Procedures for new NC residents to Register/Title Vehicles

As a new resident of North Carolina, you will not be able to register your vehicle until you apply for and receive a North Carolina drivers license or North Carolina ID card. Click here for information about how to apply for a North Carolina driver's license. 

You must present a valid NC Driver License or a North Carolina Identification Card to register a vehicle in North Carolina. If there are multiple owners to be recorded on a title and only one driver is delivering the paperwork, please bring the alternate owner's valid ID/Drivers License or a copy thereof. 

To register a vehicle previously titled in another state in the same owners name:

1. Furnish the out-of-state title issued in applicant's name.
2. Complete the Title Application (MVR-1), declaring all liens, signed by all owners in the presence of a notary.
3. If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, you must declare an odometer statement reading on the Title Application.
4. The owner will be issued a plate without requiring an NC inspection. The plate will not be eligible for renewal one year later unless the vehicle has passed a NC inspection.
5. A Declaration of Eligible Risk (MVR-615) is required.
6. Proof of Insurance must be furnished.

 To register a vehicle with an out-of-state title held by a recorded lienholder: 

1. Furnish the out-of-state registration in your name.
2. Complete the Title Application (MVR-1), declaring all liens, signed by all owners in the presense of a notary.
3. If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, you must supply an odometer reading on the Title Application.
4. The owner will be issued a plate without requiring an NC inspection. The plate will not be eligible for renewal one year later unless the vehicle has passed a NC inspection.
5. A form MVR-57 will be issued and given to the registered owner to send to the lienholder. That form will authorize the lienholder to release the title to the DMV. Upon receipt of the out-of-state title, a North Carolina title will be issued and mailed to the lienholder.
6. Proof of Insurance must be furnished.