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Outline

The SC DMV 400 form is a crucial document for anyone looking to apply for a vehicle title in South Carolina. This form is used for all types of vehicles, including mobile homes, and is essential for both new registrations and transfers of ownership. When filling out the form, it's important to avoid any strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid, as these can lead to complications in processing your application. Applicants must provide detailed vehicle information, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, and year, as well as the odometer reading. Additionally, the form requires personal information about the vehicle owner and any co-owners, ensuring that all details are accurate and up to date. If there is a lien on the vehicle, the necessary information must also be included. Alongside the application, applicants may need to address sales tax or infrastructure maintenance fees, which apply to new vehicle purchases. The form also includes sections for insurance certification and the option to donate to Donate Life SC. Completing this form accurately and submitting it to the SC DMV is the first step toward obtaining your vehicle title and registration.

Sample - Sc Dmv 400 Form

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles

Title and/or Registration Application

No *strikeovers, *erasures (*VIN / Odometer), correction tape, or correction fluid is acceptable on this form.

400

Rev. 07/2025

South Carolina and Federal law dictate that motor vehicle and driver’s license records maintained by the SCDMV may be disclosed in certain situations. For details on the disclosure of personal information and the types of information disclosed, go to the SCDMV website www.scdmvonline.com/Privacy.

Applications are accepted at SCDMV branch offices or can be mailed to: SCDMV, 10311 Wilson Blvd., Blythewood, SC 29016-0038.

Applications for apportioned plates are submitted to SCDMV Motor Carrier Services branch offices, or mailed to SCDMV, 10311 Wilson Blvd., Blythewood, SC 29016-0027. Visit our website www.scdmvonline.com for a complete list of required documents and fees.

SECTION 1 – REQUIRED FOR ALL TRANSACTIONS

TRANSACTION TYPE

TITLE SPECIFIC INFORMATION

 

SPECIAL VEHICLE TYPE (if applicable)

TITLE

RECORD TRANSFER ON DEATH (must complete Form TOD-1)

MOPED

REGISTRATION NEW

EXPEDITE (only title transactions, only in branch offices, additional $20.00 fee)

LOW SPEED VEHICLE

PLATE TRANSFER ______________

RECORD LIEN

DUPLICATE TITLE

LEASE

 

VEHICLE INFORMATION

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN)

 

 

 

MAKE

 

 

MODEL

 

 

 

 

YEAR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BODY STYLE

 

 

 

GAS

DIESEL

 

EMPTY WEIGHT

 

 

MOPED – ENGINE CCs OR WATTAGE

 

 

 

 

 

HYBRID or

ELECTRIC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OWNER/LESSEE INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your complete name is required on all title and registration documents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEW PRIMARY OWNER/LESSEE COMPLETE LEGAL NAME (LAST, FIRST, MIDDLE)

 

CUSTOMER NO., DL NO., SSN, OR FEIN

DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEW CO-OWNER/LESSEE COMPLETE LEGAL NAME (LAST, FIRST, MIDDLE)

SHARED OWNERSHIP

 

CUSTOMER NO., DL NO., SSN, OR FEIN

DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AND or OR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRIMARY OWNER’S/LESSEE RESIDENCE ADDRESS (APT. NO. IF APPLICABLE)

 

CITY

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS (IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE)

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

UPDATE VOTER

Unless you indicate otherwise, the addresses above will be used by the State Election Commission to update your voter registration:

REGISTRATION

 

Do not update my residence address.

Do not update my mailing address.

 

 

 

 

 

ADDRESS WHERE VEHICLE IS HOUSED (IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE)

 

 

CITY

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SC

 

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

TEMPORARY ADDRESS (IF APPLICABLE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPIRATION

OF TEMPORARY ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEASING COMPANY INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Complete only for a leased vehicle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEASING COMPANY NAME

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER

 

CONTACT PERSON

 

 

CUSTOMER NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

 

 

 

STATE

 

ZIP CODE

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 2 – ONLY REQUIRED FOR TITLE TRANSACTIONS

ODOMETER MILEAGE

Federal and state law requires that you state the mileage when transferring ownership. Failure to complete or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment.

I STATE THAT THE ODOMETER NOW READS(MILES NOT KILOMETERS, NO TENTHS) AND TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE THAT IT

REFLECTS THE ACTUAL MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE DESCRIBED ABOVE UNLESS ONE OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS IS CHECKED:

DO NOT CHECK ONE OF THE FOLLOWING UNLESS IT APPLIES.

