What You Need to Get a North Carolina ID

North Carolina issues two main forms of state ID: a driver's license and a non-driver ID card. Both are issued by the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The non-driver ID is what you want if you don't drive or don't want a driver's license—it works for age verification, boarding flights, and entering federal buildings. You'll need to visit a DMV office in person with specific documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and North Carolina residency.

The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You'll pay a fee at the time of your visit—$24.50 for a non-driver ID card that lasts eight years, or $80 for a driver's license that lasts eight years. If you're under 18, the cost is lower and the card expires sooner.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DMV office in person with original documents proving your identity, date of birth, and North Carolina address.
  • A non-driver ID card costs $24.50 and is valid for eight years if you're 18 or older.
  • Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, or foreign passport with a valid visa.
  • You can find your nearest DMV office and check wait times on the North Carolina DMV website before you go.
  • Bring proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or tax return, along with your identity documents.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

The DMV requires an original or certified copy of one document proving your identity and date of birth. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate issued by the state or county where you were born, a foreign passport with a valid visa, a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of naturalization. A photocopy or hospital birth certificate will not work—the document must be an official original or certified copy.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a Social Security statement. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining why.

Finally, bring proof that you live in North Carolina. The DMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a government letter addressed to you at your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or credit card statement does not count.

Finding Your Nearest DMV Office and Making an Appointment

North Carolina has DMV offices in every county. You can search for the office closest to you on the official North Carolina DMV website by entering your county or city. The website shows each office's address, phone number, and hours of operation.

You do not need an appointment to get a non-driver ID—you can walk in during business hours. However, wait times vary widely. The DMV website shows real-time wait times for many offices, updated throughout the day. If you want to avoid a long wait, visit early in the morning on a weekday, or call the office ahead of time to ask when they're least busy.

If you prefer not to wait, some DMV offices offer online appointment scheduling through the North Carolina DMV website. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are available in your area.

What Happens at the DMV Counter

When you arrive, take a number or check in at the counter. A DMV employee will review your documents to make sure they meet the requirements. They will ask you to confirm your legal name, date of birth, and address. If you've changed your name, bring a court order or marriage certificate showing the change.

The employee will take your photograph and signature for the card. Wear something you'd wear in a professional photo—avoid hats, sunglasses, and heavy makeup. The photo will be on your ID for eight years, so take a moment to look presentable.

You'll then pay the fee—$24.50 for a non-driver ID if you're 18 or older. The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. You'll receive a receipt and a temporary ID that you can use right away while your permanent card is mailed to you. Your permanent card usually arrives within 10 business days.

If Your Documents Don't Meet the Requirements

If your birth certificate is not certified or your address proof is older than 60 days, the DMV will not issue your ID that day. You'll need to get the correct documents and return. A certified birth certificate can be ordered from the county or state vital records office where you were born—this usually takes one to two weeks and costs $15 to $30. You can order online, by mail, or in person at the vital records office.

If you don't have a Social Security number and can't get one, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining the reason. The DMV will work with you to find an alternative, though this is rare.

If you're a non-citizen, bring your foreign passport and a valid visa, work permit, or other immigration document showing you're authorized to be in the United States. Bring the original documents, not copies.

Renewing or Replacing Your ID

Your non-driver ID is valid for eight years. When it expires, you can renew it by mail or in person at a DMV office. To renew by mail, the DMV will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your card expires. Follow the instructions on the notice and mail your old card and the renewal form to the address provided. The fee is the same as a new card.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you'll need to visit a DMV office in person to get a replacement. Bring your documents the same way you would for a new ID. The replacement fee is $24.50.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID if I'm homeless or don't have a permanent address?

Yes. Instead of a utility bill or lease, you can bring a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or other organization that confirms your address or lack of permanent housing. The letter must be dated within the last 60 days and include the organization's letterhead and contact information.

How long does it take to get my ID card in the mail?

Your permanent card usually arrives within 10 business days of your visit. You'll receive a temporary ID at the counter that you can use right away. If your card doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the DMV office where you applied.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your foreign birth certificate (certified copy), your foreign passport, and proof of legal residency or citizenship in the United States, such as a green card, work visa, or naturalization certificate. If your birth certificate is not in English, bring an official English translation along with the original.

Can I renew my ID online or by phone?

You can renew by mail if the DMV sends you a renewal notice before your card expires. You cannot renew online or by phone. If you need a replacement before your card expires, you must visit a DMV office in person.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?

Bring your original or certified birth certificate along with a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing your legal name change. The DMV will use your current legal name on your new ID.