Transferring a car title after the owner dies in South Carolina
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in South Carolina.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in South Carolina, read how the names are joined. A co-owner on an "or" title can act alone. An "and" title follows the Probate Court. A transfer on death beneficiary brings a death certificate. SCDMV does not accept wills on their own.
If the estate is going through probate, or family members disagree, talk to the probate court or a lawyer before you sign anything.
Last checked against official South Carolina sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in South Carolina?
A co-owner on an "or" title
You can act on the car as if the other owner were still alive, including putting it in your name only.
dmv.sc.gov checkedA personal representative
Give SCDMV the Probate Court certificate that names you, and sign the back of the title as seller with (PR) after your name.
dmv.sc.gov checkedAn heir who is not on the title
The Probate Court directs SCDMV, through a personal representative or a Small Estate Affidavit. SCDMV does not accept wills on their own.
dmv.sc.gov checkedA transfer on death beneficiary
Follow the normal titling steps and bring a death certificate showing you survived all the owners.
TOD-1 · Application for Transfer on Deathdmv.sc.gov checkedCommon questions
Does SCDMV accept a will?
In general, no. The Probate Court names a personal representative or issues a Small Estate Affidavit.
dmv.sc.gov checked
How does a personal representative sign?
As seller, with (PR) after their name, and with the Probate Court certificate.
dmv.sc.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official South Carolina sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, and does not file or prepare forms. Confirm each step with the agency before you sign, pay or mail anything. Found a mistake? Email mr@marcelruettgers.com.