Free South Carolina Car Sales Tax Calculator
Work out the South Carolina car sales tax on a new or used car. South Carolina charges infrastructure maintenance fee (5%, maximum $500). Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.
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South Carolina car sales tax rules
- Tax type: Infrastructure maintenance fee (5%, maximum $500)
- Rate used in the calculator: 5%
- Local taxes: Vehicles that pay the fee are exempt from state and local sales tax.
- Trade-in credit: Yes. The fee is figured on the price less the trade-in.
- Manufacturer rebates: Not confirmed by the state source; the calculator taxes the price before the rebate, the more cautious choice.
- Also note: The fee is capped at $500, so any car over $10,000 pays $500.
Tax on common car prices in South Carolina
| Price | Tax | Tax with $5,000 trade-in | Price + tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $500.00 | $250.00 | $10,500.00 |
| $20,000 | $500.00 | $500.00 | $20,500.00 |
| $30,000 | $500.00 | $500.00 | $30,500.00 |
| $40,000 | $500.00 | $500.00 | $40,500.00 |
| $50,000 | $500.00 | $500.00 | $50,500.00 |
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Other costs when you buy a car
On top of the tax, expect title, registration and plate fees, and a dealer documentation fee. Check whether the car fits your budget with the car affordability calculator, or compare with a lease.
Frequently asked questions
How much is sales tax on a car in South Carolina?
South Carolina charges infrastructure maintenance fee (5%, maximum $500). Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.
How much tax will I pay on a $30,000 car in South Carolina?
About $500.00 at 5%, or $500.00 with a $5,000 trade-in. Title, registration and plate fees are extra.
Does a trade-in reduce car sales tax in South Carolina?
Yes. The fee is figured on the price less the trade-in.
Do local taxes apply to cars in South Carolina?
Vehicles that pay the fee are exempt from state and local sales tax.
Sources
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