Renewing your North Carolina car registration doesn’t have to be a chore. The NC Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) offers multiple convenient options to keep your vehicle legally on the road. Whether you prefer to handle things online, in person, or by mail, understanding the process for Nc Car Registration renewal is straightforward.
Convenient Ways to Renew Your NC Car Registration
North Carolina provides several methods to renew your vehicle registration, making it easy to choose the option that best fits your needs.
Renew Online
The NCDMV’s online renewal service is a popular choice for its speed and convenience. Using the online platform, you can complete your NC car registration renewal from anywhere with internet access. You’ll need your vehicle’s license plate number and the last five digits of your vehicle title number, both of which can be found on your renewal notice or previous registration card. The NCDMV uses a service called PayIt for online transactions, which includes a small fee of $3 per transaction and a 1.85 percent card processing fee. While there are fees associated with online renewal, this platform allows you to manage multiple DMV transactions in one visit.
Self-Service Kiosks
For those who prefer an in-person experience but want to avoid long lines, self-service kiosks are an excellent option. NCDMV is currently piloting self-service kiosks at select Harris Teeter grocery store locations. These kiosks offer a quick and easy way to renew your NC car registration, as well as handle vehicle replacements. This option combines the ease of self-service with the convenience of a familiar location.
Mail-in Renewal
If you receive a renewal notice in the mail, you can renew your NC car registration by simply mailing back the notice along with your payment. About 60 days before your registration expires, NCDMV mails a renewal notice that includes your renewal fee and any vehicle property taxes due. This traditional method is reliable and easy to follow using the instructions on the notice.
License Plate Agencies
For in-person service, you can visit an NCDMV license plate agency. These agencies provide a range of services, including NC car registration renewals. This option is ideal if you have questions or prefer to speak with a representative directly. You can find a local license plate agency to process your renewal in person.
Essential Requirements for NC Car Registration Renewal
Before you renew your NC car registration, ensure you meet the necessary requirements:
Vehicle Inspection
North Carolina law requires vehicles to undergo a safety and/or emissions inspection no more than 90 days before the license plate expiration date. Make sure your vehicle passes inspection before attempting to renew your registration. Some vehicles may qualify for inspection waivers.
Continuous Liability Insurance
Maintaining continuous North Carolina liability insurance is mandatory for vehicle registration renewal. Ensure your insurance coverage is current and active to avoid any issues during the NC car registration renewal process.
Registration Blocks
Be aware of potential registration stops or “blocks” that might prevent you from renewing your vehicle registration. These blocks can be due to various reasons, and it’s important to resolve any blocks before attempting renewal.
Understanding Taxes and Fees
North Carolina’s Tag & Tax Together program combines vehicle registration fees and vehicle property taxes into a single annual payment. This means when you renew your NC car registration, you’ll also pay your vehicle property taxes. For questions about vehicle tax values or appeals, contact the tax assessor in the county where your vehicle is registered. Remember that online renewals via PayIt involve convenience fees which do not benefit the State of North Carolina.
What if You Lost Your Renewal Notice?
Don’t worry if you’ve misplaced or haven’t received your renewal notice. It’s not required to renew your NC car registration. You can still renew online, at a kiosk, or at a license plate agency using your license plate number and insurance information. If you wish to request a duplicate notice, you can contact NCDMV.
Important Note: License Plate Replacement Program Suspension
Due to an aluminum shortage, NCDMV has temporarily suspended its program for replacing license plates older than six years. This measure ensures enough materials are available for first-time license plates.
Renewing your NC car registration is designed to be as convenient as possible. By understanding the available methods and requirements, you can ensure a smooth and efficient renewal process, keeping you legally driving in North Carolina.
