What Form 400 Is Used For

South Carolina DMV Form 400 is the official process for Duplicate or Corrected Certificate of Title. You use it when you need a replacement title document for a vehicle you already own, or when the information on your current title contains errors that need to be fixed by the DMV.

The form tells the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles that you are requesting a new title certificate rather than registering a vehicle for the first time or transferring ownership. The DMV processes your request and mails you a corrected or duplicate title document to the address you provide.

Common reasons to file Form 400 include a lost or damaged title, a misspelled name, an incorrect vehicle identification number (VIN) on the existing title, or a title that was never received after a purchase or transfer.

Key Takeaways

  • Form 400 is for getting a replacement title or fixing errors on an existing title, not for initial registration or ownership transfer.
  • You will need your current title (if you have it), your vehicle's VIN, and a government-issued photo ID to complete the form.
  • The form must be submitted in person at a South Carolina DMV office or by mail to the address listed on the form itself.
  • Processing time varies, but you should expect to wait several weeks for your new or corrected title to arrive by mail.
  • If your title was lost or stolen, you may need to provide additional documentation such as a police report or proof of ownership.

Information You Will Need to Complete Form 400

Before you sit down with the form, gather the following documents and information. Having everything ready will prevent delays and reduce the chance of errors that send the form back to you.

You will need your current vehicle title (if you still have it), your vehicle's VIN, your driver's license or other government-issued photo ID, and proof of South Carolina residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement. If you are correcting information on the title, bring any documents that support the correction—for example, a marriage certificate if your name changed, or the bill of sale if the VIN is wrong.

If your title was lost or stolen, bring a police report or a written statement explaining what happened. If you never received a title after buying or transferring the vehicle, bring the bill of sale or transfer document that shows you are the owner.

How to Fill Out and Submit Form 400

Form 400 asks for your name, address, phone number, and email address. You will also enter your vehicle's VIN, make, model, and year. The form includes a section where you describe why you are requesting a duplicate or corrected title—select the reason that matches your situation.

Print the completed form and sign it in front of a notary public. South Carolina requires a notarized signature on Form 400. Many banks, credit unions, and UPS stores offer notary services for a small fee, usually between $5 and $15.

You can submit the form in two ways: in person at any South Carolina DMV office, or by mail to the address printed on the form. If you mail it, include all supporting documents and send everything by certified mail so you have proof of delivery. Do not send cash; if a fee is required, include a check or money order.

Fees and Processing Time

South Carolina charges a fee for a duplicate or corrected title. The exact amount depends on whether you are requesting a duplicate (replacement) title or a corrected title, and whether you are also renewing your registration at the same time. Check the current fee schedule on the South Carolina DMV website or call your local DMV office to confirm the cost before you submit.

Processing time is typically four to six weeks from the date the DMV receives your form and supporting documents. If you submit in person, the DMV will give you a receipt with an estimated completion date. If you mail the form, keep your certified mail receipt and the DMV's contact information so you can follow up if you do not receive your title within eight weeks.

What Happens If Information on Your Title Is Wrong

If you notice an error on your title after you receive it—such as a misspelled name, wrong VIN, or incorrect vehicle description—you do not need to wait. File Form 400 when ready to request a corrected title. The sooner you correct it, the fewer problems you will face if you later try to sell the vehicle, renew registration, or use the title as proof of ownership.

When you submit Form 400 for a correction, include a copy of your current (incorrect) title and any documents that prove what the correct information should be. For example, if your name is misspelled, include your driver's license. If the VIN is wrong, include the bill of sale or the vehicle's registration card showing the correct VIN.

Submitting Form 400 by Mail Versus In Person

Submitting in person at a DMV office is faster if you need your title urgently, because you can ask questions on the spot and the DMV staff can review your documents before you leave. However, you will need to travel to an office during business hours and may wait in line.

Mailing Form 400 is more convenient if you cannot reach a DMV office, but it takes longer and you cannot correct mistakes when ready if the DMV finds an issue. If you choose to mail, use certified mail with return receipt so you know when the DMV receives your package. Include a copy of your driver's license and all supporting documents, and keep copies for your records.

What to Do If Your Form Is Rejected or Delayed

The DMV may return Form 400 if it is incomplete, unsigned, or missing required documents. Common reasons for rejection include a missing notary signature, no supporting documents for a correction, or illegible information. If this happens, you will receive a letter explaining what is missing. Correct the issue and resubmit.

If more than eight weeks have passed since you submitted and you have not received your title, contact the South Carolina DMV directly. Have your receipt or certified mail tracking number ready. The DMV can tell you whether your form is still being processed or if there is a problem that needs your attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a notary to sign Form 400?

Yes. South Carolina requires your signature on Form 400 to be notarized. You cannot sign it yourself without a notary present. Many banks, credit unions, UPS stores, and some libraries offer notary services for a fee, usually $5 to $15 per signature.

Can I get a duplicate title the same day?

No. The DMV does not issue titles on the same day. Processing takes four to six weeks by mail. If you submit in person, the DMV will give you a receipt and an estimated completion date, but you will still need to wait for the title to be printed and mailed to you.

What if I lost my title and do not have a police report?

You can still file Form 400, but include a written statement explaining that your title was lost and that you did not file a police report. The DMV may ask for additional proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale, registration card, or insurance documents. Contact your local DMV office before submitting to ask what they will accept.

Can someone else submit Form 400 on my behalf?

The form must be signed by you in front of a notary, so you cannot have someone else sign it. However, another person can deliver the completed, notarized form to a DMV office or mail it for you. You must still be the one to sign and have it notarized.

How much does Form 400 cost?

The fee varies depending on whether you are requesting a duplicate title or a corrected title. Check the South Carolina DMV website or call your local office for the current fee. Fees are typically between $10 and $30, but confirm before you submit so you know what to include with your payment.