Documents You'll Need to Bring
North Carolina requires you to bring specific documents to the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office when you explore for a driver's license. You cannot complete the process without them, so gather everything before you go.
You need proof of identity — a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. A school ID or work ID alone will not work. You also need proof of Social Security number, which can be a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. If you do not have your Social Security card, bring a document that shows your number.
Bring proof of North Carolina residency dated within 60 days of your process. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy in your name. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you live with someone else, you can use their utility bill or lease as long as you bring a notarized statement saying you live there, or bring them with you to sign an affidavit at the DMV office.
If you are under 18, bring your parent or guardian with you. They must sign your process in person at the DMV office. If you are 18 or older, you do not need a parent present.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring proof of identity (passport, military ID, or birth certificate), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of North Carolina residency dated within 60 days.
- Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name, or someone else's if you bring a notarized statement or affidavit.
- If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must be present and sign your process at the DMV office.
- The DMV will take your photo and administer a written test and a driving test on the same day or at a later appointment, depending on the office.
- A North Carolina driver's license costs $20 and is valid for eight years, or until age 21 if you are under 18 when you receive it.
The Written Test and Driving Test
After you submit your documents, the DMV will schedule you for a written knowledge test and a driving skills test. Some offices do both on the same day; others schedule the driving test for a later appointment. Ask the staff member which applies to your location.
The written test covers North Carolina traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the North Carolina Driver's Handbook, which the DMV provides free online and in print at any DMV office. You must answer at least 16 out of 20 questions correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.
The driving test takes about 20 minutes. You drive a DMV vehicle with an examiner, or you can bring your own vehicle if it is insured and registered. The examiner watches how you handle turns, stops, parking, and highway driving. You must demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. If you fail, you can schedule another test, usually within a few days.
Fees and License Validity
A North Carolina driver's license costs $20. This is a one-time fee at the time of issue. You pay it at the DMV office when you submit your documents.
Your license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. If you are under 18 when you receive your license, it expires on your 21st birthday instead. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office, depending on whether your address has changed and whether you need a new photo.
If You Have a Learner's Permit First
Most people under 18 get a learner's permit before they get a full driver's license. A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You need the same documents as for a full license, but you only take the written test — no driving test.
You must hold a learner's permit for at least 12 months and be at least 15 years old before you can take the driving test for a full license. During those 12 months, you cannot drive alone, and you must follow restrictions on when you can drive (no driving between midnight and 5 a.m., for example). A learner's permit costs $20, the same as a full license.
If you are 18 or older, you do not need a learner's permit. You can go straight to the written test and driving test for a full license.
What Happens at the DMV Office
When you arrive at the DMV office with your documents, check in at the front desk. A staff member will review your documents to make sure you have everything. If something is missing or incorrect, they will tell you what you need to bring back.
If your documents are complete, you will fill out an process form (DL-44). The staff member will take your photo for your license. Then you will take the written test on a computer. If you pass, you will schedule your driving test — either the same day or at a future appointment, depending on the office's schedule.
After you pass both tests, your license is printed on the spot or mailed to you within a few days, depending on the office. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.
Special Situations
If you are moving to North Carolina from another state, you can transfer your out-of-state license. Bring your current license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of North Carolina residency. You do not have to retake the written test or driving test if your out-of-state license is still valid. You pay $20 for the new license.
If you are a non-citizen, you can get a driver's license if you have a valid visa or work permit. Bring your passport and visa or work permit along with the other required documents. The process is the same as for citizens.
If you have a disability that affects your ability to drive, tell the DMV staff when you arrive. They can arrange for accommodations during the driving test, such as hand controls or extra time. You may also be able to get a special license plate or placard.
Where to Find a DMV Office and What to Expect
North Carolina has DMV offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles website. Some offices are busier than others, so call ahead or check online to see the current wait time.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive early — many offices open at 8 a.m. and close at 5 p.m., but hours vary by location. Some offices close for lunch. If you cannot get an appointment or if the office is very busy, you may wait an hour or more.
You cannot complete your license process online or by mail. You must go to a DMV office in person. However, you can renew your license online if you meet certain conditions — your address has not changed, you do not need a new photo, and your license is not suspended or revoked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport for proof of identity?
Yes. A passport card is a valid form of identity for a North Carolina driver's license. You can use either a full passport or a passport card. Make sure it is not expired.
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 need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you go to the DMV. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number when you explore for your license.
Can I take the driving test in a different language?
The written test is available in English and Spanish. The driving test is conducted in English, but the examiner will speak clearly and can repeat instructions if you do not understand. Bring an interpreter if you need one, though the examiner cannot use them during the actual test.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. Most offices let you schedule another test within a few days. You pay the $20 license fee only once, not each time you retake the test. Before you retake it, practice the skills the examiner said you need to improve.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?
You do not have to bring your Social Security card. You can bring a W-2, 1099, tax return, or any document that shows your Social Security number. If you have lost your card and do not have another document with your number, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you go to the DMV.