To get a new license plate in North Carolina, you need six core items: your NC driver's license, proof of liability insurance, the notarized vehicle title, a completed Title Application (form MVR-1), a completed Declaration of Eligible Risk (form MVR-615), and payment for fees and taxes. The process is handled at your local N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) license plate agency, and all vehicle owners must be present or provide notarized signatures.
Your valid North Carolina driver's license serves as primary identification. For proof of insurance, the DMV requires a policy that meets the state's minimum liability coverage, which is 30/60/25—$30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Digital proof on your phone is typically acceptable.
The most critical document is the vehicle's title. If the vehicle is new or the title is out-of-state, it must be surrendered to the N.C. DMV. If there is an existing lien, the lienholder's information must be accurate. The title must be notarized upon signature by the seller(s) and buyer(s). If you've lost the title, you must apply for a duplicate before proceeding.
All owners listed on the title must complete two forms. The Title Application (MVR-1) captures vehicle and owner details. The Declaration of Eligible Risk (MVR-615) is a mandatory legal statement confirming your insurance coverage. Both forms require original signatures.
Fees are the final requirement. The standard license plate fee is variable, but a common passenger plate costs $38.75. You must also pay the 3% Highway Use Tax (HUT) on the vehicle's purchase price or its assessed value, whichever is higher, with a maximum tax of $250. There is also a $15 title fee. If you're registering a vehicle purchased from a dealer, they often handle the initial filing, but you'll complete the process at the DMV.
Here is a breakdown of the typical costs for a private vehicle purchase:
| Fee Type | Standard Amount | Notes |
|---|
| License Plate Fee | $38.75 | Base fee for a standard passenger plate. |
| Title Fee | $15.00 | Mandatory for issuing a new NC title. |
| Highway Use Tax (HUT) | 3% of value | 3% of purchase price or assessed value, max $250. |
| Additional Fees | Varies | May include notary fees, lien recording fees, or special plate fees. |
Gather all documents before your DMV visit to avoid delays. Missing a notarization or an owner's signature is the most common reason for rejection. The process is straightforward if your paperwork is complete and accurate.
