Personalized License Plates in North Carolina
What Are Personalized License Plates In North Carolina?
Personalized license plates in North Carolina allow vehicle owners to customize their vehicle registration plates with a unique combination of letters and numbers. These plates provide an opportunity for individuals to express their personality, interests, or affiliations through their vehicle's identification. Personalized plates can include a combination of up to eight characters, including letters, numbers, and spaces.
Are Personalized License Plate Legal In North Carolina?
Yes, personalized license plates are legal in North Carolina. The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) oversees the issuance of personalized plates, ensuring that all requests comply with state regulations. Vehicle owners must adhere to specific guidelines and restrictions when applying for personalized plates to ensure that the content is appropriate and does not violate any state laws.
How Can I Get a Personalized License Plate In North Carolina?
To obtain a personalized license plate in North Carolina, vehicle owners must follow these steps:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure that your vehicle is registered in North Carolina and that you have a valid North Carolina driver's license or ID card.
- Plate Availability: Visit the NCDMV website to check the availability of your desired plate combination. The online tool allows you to see if your preferred combination is already in use.
- Application Submission: Complete the Application for a Personalized License Plate (Form MVR-27PP). This form can be downloaded from the NCDMV website or obtained at a local NCDMV office.
- Fee Payment: Submit the completed application along with the appropriate fee to the NCDMV. Payment can be made via check or money order if submitting by mail, or by cash, check, or credit card if applying in person.
- Processing: Once the application and payment are received, the NCDMV will process the request. If approved, the personalized plate will be manufactured and mailed to the applicant.
How Much Does It Cost For a Personalized License Plate In North Carolina?
The cost for obtaining a personalized license plate in North Carolina includes several components:
- Initial Fee: $30.00 for the personalization of the plate.
- Annual Renewal Fee: $30.00 in addition to the standard vehicle registration renewal fee.
- Replacement Fee: $20.00 if the personalized plate is lost, stolen, or damaged and needs to be replaced.
These fees are subject to change, and applicants are encouraged to verify the current rates with the NCDMV.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Personalized License Plate In North Carolina?
The processing time for personalized license plates in North Carolina typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks. This timeframe includes the approval of the application, manufacturing of the plate, and delivery to the applicant. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of any deadlines or events for which they wish to use the personalized plate.
What Types Of Personalized License Plates Are Available In North Carolina?
North Carolina offers a variety of personalized license plate options, including:
- Standard Personalized Plates: Customizable with a combination of letters and numbers.
- Specialty Plates: Options include plates supporting various organizations, causes, or interests, such as universities, military branches, and charitable organizations.
- Personalized Specialty Plates: A combination of personalization and specialty design, allowing for unique customization.
Each type of plate may have specific requirements or additional fees, which can be confirmed through the NCDMV.
What Is Prohibited From Being Displayed On Personalized License Plate In North Carolina?
The NCDMV enforces strict guidelines on the content of personalized license plates to ensure appropriateness and compliance with state laws. Prohibited content includes:
- Offensive Language: Any language that is considered obscene, profane, or vulgar.
- Hate Speech: Content that promotes hate or discrimination against any group or individual.
- Misleading Content: Combinations that could be confused with official government or emergency vehicle plates.
- Trademarked Material: Use of registered trademarks or copyrighted material without permission.
Applications containing prohibited content will be denied, and applicants may be required to submit an alternative combination.
Can I Sell My Personalized License Plate In North Carolina?
In North Carolina, personalized license plates are considered the property of the state and are issued to the vehicle owner for their use. As such, they cannot be sold or transferred to another individual. If a vehicle owner no longer wishes to use their personalized plate, they must surrender it to the NCDMV. The new owner of the vehicle must apply for their own personalized plate if desired.