Page 1 | Car-Registration.org

South CarolinaCar Registration

Page 2 | Car-Registration.org

Bonus

Features

24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits

24-Hour Towing Service

24-Hour Mechanical First Aid

24-Hour Tire Change Service

Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer.

Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available.

Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire.

Congratulations on your 60-dayRoadside Assistance membershipWhen out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere.

Page 3 | Car-Registration.org

Rental Car Discounts

24-Hour Lost Key Service

24-Hour Emergency Delivery

24-Hour Emergency Battery Service

Map Routing Service

Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.

If keys are locked inside a customer’s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle’s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer’s expense for labor and key making.

A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies.

Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road.

We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify.

Theft And Hit & Run Protection

A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers’ vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD’s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD’s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection.

Page 4 | Car-Registration.org

Follow the link in your confirmation email to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon.

*PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership.

Congratulations!Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online

Keeping You Safe Mile After MileOnce your purchase is processed, you will receive an email with the information you will need to start your 60-day Roadside Assistance membership.

Page 5 | Car-Registration.org

Table of

Contents

Registration Insurance Requirements

Vehicle Registration

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

License Plates

Updating Your Vehicle Registration

DMV Hours and Locations

Registering Your Vehicle in South Carolina

Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Safety Tips

7

6

14

20

17

26

9

16

22

Page 6 | Car-Registration.org

Simply take the steps and follow the procedures we have organized for you with all the necessary research and information regarding registering your vehicle in the state of South Carolina. Whether you’re looking to register a specific type of vehicle, renew your soon-to-be expired registration, replace a lost, stolen or damaged registration or update your current vehicle registration, all of this information and more will be conveniently provided for you.

Our purpose is to teach you exactly how to prepare properly for vehicle registration tasks by handing you all the tools and details you need – from beginning to end. Sit back, and we will assist you with obtaining your vehicle registration in no time at all.

Vehicle

Registration

Looking to register a vehicle in the state of South Carolina? Well, you’ve come to the right place. With this guide, you will obtain all the necessary information regarding how to apply for your vehicle registration, as well as what you will need to do before you apply to ensure that you meet all requirements.

Page 7 | Car-Registration.org

Registration Insurance

Requirements

When you register your vehicle, you will be required to obtain insurance before you are allowed to continue with the process at the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. This is a necessary requirement in order to help reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the road, which can often result in high costs if you are involved in a vehicle-related accident.

Page 8 | Car-Registration.org

If you’re preparing to apply for your vehicle registration, it is mandatory that you obtain liability insurance for your automobile before you can register and legally drive your car without any penalties. Liability insurance is designed to help you pay for any and all damages or injuries you cause due to a car accident.

The coverage plan must be acquired in South Carolina from a licensed insurance company.

In South Carolina, you must comply with at least the following liability coverage minimums:

The SC laws require the insurance companies to report to the Department of Motor Vehicles when you acquire a new insurance plan and when it is cancelled, as well.

For property damage: $25,000

For body injures or death per accident: $50,000

For body injures or death of one person: $25,000

TipIt is important to always carry proof of insurance when driving, in case an officer or any other authority requests it. The documents must be legible and show that the car is properly covered; otherwise, your vehicle registration may get suspended if you cannot prove your car is insured.

Page 9 | Car-Registration.org

Registering Your

Vehicle in South Carolina

Whether you are submitting a request for a new, used, out-of-state, military or special type of vehicle, you should review the specific instructions to correctly register your car so you can make sure the process is as easy and quick as possible. You can read the outlined steps below to better understand what exactly you must do in order to legally drive your vehicle in South Carolina, so you can begin driving as soon as possible.

One of the most important parts of the vehicle registration process in South Carolina is taking a look at the requirements you will need to meet, as well as the steps you must follow, depending on the type of car you own.

Page 10 | Car-Registration.org

Usually, if you purchased a brand new car at a dealership, you do not have to worry about registering it, since there is an internal department to take care of the process; nevertheless, in case your dealership didn’t provide vehicle registration, or if you bought your car using a different method, you will have to register it yourself.

Register a New Vehicle

In Person

A Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin or Title.

Proof of SC auto insurance.

Proof of paid property tax receipt.

Proof of identity.

Lien documents (If applicable).

