North Carolina
Applying for Car Registration in North Carolina
Applying for new North Carolina vehicle registration credentials is one of the first steps you must take after inheriting, acquiring or purchasing a vehicle. As part of the DMV registration application process, you must title the vehicle in your name, present an acceptable proof of automobile ownership and pay any applicable fees.
For proof of ownership, there are a few different documents you can submit. Once your car registration is near its expiration date, you will need to complete the registration renewal process.
When registering a vehicle, you must also be able to present proof of insurance to complete the DMV car registration. With this in mind, it is important to purchase an insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum insurance requirements before applying for the registration. To learn more about these DMV car registration requirements and how to apply, review the sections below.
North Carolina Auto Registration Requirements
To obtain new car registration documents after buying or inheriting a vehicle, you must submit several important documents to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). Depending on the specific situation, these documents may include the following:
- A completed NCDMV registration application
- A bill of sale
- Proof of vehicle ownership
- Proof of a current insurance policy
Download our guide to find out more about the documents you will need to apply for a car registration.
When applying for vehicle registration records in NC, you may need to submit additional documents, such as a lien release form or proof of highway-use tax exemption.
These are specific application materials that only apply to certain motorists. As such, it is important to familiarize yourself with the requirements you must meet before attempting to title and register the newly acquired vehicle with the NCDMV.
Moreover, you must also pay vehicle registration fees, highway-use taxes and property taxes for the car, truck or minivan you wish to register. When you pay car registration fees such as these, the actual amount will vary depending on the vehicle type and the location of your purchase.
How can I apply for a North Carolina car registration near me?
To apply for a NCDMV car registration, you can choose to complete the process in one of two ways: in person or by mail. Learn more about these application methods in the sections below.
In Person
To register a newly acquired vehicle in person, you must visit an NCDMV office near you. During your visit, you must submit the required documents, present proof of identification and pay the applicable fees.
After applying, you will receive your new vehicle registration credentials within two weeks.
If you wish to apply for an expedited title, known as an “instant title” when registering your newly acquired automobile in North Carolina, you must visit a specialty NCDMV office in Charlotte or Raleigh.
After applying for NCDMV registration credentials, you will receive your documents before leaving the office. Other NCDMV offices also process instant title applications, but it will not be mailed until the following business day.
By Mail
If you prefer to obtain North Carolina vehicle registration credentials by mail or you currently reside outside of the state, you must submit your required application materials to the NCDMV’s Vehicle Title division in Raleigh.
When applying by mail, you must remember to include a photocopy of your North Carolina driver’s license. To learn the steps to mail your application, download our helpful guide.