North Carolina Temporary Tag Requirements & How To Get One
Here's everything you need to know about North Carolina temporary tags: state requirements, how to obtain one, how temporary tags work, and more.
If you’ve ever bought a vehicle from a dealer you’re probably familiar with temporary vehicle tags. However, you might be surprised to learn that every state is a little different when it comes to its version of temporary tags. North Carolina temporary tags are no different, and there are plenty of rules specific to the state.
Thankfully, it’s not that hard to learn what you need to know about North Carolina temporary tags, how you get them, and how you can use them.
We’ll cover the core requirements for temporary vehicle tags in North Carolina, as well as how you can get them and if you can get an extension.
What Are North Carolina Temporary Tags?
Just in case this is your first time getting temporary tags for a vehicle, let’s talk about what they are and how they’re used.
In general, a temporary tag or temporary license plate is a license that shows that you can legally operate the vehicle and it’s met state requirements, but that only lasts a short period.
In North Carolina, temporary tags can last anywhere between 10-60 days, according to FindLaw.com. Ten-day tags cost ten dollars if you’re purchasing them yourself, while temporary tags that last up to 60 days cost the same amount as licensing the vehicle would cost. All temporary tags may have additional fees in addition to the cost of the tag itself.
If you license your vehicle within the time limit of a temporary tag that lasts more than 10 days you won’t have to pay the licensing fee, since you’ve already paid the same amount for the temporary tag.
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How Do You Get A North Carolina Temporary Tag?
Most of the time when consumers need a temporary tag for their vehicle it’s because they just purchased that vehicle. In that case, the vehicle dealer will provide a temporary tag.
If you purchase your vehicle from a private seller, as long as you have the title and are able to register the vehicle immediately, you shouldn’t need a temporary tag. You’ll be able to apply for and get your license plate right away.
However, if you’re buying a vehicle you need to title, with a salvage title or any other situation, you would need to pay for a temporary tag yourself. You’ll need to visit a North Carolina DMV to get your temporary tags, and a North Carolina DMV license plate agency if you’re getting license plates for the first time on your vehicle.
The process is usually relatively simple, but you’ll need to provide your Driver’s license, North Carolina vehicle registration, proof of ownership (the Title), and proof of insurance.
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North Carolina Temporary Tag Requirements
Not every vehicle will qualify for temporary tags, and it’s important to figure out whether your vehicle qualifies before you try and get one. Especially since vehicles aren’t legal to drive without either a temporary tag or a regular license, the last thing you want is to find out that your vehicle doesn’t qualify when you need one.
The first thing you need to know is that North Carolina requires all vehicles to undergo an inspection before they can be registered or licensed. The inspection is designed to make sure the vehicle meets minimum operating requirements, will pass emissions, and that it’s compliant with all other state requirements.
Most of the time new owners don’t have to worry about inspections themselves. Your vehicle is required to be inspected before it’s sold if it’s sold by a dealer. That’s important because it means you don’t have to worry about inspection and registration if you’re getting your vehicle from a licensed dealer, but you will have to make sure the vehicle passes inspection and registration if you buy it in a private sale.
Needing an inspection is one of the most common reasons North Carolina residents will get a 10-day temporary tag instead of a regular license plate. A 10-day tag is an affordable option that gives you a little more time to arrange an inspection so that you can register and license your vehicle.
New inspections are required before your existing license expires, and will come due the same month as your registration expires, according to the North Carolina DMV.
The only exception to the inspection requirement is if you’re buying from a private individual and the vehicle has already passed inspection within the last 12 months.
You also don’t need to get your vehicle inspected if you’re moving from one county to a county with different vehicle requirements so long as its last inspection is still valid. However, you will need to get an inspection when your current registration expires, and it’s better to get the inspection before the registration expires so you don’t need to get a temporary tag.
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How Do Dealer Temporary Tags Work?
Like most states, in North Carolina dealers are required to provide new owners with a set of temporary tags so that they are legally allowed to drive their new vehicles until they can get a regular license plate.
Dealers largely have to meet the same requirements as individuals in order to get a temporary tag on the vehicle, but since they are required to provide the tag those details should already be taken care of by the time you’ve bought the vehicle.
As long as you get the official title and registration from the dealer before the temporary tag expires you should be in good shape to get a regular license plate or apply to transfer an existing license to your new vehicle.
However, you might need to get a temporary tag extension if you don’t receive the title and registration before the tag expires.
In that case, you’ll want to go to a North Carolina DMV to get the extension. Bring your license, proof of ownership (the bill of sale or other transaction records from the dealer), the existing North Carolina temporary tag, and proof of insurance on the vehicle to find out options to extend your temporary tag or license the vehicle.
North Carolina Temporary Tag Restrictions and Limitations
While North Carolina temporary tags allow you to drive your vehicle legally for a short period, there are some restrictions and limitations to keep in mind.
First, temporary tags are only valid for a specific period, usually 10 to 60 days, depending on the type of tag you obtain. It’s crucial to track your temporary tag’s expiration date and ensure you register your vehicle and get your permanent license plate before the tag expires. Driving with an expired temporary tag can result in fines and legal consequences.
Additionally, temporary tags are a short-term substitute for permanent registration and license plates. If you need to extend your temporary tag multiple times, it may be a sign of an underlying issue with your vehicle or registration process that needs to be addressed.
It’s also worth noting that temporary tags may not be recognized or valid in other states. Suppose you plan to travel out of state with your vehicle while using a temporary tag. In that case, it’s a good idea to check with the DMV or law enforcement agencies in the states you’ll visit to ensure your temporary tag will be accepted.
Finally, remember that temporary tags are not transferable between vehicles or owners. If you sell your car or purchase a new one, you must obtain a new temporary tag specific to that vehicle.
By understanding the restrictions and limitations of North Carolina temporary tags, you can avoid potential legal issues and ensure a smooth transition to permanent vehicle registration and licensing.
North Carolina Temporary Tag: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a North Carolina Temporary Tag?
A: A North Carolina Temporary Tag is a temporary license plate that allows individuals to operate their vehicles while waiting for their permanent license plates.
Q: How can I obtain a North Carolina Temporary Tag and the requirements?
A: You can obtain a North Carolina Temporary Tag from the dealership where you purchased your vehicle or from the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). To obtain a North Carolina Temporary Tag, you typically need proof of insurance, a valid driver’s license, and the vehicle’s title or bill of sale. Also, keep in mind that North Carolina requires inspection before registration or licensing.
Q: Can I drive out of state with a North Carolina Temporary Tag?
A: Yes, you can drive out of state with a North Carolina Temporary Tag. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific regulations of the states you plan to travel through.
Q: What happens if I lose my North Carolina Temporary Tag?
A: If you lose your North Carolina Temporary Tag, you should contact the NCDMV or your dealership as soon as possible to arrange for a replacement.
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