05/07/2020
***WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW SB407***
Here are some answers to questions regarding the recent bills passed in relation to DMV operations.
Q: What vehicle credentials are being extended due to SB407?
• Handicapped placard
• Vehicle registration
• Temporary vehicle registrations, including temporary tags and Limited Registration Plates (LRPs)
• Dealer license plate
• Transporter plate
• Loaner/Dealer "LD" plate
• Vehicle inspection authorization
• Inspection station license
• Inspection mechanic license
• Transportation network company permit
• Motor vehicle dealer license
• Sales representative license
• Manufacturer license
• Distributor license
• Wholesaler license
Q: What months of vehicle registration does this apply to?
A: This applies to license plates that expire in the months of March through July.
March expiration now expires on August 31st - Interest starts on September 16th, penalty starts on September 1st.
April expiration now expires on September 30th - Interest starts on October 16th, penalty starts on October 1st.
May expiration now expires on October 31st - Interest starts on November 16th, penalty starts on November 1st.
June expiration now expires on November 30th - Interest starts on December 16th, penalty starts on December 1st.
July expiration now expires on December 31st - Interest starts on January 16th, penalty starts on January 1st.
Q: Why are the extensions being given?
A: Due to the hardships that COVID 19 has caused on the citizens of NC.
Q: If I paid late fees already, can I get a refund?
A: Yes, the Division will identify those that have paid fines, fees, or penalties due to late renewals and will send a refund check or credit the credit card that paid the fees.
Q: Do I have to my vehicle inspected?
A: Yes. If your vehicle required inspection to renew, it must still be inspected.
Q: How will Law Enforcement know that my license plate is still valid?
A: The Division will notify Law Enforcement electronically.
Q: Will I be sent a new registration card showing a new expiration date?
A: No. The expiration date will remain the same as it currently is. The information concerning the extension will be on the DMV website and sent to Law Enforcement electronically. It will also be sent out via social and new media outlets.
Q: Do I need to do anything special?
A: No. You will just need to renew your registration by the end of the 5th month.
Q: Will my plate now expire in a new month?
A: No. Although the payment date is being extended your expiration month will remain the same.
Q: Will my expiration month change?
A: No. Although the payment date is being extended your expiration month will remain the same.
Q: Will my month (date) of operation change?
A: No. Although the payment date is being extended your expiration month will remain the same.
Q: Will my renewal be valid for a year from the time I renew it?
A: No. Your registration will still need to be renewed at the original registration date in 2021.
Q: Can I renew now, but delay paying the property taxes?
A: No. All fees are due at the time of renewal.
Q: Will my insurance penalty be waived?
A: No. Insurance penalties will not be waived if you have had a lapse of insurance while your plate was valid.
Q: Will the time frame to pay my insurance lapse be extended?
A: No.
Q: If I pay late after the five month extension will the five months of interest and penalty accrue on my bill?
A: No. Interest and late fees will only start accruing at the normal rate on the first day of the six month from the original expiration date.
Q: Can letters be written for those who received citations for expired registration and license out-of-state?
A: Yes. The Division can produce a document that shows your plate was valid if it fell within the dates listed in the law.
Q: Will I receive anything in writing reminding me to renew by the 5th month?
A: No.
Q: If I forget to renew by the 5th month because I didn't get a reminder, will you waive the late fees and interest?
A: No. If you do not renew by the end of the 5th month, late fees and interest will be charged.
Q: Will I be charged interest on my property tax?
A: No, it will follow the same guidelines as the registration in regards to penalty and interest
Q: Will I be able to use an expired NC DL or NC ID to buy and title a vehicle?
A: Yes, NC DL/NC ID that expired March 1, 2020 - July 31, 2020 are acceptable.
