As a business and legal template writer with over twelve years of experience drafting private-party vehicle sale documents across the United States, I’ve helped thousands of South Carolina residents complete clean, compliant car, truck, and motorcycle transfers. If you’re searching for a vehicle bill of sale South Carolina that actually satisfies the SCDMV, you’re in the right place. Below you’ll find a completely free, current-year downloadable SCDMV Bill of Sale Form 4031 along with step-by-step instructions on how to fill it out correctly the first time.
Quick Download: Official SCDMV Form 4031 PDF (Direct from SCDMV) | My Pre-Filled Fillable Version (Free Instant Download)
Disclaimer: This article and template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or tax advice. Always consult a licensed South Carolina attorney or tax professional for your specific situation.
The SC Bill of Sale Form 4031 — officially titled “Bill of Sale” — is the only bill of sale document the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) accepts when you register a vehicle that was purchased from a private party (not a dealership). According to SCDMV policy and S.C. Code § 56-3-2320, the bill of sale must include the purchase price so the department can calculate the 5% Infrastructure Maintenance Fee (IMF, commonly called sales tax — capped at $500 for most passenger vehicles).
Without a properly completed SCDMV Bill of Sale Form 4031, the SCDMV will estimate the vehicle’s value using the NADA guide and charge tax on that higher amount — often costing buyers hundreds of extra dollars.
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official SCDMV Form 4031 (Blank PDF) | Download from SCDMV |
| 2025 Fillable & Printable SC Bill of Sale Form 4031 (My Version) | Instant Free Download (No Email Required) |
| SCDMV All Forms Page | SCDMV Forms Library |
Follow this exact order to avoid rejection at the DMV:
| Situation | IMF Due | Max Cap |
|---|---|---|
| Standard private sale | 5% of purchase price | $500 |
| Vehicle sold for $10,000 or more | Flat $500 | $500 |
| Gift between immediate family | $10 | N/A |
| Vehicle purchased out-of-state, now moving to SC | 5% minus any tax already paid (credit) | $500 |
Source: SCDMV Infrastructure Maintenance Fee Page and SC Department of Revenue
Do I need to notarize the bill of sale in South Carolina?
No. South Carolina does not require notarization on Form 4031 or the title for private sales.
Can I use a generic bill of sale instead of Form 4031?
No. The SCDMV will only accept their official Form 4031 to calculate the Infrastructure Maintenance Fee.
What if the vehicle is a gift?
Still complete Form 4031, check the gift box, and pay only $10 (or $0 if between spouses).
Where do I get plates after the sale?
You can transfer the seller’s plate (if staying on the vehicle) or purchase new ones at the SCDMV branch when you title it.
Can I register the vehicle online?
No. South Carolina currently requires in-person titling for private-party sales.
By using the official SCDMV Bill of Sale Form 4031 (or my fillable version above), you’ll sail through the South Carolina title transfer process and avoid costly tax surprises.
Have questions about your specific sale? Drop them in the comments below — I personally answer every South Carolina vehicle transfer question I receive.
References: South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) – Form 4031, Title Application Form 400, and Infrastructure Maintenance Fee guidelines (all accessed November 2025). IRS Publication 551 (Basis of Assets) cited for federal tax record-keeping recommendations.