Here in North Carolina, the state requires annual vehicle registration. You can pay your registration fee online, in person, or by mail. However, in order to qualify for registration, your vehicle needs an up-to-date safety and emissions inspection. At Kernersville Auto Center, our experienced mechanics can inspect your vehicle and complete any repairs needed so you can stay legal on the road. Thus, you can renew registration in no time!
How to Pass the NC Vehicle Inspection
The NC vehicle safety inspection is straightforward. You can go to any licensed mechanic that performs state inspections, such as our shop, which is conveniently located in Kernersville. During the inspection, one of our experienced mechanics will go through the checklist of state requirements. We look at the following:
- Tires
- Headlights and accessory lights
- Brakes (including parking brake)
- Signals
- Windows
- Steering
- Horn
- Rearview mirrors
- Windshield wipers
- Exhaust
The state-set price for an NC vehicle inspection is $13.60 with an extra $10 fee if you have tinted windows. Additionally, you’ll need an emissions test for $30 if you live in one of the 19 counties in NC that requires this test. After we inspect your vehicle, we enter the results electronically in the NC DMV database within two hours, so you are immediately eligible for registration.
If you don’t pass, don’t worry! We can fix any issue with your vehicle, often during the same appointment. Our goal is to get you back on the road as quickly as possible, while making sure your vehicle is safe to drive. Keep in mind that the state inspection does not include things such as an engine tune-up or oil change, but we’re happy to perform these services during your appointment as well. If your vehicle is well-maintained, you won’t have to worry about any surprises during your annual inspection.
Common Reasons You Won’t Be Able to Renew Registration in NC
When it’s time for registration renewal, there are a few things that could flag your account to prevent you from registering, and thus making it illegal to drive your vehicle. A failed or expired safety inspection is one of the most common reasons you can’t register your vehicle, and we can help you with that one! However, here are a few other reasons you might not be able to register a vehicle in NC:
- No insurance coverage
- A debt to the DMV
- Failure to pay child support
- DWI conviction
- Unpaid tolls within NC
- Previous payments with a bad check (you can still register – you just have to pay in cash at a DMV location)
- A problem with the paperwork, such as the title, VIN, a lien, etc.
- The vehicle was reported stolen
- Unpaid county tax
Certain unpaid tickets or moving violation convictions can also cause the DMV to deny vehicle registration. That said, in most cases, you can clear up your inability to register a vehicle quickly by simply paying any outstanding balances and making sure you pass your safety inspection.
Keep in mind that although the DMV does give you a little leeway when your registration expires (typically 15 days when you can still legally drive it), if you register after your license plate expiration date, you’ll also have to pay a late fee of $15 – $25. It’s always better to renew your registration by the due date.
FAQs About Registration Renewal in NC
We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the safety and emissions test so you can deal with renewal quickly and easily. Here are a few FAQs about your annual inspection, as well as some more general questions about renewing your registration.
Is registration renewal the same as license renewal?
No. You’ll need to renew your driver’s license before its expiration date in order to drive any vehicle legally. Registration renewal is so a specific vehicle can be on the road.
How do I get a sticker replacement?
You’ll no longer receive a windshield sticker for your annual inspection. You will receive a registration sticker (decal) from the DMV for your license plate. If you pay in person, you’ll receive your sticker at that time. On the other hand, if you pay online or by mail, you should allow 15 days to get your new decal. The DMV can also replace your plate and sticker if it is stolen, faded, or otherwise damaged.
Do I need an appointment to renew registration at NC DMV?
You can’t make an appointment to renew registration. At NC DMV, you’ll simply need to stand in line. However, the DMV is starting a pilot program with self-service kiosks, which will soon be able to renew registration and print your card and decals on the spot. This is a great alternative to standing in line at the DMV. Currently, these kiosks are only available in Raleigh, Fayetteville, and Charlotte, but more are coming soon.
What happens if I fail my inspection?
You won’t be able to register the vehicle until it passes. Most inspection failures are for small things, like needing to replace a light, which we can handle the same day. However, if your car needs a bigger repair, you are welcome to schedule your repair with us or with another auto repair shop. You can come back to us any time within 60 days to have your vehicle re-inspected without paying the fee again.
Do I need to get my vehicle inspected when I move to NC?
You aren’t required to have your vehicle inspected until your registration is due for renewal. So, you can register right away when you move to NC, and then will need to schedule an appointment for next year.
What other services can you do at Kernersville Auto Center?
We’re your one stop shop for all vehicle maintenance and repair needs. Our mechanics are certified and experienced with almost all makes and models. You can even go through our car wash here at Kernersville Auto Center, so not only will your vehicle run well, but it will look good too! We can help with everything from brake replacement to AC repair to transmission work. Make an appointment today by scheduling online or giving us a call.
