Vehicle titling - North Carolina

Before a vehicle can be registered within North Carolina, the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires a title, which serves as proper proof of ownership.

To obtain a title, the first step is to meet the requirements and provide the proper documentation. This includes:

• A valid North Carolina drivers license or identification (some exceptions for non-residents apply);
• Notarized signatures, if applicable;
• Proof of paid property taxes for the vehicle;
• Bill of sale;
• Title application;
• Odometer reading or disclosure statement;
• The original title;
• Damage disclosure statement, if applicable; and
• Proof of liability insurance.

Other relevant information includes:

• The vehicle and/or title may be subject to state or local use tax,
• North Carolina allows credit for tax paid to another state,
• The DMV offers an expedited titling service for an additional fee, and
• Annual safety inspections are required.

Agency: North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles.

Fees: There are fees associated with titling a vehicle within North Carolina, including a $56 fee for a certificate of title and $105.75 fee for instant titles (though additional fees may apply). The highway-use tax is 3 percent of the vehicle value.

For information about titling and registration services at J. J. Keller, contact us at 800-558-5011 Ext.8218.