Helpful Hints

Planning to take a trip to a N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles office? Here's some tips:

• Go online. Many common NCDMV services, such as driver license renewal and vehicle registration renewal can be performed any time and any place on a computer or mobile device.

• You can also order a duplicate license or ID, vehicle registration card or personalized and specialized plates. Or sign in to MyDMV to view your personal driver and vehicle information.

• View a full list of online services.

• You might experience long wait times.  Summer is traditionally a busy time for driver license offices.  This year, there's also an increased interest from the public in getting an NC REAL ID, which must be done in person.
NCDMV is working on a series of improvements to help improve service and reduce wait times.

• Set a date. Find a local driver license office and call as soon as possible to make an appointment. Don't forget: You can also renew your license up to six months before your expiration date.
Availability is limited due to high demand.  The next appointment might be weeks away.


NCDMV does not currently offer the option of scheduling appointments online.

• Have an appointment?  If so, there's no need to wait in line.  Arrive a few minutes early, head straight to the customer service desk and tell them you have an appointment.   
• Reconsider an NC REAL ID.  The N.C. REAL ID will make it more convenient to board a commercial airplane if you don't have a passport or visit a military base or other federal facility, but it isn't required and won't be needed until October 2020.
If you can wait, consider making an appointment.


• Visit early. Early morning and early afternoons tend to be the least busy times. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are great times to visit. Avoid the last day of the month and a lunch time visit – from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Bring the right stuff. Before leaving home, be sure you have the correct documents for what you need to do. You might also need additional documents for common tasks, such as:
• Getting a standard driver license
• Getting an N.C. REAL ID driver license or ID
• Titling and registering a vehicle
• Remember Saturday hours. Some of the busiest NCDMV driver license offices in North Carolina are open beyond standard business hours and on Saturdays.
• Don’t forget the holidays. NCDMV driver license offices and license plate agencies observe nine state holidays each year, so be sure to check the schedule before heading out during those times of year.,