South Carolina Car Registration Fees
Typical South Carolina car registration costs about $40 a year. See what affects the fee and the other taxes you'll pay when buying a car.
South Carolina (SC)
~$40/yr
typical yearly registration for a mid-priced car
Average across states
$156/yr
Rank (highest = #1)
#46 of 51
Buying a $30,000 car in South Carolina
Sales tax (~5%)
$1,500
Registration / yr
~$40
Insurance / mo
$200
Loan payment*
$564/mo
*$3,000 down, 7% APR, 60 months, tax rolled into the loan.
South Carolina's Infrastructure Maintenance Fee is 5% but capped at $500.
These are estimates for planning. Rates and fees change and vary by county and vehicle — confirm with your state motor vehicle agency.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a car in South Carolina?
Typically around $40 a year for a mid-priced car. South Carolina's Infrastructure Maintenance Fee is 5% but capped at $500.
What else do I pay when buying a car in South Carolina?
Sales tax of about 5%, plus title and plate fees. On a $30,000 car that's roughly $1,500 in tax.
Where can I find the exact fee?
Your state's DMV or motor vehicle agency publishes current fees and often has an online fee calculator.
More for South Carolina
Car Registration Fees in other states
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