South Carolina License Plate Lookup
South Carolina License plate lookups help protect car buyers from fraud by revealing hidden issues such as multiple previous owners, rolled-back odometers, theft, or previous major accidents that sellers might not disclose. Get an SC license plate lookup today!
Table of Contents
What is a South Carolina License Plate Lookup?
The South Carolina license plate lookup is a tool you can you to look up the license plate and get the vehicle history report. If you are a seller or buyer, looking up a license plate is important to get the vehicle history report to help you examine the vehicle’s actual condition before you decide to sell or buy.
With just the license plate number, you can get a vehicle history report in seconds. In the report, you’ll see important information about the vehicle, like accident records, past ownership, recall history, warranty coverage, and more.
Can You Look Up a License Plate for Free in South Carolina?
Yes, you can perform a free South Carolina license plate lookup! With this free tool, you can easily verify the vehicle’s specifications, features, mileage, and sales history.
Here’s what you can check for free:
- Associated VIN number
- Year, Make, and Model
- Country of Origin
- Market Value
- Transmission Type
- Fuel Type
- Drive Type
- Body Type
- Trim Information
- MSRP
- Engine Specifications
- Dimensions
- VIN
- Engine Value
- MSRP
- Manufacturer
- Fuel Type
- Body Type
- Year & Model
- Transmission
- Vehicle Type
- Sales Record
- Drive Type
- Mileage
- Market Value
- Doors
- Country of Origin
What Can You Learn from License Plate History Records
You can find out everything about the life of any vehicle with a license plate history check using our tool. This includes ownership records, thefts, title brand records, open recalls, and many more. An SC lookup keeps you safe from fraudsters and helps in decision-making.
Vehicle Specification
View details on the car’s make, model, year, transmission, engine type, and key features.
Ownership History
A summary of previous owners, including the length of ownership and the locations of registration.
Accident History
A report detailing any previous accidents, their severity, locations, and extent of damage.
Sales Records:
Information regarding past sale prices, locations, sellers, and any repairs or damages associated with the vehicle.
Auction History
A record of any auctions the vehicle has been a part of, including dates, condition of the vehicle, photos (up to ten) that show the vehicle’s condition during the auction, and sale prices.
Lien/Loan Records
Details about any existing liens or loans that could affect the transfer of ownership. Make sure that the lien/loan tied to the vehicle is cleared before the transfer process.
Theft History
Verification of whether the vehicle has been reported as stolen or involved in theft. Examine the date, location, and data source of the stolen vehicle.
Mileage Records
Confirmation of the vehicle’s mileage to help evaluate its overall wear and condition. Check the date and recorded mileage, and the last recorded mileage of the vehicle.
Title Information
: Information on whether the vehicle’s title is clean, salvaged, or branded, which can impact its safety and value.
Market Value Estimates
Ensure the price is fair for buying or selling by assessing the vehicle’s current market value.
Recalls and Safety Issues
Check for unresolved safety recalls or concerns related to the vehicle. See the date, recalls issues, and the steps taken by the manufacturer to fix the recalls.
Service History
Access to records of past maintenance and repairs, including services performed and parts replaced.
Why Look Up License Plates in South Carolina?
Did you know vehicles with salvage-branded titles lose between 20% and 40% of their value? Worse still, salvage cannot be easily recognized just by its appearance. However, a license plate lookup can help you spot these vehicles in just a few seconds and help you make a safe and reliable choice.
Here’s why you must search a license plate number before purchasing or selling:
- For Buyers
- Verify Vehicle Authenticity Confirm that the vehicle is exactly what the seller says it is.
- Identify Hidden Issues Check for any accident records, liens, or other problems that may not be obvious.
- Know What You’re Paying For Make sure you’re paying a fair price based on the vehicle’s condition and history.
- Protect Yourself from Fraud Avoid scams by verifying that the vehicle is not stolen or incorrectly represented.
- For Sellers
- Improve Transparency Be open about the vehicle's history and build trust with potential buyers.
- Price Your Vehicle Accurately Set a fair price by knowing the market value based on the vehicle’s history.
- Avoid Future Disputes Prevent buyer complaints or legal issues by disclosing accurate information.
- Increase Your Sales Chances Provide full history details to attract more interested buyers.
How to Lookup a South Carolina License Plate Number
Enter the License Plate Number
You can find the license plate number on the front and back of the vehicle. Fill out the form on this page and submit it.
Review and Purchase
Check vehicle specifications and features, and complete your purchase.
Get Your Report
Access your vehicle history report instantly. Download and print it easily.
Why South Carolina License Plate Lookup Helpful?
Actual Condition
- 1 accident record(s) found.
- 1 Record(s) of damage
- 2 specific events reported
- 1 sales record
- 1 stolen or theft record(
- 13 open recalls record
Seller’s Claim
- Clean title
- Never been in an accident
- Properly maintained
- Cheaper price
Outcome
- Carl decided to sell the vehicle because it was too expensive to repair
Why Checking the License Plate is a MUST
- Don’t be tempted by a cheap price.
- Make sure to know everything before proceeding to buy.
