South Carolina Vehicle Bill of Sale Form
A South Carolina Vehicle Bill of Sale Form is a legal document used to register the sale of a motor vehicle in South Carolina. It also records the transfer of ownership from a seller to a buyer.
Why Do You Need a South Carolina Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A Vehicle Bill of Sale is vital in South Carolina when transferring a vehicle title. You also need it to register with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). It should include key info like:
- The vehicle identification number (VIN).
- The make and model of the car.
- The year and the odometer reading for cars under 10 years old.
- The agreed purchase price: This is used to calculate the sales tax.
The buyer and seller must sign the agreement form for the SCDMV to accept it. Normally, the South Carolina Bill of Sale itself does not need to be notarized. However, it is necessary to complete the odometer disclosure statement on the title.
Common Uses of an South Carolina Vehicle Bill of Sale
This form formally signifies that the seller no longer owns the vehicle. It transfers all associated liability to the buyer. For the buyer, it is primary evidence of their new ownership. It is necessary for securing registration, insurance, and future resale.
A properly executed South Carolina Bill of Sale Form:
- Ensures compliance with state regulations.
- Aids timely title transfer
- It helps prevent future disputes and offers peace to both parties.

Yes, a Bill of Sale Form is essential for selling a car legally in South Carolina. The buyer is required to complete the transfer of title and the vehicle registration with the SCDMV. This form proves the purchase. You will also need this form to finalize this process correctly and promptly.
A South Carolina Bill of Sale should include the buyer's and seller's full legal names and addresses. The date of the transfer, the vehicle's year, make, model, VIN, and current odometer reading. It should also specify the sale price that the buyer has agreed to pay.
In most cases, a South Carolina Bill of Sale does not require notarization to be legally valid. However, it’s important that both parties complete and sign the assignment for the vehicle title section. This also includes the odometer disclosure statement. Notarizing this form may provide additional legal assurance for the two parties.
In South Carolina, the buyer needs a Bill of Sale to transfer a vehicle title. This must be accompanied by a properly signed-over vehicle title from the seller. They also need a completed Title Application (Form 400). The proof of payment for sales tax, title transfer, and registration fees is also included. These, together, are then taken to a local South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office.