North Carolina Car Registration Fees
Typical North Carolina car registration costs about $40 a year. See what affects the fee and the other taxes you'll pay when buying a car.
North Carolina (NC)
~$40/yr
typical yearly registration for a mid-priced car
Average across states
$156/yr
Rank (highest = #1)
#46 of 51
Buying a $30,000 car in North Carolina
Sales tax (~3%)
$900
Registration / yr
~$40
Insurance / mo
$158
Loan payment*
$552/mo
*$3,000 down, 7% APR, 60 months, tax rolled into the loan.
North Carolina charges a 3% Highway Use Tax instead of sales tax.
These are estimates for planning. Rates and fees change and vary by county and vehicle — confirm with your state motor vehicle agency.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a car in North Carolina?
Typically around $40 a year for a mid-priced car. North Carolina charges a 3% Highway Use Tax instead of sales tax.
What else do I pay when buying a car in North Carolina?
Sales tax of about 3%, plus title and plate fees. On a $30,000 car that's roughly $900 in tax.
Where can I find the exact fee?
Your state's DMV or motor vehicle agency publishes current fees and often has an online fee calculator.
More for North Carolina
Car Registration Fees in other states
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