How North Carolina DMV Fees Are Calculated in 2026
North Carolina uses a 3% Highway Use Tax (HUT) instead of traditional sales tax on vehicle purchases. This is capped at $250 for active military. Registration includes county property tax billed annually.
Highway Use Tax — 3%
NC charges 3% of the vehicle's retail value as a one-time Highway Use Tax at registration. Unlike sales tax in other states, it is capped at a maximum of $250 for active-duty military. Private used vehicle sales use the retail value from NADA, not the purchase price.
Annual registration fees
| Vehicle Type | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Passenger vehicle | $36 |
| Electric vehicle | $136 (includes $100 EV fee) |
| Motorcycle | $25.50 |
County vehicle property tax
NC bills county property tax on your vehicle annually at the same time as registration renewal. The rate varies by county — typically 0.7%–1.1% of the vehicle's appraised value. This is why NC renewal notices can vary significantly year to year.
Title fee — $56
North Carolina charges $56 for a certificate of title for new and used vehicle purchases and ownership transfers.