Do ATVs Have Titles in North Carolina? Here’s What You Need to Know
Thinking about buying or selling an ATV in North Carolina? Whether it’s for trail riding, hunting, or work around the property, one question often comes up:
Do ATVs have titles in NC?
Let’s clear up the confusion and explain exactly when an ATV has a title, why it matters, and what you need to do when buying or owning one in North Carolina.
Do ATVs Have Titles in North Carolina?
Yes, ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) in North Carolina can have titles—but they are not required to be registered for road use. The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) issues titles for ATVs, and a title is strongly recommended to prove ownership and protect against theft.
However, since ATVs are not street legal in NC, registration and license plates are not issued like they are for cars, trucks, or motorcycles.
Is a Title Required for an ATV in NC?
Yes, a title is required if the ATV was purchased new from a dealer.
If you’re buying a used ATV, the seller should transfer the title to you. If the ATV doesn’t have a title, you may still be able to obtain one—but you’ll need to go through a few extra steps.
When is a title required?
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For new ATVs purchased from a licensed dealer
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For used ATVs with a previous NC or out-of-state title
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If you plan to sell or insure the ATV
When is a title not required?
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If the ATV was never titled and was purchased from a private party in a non-title state
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For older ATVs that were bought before titling became common
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If the ATV is used solely on private property
Even if it’s not legally required in some cases, having a title is always recommended for proof of ownership.
How to Title an ATV in North Carolina
If your ATV doesn’t currently have a title and you want to obtain one (which is a good idea for resale or insurance purposes), here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need:
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Bill of sale – Must include:
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Buyer and seller names
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ATV make, model, year
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Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
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Purchase date and price
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Previous title (if available)
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Valid photo ID
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Form MVR-1 – Title Application
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Form MVR-181 – Odometer Disclosure Statement (if applicable)
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Lien release (if applicable)
Step 2: Verify the VIN
If the ATV does not have a clear or valid VIN:
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You may be required to get a VIN inspection through the North Carolina License & Theft Bureau
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The inspector will check for stolen status and verify the VIN is legitimate
Step 3: Submit the Application
Bring your completed paperwork and ID to a local license plate agency or NCDMV office.
Step 4: Pay Fees
Typical fees include:
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Title fee: $56
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Highway Use Tax (HUT): 3% of purchase price
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Duplicate title (if needed): $20
You’ll receive your new title by mail once the application is processed and approved.
Do ATVs Need to Be Registered in NC?
No, ATVs do not require registration in North Carolina because they are not legal for on-road use.
That means:
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No license plate
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No annual inspection
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No registration stickers
However, you are still responsible for following ATV laws and safety regulations, including:
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Riders under 16 must be supervised
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Helmets and eye protection are required
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ATV size and age restrictions must be followed
What If You Bought an ATV Without a Title?
If the seller didn’t provide a title, here’s what you can do:
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Ask the seller to apply for a duplicate title before transferring ownership
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Use the bill of sale and apply for a bonded title through the NCDMV
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You’ll need to prove ownership and may need a surety bond
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A VIN inspection is likely required
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Avoid buying ATVs without paperwork—especially if the VIN appears altered or missing
Pro tip: Always run the VIN through a theft check or ask the local License & Theft Bureau to verify it before purchase.
Can You Insure an ATV in North Carolina?
Yes, you can—and should—insure your ATV.
Even though it’s not required by law, insurance helps protect your investment and covers:
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Theft
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Damage
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Liability (in case you injure someone or damage property)
Most insurers require a title or bill of sale to issue a policy.
Conclusion
Yes, ATVs in North Carolina can and should have titles—especially for proof of ownership and resale protection. While they don’t need to be registered or plated for road use, having a valid title makes transferring, insuring, or verifying ownership much easier.
Buying or selling an ATV? Always ask for the title and verify the VIN. And if the title is missing, you can still apply for one—just be ready for a bit of extra paperwork.
Ride safe, keep your records in order, and enjoy the trails with peace of mind.