EXEMPT

I CERTIFY THAT TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE THE ODOMETER READING REFLECTS THE AMOUNT OF MILEAGE IN EXCESS OF ITS MECHANICAL LIMITS.

I CERTIFY THAT THE ODOMETER READING IS NOT THE ACTUAL MILEAGE. WARNING ODOMETER DISCREPANCY.

LIEN INFORMATION

ELT provider must include ELT customer Number.

CUSTOMER NO. OR FEIN

LIENHOLDER NAME (FIRST LIEN)

DATE OF LIEN CONTACT PERSON

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

CUSTOMER NO. OR FEIN

LIENHOLDER NAME (SECOND LIEN)

DATE OF LIEN

CONTACT PERSON

PHONE NUMBER

MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles

Title and/or Registration Application

No *strikeovers, *erasures (*VIN / Odometer), correction tape, or correction fluid is acceptable on this form.

400

Rev. 07/2025

SECTION 2 – CONTINUED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PRIOR TITLE STATE

PRIOR TITLE NUMBER

DATE FIRST OPERATED IN SC

ENERGY EFFICIENT MANUFACTURED/MOBILE HOME?

YES

NO

IMF/SALES TAX

Vehicles purchased from individuals and titled in South Carolina are subject to IMF or sales tax unless exempt. The fee is 5% of the sales price up to a maximum of $500.00. Mobile homes are calculated differently.

The vehicle was transferred from:

MY PARENT

MY SPOUSE

MY CHILD

MY BROTHER/SISTER

MY GRANDPARENT

MY GRANDCHILD

The vehicle was transferred to me as:

LEGAL HEIR

BENEFICIARY

DISTRIBUTEE

 

 

 

I am active-duty Military

 

 

 

 

 

 

The vehicle was a bonafide gift

 

 

 

 

 

 

PURCHASE INFORMATION

*Gross capitalized cost is the original cost of the vehicle not including taxes, interest, or cab customizing and is used to calculate the road use fee for vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 26,001 lbs. or more. Leave blank if this does not apply to your vehicle.

SELLER OR DEALER NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

DEALER NO.

SALES TAX NO.

NEW or

USED

DATE OF PURCHASE

SALES PRICE

*GROSS CAPITALIZED COST

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TRADE-IN AMOUNT

TRADE-IN VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 3 – ONLY SECTION 3 – ONLY REQUIRED FOR REGISTRATION TRANSACTIONS FOR REGISTRATION

SELECT DESIRED TRANSACTION

NEW PLATE

TRANSFER

PLATE NUMBER TO TRANSFER

EXCHANGE

NEW PLATE TYPE

 

PLATE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT (GVW)

TO INCREASE GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT

NEW GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT:

 

COMMERCIAL or

NON-COMMERCIAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISCLOSURE

Required only for vehicles 26,000 lbs. or greater and bus common carriers

The Department must obtain the Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) when a vehicle is registered with a GVW of more than 26,000 pounds or a bus common carrier (SC Code §56-3-240).

SSN or FEIN

INSURANCE CERTIFICATION

A vehicle must be insured with liability insurance coverage through a company licensed to do business in South Carolina, when it is registered, and it must remain insured while registered.

I (WE) DECLARE THAT THIS VEHICLE IS INSURED WITH:

INSURANCE COMPANY

SECTION 4 – REQUIRED FOR ALL TRANSACTIONS

DONATE LIFE SC

YES, I WISH TO DONATE $5.00, MORE OR LESS, TO DONATE LIFE SC.

AMOUNT OF DONATION:

$

SIGNATURE OF OWNER

I DECLARE THAT I AM THE OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE. I REQUEST THAT A SOUTH CAROLINA CERTIFICATE OF TITLE AND/OR REGISTRATION BE ISSUED. THE VEHICLE IS SUBJECT TO THE LIENS NAMED AND NO OTHERS. IF REGISTERING A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE OVER 10,000 lbs., I CERTIFY THAT I AM FAMILIAR WITH THE FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS AND/OR FEDERAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REGULATIONS. UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY, I CERTIFY ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED IS TRUE AND CURRENT.

