North Carolina’s Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) enforces several regulations regarding vehicle license plates. If you still believe you need a front and rear license plate, read the following guide to get up to date with the rules. (The two-plate rule changed back in 1956).
License Plate Registration and Renewal
Now that you know you only need one license plate (rear), you also need to know how to register and renew your plate.
If you register a vehicle for the first time, you can do so in person at an NCDMV office or use the website. You will need to produce the following documents:
- Valid identification card or driver’s license (North Carolina license)
- Vehicle title or manufacturer’s certificate of origin if you have a new vehicle
- Proof of insurance from a provider licensed in the state
- A completed Title Application (MVR-1) form
- Payment for registration fees and taxes
Renewal Process
You must renew your plate every year. You will get a renewal notice in the mail or via email. You can renew your plates by:
- Visiting the NCDMV website
- Going to the DMV office
- Finding a self-service kiosk
If your renewal is late, you may get a penalty. You can also get a fine if you are stopped driving with an expired plate.
License Plate Display Requirements
North Carolina law requires you to fix your license plate to the rear of your car. You don’t need a front plate, as mentioned. However, you need a front plate to drive a government or commercial vehicle.
Generally speaking, your license plate must be securely attached and visible. The registration sticker should be fixed to the right area on the plate. You are not permitted to add a frame to your plate or use materials that will obscure any part of the plate.
You could get a fine or citation if you do not follow these rules and are stopped on the road.
Specialty and Personalized Plates
North Carolina allows you to have specialty or personalized plates. If you want a specialty plate, it should fall into a specific category. Some popular categories include collegiate plates (for in-state universities) and military or veteran plates.
Drivers who run nonprofits or have special interests can also apply for specialty plates. If you are a wildlife or conservation enthusiast, there are specialty plates you can choose from as well.
Remember that each plate has additional fees, which may help fund the related organizations.
If you want a personalized plate, you must follow a different set of rules. Personalized plates can only include up to eight characters, including spaces. You cannot add inappropriate abbreviations, words, or phrases to your plate. This is also why the NCDMV must approve your plate before it is issued.
A personalized plate will also cost you more; you must renew it annually.
Temporary Tags
If you buy or transfer a new car, you need a temporary tag while you wait for your plate to be issued. A temporary tag is valid for 10 to 60 days, which gives you enough time for permanent registration.
Your temporary plate must be displayed in the right location (usually the car’s rear). You should not alter any part of the temporary plate or tamper with it in any way. If the temporary tag expires, you cannot use it while driving on a public road.
If you buy a car from a dealership, they may provide temporary plates. You must get your plate from the NCDMV if you are a private buyer.
Lost or Stolen Plates
If your NC license plate is lost or stolen, you must request a replacement from the NCDMV. You can file a police report for a stolen plate (this is not mandatory). You must submit a completed Application for a Replacement Plate (MVR-18) form. There is a fee payable when you have your plate replaced.
You will likely receive a temporary tag while the NCDMV processes your replacement.
License Plate Surrender and Transfer
If you sell your car and no longer need your plate, you must surrender it to the NCDMV. This process ensures that your liability insurance is canceled, and you cannot receive penalties for plate violations.
If you get a new car and want to transfer your plate from your old car, you must provide proof of insurance for the new vehicle. You must title and register the new car and pay a plate transfer fee.
Additional Vehicle Registration Rules
Your car should be inspected before you renew your registration each year. The requirements of this inspection will vary based on your location and the type of vehicle you have.
In North Carolina, 19 counties require emissions inspections as part of an overall vehicle inspection. This ensures that vehicles comply with federal air quality standards.
Some vehicles are exempt from emissions testing. These include:
- Cars less than three model years old and fewer than 70,000 miles on the clock
- Diesel-powered vehicles
- Vehicles that are 20 or more years old
Regarding the safety inspection part, an inspector will check several components of your vehicle (if you drive a non-exempt car). These components include brakes, tires, signals, mirrors, lights, wipers, etc. The inspection must be done at an approved station before renewing your registration.
Fees and Taxes
License plate fees also vary based on vehicle weight and type. The fees for 2025 are:
- Standard plate: $46.25
- Personalized plate: $30 extra per year
- Specialty plate: These fees vary by type
- Emissions and safety inspection: $30 (varies by county)
North Carolina also charges a Highway Use Tax when you register a vehicle. The cost is typically 3% of the vehicle’s value.
It Is Crucial to Stick to License Plate Rules in NC
You may be fined or penalized if you don’t comply with license plate regulations. Common violations include driving with an expired registration or obscuring a license plate. You will also experience legal consequences if you use unauthorized or fraudulent plates.
If you are a vehicle owner in NC, staying on top of all license plate and registration rules is important. This will help you avoid legal problems and stay compliant throughout the year.
