What You Need to Get a North Carolina ID

North Carolina issues two types of identification: a driver's license (which lets you drive) and a non-driver ID card (which is just for identification, no driving privileges). Both are issued by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You do not need a driver's license to get a non-driver ID—they are separate documents, and you choose which one you want.

To get either one, you will need to visit a DMV office in person. You cannot complete the entire process online or by mail. The DMV will check your identity, take your photo, and verify your Social Security number. The whole visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.

Both IDs cost money. A non-driver ID card costs around $20 and lasts eight years. A driver's license costs more (the price depends on how long you want it to be valid) and requires you to pass a written test and a driving test. If you only need ID for identification purposes—not for driving—the non-driver card is simpler and cheaper.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
  • A non-driver ID card costs around $20, lasts eight years, and requires no test—only a visit to the DMV.
  • A driver's license requires passing both a written test and a road test in addition to your DMV visit.
  • You can find your nearest DMV office and check wait times on the North Carolina DMV website before you go.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies—photocopies alone will not be accepted.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

The DMV has three categories of documents you need to bring: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You must bring at least one document from each category, and they must be originals or certified copies—not photocopies.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a school ID with your photo, or a previous driver's license or ID card. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents that together prove your identity, such as a Social Security card plus a school transcript or a utility bill.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining why.

For proof of your current address, bring a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document (like a tax return or court order) with your name and address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency works too.

Steps to Get Your ID at the DMV

First, find your nearest DMV office. Go to the North Carolina DMV website and use their office locator tool. Many offices let you check wait times online before you arrive, which can help you pick a less busy time to visit.

Second, gather all your documents (identity, Social Security proof, and address proof) and bring them with you. Bring the originals—do not rely on photocopies. If you are getting a driver's license, also bring your current license if you have one.

Third, go to the DMV office during their business hours. When you arrive, you will usually take a number or check in at the front desk. Tell the staff member whether you want a driver's license or a non-driver ID card. They will review your documents, ask you questions to confirm your identity, and take your photo.

Fourth, if you are getting a driver's license, you will take a written test on a computer. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You must pass this test before you can schedule a road test. If you are getting a non-driver ID card, you skip this step.

Fifth, pay the fee. A non-driver ID card is around $20. A driver's license fee depends on how long you want it valid (four, eight, or ten years). The DMV accepts cash, check, and card.

Sixth, you will receive a temporary paper ID on the spot. Your permanent ID card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Use the temporary ID until the card arrives.

If You Are Getting a Driver's License: The Road Test

After you pass the written test at the DMV, you must schedule a road test. This is a separate appointment where a DMV examiner rides with you in your car and watches you drive. You cannot get a driver's license without passing this test.

To schedule the road test, ask the DMV staff member before you leave the office. They will give you a date and time. Road test appointments can fill up weeks in advance, so book yours as soon as you pass the written test. Some DMV offices let you schedule online; others require you to call or visit in person.

On the day of your road test, bring your temporary ID, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will drive, and the car itself. The test lasts about 20 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, parking, backing up, and stopping. You must follow traffic laws and show that you can control the vehicle safely.

If you pass, the examiner will tell you on the spot. Your permanent driver's license will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not pass, you can schedule another road test and try again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it.

What to Do If You Lost Your Documents or Cannot Find Them

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the North Carolina Vital Records office. Go to their website, fill out a request form, and pay a fee (usually $30 to $35). They will mail it to you within two to three weeks. If you need it faster, some counties offer in-person service at their vital records office.

If you do not have a Social Security card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration. You can do this online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Bring proof of identity and citizenship. A replacement card usually arrives within two weeks.

If you do not have proof of your current address, ask your landlord, mortgage company, or utility provider for a statement with your name and address. Even a recent letter from your bank or insurance company will work. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask the DMV staff what documents they can accept—some offices have flexibility for people in this situation.

How Long It Takes and What Happens Next

Your visit to the DMV takes 30 minutes to an hour for a non-driver ID card, or one to two hours if you are also taking the written test for a driver's license. Wait times vary by office and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon is usually faster than visiting at lunch or on a Saturday.

After your visit, your permanent ID card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. The DMV will mail it to the address you provided. If you do not receive it after two weeks, contact the DMV office where you applied.

Your non-driver ID card is valid for eight years. Your driver's license is valid for four, eight, or ten years depending on which option you chose when you applied. When your ID expires, you will need to renew it. Renewals can often be done by mail or online, depending on your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still get an ID, but you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining why you do not have a number. Bring this letter along with your other identity and address documents. Contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213 to request this letter.

What if I do not have a permanent address?

You can still get an ID. Bring proof of identity and a document showing your name, even if it does not have a permanent address on it. Ask the DMV staff what documents they can accept—some offices allow a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a trusted person who can verify your address.

How much does a driver's license cost compared to a non-driver ID?

A non-driver ID card costs around $20 and lasts eight years. A driver's license costs more depending on how long you want it valid: roughly $30 to $40 for four years, $60 to $80 for eight years, or $90 to $110 for ten years. Prices can change, so check the DMV website for current fees.

Can I renew my ID by mail or online?

Non-driver ID cards can often be renewed by mail if you have not changed your address or name. Driver's licenses can sometimes be renewed online if you meet certain requirements. Check the North Carolina DMV website or call your local office to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal.

What if I fail the written test for a driver's license?

You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can try. Many people study the North Carolina Driver's Handbook (available free on the DMV website) before retaking the test. You do not pay an extra fee to retake it.