To get a title for a car in North Carolina, you need to apply through your local NC Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. The exact process depends on your situation, such as buying a new car, transferring a used car, or replacing a lost title. The core requirement is submitting the correct documentation, which typically includes a completed Application for Duplicate Title (Form MVR-4), proof of identity, and payment for the required fees. The title is mailed to you, usually within 4 to 6 weeks.
The most critical document is the properly assigned title certificate from the previous owner. For a new vehicle, the dealer typically handles the titling process for you. If the title is lost, you must apply for a duplicate.
Required Documents and Common Scenarios:
| Scenario | Key Required Documents | Fee (Approximate) | Special Notes |
|---|
| Buying from a Dealer | Dealer's Title Application, Sales Contract | $56 title fee, + property tax | The dealer usually processes this. |
| Private Party Purchase | Properly assigned title, Odometer Disclosure Statement, Damage Disclosure Statement | $56 title fee, + highway use tax | Must be done within 28 days of sale. |
| Gift from a Family Member | Assigned title, Notarized Affidavit of Gift (Form MVR-613) | $56 title fee | Gift affidavit waives the highway use tax. |
| Replacing a Lost Title | Completed Form MVR-4, Proof of Identity | $20 for a duplicate title | Can be done by mail or in person. |
| Out-of-State Vehicle | Out-of-state title, NC vehicle inspection, Odometer reading | $56 title fee, + highway use tax | A VIN inspection is mandatory. |
Highway Use Tax: This is a major cost, calculated as 3% of the vehicle's purchase price or its wholesale value, whichever is higher. There is an $80 maximum fee for this tax.
The best practice is to visit your local NC DMV office with all original documents. You can check the NC DMV website for office wait times and to download necessary forms beforehand to streamline the process. If you have a lien on the vehicle, the title will be mailed to the lienholder until the loan is paid off.
