To register a car in North Carolina, you'll need to provide proof of ownership, identity, and insurance, along with paying the required fees and taxes at your local NC Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) license plate agency. The most critical documents are the title properly assigned to you, a valid driver's license, and a Vehicle Liability Insurance form (FS-1) from a provider licensed in NC. If you're new to the state, you must register within 30 days of establishing residency.
The process involves several key steps. First, you'll need to get a vehicle inspection, which includes both a safety and an emissions inspection in certain counties. You must also pay the Highway Use Tax (HUT), which is 3% of the vehicle's retail value, and annual registration fees. For a new registration, you'll typically receive your license plate and registration card on the spot.
Here is a breakdown of common fees (fees can vary slightly):
| Fee Type | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|
| Highway Use Tax (HUT) | 3% of vehicle value | Capped at $2,000. |
| Annual Registration Fee | $38.75 (passenger vehicle) | Standard fee for a private passenger vehicle. |
| License Plate Fee | $28.00 | One-time fee for a new plate. |
| Vehicle Inspection Fee | ~$30.00 | Combined safety/emissions fee. |
| Title Fee | $56.00 | Fee for issuing a new North Carolina title. |
It's highly recommended to call your local plate agency ahead of your visit to confirm their hours and specific document requirements, as wait times can be long. If you've just moved to NC, you'll also need to surrender your out-of-state license and register your vehicle simultaneously.
