Documents you need to bring to the DMV

North Carolina requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You cannot get a license without all three categories, so gather these before you go to the DMV office.

For proof of identity, bring a document with your photo and signature — a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate plus one additional document with your name and date of birth, such as a Social Security card or bank statement.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number visible. A document that shows only the last four digits does not count.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and North Carolina address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement will work. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. A driver's license or ID card from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (photo ID or birth certificate plus another document), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax form), and proof of residency (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days).
  • North Carolina charges a fee for a driver's license; the amount depends on the type of license and how long you want it to last.
  • You will take a written test on road rules, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
  • If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take the driving test.
  • You can find your nearest DMV office and check wait times on the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles website.

The written test and vision screening

Before you take the driving test, you must pass a written test on North Carolina traffic laws and road signs. The test has 25 questions, and you need to answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You can study using the North Carolina Driver's Handbook, which is free and available online or at any DMV office.

You will also take a vision screening at the DMV. The screener will check whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a certificate showing your vision meets the state standard before you can get your license.

The driving test and what happens after

Once you pass the written test, you will take a driving test with a DMV examiner. The test usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic skills like starting the car, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors.

If you pass the driving test, you will receive your license on the same day. Your license will be valid for eight years if you are 18 or older, or until age 21 if you are under 18. You can choose to renew for a shorter period if you prefer.

Age requirements and learner's permits for drivers under 18

You must be at least 16 years old to get a driver's license in North Carolina. If you are under 18, you cannot go straight to the driving test — you must first get a learner's permit and hold it for at least 30 days.

To get a learner's permit, you need the same documents as for a license (proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency). You will take the written test and vision screening, but not the driving test. With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is in the front seat with you.

Before you can take the driving test, you must also complete a driver education course approved by North Carolina. The course covers classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Once you have held your permit for 30 days and finished the course, you can schedule your driving test.

Fees and how to schedule your test

North Carolina charges a fee for a driver's license. The amount varies depending on whether you want a standard license or a Real ID (which meets federal requirements for air travel and federal buildings), and how long you want the license to last. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the DMV office.

To schedule your driving test, visit the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles website or call your local DMV office. Many offices allow you to schedule online and choose a date and time that works for you. Some offices have walk-in hours, but wait times can be long. Scheduling ahead usually gets you in faster.

You can find your nearest DMV office, check current wait times, and see which documents each office accepts on the Division of Motor Vehicles website. Some offices have different hours or may be closed on certain days, so check before you go.

Real ID versus standard license

North Carolina offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID. A Real ID has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security. You need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

Getting a Real ID requires the same documents as a standard license, plus one additional document that proves your address — the same residency documents that work for a standard license are acceptable. The Real ID costs more than a standard license and lasts eight years. If you do not fly or visit federal buildings often, a standard license is sufficient for driving.

What to do if you lose your documents or have a name change

If you have lost your Social Security card or birth certificate, you can request a replacement before you go to the DMV. The Social Security Administration can issue a new card, and your state or county vital records office can issue a certified copy of your birth certificate. Both take time, so start this process early if you need a license soon.

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name on your license at no extra charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired ID as proof of identity?

An expired passport or passport card still counts as proof of identity. An expired driver's license from another state also works. However, the document must still be recognizable and show your photo and signature clearly.

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 can explore through the Social Security Administration. The process takes time, so contact them before you plan to visit the DMV.

Can someone else take the driving test for me?

No. You must be present and take the driving test yourself. The examiner needs to see that you can operate the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. There is usually a waiting period before you can schedule another test, and you may need to pay a fee each time you test. Check with your local DMV office for the specific rules and wait time in your area.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

If you are moving to North Carolina and already have a valid driver's license from another state, you may be able to transfer it without taking the written or driving test. Contact your local DMV office to ask about transfer options for your specific situation.