South Carolina Laws/Legislation on License Plates
South Carolina requires all vehicles operating on its roads to display either a regular license plate or a temporary plate. The state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues these plates, which must be properly displayed and maintained to comply with state laws.
Here are the key aspects to remember:
Vehicle Registration and Plate Requirements
- Documentation required for vehicle registration includes proof of vehicle ownership, proof of insurance, proof of identity, proof of residency, and property tax receipts.
- You need to pay registration fees and taxes, which vary depending on the type of vehicle and the owner’s age. For example, most owners’ passenger vehicle registration fees are $40, with discounts for seniors.
- Plates must be securely attached to the rear of the vehicle (except for certain commercial vehicles).
- New residents have 30 days to register their vehicles after moving to South Carolina. First-time registrations require paying property taxes and obtaining a South Carolina license plate.
- Purchases by private parties have to be registered within 45 days. You must report the purchase to your county auditor and pay your property taxes before registration.
Renewing Your South Carolina License Plate
- Renewal of a South Carolina license plate involves updating your vehicle registration, which is usually required every two years. However, the state uses an annual renewal system for the registration decals based on the first letter of the last name of the vehicle owner.
- Check the expiration date on your registration card or decal to determine the specific month you need to renew. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a local SCDMV office.
South Carolina License Plate Design and Format
The South Carolina “While I Breathe, I Hope” license plate was introduced in 2015 with a classic design. Like the state flag, it is white and indigo with a palmetto tree and crescent. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles handles all the registration and issuing of license plates. The plates are standardized in size, which is 6 to 12 inches, and must be mounted on the rear side of the vehicle.
The usual plate numbering style combines three letters followed by three numbers (for example, ABC 123), though specialty and personalized plates may use different patterns. If you plan to register your vehicle in South Carolina, here are the types of license plates that you can choose from.
Type of License Plate in South Carolina
South Carolina offers a wide variety of license plates to suit different vehicles and driver preferences. From standard passenger plates to specialty, personalized, and antique options, each type serves a unique purpose, whether for legal identification, personal expression, or vehicle classification.
Standard Issue Plates
The current general-issue plate, released in 2015, carries the state motto “While I Breathe, I Hope.” It features a palmetto tree with a crescent moon and is styled in shades of indigo and white. This design is available for most vehicles weighing up to 54,000 pounds.
Antique Vehicle Plates
Cars and motorcycles that are 25 years or older may qualify for antique plates. These plates limit the vehicle’s use to exhibitions, parades, club events, and similar occasions.
Year of Manufacture (YOM) Plates
Owners of vehicles built at least 30 years ago can request YOM plates that match the car’s original model year. Unlike antique plates, these can be used on the road for regular driving. Eligible vehicles include passenger cars, light trucks, and larger trucks that meet weight criteria.
Military Plates
Special recognition plates are available for active-duty service members, veterans, and certain military branches. Each design reflects the applicant’s service background.
Motorcycle Plates
Motorcycles and similar two-wheeled vehicles must display a dedicated motorcycle plate issued by the SCDMV.
Organization Plates
Non-profit groups in South Carolina can apply for custom-designed plates representing their organization. Motorists pay an additional fee set by the group, and part of the proceeds go back to support that organization.
Personalized Plates
Motorists who want a unique touch can request a personalized plate. These plates allow up to seven characters for cars and trucks, or six for motorcycles, provided the combination is approved by the SCDMV. They are limited to vehicles under 11,000 pounds gross weight and 9,000 pounds empty weight.
Get More Than a License Plate Lookup
Easily access all the tools you need to get a full car background check and make the best decisions:
VIN Decoder
Window Sticker Lookup
Build Sheet by VIN
Classic Car History Report
Why Use a South Carolina License Plate Lookup With Detailed Vehicle History?
A South Carolina license plate lookup is one of the easiest ways to gather details about a vehicle before making decisions. With just the plate number, you can:
- Unlock a detailed history with over 150 data points, including accidents, title changes, and ownership records.
- View past auction listings, often with up to 10 clear images showing the car’s condition.
- Track mileage records to help spot any rollback or inconsistencies.
- Access market value insights to understand the vehicle’s fair price.
License Plate Lookup By States
FAQs About South Carolina License Plate Lookup
Q. Can you look up a license plate in South Carolina?
A. Yes, you can look up the license plate of any vehicle in South Carolina and any other state using the form at the top of this page. Just fill out the form for an instant license plate decoding.
Q. What is the best free license plate lookup?
A. Detailed Vehicle History offers a free license plate lookup service providing vehicle specifications, features, market value, MSRP, sales history, current mileage, and more.
Q. How do I look up license plate owners in South Carolina?
A. You can look up a vehicle’s ownership history with our lookup tool. When the license plate is decoded, you will find the number of previous owners, duration of ownership, location, and even a map showing key locations.
Q. What can I get from an SC plate lookup?
A. After an SC plate lookup, you will gain access to the vehicle information and records, including ownership, theft, accident, damages, odometer, auction, sales history, auction photos, service history, vehicle usage, market value, and more.
