Overview
The bill that surprises new riders is the one that comes every year afterward: South Carolina taxes motorcycles as personal property at the same 6% assessment ratio as cars, multiplied by your county's millage rate. A used bike bought cheap can still carry a meaningful annual property tax if its assessed value and local millage are high - and like cars, that county tax bill must be paid before SCDMV will renew the registration.
01 - Official fees
South Carolina motorcycle fees fees at a glance
| Fee | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle registration | $10.00 | biennial |
| Title fee (new purchase) | $15.00 | |
| Infrastructure Maintenance Fee | 5%, capped at $500 | on new purchase |
| Annual property tax | value × 6% × millage |
Figures verified June 2026 against official sources (listed below). Always confirm the final amount with your county treasurer/auditor for property tax, then the SCDMV for title and registration - counties can add small local fees.
03 - Same state, other costs
More South Carolina vehicle costs
04 - Common questions
South Carolina motorcycle fees FAQ
How much does it cost to register a motorcycle in South Carolina?
Just $10, and it covers two full years - the cheapest registration class in the state. Buying the bike separately owes the $15 title fee and the 5%/$500-capped IMF, same as a car.
Do motorcycles pay the same IMF as cars in South Carolina?
Yes - 5% of the purchase price or fair market value, capped at $500, with the same trade-in reduction on dealer sales and the same immediate-family gift exemption.
Does my motorcycle get taxed as personal property every year?
Yes, at the same 6% assessment ratio as cars, times your county's millage rate. It's billed annually by your county treasurer and must be paid before your biennial SCDMV registration will renew.
Do motorcycles need an inspection in South Carolina?
No - South Carolina requires no periodic safety or emissions inspection for any vehicle type, motorcycles included.
Is there a senior discount on motorcycle registration?
The published age-64 and 65+ discounts apply to the standard $40 passenger-vehicle fee; motorcycles already register at the flat $10 rate, below what the senior car discount would even reduce it to.
How do I register a motorcycle I built or imported into South Carolina?
Assembled or out-of-country motorcycles need an SCDMV/SLED VIN verification before Form 400 can be filed, then the standard title, IMF, and $10 registration follow the normal purchase process.
05 - Receipts
Official sources
Every number on this page comes from these documents - check them yourself.