Can I get a state ID?
The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles offers ID cards that are useful for banking, voting and more.
This is my first time getting a state ID. What are the steps?
You'll need to visit one of our offices. Review the documents you'll need to provide and visit an office.
What do I do if I'm renewing a state ID?
You can renew online up to six months before your ID expires or up to one year after it has expired.
Renew online
What do I do if my state ID expired over a year ago?
You can still renew your ID, but you'll need to visit one of our offices. Review the documents you'll need to provide and visit an office.
1. Gather your required documentsGather the following documents before your visit:
Download document checklist
2. Find a convenient driver license office location
Every driver license office serves walk-in customers from open to close, or until the capacity for that location has been reached.
Find an officeWhat if I can't get to the office due to my age or chronic illness?
You can still get a state ID by completing a Homebound Service Request.
Homebound services
3. Complete your office visit
First, check in with your cell phone at the office. You can wait in your vehicle or at a nearby business while you watch your place online from your phone.
Once there is room in the lobby, you will be asked via text to come into the building.
After your visit is complete, your new ID card will arrive in the mail within 20 business days.
What are the fees?
IDs are free for many people. Check the table below to see if your ID will cost anything.
| State ID Card (age 17 & up) | $0
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| State ID Card (age 16 & under)* | $16.75
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*If you are 16 or younger, you may be eligible for a free state ID if you meet any of the criteria below:
- You are legally blind. You’ll need to bring a letter from a physician or the director of the N.C. Division of Services for the Blind.
- You are homeless. You’ll need to bring a letter from the director of a facility that provides care or shelter to the homeless for verification.
- You’re an N.C. resident diagnosed with a developmental disability. You – or your legal guardian – must complete an Application for Identification Card. You’ll need to have your primary care providers complete the form's Physician Section or sign a letter certifying that you have a developmental disability.