How much does it cost to register an out-of-state car in North Carolina?
Robert Guerrero
Updated on March 24, 2026
Vehicle Registration Fees, Insurance, and Other Costs by State for 2021
| State | Registration Fee | Title Fee |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $38.75 | $56 |
| North Dakota | $49-$274 based on age and weight | $5 |
| Ohio | $31 | $15 |
| Oklahoma | $96 for a new registration; decrease over time | $11 plus $17 transfer fee |
Likewise, people ask, how much does it cost to register your vehicle in the state of North Carolina?
Vehicle Registration Fee:
The state fee to renew a Private Passenger vehicle is $38.75. If you are renewing your Motorcycle the state fee is $25.50 and Trailers or Semi-Trailers are $27.00. Private Truck fees are determined by weight. For a Private Truck under 4,000 pounds, a renewal is $38.75.
One may also ask, how much does it cost to transfer a car to North Carolina? Right about now, you're probably wondering asking yourself “how much does it cost to transfer a car title?†The NC DMV charges $52 to issue a title, along with a three-percent Highway Use Tax.
Similarly one may ask, how do I register an out-of-state vehicle in NC?
The North Carolina Department of Transportation provides guidelines for out-of-state purchases. If you buy a car in another state and apply for a North Carolina title within 90 days, then the county will apply a credit to your Highway Use Tax.
What is needed to register a vehicle in NC?
Vehicle Registration in North Carolina
- Your North Carolina drivers license.
- Proof of car insurance.
- A notarized vehicle title.
- A Title Application form, completed by all owners of the vehicle.
- A Declaration of Eligible Risk, also completed by all owners of the vehicle.
- A license plate fee, plus any extra taxes.
Related Question Answers
How much does it cost to title and register a car in North Carolina?
Vehicle Registration Fees, Insurance, and Other Costs by State for 2021| State | Registration Fee | Title Fee |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $38.75 | $56 |
| North Dakota | $49-$274 based on age and weight | $5 |
| Ohio | $31 | $15 |
| Oklahoma | $96 for a new registration; decrease over time | $11 plus $17 transfer fee |
Is there a grace period for expired tags in N.C. 2020?
Registration Renewal Late FeesAlthough an individual can legally operate their vehicle up to 15 days after their registration expires ("valid through" date), the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicle charges a late fee up to $25 on all registration renewals paid after the license plate's expiration date.
Do I need to get my car inspected before I get it registered in NC?
Will my vehicle need to be inspected before I obtain my North Carolina license plate? ​You will be allowed to register the vehicle without an inspection. When your next annual registration renewal is due, you must have the vehicle inspected to renew your registration.How much is a car inspection in NC?
North Carolina state vehicle inspection fees are $13.60. Emissions inspection fees, which include vehicle inspections, cost $30.00. Your vehicle must pass inspection before its registration can be renewed. You must have your vehicle inspected no more than 90 days before your plate expires.Can you register a car in NC without a title?
​Before a vehicle can be registered in North Carolina, the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles requires a title, which serves as proper proof of ownership.What documents are needed for car registration?
Documents required for Vehicle Registration Certificate- Valid Identity Proof.
- Purchase Invoice of the Vehicle.
- Copy of Vehicle Insurance.
- PAN Card copy.
- Temporary registration issued by the dealer.
- Registration fees receipt.
- Form 20.
- Form 22, Form 22- A i.e. roadworthiness certificate issued by the manufacturer.
How do I transfer a car title from one state to another?
In order to do this, the vehicle owner must first submit a title release form to their lien holder. The lien holder will then mail the title to the applicant's new state DMV. After the title is received, the DMV will communicate with the applicant, and guide them through next steps.Do I have to retake my driving test if I move to North Carolina?
New residents in NC applying for a Class C (general driver's license) must take a knowledge test, vision test, and a traffic signs recognition test. The driving skills test is generally waived, however, if an examiner deems it necessary it will be required.Do both parties need to be present for a title transfer in NC?
A title transfer is simple with both parties are present, and paperwork ready. The transfer should happen within 28-days of the sale else you'll pay a late fee.Do you have to get your car inspected before its registered?
There's a good chance your vehicle will probably need to have at least one inspection done before you can register it in your name. In most states, you'll need to have your car tested for emissions levels.How long does it take to get license plates from dealer?
You will receive your plates in the mail in 2-3 weeks. Some dealerships, however, require that you make the trip. If you are buying a used car from a private seller, you will almost always have to wait in line at the DMV and pay several hundred dollars to get the vehicle transferred and registered.How do you transfer car registration?
Buyers must present the following documents to their local RTO to complete their transfer of vehicle registration.- 2 copies of Form 29.
- Notice of ownership transfer.
- Original RC.
- Copy of valid car insurance policy.
- Copy of PUC.
- Address proof.
- Copy of PAN card.
- Original Clearance Certificate.
Can I drive in North Carolina with an out-of-state license?
Residents from other states or countries may operate vehicles in North Carolina using their drivers licenses. A learners permit from another state is valid in North Carolina, but only if the driver is age sixteen or older.Can I drive a car I just bought home without plates in NC?
Yes, you can drive a new car home without plates in North Carolina within 3 days before registration. After registration, however, you need the 10-day temporary tag in North Carolina to drive without license plates and it is valid for 10 days.Can you gift a car in North Carolina?
​​An individual buying, selling, gifting or donating a vehicle must transfer ownership of it via a title transfer.What is needed for title transfer?
What Do I Need To Transfer A Car Title?- Completed Title Transfer Application Form, signed by you and possibly notarized.
- Proof of Car Insurance Coverage.
- Insurance Policy Documents with Name and Date.
- All Vehicle Documents from Seller, Like the title and possibly a Bill of Sale.
- Driver's License or Government Issued ID.