A completed Application for Certificate of Title and Registration form

The required fees, which vary, depending on your vehicle.

The SC Department of Motor Vehicles will issue your new car registration and plates once you personally present these documents or send them by mail.

Important dates or timeframes:Your vehicle must be registered within 45 days of the purchase.

You can look for the closest SC DMV office and take with you:

Page 11 | Car-Registration.org

By Mail

You will need to complete the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration form and send the fees to:

SCDMVP.O. Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016-0024

Usually, if you purchased a brand new car at a dealership, you do not have to worry about registering it, since there is an internal department to take care of the process; nevertheless, in case your dealership didn’t provide vehicle registration, or if you bought your car using a different method, you will have to register it yourself.

Register a Used Vehicle

Important dates or timeframes:If you purchased a used car from an individual or a private party, you will have to register it within 45 days of the acquisition.

In Person

The car title with the Bill of Sale and odometer information.

A completed Application for Certificate of Title and Registration.

Lien documents (if applicable).

Proof of identity.

Proof of paid property tax receipt.

Proof of SC insurance.

The required fees, which vary, depending on your vehicle

There are two available options to register your vehicle:

First of all, look for the nearest SC DMV agency and bring with you:

Page 12 | Car-Registration.org

If you are relocating to South Carolina, and would like to register your vehicle, you can visit an SC DMV office in your county, or you can register by mail.

If you decide on visiting the SC DMV branch, take with you:

Register an Out-Of-State Vehicle

A complete Application for Title/Registration.

Your out-of-state title and/or registration.

Proof of identity.

Proof of paid property tax receipt.

Proof of SC insurance.

The required fees, which vary, depending on your vehicle.

By Mail

You will have to complete the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration form and mail the fees to:

SCDMVP.O. Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016-0024

Page 13 | Car-Registration.org

Registering a car in South Carolina is slightly different if you are a military member. If your car was already registered before you went to serve in the military, you can keep your registration as it is until you return.

If you are in South Carolina on active duty and own a vehicle, you must have your Statement of Vehicle Operation in South Carolina form handy, along with your valid out-of-state ID or license, and at least one of the following:

Registration for Military MembersA military ID

Orders indicating your duties in South Carolina

Your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) indicating your deployment in South Carolina

Page 14 | Car-Registration.org

Renewing Your

Vehicle Registration

Is it time to renew your vehicle registration? Much like your driver’s license, your car registration is set to expire, and must be renewed in order to continue driving your vehicle legally in South Carolina. This can be solved by simply making sure to renew your vehicle’s registration before the expiration date passes.

Before you renew, ensure your property taxes are already paid. There are three available options to choose from when the time comes to renew your car registration.

Have paid your property taxes to the appropriate county (and the DMV must have confirmation).

Have a valid credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express) or a checking account to make the required car registration renewal payment.

Have your insurance company name.

Confirm your current address on file.

Online

This is the easiest way to renew your car registration; however, you can only renew online if you receive a letter from the SC DMV indicating you are eligible to do so. If you are cleared to renew online, you must:

Note:Only certain counties allow for you to pay your property taxes online. If you need to complete this step in person in a county that does not offer online payment services, you must complete the task at the county treasurer’s office.

Page 15 | Car-Registration.org

In Person

If you have an adjusted tax bill, owe a penalty fee or need to correct your vehicle registration due to a senior discount, do so at the SC DMV branch nearest you. Be sure to bring proof of identity, your renewal notice, proof that you paid your property taxes, your current SC car insurance information and your vehicle registration fee in order to complete the process.

TipCall the DMV ahead of time to verify whether it is possible or not to pay using credit or debit cards, since not all the counties will accept that payment method.

Page 16 | Car-Registration.org

Replacing Your

Vehicle Registration

Has something happened to your vehicle registration? Well, it doesn’t matter if your vehicle registration was recently lost, stolen, or even damaged, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles will help you obtain a new document as soon as possible, regardless of the situation. There are three options to obtain a duplicate car registration. Regardless of the method chosen, make sure your correct address is written on the request, so you can receive your documents to the correct location.

Online

This is one of the fastest methods to report the loss/damage of your car registration. Just click here, and start following the prompts. Note that you must have a vehicle registration in good standing in order to use this service, in addition to a valid Visa, MasterCard or Discover card to make your payment. You will need to have your current license plate number handy to facilitate the process. Make sure that your correct address is on file with the DMV for prompt delivery of your replacement registration.

