Transportation
Charlotte Transit – Charmeck.org/departments/CATS – There is a regular bus service Monday through Sunday from UNC Charlotte to various destinations in Charlotte. Bus schedules are available in ISSO.
Automobiles
Purchasing a Car – When buying an automobile, you must receive the Certificate of Title and Bill of Sale. You cannot register a car without these papers. When selling an automobile these papers will be given to the buyer by you.
Vehicle Registration – The State of North Carolina requires all automobiles, motorcycles, and other motor vehicles be registered in North Carolina and insured in North Carolina at the time of purchase or transfer of title. Written proof of ownership is required to obtain the license plate. To register your car you will need to present the following to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) registration office: title, registration card, and proof of insurance. Registration and license plates are available at 4612 Hwy 49 in Harrisburg, telephone number 704‑455‑9517.
Driver’s License – http://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/driver/
The operation of an automobile without a valid driver’s license is illegal and punishable by a fine and / or jail sentence. An international driver’s license (which is valid for 30 days) and a valid license from your home country are acceptable. However, it is recommended that you obtain a North Carolina driver’s license.
To obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina you must:
- Present the following personal identification documents having the exact same spelling of your last name: passport, official letter from the university which provides the necessary information, and proof of residence.
- Pass a written test
- Pass a road (driving) test and a vision test
- Provide proof of car insurance. If you do not intend to have your own car, ask to sign the waiver form freeing you of the insurance obligation
- Pay a fee of $4/year (duration is usually 5 or 8 years)
Driver’s License Office Location
- Highway 29 near University Place, Charlotte 704‑547‑5786
- 2192 Kannapolis Highway, Concord 704‑782‑7214
- 6016 Brookshire Blvd. Charlotte 704‑392‑3266
Automobile Insurance
An operator of an automobile in an accident may be responsible to pay for any injuries and damage. If you own an automobile, it is required that you obtain liability insurance. For a listing of insurance companies, see the yellow pages in the telephone directory.
Vehicle Safety / Accidents
All drivers and passengers in motor vehicles are required by law to wear seat belts at all times. If stopped by a police officer while not wearing a seat belt you are subject to a $100.00 fine for the first offense.
In addition, all young children must be properly restrained using a special car seat or booster seat placed in the back seat of the automobile. The required seats needed are determined by the child’s age, height and weight.
It is illegal to have an open container of alcohol in the car.
An operator involved in any accident should seek skilled advice at once. At the time of the accident, someone should be asked to telephone for police assistance. The police will arrange for tow trucks and ambulances if needed. At the very least, the police will require you to fill out a written report within five days following the accident. Do not leave the scene of an accident until allowed to do so by the police officer. Notify your insurance company immediately.