South Carolina Car Sales Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate South Carolina car sales tax in seconds. Enter your sale price and we apply the flat statewide rate; the calculator returns state tax, local surtax, title transfer fee, and total out-the-door cost for a private party sale.
South Carolina Car Sales Tax Calculator
Estimate state tax, local surtax, and total cost for a private car sale in South Carolina.
Estimated total tax
$750.00
5.00% combined rate
IMF applies to all vehicle sales, capped at $500 max
5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF), capped at $500
Estimate only. SC DMV may calculate tax from the higher of purchase price or book value. Confirm exact rates with your county tax assessor before transfer.
How South Carolina taxes private car sales
South Carolina applies a flat 5% sales tax on private party car transactions statewide. 5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF), capped at $500. IMF applies to all vehicle sales, capped at $500 max.
Who pays the tax
In South Carolina the buyer pays the car sales tax at the time of title transfer — it is collected by the DMV (or equivalent agency) when the buyer registers the vehicle. The seller does not collect tax in a private party sale.
When the tax is due
Tax is due within 45 days of the sale date. South Carolina late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Exemptions and gift transfers
Gift transfers between immediate family members may qualify for a sales-tax exemption — confirm with the South Carolina DMV at title transfer.
Late penalties
Filing the title transfer beyond the 45-day window typically triggers a late fee plus monthly interest on the unpaid tax. The South Carolina DMV may also block registration renewals until the back tax is paid. File on time — the calculator above shows the exact amount owed.
Compare car sales tax across states
See how South Carolina stacks up against the five lowest- and highest-tax states for a private car purchase. Tap any state to open its calculator.
5 lowest sales-tax states
5 highest sales-tax states
- Arkansas11.63%
- Louisiana11.45%
- California10.50%
- Kansas10.50%
- Washington10.40%
South Carolina car sales tax FAQ
How much is sales tax on a car in South Carolina?
South Carolina charges a flat 5% on private car sales statewide. IMF applies to all vehicle sales, capped at $500 max.
Who pays sales tax on a private car sale in South Carolina?
In South Carolina the buyer pays the car sales tax at the time of title transfer — it is collected by the DMV (or equivalent agency) when the buyer registers the vehicle. The seller does not collect tax in a private party sale.
When is South Carolina car sales tax due?
Tax is due within 45 days of the sale date. South Carolina late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Are there any South Carolina sales-tax exemptions for car transfers?
Gift transfers between immediate family members may qualify for a sales-tax exemption — confirm with the South Carolina DMV at title transfer.
What is the title transfer fee in South Carolina?
The South Carolina title transfer fee is $15. This is collected at the time of title transfer in addition to any sales tax owed. Use the calculator above to see fees plus tax on your sale price.
Ready to close the car sale?
Create a printable South Carolina car bill of sale in minutes. It is required at the DMV to register your purchase and document the taxable amount.
Create your South Carolina bill of saleRelated resources
Informational purposes only. This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ. Consult a licensed attorney for jurisdiction-specific guidance on vehicle transfers, title requirements, or related legal matters.