License Plate-to-Permit FAQ

How will my license plate information be used/stored?

Vehicle information is routed to secure servers and is not shared with other departments or outside agencies. Vehicle information is stored as long as the permit is valid. Information for plate scans that are in compliance will be purged at the end of day. Plate scans that are connected to a citation will purge the associated data from the server and only retain the violation on record.

What if I have more than one vehicle?

Up to six license plates may be linked to one parking authorization, but only one vehicle on campus can use the permit at a time.

What if I get a new vehicle/license plate?

It is very important that your vehicle information stays up-to-date and current. Anytime you want to add a new vehicle, be sure to log into your Pirate Port and update your information. If you have changes with your registered vehicle/license plate(s) or need to remove a vehicle, please notify the Parking Office by phone, (252) 328-6294 or email parking@ecu.edu.

What if I have a newly registered vehicle with a temporary paper plate?

Log into your Parking Account Portal and use the temporary tag number and not the expiration date. Be sure to return to the system to update your plate with the new permanent license plate number when you receive it. Contact the Parking Office with any questions.

What if I have a personalized license plate with special characters?

If you have a license plate with special symbols such as pirate, hearts, stars, etc., when entering your plate information, skip over the special symbols. No dashes are required.

Will I receive a citation if my license plate is dirty or I have a decorative cover?

As long as your plates are legal for driving, our system will be able to read them.

Will I receive a citation if I pull-through or back-in a parking space?

If you do not have a front-reading license plate, you must park with your back license plate facing out toward the aisle. This will enable the LPR program to read your plate. If you strongly desire to pull-through or back into a parking space, customers will be offered an opportunity to purchase an identifiable ECU plate through the parking office in the near future. Due to a shortage at our vendor, there will be a delay in receiving the special plates. In the meantime, you must park in a manner that allows your license plate to be read. Otherwise, you risk being ticketed.

Can I park in a parallel parking space?

Yes. As long as you park with the flow of traffic, the LPR camera should be able to read your license plate. If an error is displayed, the traffic officer can verify the plate.

Will this apply to me if I drive my motorcycle to campus?

Yes, our system will also be able to read the plates on motorcycles. Once you enter your plate into your account, your vehicle will be associated with your permit.

How do I register my vehicle if I have a special designation?

ADA Accessible: You will register for your regular zone, and contact the Parking Office to complete the ADA designation on your registration. See web page for required paperwork.
Courtesy Permit: Specific criteria must be met in order to have Courtesy Permit (CP) designation added to your registration. Annual application will be made by the employee’s supervisor before the CP designation will be made, using the Courtesy Permit Application form online.
Retiree/Emeritus: You will first complete the Retired Faculty Application online. The Parking Office will follow-up with you regarding your permit. You are not registered to park until completing this process.
Reserved Space: Current Reserved Space permit holders will be notified of the process and provide registration information.
ECU Board of Trustee: The Chancellor’s Office will provide a list of board members and their license plates for this special designation.