South Carolina · Vehicle title
Do you need to notarize a car title in South Carolina?
Usually not.
South Carolina does not generally require a vehicle title to be notarized to transfer ownership between private parties. Even so, a notarized bill of sale is smart, low-cost proof that the sale happened — and related paperwork like a lien release, an out-of-state title, an odometer statement, or a title correction may still need a notary. Confirm your exact transaction with the South Carolina DMV.
How to notarize a vehicle title
- Leave the title unsigned. A notary must watch you sign — signing beforehand can void the notarization and, in some states, the transfer.
- Bring valid photo ID. A driver’s license, state ID, or passport for every signer.
- Get every required signer together. If your state requires the buyer’s signature too, both parties appear — in person or on the same video session.
- Sign in front of the notary, who verifies identity, witnesses the signatures, and applies the seal.
- Submit to the DMV. File the notarized title (and any bill of sale) with your state’s title agency to complete the transfer.
Online, or a notary who comes to you
You don’t have to hunt for a notary. With remote online notarization you meet a commissioned notary over live video and get the title notarized in minutes. If a co-signer isn’t online-savvy, a mobile notary can meet everyone in person. Need it done for free? See where to find a free notary near you — though banks and libraries can’t always notarize a title, and hours are limited.
Other vehicle documents that may need a notary
Beyond the title, a notary is often needed for a bill of sale, a lien release, an odometer disclosure, a motor-vehicle power of attorney, or an out-of-state title correction. When in doubt, a notarized document is cheap insurance against a disputed sale.
Common questions
Does South Carolina require a car title to be notarized?
Generally no. South Carolina does not require the title itself to be notarized to transfer a vehicle between private parties, though a notarized bill of sale is still useful proof and some related documents may need a notary.
Can I notarize a vehicle title online?
In most cases, yes — a commissioned online notary can notarize a title over live video in minutes, or a mobile notary can meet you and any co-signer in person. Bring the unsigned title and a valid photo ID, and sign only in front of the notary.
What should I bring to notarize a title?
A government-issued photo ID and the title, left unsigned until you are in front of the notary. If your state requires both parties to sign, all signers need to be present (in person or on the same video session) with their own ID.
DMV rules change and vary by transaction — always confirm current requirements with the South Carolina DMV or title agency before you sign. This page is general information, not legal advice. Jurably is a self-help filing and notary service, not a law firm.