What you need to bring to the DMV

North Carolina requires you to bring five things to get your driver's license: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of North Carolina residency, a completed process form, and payment. You do not need to bring all five as separate documents — some documents count for more than one requirement.

For proof of identity, bring a valid passport, military ID, or state ID. If you do not have any of these, a certified birth certificate works. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and current address. The process form is the DL 44, which you can fill out before you arrive or at the DMV office itself.

The fee for a standard driver's license is $20 for an eight-year license. Payment is cash, check, or card — call ahead to confirm your local office accepts the payment method you plan to use.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring proof of identity (passport, military ID, or birth certificate), proof of Social Security number (card or tax form), and proof of residency (utility bill or lease from the last 60 days).
  • Fill out form DL 44 before you go or at the DMV office, and bring $20 in cash, check, or card.
  • You will take a written test on road rules, a vision test, and a driving test on the same day or at a follow-up appointment depending on your local office.
  • The written test covers North Carolina traffic laws and safe driving; you need an 80 percent score to pass.
  • Schedule your appointment online through the North Carolina DMV website or call your local office, as walk-ins may have long waits.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 25 questions about North Carolina traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 20 out of 25 (80 percent) to pass. The test is on a computer at the DMV office, and you can take it the same day as your appointment.

Study materials are free: the North Carolina DMV publishes the North Carolina Driver's Handbook online as a PDF, and the DMV website also has a practice test. Many people study the handbook for a few days before their appointment. If you fail, you can retake the written test the same day at most offices, though some require you to wait a day or two before your second attempt.

Vision and driving tests

After you pass the written test, you take a vision screening at the DMV. This checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them — you will be tested with them on.

The driving test happens either the same day as your written test or at a separate appointment, depending on how busy your local DMV office is. During the driving test, a DMV examiner sits in the car with you and watches you perform basic maneuvers: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. The test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and covers public roads near the DMV office. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you fail the driving test, you can schedule another attempt, usually within a few days.

Scheduling your appointment

Go to the North Carolina DMV website and select "Schedule an Appointment" to book a time at your nearest office. You will need to enter your zip code to find local offices and see available times. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, especially in urban areas, so book as soon as you know you are ready.

If you cannot book online or prefer to call, phone your local DMV office directly. The DMV website lists phone numbers for all regional offices. When you call, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices but often have waits of several hours, so an appointment is faster.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass all three tests, the DMV prints your license on the spot or mails it to you within 5 to 10 business days, depending on your office. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while you wait for the card. Your North Carolina driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued.

If you fail the driving test, you do not need to retake the written or vision tests — only the driving portion. Most offices let you schedule a retest within a few days. There is no additional fee for retesting.

Documents you cannot use

Some documents do not count toward the five requirements, even though people often bring them. A school ID does not count as proof of identity. A cell phone bill does not count as proof of residency because it does not show a physical address. A pay stub counts as proof of residency only if it shows your name and current address.

If you are unsure whether a document will work, call your local DMV office before your appointment — they can tell you in one call whether to bring it. This saves you a trip back home if something is missing.

If you have a criminal record or suspended license

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from getting a driver's license. However, certain convictions — particularly felony drug convictions or convictions for driving under the influence — may result in a suspension or revocation. If your license was suspended or revoked, you must complete the reinstatement process before you can get a new license. Contact your local DMV office to find out whether your record affects your status.

If you are unsure whether you can get a license, call the DMV before you schedule an appointment. They can tell you whether you need to complete any additional steps first. This conversation takes a few minutes and prevents wasted time at the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the driving test in a borrowed car?

Yes. The car must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition, but it does not have to be yours. Make sure the owner is comfortable with you using it for the test, and bring proof of insurance and registration in the car.

What if I fail the driving test?

You retake only the driving test, not the written or vision tests. Most offices let you schedule another attempt within a few days. There is no extra fee. You can usually take it the same week if spots are open.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a driver's license?

Yes. North Carolina requires proof of your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration to explore for one before you go to the DMV.

How long does the whole process take on the day of my appointment?

Plan for two to three hours from arrival to finish. This includes paperwork, the written test, vision screening, and the driving test if your office does it the same day. Some offices split the driving test into a separate appointment, which means your first visit takes about one hour.

What if I move after I get my license?

You do not have to update your address when ready, but you should do so within 60 days. Go to any DMV office with proof of your new address and your current license. There is no fee for an address change.