South Carolina Auto Sales Tax Calculator

Buying a car in South Carolina involves understanding the state's sales tax rules. This calculator helps you determine the total cost of your vehicle purchase by accounting for the state's sales tax rate and any applicable local taxes.

How South Carolina Auto Sales Tax Works

South Carolina imposes a state sales tax on the purchase of motor vehicles. The current rate is 7% of the vehicle's purchase price. Some counties may have additional local option taxes that can increase the total sales tax rate.

Key Points About South Carolina Auto Sales Tax

State sales tax rate: 7%
Local option taxes may apply in some counties
Tax is applied to the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP)
No exemptions for used vehicles

Note: The 7% state sales tax rate is the base rate. Some counties may have additional local option taxes that can increase the total sales tax rate. Always check with your local DMV or tax authority for the most current rates.

How Sales Tax is Calculated

The sales tax on a vehicle is calculated by multiplying the vehicle's price by the applicable sales tax rate. The formula is:

Sales Tax = Vehicle Price × Sales Tax Rate

For example, if you're purchasing a vehicle priced at $25,000 with a 7% sales tax rate, the sales tax would be:

$25,000 × 0.07 = $1,750

This means the total cost of the vehicle would be $26,750.

Worked Examples

Example 1: New Vehicle Purchase

You're purchasing a new car with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $30,000. The applicable sales tax rate in your county is 7%.

Sales Tax = $30,000 × 0.07 = $2,100
Total Cost = $30,000 + $2,100 = $32,100

Example 2: Used Vehicle Purchase

You're purchasing a used car priced at $15,000. The sales tax rate in your county is 7%.

Sales Tax = $15,000 × 0.07 = $1,050
Total Cost = $15,000 + $1,050 = $16,050

Example 3: Purchase with Local Option Tax

You're purchasing a vehicle priced at $20,000 in a county with a local option tax of 1%. The total sales tax rate is 8%.

Sales Tax = $20,000 × 0.08 = $1,600
Total Cost = $20,000 + $1,600 = $21,600

FAQ

What is the current South Carolina auto sales tax rate?

The current state sales tax rate for motor vehicles in South Carolina is 7%. Some counties may have additional local option taxes that can increase the total sales tax rate.

Do I need to pay sales tax on a used car?

Yes, you must pay the applicable sales tax on the purchase of any motor vehicle, whether new or used, in South Carolina.

Are there any exemptions from South Carolina auto sales tax?

There are no exemptions from the state sales tax on motor vehicles. However, some counties may have local option taxes that can be exempt under certain conditions.

How do I find out if my county has a local option tax?

You can check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or county tax authority for information about any local option taxes that may apply to your purchase.

Is the sales tax calculated on the MSRP or the actual sale price?

The sales tax is calculated on the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for new vehicles. For used vehicles, the sales tax is calculated on the actual sale price.