North Carolina DMV Services

📄 1. Required Documents

🆕 A. Proof of Ownership

New Vehicle

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) — provided by the dealer.

Used Vehicle

• Signed title from the prior owner.
• If the vehicle was titled in another state, present the out‑of‑state title.

📄 D. Insurance Proof

• Acceptable North Carolina auto liability insurance showing:
  • Your name
  • Policy number
  • Effective dates
• Insurance must be active at time of titling/registration.

🪪 E. Identification

• Valid driver’s license or government‑issued ID (North Carolina or acceptable out‑of‑state).

💰 2. Taxes

• Highway Use Tax (HUT): 3% of the vehicle’s purchase price or NADA value, whichever is higher.
• Reciprocal with CA but will need a letter from CDTFA
• If lease paid monthly
• Property tax is paid after title and registration completes and it is billed directly to customer

🕒3. Deadlines

• Title and register the vehicle within 28 days of purchase to avoid late fees.
• If you are a new resident, you must title and register within 60 days of establishing residency.

🧾 Quick Checklist 

✔ Vehicle title or MCO
✔ Copy of contract
✔ Original Odometer disclosure
✔ Proof of NC auto insurance
✔ Copy of Driver’s License or EIN/FEIN number
✔ Bill of sale or Purchase order
✔ Vehicle color
✔ Power of Attorney
✔ Fees
✔ Copy of Insurance