OWNER

DATE

CO-OWNER

DATE

SIGNATURE OF OWNER(S) MAY BE SIGNED IN INK BY OWNER OR AUTHORIZED AGENT (ATTACH POWER OF ATTORNEY IF APPLICABLE). ELECTRONIC OR DIGITAL SIGNTURES ARE ACCEPTABLE.

FAILURE TO REGISTER WITHIN 45 DAYS OF THE DATE OF PURCHASE OR THE DATE OF OPERATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA WILL RESULT IN A PENALTY FEE IN ADDITION TO THE REGULAR TITLE AND/OR REGISTRATION FEE(S). THE LATE PENALTY FEE SCHEDULE IS AS FOLLOWS:

46 - 60 DAYS LATE - $10.00

61 - 75 DAYS LATE - $25.00

76 - 135 DAYS LATE - $50.00

OVER 135 DAYS LATE - $75.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

THIS SECTION FOR SHORT-TERM RENTAL

THIS SECTION FOR DMV USE ONLY

 

COMPANIES AND DEALERS ONLY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE ABOVE VEHICLE IS FOR:

 

 

______________________________

_______________________

_______________

DEALER RESALE

 

 

SHORT-TERM RENTAL USE BY A LICENSED DEALER

 

PROCESSED BY AND OFFICE #

PLATE NUMBER/ SP-45

BRAND

Form Information

Fact Name Details
Form Purpose The SC DMV 400 form is used to apply for a title and registration for vehicles or mobile homes in South Carolina.
Mailing Address Completed applications should be mailed to SCDMV, P.O. Box 1498, 10311 Wilson Blvd., Blythewood, SC 29016-0024.
Legal Requirements Under South Carolina law, specifically Section 56-3-240, the form must be completed accurately to avoid fines or imprisonment.
Fees Title fee is $15.00, expedited title fee is $20.00, and transfer fee is $10.00. Sales tax is 5% of the selling price, capped at $500.00.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out Sc Dmv 400

Filling out the SC DMV 400 form is an important step in registering your vehicle or mobile home in South Carolina. Make sure to provide accurate information, as any errors can delay the processing of your application. Follow the steps below to complete the form correctly.

  1. Obtain the SC DMV 400 form. You can find it on the South Carolina DMV website or at a local DMV office.
  2. In the first section, check the box that applies to your application: New Title and Registration, Title and Plate Transfer, or Title Only.
  3. Fill out Section A with the vehicle information. This includes the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, year, body style, and other details. If the vehicle is housed at a different address, provide that information as well.
  4. In Section B, state the odometer mileage. If applicable, check the appropriate box regarding the odometer reading.
  5. Complete Section C with the owner information. Include the primary and co-owner's names, addresses, and contact details.
  6. If there is a second lien, answer "Yes" in Section D and complete Form 400-L for the second lienholder.
  7. In Section E, provide details about sales tax or exemption. Fill in the necessary information regarding your purchase and any exemptions that apply.
  8. Section F requires seller or dealer information. Include the name, address, and sales price.
  9. If applicable, complete Section G with your insurance information. You must declare that the vehicle is insured with a liability insurance policy.
  10. In Section H, indicate if you wish to donate to Donate Life SC and specify the amount.
  11. Sign and date the form in Section I. Both the primary owner and co-owner must sign.
  12. Review the form for any errors or missing information. Ensure no strikeovers or corrections are made.
  13. Submit the completed form by mailing it to the address provided or by visiting a DMV office.

Obtain Answers on Sc Dmv 400

  1. What is the SC DMV 400 form?

    The SC DMV 400 form is the Title Application used in South Carolina for all vehicles and mobile homes. It is necessary for obtaining a new title, transferring a title and plate, or applying for a title only. This form must be filled out completely and accurately, as any corrections or strikeovers are not accepted.

  2. How do I submit the SC DMV 400 form?

    You can mail the completed SC DMV 400 form to the following address:

    • SCDMV
    • P.O. Box 1498
    • 10311 Wilson Blvd.
    • Blythewood, SC 29016-0024

    Make sure to verify your mailing address with the SCDMV before sending the form to ensure the title is sent to the correct location.

