North carolina drivers license plate renewal

Your North Carolina license plate must have a validation sticker to show that your registration is up to date. The NC DMV offers several types specialty license plates, including personalized tags and organizational plates. Learn more about your NC license plate choices on our Types of Special Plates page, and get detailed application information on our Special Plates Application page. For more information, including how to apply, see our Disability Placards and Plates page.

Temporary tags for newly purchased vehicles are available from your vehicle dealer. You are required to renew your license plate by renewing your registration.

You should receive a reminder by mail. Before you renew , your vehicle must pass an inspection. You can have it inspected no more than 90 days before your tag expires. You can replace a license plate or expiration decal that has been stolen, lost, or damaged:.

However, filing a report can help in cases of fraud, identity theft, or misuse of your tags. You can transfer license plates from your previous vehicle to your new vehicle as long as:.

You MUST receive a proof of surrender if you wish to apply for a refund of your property tax paid on the vehicle see below. If you sell your vehicle or move out of state, you may be eligible for the property tax portion of your registration fees that you paid on the vehicle. The license plate fees below DO NOT cover additional services that may be required when you register a vehicle, such as title fees, inspection fees, or other charges.

A personalized license plate is one of the best ways to add flair and personality to your vehicle. With a personalized license plate, you can make your car uniquely you - by sharing a meaningful sentiment, supporting your favorite college team, or simply showcasing your name or initials. In North Carolina, you can purchase a distinct license plate design, as well as create a custom license plate message. Between a design and a message, you can come up with a license plate that is truly you, and that puts some of your personality on the front and back of your car.

Step 1: Go to the North Carolina license plate page. If you have any confusion or questions about the personalized license plate process as you follow the steps in this article, you can return to the above page to get the answers. Scroll through the dozens of license plate design options, and click on the one that you would like for your vehicle. Note : Not all plates are available to purchase online, because they require verification.

If the plate you choose says it cannot be purchased online, visit your local Division of Motor Vehicles. To continue to drive legally in North Carolina, you must renew your driver's license before it expires. For information about other types of driver's licenses or permits in NC, please refer to any of our following pages:. As of October 1, , only the REAL ID will function as federal identification for domestic travel and entry into federal and military buildings —a standard license will not after this date.

You have the choice to obtain a non-compliant license or upgrade to a REAL ID license upon renewal—we'll walk you through the requirements below. However, you can renew your driver's license up to days before its expiration date.

While you are not required to have the card with you when you renew in person at a NC DOT driver's license office, it may prove to be helpful. If you've misplaced your NC driver's license that is close to expiring, you may be able to renew it instead of applying for a replacement. To verify, contact your local NC driver's license office. For additional details about how to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's licenses, please read our page about Replacing a Lost License. You'll only need to bring these items once.

In North Carolina, the Division of Motor Vehicles DMV is in charge of all things driving-related, from the personal paperwork you need to hit the road to the documents that keep your vehicle street-legal. Find the nearest DMV office to you by clicking on your county below or entering your zip code above. Before finding your local DMV office, make sure the trip will be worth it!

The NC Division of Motor Vehicles offers a number of online services , so you may be able to complete your task without ever leaving home! However, there are some tasks that simply require a visit in person.

See if yours allows you to make an appointment —this will save you a lot of time waiting in line. Bryson City. Camp Lejuene. Elizabeth City. Forest City. The license plate fees below DO NOT cover additional services that may be required when you register a vehicle, such as title fees, inspection fees, or other charges.

Replace License Plates or Stickers You can replace a license plate or expiration decal that has been stolen, lost, or damaged: In person. By mail only if you are outside of North Carolina. Proof of your car insurance , such as your insurance card. NOTE: Fees are higher for multiple signatures. You can show proof of liability insurance.

An insurance card that inclides the policy number, issue and expiration dates and your name. Form FS-1 from your insurance agent. NC vehicle insurance policy. An insurance binder. Vehicle has a current inspection. Sell, trade, or donate your vehicle without transferring the license plate. Property Tax Refunds If you sell your vehicle or move out of state, you may be eligible for the property tax portion of your registration fees that you paid on the vehicle.