What You Need to Know Before You Go
North Carolina issues ID cards through the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can get an ID card even if you do not drive — it serves as a state-issued photo ID for voting, banking, travel within the US, and age verification. The process takes about 30 minutes at a DMV office, and the card costs $20 and is valid for eight years.
You will need to bring specific documents to prove your identity and residency. The DMV will not accept online or mail applications for a standard ID card — you must visit a DMV office in person. Walk-in appointments are available, but you can also schedule ahead online to reduce wait time.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DMV office in person with a valid primary ID document (passport, birth certificate, or military ID) and proof of North Carolina residency.
- The ID card costs $20 and is valid for eight years, with renewal available by mail or online if your address does not change.
- You can schedule an appointment online at ncdmv.org to skip the walk-in line, though walk-ins are accepted during all business hours.
- If you do not have a primary ID document, you can use a combination of secondary documents like a Social Security card, school records, or utility bills.
- Processing takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you will receive your card when ready if all documents are in order.
Documents You Must Bring
The DMV requires one primary document to prove your identity. A primary document is a government-issued ID or birth record. Acceptable primary documents include a valid US passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID card, or a tribal ID card. If you have a passport or military ID, bring that — it is the fastest route through the process.
If you do not have a primary document, you can use two secondary documents instead. Secondary documents include a Social Security card, a school or college ID, a utility bill in your name, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a pay stub. The documents must show your name and, for residency proof, your current address.
You will also need to prove you live in North Carolina. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you recently moved, bring a document showing your new address. If you live with someone else, a utility bill or lease in their name plus a signed statement from them saying you live there is acceptable.
How to Schedule or Walk In
Visit ncdmv.org and select "Schedule an Appointment" to book a time slot at your nearest DMV office. You will choose your county, the type of transaction (ID card), and an available date and time. Scheduling usually takes five minutes. You will receive a confirmation number — write it down or take a screenshot, as you will need it when you arrive.
If you prefer to walk in without an appointment, DMV offices accept walk-ins during all business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours on certain days. Check ncdmv.org for your specific office's hours before you go. Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day — early morning and mid-week visits tend to be faster.
What Happens at the DMV Office
Bring all your documents and your confirmation number if you scheduled ahead. A DMV employee will review your documents to confirm they meet the requirements. They will ask you to sign a form stating that the information is correct. You will then have your photo taken — wear something you are comfortable being photographed in, as you cannot retake the photo if you dislike it.
The employee will verify your Social Security number and run a background check. This takes a few minutes. If everything is in order, you will pay the $20 fee by cash, debit card, or credit card. You will receive your ID card when ready — it is printed on site while you wait. If a document is missing or does not meet requirements, the employee will tell you what you need to bring back.
If You Are Missing Documents
If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the North Carolina Vital Records office. Visit vitalrecords.nc.gov, fill out the order form, and mail it with a check or money order. Processing takes about two weeks. You can also call 919-733-3526 to order by phone. A certified copy costs $30.
If you do not have a Social Security card, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov. You will need to provide proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate) and identity. A replacement card is free and arrives by mail in one to two weeks.
If you cannot prove residency because you recently moved or are unhoused, bring a letter from a shelter, a hotel receipt, or a statement from someone who lets you stay with them. The DMV has flexibility on residency proof — call your local office at the number on ncdmv.org to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.
Renewing Your ID Card
When your ID card is about to expire, you can renew it by mail or online if your address has not changed and you do not need a new photo. Visit ncdmv.org and select "Renew Online" — you will need your ID card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online renewal costs $20 and takes about two weeks by mail.
If your address has changed or you want a new photo, you must visit a DMV office in person and repeat the process above. Bring your expired ID card along with your other documents.
Special Situations
If you are a non-citizen with a valid visa or work permit, you can get an ID card. Bring your passport and visa or work permit along with proof of residency. The card will be valid only as long as your immigration status is current.
If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must go with you to the DMV office. Bring the same documents listed above, plus a document showing the parent or guardian's relationship to you (birth certificate, adoption papers, or custody order). The ID card for minors costs $20 and is valid until age 18, when you can renew it as an adult.
If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order along with your other documents. The DMV will update your name on the new card.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an NC ID card?
You receive the card when ready after your appointment at the DMV office — it is printed while you wait. The entire process, from arrival to leaving with your card, usually takes 30 minutes. If you order documents like a birth certificate beforehand, that takes one to two weeks.
Can I use my ID card for air travel?
No. The NC ID card is not Real ID compliant, so it cannot be used for domestic air travel. For flights, you need a Real ID-compliant driver's license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID. The NC ID card works for voting, banking, and age verification.
What if I lost my ID card?
Visit a DMV office with your documents and request a replacement. The process is the same as getting a new card — bring your primary or secondary documents and proof of residency. You will pay $20 for the replacement card and receive it when ready.
Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?
Both options work. Scheduling an appointment online at ncdmv.org usually means a shorter wait, but walk-ins are accepted during all business hours. If you walk in, arrive early in the day or mid-week for the shortest lines.
What if the DMV says my documents do not meet the requirements?
Ask the employee which documents are missing or why they do not meet the standard. They can tell you what you need to bring back. If you disagree, ask to speak with a supervisor. You can also call your local DMV office before your next visit to confirm what documents will work.