Obtaining a North Carolina Driver’s License

Driving is a privilege and not a right. That is why the state of North Carolina works hard to ensure the safety of everyone on the road by requiring drivers to be licensed. Here is the process for obtaining a North Carolina Driver’s License.

Learner’s Permit 

In order to obtain a learner’s permit in North Carolina, an individual must be at least 15 years of age and must also apply in person at an N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles driver license office. (If you are at least 18 years old you may apply for a driver’s license.) North Carolina uses a graduated licensing process for those 15 to 17 years of age. These levels include obtaining a limited learner’s permit and a limited provisional license before finally obtaining a full provisional license.

A learner’s permit differs from a driver’s license in that it has more restrictions, such as the need to be accompanied by a licensed adult.

Driver’s License

Individuals who are qualified to apply must first complete required knowledge, road sign recognition, vision, and driving tests. Once these have been successfully completed, they must bring the following documents with them to the NCDMV driver’s license office:

• A document verifying your age and identity
• A Social Security card (or document proving you have one)
• One document proving residency (For U.S. citizens)
• One document issued by the U.S. government that demonstrates their legal presence (Non-U.S. citizens)
• A document proving coverage for liability insurance (not necessary for a learner’s permit)

Receiving Your Permit or License

It is important to note that NC takes part in the REAL ID driver license program, As of October 1, 2020, a REAL ID will be required to fly on a commercial flight domestically or enter a U.S. military base or federal facility (unless you bring a current passport). A REAL ID is not necessary to drive.

North Carolina issues and mails learner’s permits to applicants within 20 days, while driver’s license applicants receive a temporary certificate until they receive their actual license. If you apply for a North Carolina driver’s license or learner’s permit, any licenses or permits in any other states will be canceled under the State-to-State Verification program.

Licenses issued to individuals 18 to 65 are valid for eight years, while those age 66 and over are valid for five years. 

New Residents 

If you have recently moved to North Carolina, there are regulations that must be followed. Within 60 days of establishing permanent residence in North Carolina, new residents who are planning on driving must get a state driver’s license and title and register their vehicle with the NCDMV. To apply, new residents must bring the following with them to a Driver’s License Office:

• An out-of-state license or document verifying your age and identity
• A Social Security card (or document proving you have one)
• One document verifying your physical address in North Carolina (two for an NC REAL ID)
• One document issued by the U.S. government that demonstrates their legal presence (Non-U.S. citizens)
• A document proving coverage for liability insurance from a North Carolina-licensed provider

If you are a new NC resident, you should familiarize yourself with the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook, as each state has different laws and regulations pertaining to roadway safety. However, those with a valid license from another state may have their written and road tests waived.

An Experienced Auto Accident Attorney Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another person, the experienced Auto Accident Attorneys at Daggett Shuler can help. Call us at 336-724-1234 today.

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