The state’s primary source of revenue for transportation infrastructure comes from motor fuel. Often referred to as the “gas tax,” the state charges a $0.28 user fee on each gallon of motor fuel (gasoline and diesel) purchased and an additional $0.0075 per gallon inspection fee.
The state’s fuel tax is included in the retail price paid at the pump. It is important to remember that while the prices of gasoline and diesel can fluctuate frequently, the tax remains the same (28.75 cents per gallon) regardless of price.
Using the interactive maps below, take a look at how South Carolina compares to other states. South Carolina’s motor fuel user fee remains significantly lower than our sister states and much lower than the national average.
Some states index their rates to keep pace with economic factors in an attempt to maintain buying power. These adjustments are based on formulas chosen by legislators and can be based on factors like inflation (Consumer Price Index), the wholesale price of fuel, highway construction costs or other factors.
Learn more about South Carolina’s motor fuel revenue collections here.