What you need to bring to the DMV

North Carolina requires you to bring six specific documents when you explore for your first driver's license. You will need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of North Carolina residency, and proof of your legal name. The state also requires a completed process form and payment for the license fee.

For proof of identity, bring a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, or a military ID. For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. For residency, bring a utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Your name proof can be the same document as your identity proof — a birth certificate works for both.

You do not need to bring all six documents if some overlap. A passport, for example, covers both identity and name. A utility bill covers residency. The key is having at least one document in each category. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles office in person to get your first driver's license; there is no online option for new applicants.
  • Bring proof of identity, Social Security number, residency, and legal name — a passport and utility bill can cover multiple categories.
  • You will take a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving test on the same day or across multiple visits, depending on the office.
  • The license fee varies by age and license type, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at most offices.
  • Your first North Carolina license is valid for eight years if you are 18 or older, or until age 21 if you are under 18.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

Before you take the driving test, you must pass a written knowledge test at the DMV office. The test has 25 questions about North Carolina traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 20 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at most offices, though some locations still use paper tests.

The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, and what different road signs mean. You can study using the North Carolina Driver's Handbook, which is free and available online at the DMV website or in print at any DMV office. Many people study the handbook for a few days or a week before taking the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay a retest fee.

The vision and driving tests

After you pass the written test, you will take a vision test at the DMV. An examiner will check whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will not be allowed to drive until you see an eye doctor and bring a corrected vision form back to the DMV.

The driving test comes next, either the same day or at a later appointment depending on how busy the office is. During the test, an examiner will ride with you in your own car or a DMV vehicle and watch how you handle basic driving tasks — starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. The test usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes. You must bring a valid vehicle with working brakes, lights, and wipers. If you fail, you can schedule another test, usually within a few days.

License fees and how long your license lasts

The cost of your first North Carolina driver's license depends on your age. If you are 18 or older, the fee is a set amount that covers an eight-year license. If you are under 18, the fee is lower because your license expires when you turn 21. You can pay by cash, check, or debit or credit card at most DMV offices.

Your license will be mailed to you within two weeks of approval. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DMV office that you can use to drive while you wait for the plastic card. Keep that temporary license with you until the real one arrives.

Scheduling your DMV appointment

Most North Carolina DMV offices now require you to schedule an appointment online before you visit. You can book an appointment through the DMV website by selecting your county and the service you need — in this case, a new driver's license. The website shows available times at each office. Some offices have same-day or next-day appointments, while others may have a wait of several weeks depending on demand.

If you cannot schedule online or prefer to call, you can contact your local DMV office directly. The phone number for your office is listed on the DMV website. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but you may wait several hours, so scheduling ahead is faster.

What happens if you fail the driving test

If you do not pass the driving test on your first try, you can retake it. Most offices let you schedule another test within a few days. You will have to pay the test fee again. You do not have to retake the written test or vision test unless your vision has changed.

Common reasons people fail include not coming to a complete stop at stop signs, not checking mirrors and blind spots, speeding, and hitting the curb while parking. If you fail, ask the examiner what you need to work on, then practice those specific skills before your next test. Many people pass on their second or third attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired out-of-state license as proof of identity?

No. North Carolina requires a current, valid ID. An expired license from another state does not count. You will need a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate instead.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must have a Social Security number to get a North Carolina driver's license. If you do not have one, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license.

Do I have to take the driving test in my own car?

No. You can use a DMV vehicle for the test if you do not have your own car. However, your own vehicle must be available and in working condition if you choose to use it. Either way, the vehicle must have working brakes, lights, and windshield wipers.

How many times can I retake the written test?

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test. You can retake it the same day you fail at most offices, though you will pay a retest fee each time. Most people pass after studying the handbook for a few days.

What if I move to a different county before my appointment?

You can still use your appointment at the original office, or you can cancel it and schedule a new one at an office in your new county. Contact the DMV office where you scheduled to cancel, then book a new appointment online or by phone.