Turn in a completed Application to Replace Plate or Expiration Year Decal.

Pay the $6 fee.

Show proof of identity.

In Person

If you prefer to go to the SC DMV office, you will need to:

By Mail

If visiting a DMV branch is not ideal for you, or you’re outside of South Carolina, you can request a duplicate by mail. Download Application to Replace Plate or Expiration Year Decal and include payment for the $6 fee, which you will need to send to:

SC Department of Motor Vehicles P.O. Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016-0019

Page 17 | Car-Registration.org

Whether you are moving homes or changing your name due to a life milestone, you will need to consider how these modifications affect your vital documents. It is important that you learn how to update your vehicle registration so that the DMV always has your most accurate information on file.

Updating Your

Vehicle Registration

Page 18 | Car-Registration.org

Changing Your Name Making any type of change to your name will have a major effect on your legal documentation, including your vehicle regis-tration. If you have officially changed your name, then you will be required to change your name on all of your identification documents and cards, including your vehicle registration. The process is simple; all you must do is follow the steps below.

First, you must contact your Social Security Agency (SSA) and take with you proof of your identity, name change and U.S. citizenship. Check a complete list of accepted documents here. Make sure you are carrying only original documents, since the SSA will not receive any copies of your documentation. Download and fill out an Application for a Social Security Card and take it with you when you go request your name change. The application should be submitted by mail, or personally at the SSA office, and the total amount of days for you to receive your Social Security card is 10 business days.

When you get your new Social Security card, you can visit the SC DMV office, and take with you proof of identity, name change and U.S. citizenship, plus the vehicle certification and a completed Application for Name and/or Address Change. There is no charge for changing your vehicle registration.

Important dates or timeframes:Once your name changes, you will have 10 days to report it to the SC DMV office. Typically, the SSA takes 48 hours to process the legal name change, which will then be accessed as confirmation by the DMV.

Page 19 | Car-Registration.org

Changing Your AddressIn the case that you may have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you update the address on your car registration, as well. All you must do is stick to the process, and once you have completed every step properly, your car registration will be updated.

There are three methods you can choose from in order to change your address.

Online

Without leaving the comfort of your home, you can modify the address on your vehicle registration for free. Just click on this link, and follow the prompts that will guide you through the process to complete your request.

In Person

You can look for the closest SC DMV office and take with you proper proof of identity and proof of residency in order to submit your request personally at the DMV branch.

By Mail

If you are out of the state, or you do not want to visit a SC DMV office, you can download and complete the Application for Name and/or Address Change and mail it to:

SC Department of Motor Vehicles Alternative Media P.O. Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016-0035

Important dates or timeframes:Once your address changes, you will have 10 days to report it to the SC DMV office.

Page 20 | Car-Registration.org

License

Plates

When you register your vehicle, the SC DMV assigns a license plate number to you. Whenever you renew your registration, your license plates are also renewed. The DMV will give you a decal that you must attach to the license plate.

Page 21 | Car-Registration.org

Your license plate is what identifies your vehicle to the authorities, and is used to keep track of your driving behavior. This is why it must always be in good condition, and completely legible. If your license plate gets lost, stolen or defaced, you may request a new one at a SC DMV office. In case your plates were stolen, you need to report the incident to the local authorities.

You can choose any of the below options to get a duplicate of your license plate.

Replacing Your License Plates

Have a license plate in good standing with the DMV.

Have access to your current registration.

Vanity plates are used for different vehicles types like commercial, motorcycle, livery, private passenger, antique and camper vehicles. These original plate designs must be previously approved; therefore, you can check if the type you want to have on your vehicle is obtainable. You will be able to get creative and make your own plate design. Some plates are not available for everyone; however, you can always verify if you can apply for one. Personalized plates can have up to seven letters or numbers, or a combination of those. The fee will vary depending on the type of license plate you want. The base fee for a personalized plate is $30.

You can send your Application for Personalized License Plate or Application for Approval of Organizational Specialty Plate to this address:

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles P.O. Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016

Once it is approved, you will receive the notification with the steps to follow, so you can complete your request.

