North Carolina Vehicle Registration & DMV Fees (2026)
Everything you need to know about registering a vehicle in North Carolina: fees, sales tax, emissions testing, and EV surcharges. Updated 2026-07.
Registration Fee
$38.75 annual
Title Fee
$56
Sales Tax on Vehicles
3% Highway Use Tax (in lieu of sales tax on vehicles)
EV Surcharge
$180 annual EV fee (2024)
Emissions Testing in North Carolina
Required
Annual OBDII emissions inspection required in 19 counties.
Important Notes
3% Highway Use Tax at purchase in lieu of sales tax. Annual Vehicle Property Tax also applies.
Authoritative source: North Carolina DMV / Motor Vehicle Division . Fees change annually — always verify with the DMV before budgeting.