  3. What information do I need to provide on the form?

    You will need to provide various details, including:

    • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
    • Make, model, and year of the vehicle
    • Odometer reading
    • Owner's information, including names, addresses, and contact numbers
    • Sales price and tax information

    Make sure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

  4. What are the fees associated with the SC DMV 400 form?

    There are several fees you may need to pay when submitting the form:

    • Title Fee: $15.00
    • Expedited Title Fee: $20.00 (if mailed, cannot be expedited)
    • Transfer Fee: $10.00
    • Sales Tax/Infrastructure Maintenance Fee: 5% of the selling price or a maximum of $500.00

    Be aware that late registration may incur additional penalties.

  5. What happens if I don’t register my vehicle on time?

    If you fail to register your vehicle within 45 days of purchase or operation in South Carolina, you will face penalty fees. These fees increase based on how late you are, starting at $10.00 for 46-60 days late and going up to $75.00 for over 135 days late.

  6. Do I need insurance to register my vehicle?

    Yes, a vehicle must have liability insurance coverage when it is registered in South Carolina. This insurance must remain active while the vehicle is registered, even if it is not being driven. If you do not have insurance, you will need to pay an uninsured motorist fee.

  7. What if my vehicle has a lien?

    If there is a lien on your vehicle, you must provide that information on the SC DMV 400 form. If there is a second lien, you will need to complete an additional form (400-L) for that lienholder. Make sure to include all necessary details to avoid issues with the title application.

  8. How can I check the status of my title application?

    You can check the status of your title application by visiting the SCDMV website at www.scdmvonline.com. Alternatively, you can call the Customer Call Center at (803) 896-5000 for assistance.

Common mistakes

When filling out the South Carolina DMV 400 form, individuals often make several common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications in the title application process. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother experience.

One frequent error is the use of correction fluid or erasures on the form. The instructions clearly state that no strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid are acceptable. If any mistakes are made, it is crucial to start over with a new form to avoid any potential issues.

Another common mistake involves failing to provide accurate vehicle information. It is essential to double-check details such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, and year of the vehicle. Inaccuracies can lead to significant delays in processing the title.

Many applicants also overlook the requirement to state the odometer mileage accurately. The form mandates that the odometer reading be reported without tenths, and providing a false statement can result in fines or other legal repercussions. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that the mileage reflects the actual reading.

Another mistake occurs in the section concerning owner information. Applicants sometimes forget to include the complete legal names of all owners or co-owners. All names must be provided as they appear on official documents, which is crucial for establishing ownership.

In addition, failing to provide a correct mailing address is a frequent oversight. The title will be mailed to the address on record with the SCDMV. It is advisable to verify and correct any discrepancies in the mailing address before submitting the application to avoid delays in receiving the title.

Some individuals neglect to complete the lien information section if applicable. If there is a second lien, the form 400-L must be completed. Omitting this information can lead to complications in the title transfer process.

Lastly, applicants sometimes forget to sign and date the form. The signature is a declaration under penalties of perjury that the information provided is correct. A missing signature can result in the application being rejected outright.

By being aware of these common mistakes, individuals can take the necessary steps to complete the South Carolina DMV 400 form accurately and efficiently. This diligence can ultimately save time and ensure a smoother title application process.

Documents used along the form

The South Carolina DMV 400 form is essential for applying for a vehicle title or registration in South Carolina. Alongside this form, several other documents may be required to complete the application process. Below is a list of forms and documents that are often used in conjunction with the DMV 400 form, along with brief descriptions of each.

  • Form 400-L: This form is utilized when there is a second lien on the vehicle. It captures details about the additional lienholder, including their contact information and the date of the lien.
  • Bill of Sale: A bill of sale serves as a legal document that outlines the transaction between the buyer and seller. It includes details such as the sale price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and both parties' information.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: This document is required to confirm the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. It ensures compliance with federal and state laws regarding odometer readings.
  • Power of Attorney: If someone is acting on behalf of the vehicle owner to submit the title application, a power of attorney document is needed. This form grants authority to another individual to act in the owner's stead.
  • Insurance Verification: Proof of insurance is necessary to register a vehicle. This document typically includes the insurance provider's name, policy number, and coverage details.
  • South Carolina Driver's License: A copy of the driver's license of the primary owner may be required. This serves to verify identity and residency for the title application.
  • Sales Tax Exemption Certificate: If applicable, this certificate provides proof of exemption from sales tax for certain vehicle purchases, such as those made by military personnel or qualifying non-profit organizations.
  • Vehicle Inspection Report: Certain vehicles may require an inspection report to ensure compliance with state safety and emissions regulations before registration.
  • Form MV-1: This form is used for titling vehicles that are newly acquired or have never been titled in South Carolina. It provides essential vehicle information and owner details.
  • Application for Military Exemption: Military personnel may need to submit this application to claim exemptions from certain fees or taxes related to vehicle registration.

