Beginning January 1, 2012, the South Caroling Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) will require applicants to show identification to title and register a vehicle in South Carolina. The new requirement affects private citizens as well as businesses.
“In simple terms, the law now requires you to prove who you are when you title and register a vehicle for the first time,” said Executive Director Kevin Shwedo. “It shouldn’t be a problem for most vehicle owners. All they have to do it show their driver’s license.”
Acceptable identification includes a valid South Carolina driver’s license or identification card, an out-of-state driver’s license or identification card, a passport with a visa, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or a permanent residency card. If a South Carolina credential is not presented, individual customers will have to prove the vehicle presence in South Carolina.
Business owners must provide a federal identification number (social security number for sole proprietorships) and proof of the physical place of business in South Carolina. To prove the business location, they can use a utility bill, property tax receipt for the business property or a business permit.
Customers who mail in applications should include a copy of their driver license, identification card or the cover and first page of their passport with visa. Business customers mailing in their applications may submit a copy of the business location document and Form SS-4 as proof of their federal identification number.
For more information about the new requirements, visit the SCDMV website at www.scdmvonline.com.