SCDMV is participating in the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS), which allows us to quickly verify a paper title with electronic data obtained from the state that issued the title. In January 2010, SCDMV began verifying all titles through NMVTIS before issuing a new title. The system allows us to verify vehicle mileage, lien data and any vehicle brands associated with the vehicle. Vehicle title information from other states is also reported to SCDMV through NMVTIS.

By verifying title information, NMVTIS helps reduce the number of fraudulently titled stolen vehicles:

• The system detects odometer discrepancies.
• Vehicle identification number or VIN cloning is more easily detectable.
• The system helps reduce brand washing, which occurs when a junked, flood or salvage brand vehicle title is changed when a new title is issued in another state.

NMVTIS gives buyers another way to protect themselves by helping them avoid purchasing a vehicle that is potentially unsafe to drive or pay more for a vehicle than it is worth.

If you are a prospective buyer of a vehicle currently titled in South Carolina, you may request a South Carolina title history by submitting a completed Request for Vehicle Information form (Form 5027-A) to SCDMV, Post Office Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29216-0024. The title history for the vehicle will include odometer information. However, the name and address of the registered owner(s) is not available. The cost for the Title History is $6.00. For expedited processing, include an additional $20.00 fee for each record. If you mail your request to headquarters for processing, attach the completed Form MV-82 to the front of your Form 5027-A. Make checks payable to SCDMV.