License & ID Card Delays
NCDMV is experiencing production delays with the outside private contractor that prints official license and ID cards. It is taking longer than the normal 15 days for customers to receive their credentials in the mail.
The temporary certificate received by customers at the end of their transaction is valid for 60 days. If customers do not receive their card prior to the expiration of this certificate, please call NCDMV Central Issuance at 919-861-3555 for assistance.
Make an Appointment
Skip the line at driver license offices by
making an appointment online. If you do not find an available appointment, please continue to check back as new available appointments are added each day.
Driving in North Carolina is a legal privilege and responsibility. Without a driver license, it is against the law to:
Drive a motor vehicle on streets and highways
Sit in the driver's seat of a motor vehicle while the engine is running
Steer a motor vehicle while another vehicle pushes or tows it
The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles issues regular, commercial and provisional licenses and permits – each of which can carry a variety of endorsements and/or restrictions that either grant or restrict driving privileges for an individual.
The type of license an individual receives and the fee associated with it depends on the type of motor vehicle they will operate.
NCDMV also issues learner permits to adults 18 years old or older and graduated permits and licenses to individuals 15 to 17 years old.
Note: Applying for a North Carolina driver license will cancel any licenses from other states through the State-to-State Verification program.
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