South Carolina Vehicle Sales Tax Calculator
State rate: 5.00%. Trade-in credit: No.
Inputs
South Carolina sales tax
About South Carolina vehicle tax
South Carolina has a maximum IMF (Infrastructure Maintenance Fee) of $500 on vehicles, which replaced the prior 5% sales tax. Effectively caps tax burden on higher-priced vehicles.
Estimates only. Tax rates change and local rates vary by city/county. Always verify with the South Carolina DMV before finalizing a purchase.
About South Carolina vehicle tax
South Carolina has a maximum IMF (Infrastructure Maintenance Fee) of $500 on vehicles, which replaced the prior 5% sales tax. Effectively caps tax burden on higher-priced vehicles.
State sales tax
Max observed local rate
Trade-in credit
Title transfer fee
South Carolina used car market
Tax math tells you what a car costs to buy. CarFlipIQ tells you whether it'll actually sell in South Carolina. We track every Facebook Marketplace listing across the state — real comps, real days-on-market, for every make and model.
Sales tax in other states
Buying or selling across state lines? Compare the rate, trade-in rules, and out-the-door cost in other states — or read the full used car sales tax by state guide.
FAQ
What is the vehicle sales tax in South Carolina?
South Carolina charges a state-level rate of 5.00% on vehicle purchases. No local additions apply to vehicles. Trade-in value is NOT deductible — tax applies to full purchase price.
Does South Carolina give a trade-in tax credit?
No. South Carolina taxes the full purchase price regardless of trade-in value. This is a meaningful negative for buyers — verify with the state DMV before factoring trade-in into your math.
What is the title transfer fee in South Carolina?
South Carolina charges approximately $15 for title transfer. Dealer documentation ("doc") fees typically range up to $599, though these are dealer-set and negotiable on most transactions.
How do I calculate out-the-door price in South Carolina?
Out-the-door = purchase price + (taxable amount × effective rate) + title fee + registration. Taxable amount equals purchase price minus trade-in (where allowed). Effective rate is state plus local. Use the calculator above for an exact figure on your specific purchase.