 total rate for South Carolina. Trade-in value deducted before tax is applied. Exact local rates vary by county and municipality. For more information, see South Carolina duplicate title and temporary tag process.
Title and registration fees in South Carolina
Title fees in South Carolina are $15 for a standard vehicle. Registration fees vary by vehicle weight, plate type, and in some counties, local surcharges. EV and hybrid owners should also budget for the annual road-use fee: $120/yr EV road use fee.
All values are estimates for informational purposes only and may not reflect the exact amounts charged in your county or city. Always verify with South Carolina Dept. of Motor Vehicles.
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