These documents facilitate the title application process and help ensure compliance with South Carolina's vehicle registration laws. It is advisable to gather all necessary paperwork before submitting the DMV 400 form to avoid delays in processing.

Similar forms

The South Carolina DMV Form 400 is a title application for vehicles or mobile homes. It shares similarities with several other documents related to vehicle ownership and registration. Here are four documents that are similar to the SC DMV 400 form:

  • Form MV-1 (Motor Vehicle Title Application): This form is used in many states for applying for a new title or transferring an existing title. Like the SC DMV 400, it requires vehicle information, owner details, and odometer readings.
  • Form 400-L (Lienholder Information): This form is used when there is a second lien on a vehicle. It complements the SC DMV 400 by providing additional lien information, ensuring that all financial interests are recorded.
  • Form 503 (Application for Duplicate Title): If a title is lost or damaged, this form is used to request a duplicate. Similar to the SC DMV 400, it verifies ownership and requires personal identification information.
  • Form 405 (Vehicle Registration Application): This form is specifically for registering a vehicle. It shares many of the same elements as the SC DMV 400, including vehicle details and owner information, but focuses more on registration than title transfer.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the South Carolina DMV 400 form, there are important guidelines to follow. Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure a smooth application process.

  • Do ensure accuracy: Double-check all entries for correctness. Mistakes can lead to delays.
  • Do use black or blue ink: This makes the form easier to read and process.
  • Do not use correction fluid: Any strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid will invalidate the form.
  • Do not forget to sign: Both the owner and co-owner must sign the application; otherwise, it will not be processed.

Misconceptions

Understanding the South Carolina DMV 400 form can be challenging. Many people hold misconceptions about its requirements and processes. Here are eight common misconceptions clarified:

  • The form can be altered or corrected. Many believe that minor mistakes can be fixed with strikeovers or correction fluid. However, the form explicitly states that no strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid is acceptable.
  • Mailing the form guarantees a quick title processing. Some assume that mailing the application will result in immediate processing. In reality, processing times can vary, and applicants should allow sufficient time for the title to be mailed to the address on record.
  • Odometer readings are optional. It is a common misconception that odometer readings can be skipped. Federal and state laws require that the mileage be stated when transferring ownership.
  • Sales tax applies only to new vehicles. Many people think that sales tax or the Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF) applies only to new vehicles. In fact, new residents moving into South Carolina must also pay the $250 IMF for vehicles already titled in their name.
  • Insurance is not required for title applications. Some applicants believe that insurance is unnecessary if they are only applying for a title. However, a vehicle must be insured with liability coverage when it is registered, regardless of whether it is actively operated.
  • Filing the form late incurs only a flat fee. Many assume that there is just one late fee for filing the form after the deadline. In reality, the late penalty fee schedule is tiered, with increasing penalties based on how late the registration is.
  • All vehicles require the same documentation. Some individuals think that the documentation needed is the same for all vehicles. However, leased vehicles require additional information, such as the leasing company’s details.
  • The DMV will automatically update your address. It is a misconception that the DMV will update your address if you move. Applicants must verify and correct their mailing address before requesting the title.

By addressing these misconceptions, applicants can better navigate the DMV 400 form process and ensure a smoother experience.

Key takeaways

Here are some important points to consider when filling out and using the South Carolina DMV Form 400:

  • No Corrections Allowed: Do not use strikeovers, erasures, or correction fluid on the form.
  • Mailing Instructions: Send completed applications to SCDMV, P.O. Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29016-0024.
  • Verify Address: Ensure your mailing address is correct with the SCDMV before submitting the application.
  • Odometer Disclosure: Accurately report the vehicle's mileage, as false statements can lead to penalties.
  • Sales Tax Information: New vehicle purchases in South Carolina are subject to a 5% sales tax, capped at $500.
  • Insurance Requirement: Vehicles must be insured with liability coverage when registered; penalties apply for violations.
  • Signature Requirement: The form must be signed in ink by the owner or an authorized agent.
  • Late Registration Penalties: Registering late can result in additional fees, which increase the longer you wait.