Getting Custom License Plates

Online

This is one of the easiest methods to report the loss/damage of your car registration. Click here, and follow the prompts. To carry out this request, you must:

Be able to make the designated payment with a Visa, MasterCard or Discover card.

Ensure your address on file with the DMV is correct.

The decal has the expiration date of your registration, and must be up-to-date at all times. Besides the regular South Carolina license plates, there are also specialty plates, which are made around a specific theme or cause, such as professional associations, sports, universities and environment. They may be purchased at an additional cost, which helps fund the particular cause. Obtain regular and specialty license plates at any of the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle offices across the state.

Page 22 | Car-Registration.org

Vehicle Safety

Tips

Before getting behind the wheel, it’s important that your vehicle is prepared for any trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive.

One of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, a First-Aid kit, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves and socks and a shovel.

Emergency Kit

One of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter months, especially if you live in an area where it snows and is prone to icy roads. Consider these tips below to drive safely during the winter:

Winter Driving

Page 23 | Car-Registration.org

Don’t Rush!

Roads are often covered in snow and ice after it snows, so instead of driving fast and risking an accident in your rush to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive more slowly and help you avoid driving aggressively.

Don’t Panic if You Skid or Slip

In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while driving, make sure you do not panic or slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control.

Check Your Vehicle

Before you leave your house, make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze and exhaust are all in working order. It is also important that you remove any ice and snow from your car before you begin driving; this prevents the snow from blocking your view while you drive, or worse, flying off and hitting someone while in motion!

Page 24 | Car-Registration.org

Driving while using your phone is one of the most dangerous things you can do. During those few seconds that your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Make sure you don’t text, use the internet on your phone or receive calls while you drive to prevent accidents as best as possible.

Using Your Phone

Every year, thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These events can be prevented; it only requires that you plan ahead of time by taking certain steps.

Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If he or she also becomes intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. Never allow someone drunk to drive; instead, take away the keys, and call for alternative transportation.

If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving – such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, braking erratically or turning abruptly – call 9-1-1 and contact authorities immediately. Also, make sure to avoid that driver on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until that driver is at a safe distance from your car.

Drinking And Driving

Driving isn’t always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be both an annoyance and dangerous to you while driving on the road. These things are often avoidable if you make sure to take the necessary steps toward preventing them, as well as stopping them after you make the discovery.

Things To Avoid

Page 25 | Car-Registration.org

Car Accidents

One way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive, and will not cause you any problems. To do this, regularly check that your brakes are functioning properly, your tires are inflated and not worn out, and that the steering and suspensions are checked by a mechanic.

Wasting Gas

If you drive often, start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. Saving on gas is something that is possible if you take a few steps toward ensuring you hold on to some money in the long run.

Some of the ways that you can start saving gas are by turning off the air conditioning, not leaving your engine running or speeding above 60 mph. These things are preventable and are not necessary in order for you to drive; therefore, you can quickly reduce the amount of gas you waste.

Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well-tuned and that your octane level is the correct amount for your vehicle.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving and drivers are both things that should be avoided to prevent on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized as exhibiting behaviors such as aggressive tailgating, verbal or physical harassment toward another driver or preventing another driver from merging or passing on the road.

If you are an aggressive driver, you are putting others at risk every time you perform any of the above behaviors. When you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, ake a moment, breathe, and then continue moving.

Page 26 | Car-Registration.org

DMV

Hours and Locations

There are several options available for you in case you need to visit or contact a DMV in South Carolina. You may find the locations here. The DMV office generator will display all the locations, addresses, hours and available services. In addition, the screen will tell you if the office is currently closed, due to a holiday or business needs. Note that only 21 of the DMV offices in South Carolina currently cater to international customers.

You should also browse the SC DMV website to review the available online services prior to visiting your local DMV, so you can save valuable time and money.

If you need to contact the DMV driver services for any other purposes, you can visit the main office.

Mailing Address:

SCDMVP.O. Box 1498 Blythewood, South Carolina 29016

Street Address:

10311 Wilson Boulevard Building C Blythewood, South Carolina 29016

You may also direct phone calls to:

803-896-5000

For questions or concerns you would prefer to send via email, write to: help@scdmvonline.com

Page 27 | Car-Registration.org