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South Carolina Auto Sales Tax Calculator

Updated

Estimate South Carolina sales tax, dealer fees, and the out-the-door price on your next car. Pre-filled with the South Carolina state base rate (5.00%) and the standard full-price tax basis for the state.

South Carolina's statewide base auto sales tax rate is 5.00% applied to the full vehicle price. Local (county and city) sales taxes may add to this rate.

Estimate only. Estimate only. Not a loan offer, lender quote, dealer quote, lease agreement, retail installment sales contract, DMV estimate, or financial advice. Actual rates, payments, taxes, fees, incentives, residual values, insurance, fuel, and maintenance costs may vary.

Sales tax

$1,500.00

Total fees

$774.00

Out-the-door (estimate)

$32,274.00

Assumptions usedv2026-05-04
  • Taxable basisprice
  • Sales tax rate5.00%

How this is calculated

The calculator above is pre-filled with South Carolina's statewide base rate of 5.00% and the full-price tax basis. Adjust the rate to include any local (county/city) surtaxes that apply at your address. South Carolina caps the vehicle Infrastructure Maintenance Fee at $500.

For a generic, non-state-specific version, use the canonical auto sales tax and fees calculator. For background on how tax bases vary by state, read auto sales tax and fees explained.

Frequently asked questions

What is the auto sales tax rate in South Carolina?
South Carolina's statewide base sales tax rate is 5.00%. Counties, cities, and special districts can add local sales taxes on top of the state rate, so the combined rate at your address may be higher. Verify the exact rate with the South Carolina state tax authority or your local DMV.
Does South Carolina allow a trade-in tax credit?
No. South Carolina taxes the full vehicle price; trade-in value is not deducted before tax is computed. For example, on a $40,000 car with a $10,000 trade-in, sales tax is still computed on $40,000.
How is out-the-door price calculated in South Carolina?
Out-the-door price = vehicle price + sales tax + documentation, title, registration, and dealer fees − rebates. Use the calculator above to estimate yours.
Is this an official South Carolina DMV tax estimate?
No. This is an educational estimate. Actual taxes and fees vary by county, city, dealer, vehicle type, and timing. Confirm exact amounts with your dealer and the South Carolina DMV before signing.

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