In South Carolina, obtaining a bonded title for a vehicle is a process that allows you to establish ownership when you do not have the required ownership documents, such as a title or bill of sale. Here are the steps to get a bonded title in South Carolina:

1. Check Eligibility:
   • Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for obtaining a bonded title in South Carolina. Generally, you must be a South Carolina resident and be unable to obtain the title through traditional means.
2. Confirm Ownership History:
   • Gather all available information about the vehicle’s ownership history, including any bills of sale, affidavits, or other documentation related to the vehicle.
3. Vehicle Inspection:
   • Some South Carolina counties may require you to have a law enforcement officer inspect the vehicle to verify its identification numbers (VIN) and confirm that it’s not stolen.
4. Obtain a Surety Bond:
   • You’ll need to obtain a surety bond from a licensed insurance company in South Carolina. The bond serves as a financial guarantee in case someone else claims ownership of the vehicle. The bond amount is typically 1.5 times the appraised value of the vehicle.
5. Appraisal:
   • Get an appraisal of the vehicle’s value from a licensed South Carolina motor vehicle dealer or an independent appraiser approved by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV).
6. Complete the Bonded Title Application:
   • Obtain the “Application for Bonded Title” form from your local SCDMV office or the SCDMV website.
   • Fill out the application completely, including the vehicle’s description, the appraisal value, and the surety bond information.
7. Submit Documents and Fees:
   • Along with the application, you will need to submit:
     • The surety bond.
     • The appraisal documentation.
     • Any supporting documentation you have related to the vehicle’s ownership history.
     • Payment for the bonded title fee. the fee was $20.
8. Wait for Processing:
   • The SCDMV will review your application and documentation. This process may take some time, so be patient.
9. Receive the Bonded Title:
   • If your application is approved, you will receive a bonded title for the vehicle in your name.
10. Register the Vehicle:
    • Once you have the bonded title, you can register the vehicle in your name with the SCDMV.

Please keep in mind that requirements and fees may change over time, so it’s crucial to verify the latest information on the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) website or contact your local SCDMV office for the most up-to-date instructions and fees related to obtaining a bonded title in South Carolina. If you have specific questions or encounter any challenges during the process, consider seeking guidance from legal professionals or the SCDMV for assistance with your particular situation.