Alert
All SCDMV branches will be closed Tuesday, Dec. 24, through Thursday, Dec. 26, for the Christmas break. Branches will reopen at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 27. Online services and SCDMV Express kiosks are available.
License Plate Return
Purchased a New License Plate
If you purchase a new license plate for your vehicle, your old plate immediately becomes invalid once your new plate arrives. You can now decommission your license plate online. You do not need to physically turn in your old license plate when using this option, but you are encouraged to recycle the license plate once you complete the online deactivation.
If your license plate is expired, you do not need to decommission your license plate. Only active license plates can be decommissioned.
Decommission Your Plate
You also have the option to complete the License Plate Surrender (SCDMV Form 452) and mail the form plus your old plate to the address below:
SCDMV
Plate Turn-In
PO Box 1498
Blythewood, SC 29016-0024
You may also return your plate to any SCDMV branch.
Sold My Vehicle
If you're turning in your license plate because you sold your vehicle, you must do all of the following:
- Complete and turn in a Notice of Vehicle Sold (SCDMV Form 416)
- Complete and turn in a License Plate Turn In (SCDMV Form 452)
- Return the plate by mail to the address above or any SCDMV branch
- Cancel your South Carolina liability insurance on the vehicle you sold
If your license plate is expired, you do not need to return your license plate. Only active license plates can be returned.
Moving to a New State
If you're moving to a new state, you must first update your vehicle insurance company and then return your license plate once you register your vehicle in your new state.
You may return your plate to the address above or in person to any SCDMV branch.