How to Register Your Car in North Carolina (Quick Guide)

How to Register Your Car in North Carolina (Quick Guide)

A Step-by-Step Breakdown from Dream Work Automotive in Charlotte

So you just bought a car — congrats! Whether it's brand new or new-to-you, registering your vehicle in North Carolina is an essential next step. At Dream Work Automotive, we aim to make the car-buying process stress-free from start to finish — and that includes helping you understand how to handle your NC car registration quickly and correctly.

Here’s your go-to guide to getting your vehicle legally registered with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NC DMV).

Who Needs to Register a Car in North Carolina?

Anyone who:

• Just bought a new or used vehicle
• Recently moved to North Carolina
• Is transferring a title from another owner or state

📄 What You Need to Register a Car in NC

Before heading to the DMV, make sure you have the following:

✅ Vehicle Title (signed over to you or issued to you)

✅ Valid Driver’s License or NC ID

✅ NC Vehicle Insurance

✅ Odometer reading (for vehicles less than 10 years old)

✅ Bill of Sale (if private party purchase)

✅ Lien Release (if applicable)

✅ Form MVR-1 – Application for Title

✅ Proof of Property Tax Payment or Exemption

🏢 Where Do I Go to Register?

You’ll need to visit a local North Carolina DMV License Plate Agency. There are several DMV offices near Charlotte, including:

📍 6016 Brookshire Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28216

📍 201 W Arrowood Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217

📍 More locations are available

Note: DMV offices often require appointments — book early online!

💸 How Much Does It Cost?

As of 2025, here are the common DMV fees (subject to change):

• Title Fee: $56
• Registration Fee: $38.75 (passenger vehicle)
• Plate Transfer Fee (if applicable): $20
• Highway Use Tax: 3% of the vehicle’s value (up to $250 max for private sale)
• Emission/Inspection Fees: May vary based on county and vehicle age