License Plates

Beginning April 18, 2022, applications for military license plates will only be processed by mail at SCDMV Headquarters in Blythewood.

Customers who visit branch offices on and after April 18, 2022 to obtain a military plate will receive an Application for Military License Plate (MV-37) and further instructions to complete the application by mail.

Quick Links

Antique Plates
Military Plates
Motorcycle Plates
License Plate Replacement
License Plate Return
Organizations Requesting a Specialty Plate
Personalized Plates
Plate Gallery

Current Regular License Plate

Introduced in late 2015, the "While I Breathe, I Hope" license plate, or the state's regular plate, has a classic design with a strong South Carolina theme. Like the state flag, the plate is white and indigo with a palmetto tree and crescent.

The regular plate now is approved for use by vehicles with a gross weight of up to 26,000 pounds.

While you may see some plates with a sticker on the left-hand side with simply a number, such as "8" to designate the eighth month of the year - August - this sticker is no longer required to have a valid registration since the month, year, and plate number is now printed on the color-coded sticker on the right-hand side of the plate.

Temporary License Plates

To get a traceable temporary license plate, you must bring in the title, bill of sale, or lease contract from the seller of the vehicle, plus a completed and signed Application to Issue or Replace 45-Day Temporary Plates (Form 45-A) to an SCDMV branch.