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NCDMV: Office will reopen in Dare Co. with a new contractor on a later date

The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles’ license plate agency (LPA) in Manteo closed December 31, 2024 after the current operator’s contract ended.

The current agency, at 210 U.S. Hwy. 64 S. within Island Pharmacy in Manteo, has been operated by Rebecca Luton since 1997.  NCDMV noted it “hopes to have a new office serving Dare Co. opening soon.”

“Rebecca Luton requested release from her contract on Dec. 16 due to retirement effective 12/31/2024,” stated DMV communications manager Marty Homan. “We sent our release looking for a new operator the next day (link).”

The four closest license plate agencies, which offer service Monday through Friday except for state holidays, are:

• Columbia, 106 S. Waters St. (Tyrrell Co. Office Building), from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Engelhard, 34910 U.S. Hwy. 264 (Spencer’s Furniture Store), from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Elizabeth City, 1545 N. Road St., Suite E (Country Club Plaza), from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Moyock, 257 Caratoke Hwy. (N.C. Hwy. 168), from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

LPAs offer vehicle registration services and title transactions, as well as vehicle license plate renewals, replacement tags and duplicate registrations. Currently, 125 license plate agencies operate in North Carolina.

“People are reminded that many vehicle services can be completed online, including property tax payments and registration renewals. To get started, please visit MyNCDMV.gov,” stated a news release from NCDMV.

Regarding the closure of the Manteo office, Dare County Board of Commissioners Chairman Robert L. “Bob” Woodard Sr. released the following statement:

“The closure of the Manteo license plate agency on December 31, 2024 is a serious concern, and we understand the inconvenience this poses for our residents. While the operation and oversight of license plate agencies fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV), we want to assure you that we are fully committed to advocating for a resolution on behalf of Dare County.

“The current contractor’s retirement and the NCDMV’s facility requirements have created challenges. However, there are discussions with a potential new contractor who is interested in operating in Dare County.

“We are working diligently to expedite this process and minimize disruption in service for our community. Although Dare County does not have direct control over this situation, please know that I remain steadfast in my commitment to ensuring our residents’ needs are addressed as effectively and efficiently as possible.”

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