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When you buy a car in North Carolina, getting it registered is a key step before hitting the road. But do you need insurance to register your car in North Carolina? The answer is yes—North Carolina requires proof of auto insurance to complete the registration process. This blog will cover the insurance requirements, why they’re essential, and what to expect at the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV).
What Insurance Is Required to Register a Car in North Carolina?
North Carolina requires all registered vehicles to have liability insurance coverage. This coverage must be obtained from an insurer licensed to operate in the state. Liability insurance protects you financially if you’re at fault in an accident, covering the costs associated with property damage and bodily injury to others.
Minimum Liability Coverage Requirements
To register a vehicle in North Carolina, your insurance must meet the state’s minimum coverage limits:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
In addition, North Carolina law mandates uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage helps protect you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance.
Steps to Register Your Car with Proof of Insurance
Registering your car with the NCDMV requires a few documents, including proof of insurance. Here’s what you need to complete the process:
- Proof of Insurance: Show your insurance card or policy document indicating at least the minimum coverage.
- Vehicle Title: Provide the title as proof of ownership.
- Driver’s License or ID: Your North Carolina driver’s license or an ID issued by the state.
- Completed Forms: Submit a vehicle registration application and other required forms (available on the NCDMV website).
- Payment: Be prepared to pay registration fees and any applicable taxes.
After submitting these documents and paying the fees, the NCDMV will issue your license plates and registration.
Why North Carolina Requires Insurance for Registration
North Carolina mandates insurance for all registered vehicles to protect drivers and ensure that any damages from accidents can be covered. The state's “continuous coverage” law also means you must keep insurance on any registered vehicle at all times.
Penalties for Lapses: If your insurance lapses, the NCDMV can suspend your vehicle’s registration, issue fines, or even revoke your driver’s license. Your insurance company will notify the NCDMV if your policy is canceled, so it’s crucial to maintain coverage consistently.
FAQs
Can I Register a Car Without Insurance?
No, North Carolina does not allow car registration without insurance. You must show proof of insurance when registering.
How Soon Do I Need to Register My Car After Moving to North Carolina?
You have 30 days to register your vehicle after establishing residency. During this time, you’ll also need to get North Carolina car insurance to meet state requirements.
What Happens If My Insurance Lapses?
If your insurance lapses, the NCDMV will send a termination notification. You have 10 days to respond and restore coverage to avoid penalties, fines, or suspension of your registration.
Maintaining Continuous Coverage
Maintaining your insurance coverage not only meets the requirements for registration but also helps protect you financially in the event of an accident. To ensure uninterrupted coverage:
- Set up automatic payments to avoid missed payments.
- Shop for competitive quotes if premiums increase significantly, but make sure there’s no gap between policies.
- Regularly review your policy to ensure it meets North Carolina’s minimum coverage requirements.
Conclusion
In North Carolina, proof of insurance is a critical step in the vehicle registration process. By securing the required liability insurance coverage, you’ll be able to register your car smoothly and legally. If you’re new to the state or purchasing a new vehicle, reach out to an insurance provider to set up a policy that meets North Carolina’s requirements.
Ready to get started with North Carolina car insurance? Contact us today to get a quote and ensure your vehicle is covered!
