Online: EZ Online Duplicate Title
The fastest South Carolina title replacement is SCDMV's own online service, EZ Online Duplicate Title. It first asks whether you're the owner or a lienholder, then walks you through the request and the fee. If your name, address and lien details on file are current, it's the simplest way to get a title you can use for a sale. A duplicate ordered online is mailed to the address on SCDMV's record, so update your address first if you've moved.
At a branch or by mail
If the online service won't take your request, for example because a lien still shows or your details have changed, apply at an SCDMV branch office or by mail. SCDMV takes mailed title documents by certified mail only, with payment made out to the SCDMV, and the right mailing address is printed on the form you're submitting. Check SCDMV's lost or stolen title page for the current form before you send anything; it's the authority on which application a lost title needs.
What it costs
SCDMV's fee schedule lists a title at $15. An expedited title costs $35 and is available only in person at a branch, which is the option to ask about if you need the SC replacement title quickly to close a sale. Confirm the current amount for a duplicate on the fee page or the online service before you pay; fees change.
Liens and lienholders
If you had a loan, the lienholder's interest may still be on the record even after it's paid. Ask the lender for a lien release and keep it with your application, or SCDMV may send the replacement to the lender. A lienholder can also request a duplicate itself through the same online service. Getting this right before you apply avoids a second request and a second fee.
Selling after a South Carolina lost title
A buyer can't title the car without the original or a replacement, so replace it before you list the car. When the duplicate arrives, sign it over at the sale and remove your plates; in South Carolina plates don't transfer between owners. If the title has no space for the price, include a bill of sale, which our South Carolina vehicle bill of sale covers. Once the new title is issued, the old one shouldn't be used if it turns up.
For the buyer's side, including the property tax receipt needed for a new plate, see our South Carolina plate lookup guide for records and the checklist above for the title steps. The SC title replacement process is the same for cars, trucks and motorcycles.
South Carolina title replacement: checklist
Confirm your address and lien details with SCDMV, then order the SC replacement title online or at a branch. Bring a lien release if a paid-off loan still shows. If you need the South Carolina lost title replaced quickly for a sale, ask a branch about the expedited title.
South Carolina duplicate title FAQ
Can I get a duplicate South Carolina title online?
Yes. SCDMV's EZ Online Duplicate Title service lets the owner, or a lienholder, request one online for a fee.
How much does a South Carolina title cost?
SCDMV's fee schedule lists a title at $15, or $35 for an expedited title, which is available only in person. Confirm the duplicate fee when you apply.
Can I mail my South Carolina title paperwork?
SCDMV accepts mailed title and registration documents sent by certified mail only, with payment made out to the SCDMV. The correct address is printed on the form you're submitting.
Sources
This page explains common rules and is not legal advice. SCDMV has the final word.