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South Carolina License Plate Lookup

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South Carolina License Plate Lookup /License Plate Cost

How Much Does It Cost to Get a License Plate in South Carolina in 2025?

Factors That Influence the Total License Plate Cost in South Carolina

The cost of obtaining a license plate in South Carolina is influenced by several factors, which include:

  • Type of Vehicle: Different vehicle types, such as passenger cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles, have varying registration fees.
  • Weight of Vehicle: Heavier vehicles may incur higher fees due to additional road wear and tear.
  • Type of License Plate: Standard, specialty, and personalized plates have different fee structures.
  • Duration of Registration: The length of the registration period can affect the total cost, with options typically available for one or two years.
  • County of Registration: Some counties may impose additional local taxes or fees.

Specialty License Plates in South Carolina

South Carolina offers a variety of specialty license plates that cater to different interests and affiliations. These plates often come with additional fees, which contribute to specific causes or organizations. Examples include:

  • Collegiate Plates: Support your favorite college or university. Additional fees typically range from $30 to $70, depending on the institution.
  • Military Plates: Honor military service with plates for veterans and active-duty members. Fees vary, with some plates available at no extra cost for qualifying individuals.
  • Organizational Plates: Support non-profit organizations or causes. Fees generally include a $30 specialty plate fee, with a portion going to the organization.
  • Environmental Plates: Promote environmental awareness. These plates often include a $30 fee, with funds directed towards conservation efforts.

Personalized License Plates in South Carolina

Personalized license plates allow vehicle owners to create a unique combination of letters and numbers. The process and costs associated with obtaining a personalized plate include:

  • Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $30 is required when submitting a personalized plate application.
  • Annual Fee: An additional $30 annual fee is charged on top of the standard registration fee.
  • Character Limitations: Personalized plates can have up to seven characters, including letters, numbers, and spaces.
  • Approval Process: All personalized plate requests are subject to approval by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) to ensure appropriateness.

South Carolina License Plate Renewal Fee

License plate renewal in South Carolina is an annual requirement, with fees determined by several factors:

  • Standard Renewal Fee: Typically ranges from $40 to $60 for passenger vehicles, depending on the vehicle's weight and type.
  • Additional Fees: Specialty and personalized plates incur additional renewal fees, such as the $30 fee for personalized plates.
  • Late Renewal Penalties: A late fee of $10 is applied if the renewal is not completed by the expiration date.

South Carolina License Plate Replacements Fee

In the event of a lost, stolen, or damaged license plate, a replacement can be obtained through the SCDMV. The associated fees are as follows:

  • Replacement Fee: A standard fee of $6 is charged for replacing a license plate.
  • Decal Replacement: If only the decal is lost or damaged, a replacement decal fee of $6 applies.
  • Reporting Requirements: Stolen plates should be reported to local law enforcement before requesting a replacement.

How Much Is the Tag Transfer Fee in South Carolina

When transferring a license plate from one vehicle to another, the following fees and conditions apply:

  • Transfer Fee: A $10 fee is charged for transferring a license plate to a new vehicle.
  • Eligibility: The transfer is only allowed between vehicles owned by the same individual or entity.
  • Registration Requirements: The new vehicle must be registered in the owner's name before the transfer can be completed.

Exemptions and Discounts

Certain individuals and groups may qualify for exemptions or discounts on license plate fees in South Carolina:

  • Military Exemptions: Active-duty military personnel stationed in South Carolina may be exempt from certain registration fees.
  • Senior Citizen Discounts: Residents aged 65 and older may qualify for reduced registration fees on passenger vehicles.
  • Disability Discounts: Individuals with qualifying disabilities may receive discounts or exemptions on registration fees.
  • Non-Profit Organizations: Vehicles owned by qualifying non-profit organizations may be eligible for fee exemptions.

These exemptions and discounts are subject to specific eligibility criteria and require appropriate documentation to be submitted to the SCDMV.