South Carolina License Plate Lookup /License Plate Renewal

South Carolina License Plate Renewal

What Is License Plate Renewal in South Carolina?

License plate renewal in South Carolina is the process of renewing your vehicle registration and obtaining new decals for your license plates to show that your registration is current. In South Carolina, most vehicles must renew their registration every two years.

Do I Need To Renew My South Carolina License Plate?

Yes, you need to renew your South Carolina license plate periodically to keep your vehicle registration current and legal. In South Carolina, most vehicles must renew their registration every two years.

It would help to renew your license plate before expiration to avoid penalties, such as fines and possible vehicle impoundment. The South Carolina DMV typically sends renewal notices to vehicle owners before their registration expires, but the owner must keep their vehicle registration current.

When Do You Need To Renew Your South Carolina License Plate?

In South Carolina, you must renew your license plate annually before the expiration date, corresponding to the last day of the month designated by the first letter of your last name. This renewal system ensures that each vehicle's registration is updated on a staggered schedule throughout the year. If you need clarification on the specific month you need to renew, check the expiration date on your current registration card or decal.

How To Renew Your License Plate in South Carolina

Renewing your license plate in South Carolina involves several steps:

Verify your renewal notice: Ensure all details are correct.
Gather required documents: This includes your current registration, driver’s license, and proof of insurance.
Payment of fees: Determine the renewal fee based on your vehicle type and any additional services.
Submit your renewal: You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a local SCDMV office.

Where To Renew a License Plate in South Carolina?

Renewals can be completed at any SCDMV office. For convenience, here are some contact options:

SCDMV Website: SCDMV Online
Phone Number: (803) 896-5000
Office Locations: Addresses available on the SCDMV website.

Can I Renew a South Carolina License Plate Online?

Yes, you can renew your South Carolina license plate online. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers online registration renewal for most standard passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and other vehicle types.

To renew your license plate online, follow these steps:

Visit the South Carolina DMV website and click the "Renew Vehicle Registration" link.
Please enter your license plate number and the last five digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or renewal notice number.
Follow the prompts to verify your vehicle information, update your address if necessary, and provide proof of insurance.
Pay the required registration renewal fees using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check.
Print your receipt and temporary registration card until you receive your new registration and decals.

What Do You Need To Renew Your License Plate in South Carolina?

To renew your license plate, you will need:

Vehicle registration card
Driver’s license
Proof of car insurance
Payment for renewal fees

Do You Need Insurance To Renew Plates in South Carolina?

Yes, you must provide proof of insurance to renew your license plates in South Carolina. According to South Carolina law, all vehicles operating on public roads must be covered by liability insurance that meets the state's minimum requirements.

When renewing your license plates, you must provide your insurance company's name, policy number, and the policy's effective dates. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will verify this information with your insurance company through the state's electronic verification system.

How Much Is License Plate Renewal in South Carolina?

The cost of license plate renewal in South Carolina varies depending on the type of vehicle and other factors. The basic registration fees for most standard passenger vehicles are:

Private Passenger Vehicles (weighing 4,000 lbs or less): $30
Private Passenger Vehicles (weighing 4,001 lbs to 5,000 lbs): $40
Private Passenger Vehicles (weighing 5,001 lbs or more): $60

In addition to the basic registration fees, some other fees and taxes may apply, such as:

Infrastructure Maintenance Fee: This fee is based on the vehicle's sale price and is paid upon the first registration and every subsequent renewal. The cost is 5% of the sales price up to $500.
County Wheel Tax: Some counties in South Carolina charge an additional wheel tax, which varies by county.
Specialty Plate Fees: Additional fees may apply if you have a specialty license plate.
Hybrid Vehicle Fee: A biennial fee of $60 is charged for hybrid vehicles.
Electric Vehicle Fee: A biennial fee of $120 is charged for electric vehicles.

Is There a Senior Discount for South Carolina License Plate Renewal?

Yes, there is a senior discount for South Carolina license plate renewal.

The registration fees for license plate renewal in South Carolina are as follows:

People who are 64 years old: $38
People who are 65 or older or who have a disability: $36

This means that individuals aged 65 or older, as well as those with disabilities (regardless of age), are eligible for a discounted registration fee of $36, which is slightly lower than the $40 fee for most passenger cars.