How to Register a Motorcycle in South Carolina

In order to ride your motorcycle on public roadways in South Carolina, you’ll need to make sure it is registered and that your registration is valid. 

When you buy a motorcycle, you’ll first need to transfer the title and get an insurance policy. Next, you’ll need to get it registered and get your South Carolina motorcycle license plates and stickers. 

Note, you should also be sure to have a valid South Carolina motorcycle license when you register your motorcycle too. 

This page will provide you with an overview of the steps to register a motorcycle in South Carolina for the first time, and then we’ll go over your options for renewing your motorcycle registration before it expires. 

Remember, your registration documents and proof of insurance should be kept on your bike when you ride. 

South Carolina Motorcycle Registration Steps

Registering a motorcycle in South Carolina is basically the same process as registering any other vehicle.

If necessary, you’ll also need to complete any motorcycle inspections as required by the South Carolina DMV.

How to register a motorcycle in South Carolina:

1. Visit your local DMV office. 
2. Complete a registration and title application: https://www.scdmvonline.com/-/media/Forms/400.ashx 
3. Provide the motorcycle title. 
4. Bill of sale, if applicable. 
5. Pay the registration fees and taxes. 

Renew Motorcycle Registration in South Carolina

In order to avoid any traffic tickets or late fees, you’ll want to make sure that your South Carolina motorcycle registration and license plate stickers are valid. 

If you fail to renew your motorcycle registration on time, you will face a late fee. The late fees begin at 46 days after your expiration date and will continue to increase. 

Your options for renewing your South Carolina motorcycle registration include:

• Online, if you’ve received a renewal notice in the mail. 
• In person. 
• By mail.

The information and items you’ll need in order to complete your motorcycle registration renewal include:

• Have your property taxes paid to your county. 
• Provide your motorcycle insurance details. 
• Confirm your current address. 
• Have your registration details.
• Payment for your registration renewal fees.

Depending on the type of bike you have, you may also need to complete the necessary motorcycle inspections when you renew your motorcycle registration. 

South Carolina Motorcycle Insurance

In addition to renewing your motorcycle registration, you’ll also want to make sure that your motorcycle insurance policy is up to date. 

Your annual registration renewal is a great time to compare motorcycle insurance quotes and check for cheaper rates. 

How much does it cost to register a motorcycle in South Carolina?

The fees for South Carolina motorcycle registration are as follows:

• Motorcycle registration: $10.

For more information about South Carolina motorcycle registration and registration renewals, check out the official DMV website at: https://www.scdmvonline.com/ 

Need more information? Check out our overview of the requirements for motorcycle titles and registrations in South Carolina.