What You Need to Know Before You Go

A North Carolina ID card is a state-issued photo identification document issued by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can get one whether or not you drive — it serves as proof of identity and age for everyday situations like banking, voting, or entering age-restricted venues. The process involves visiting a DMV office in person, bringing specific documents, and paying a fee.

North Carolina offers two types of ID cards: a standard ID card and a Real ID-compliant card. The Real ID card meets federal standards for entering federal buildings and boarding domestic flights. Both are valid for eight years from the date of issue.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DMV office in person with original or certified documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and North Carolina residency.
  • A standard North Carolina ID card costs $20 and is valid for eight years; a Real ID card costs $31.50 and meets federal requirements for federal buildings and domestic flights.
  • Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, certified birth certificate, or previous driver's license or ID card.
  • You can find your nearest DMV office and check wait times on the North Carolina DMV website before you go.
  • If you cannot provide a Social Security number, you may still be able to get an ID card — ask the DMV about alternative documentation.

Documents You Must Bring

The DMV requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of North Carolina residency. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a previous North Carolina driver's license or ID card, a valid military ID, or a valid passport from another country with an English translation. If your name has changed since the document was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from the Social Security Administration. If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the DMV staff — you may still be able to get an ID card with different documentation.

For proof of North Carolina residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. A piece of mail from a government agency (such as the IRS or a court) also works.

The Steps to Get Your ID Card

Start by visiting the North Carolina DMV website and finding your nearest DMV office. The website shows office locations, hours, and current wait times. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require you to book an appointment online. Check your specific office's policy before you go.

Bring all three categories of documents listed above, plus your completed process. You can fill out the process at home or at the DMV office — the form is available on the DMV website as Form DL 43. Bring the form printed and filled out, or you can complete it on a tablet at the office.

At the DMV, you will have your photo taken and your signature recorded. The staff will scan your documents and process your process. You will pay the fee at this time: $20 for a standard ID card or $31.50 for a Real ID card. Payment methods vary by office — check ahead to see whether your location accepts cash, card, or both.

Your ID card will be mailed to the address you provided within 5 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, some DMV offices offer expedited service for an additional fee — ask when you visit.

Real ID vs. Standard ID: Which One Do You Need?

A standard North Carolina ID card works for most everyday purposes: opening a bank account, voting, entering bars or clubs, or proving your age. It costs $20 and is valid for eight years.

A Real ID-compliant card meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. You need a Real ID card to enter a federal building (such as a courthouse or federal office), board a domestic flight, or enter a military base. It costs $31.50 and is also valid for eight years. The card itself looks similar to a standard ID but has a small star in the upper right corner.

If you are unsure whether you need Real ID, consider your plans over the next eight years. If you fly domestically or enter federal buildings, Real ID is worth the extra $11.50. If you rarely do either, a standard ID card is sufficient.

What Happens If Your Documents Are Missing or Damaged

If you do not have an original birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the North Carolina Vital Records Office (part of the state Department of Health and Human Services). You can order by mail, phone, or online. The process takes 5 to 10 business days and costs a small fee.

If your previous driver's license or ID card is lost or damaged, you can still use it as proof of identity if you report it lost or damaged to the DMV. Bring a police report if your card was lost in a theft or accident. If you cannot locate any identity document, a valid passport (U.S. or foreign) is your strongest alternative.

If you have changed your name and cannot find the original document showing the change, a certified copy of the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order is sufficient. You can order certified copies from the county register of deeds where the document was filed.

Name Changes and Address Updates

If your name has changed since your last ID card was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change. This might be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name on your new card.

If you have moved within North Carolina since your last ID card, you do not need to renew early — you can update your address when you renew. However, if you want your address updated before renewal, you can visit a DMV office and request an address change. Some offices allow this without issuing a new card; others will issue a replacement card for a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a North Carolina ID card if I do not have a Social Security number?

You may still be able to get an ID card. Tell the DMV staff that you do not have a Social Security number, and ask what alternative documents they accept. Some applicants without a Social Security number can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other federal documentation. Call your local DMV office ahead of time to confirm what they will accept.

How long does it take to get my ID card after I explore?

Your ID card will be mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days after you explore. If you need it sooner, ask the DMV office about expedited service — some offices offer it for an additional fee, and you may receive your card within 2 to 3 business days.

What if I moved to North Carolina from another state and do not have a birth certificate?

You can order a certified birth certificate from the state where you were born. Contact that state's vital records office (usually part of the health department) and request a certified copy. The process typically takes 5 to 10 business days. In the meantime, a valid passport from any country works as proof of identity at the North Carolina DMV.

Do I need an appointment at the DMV, or can I just walk in?

It depends on your local DMV office. Some accept walk-ins during all hours; others require appointments for certain times or days. Check the North Carolina DMV website for your specific office's policy. If appointments are required and none are available, you can usually book one for a future date or try a different nearby office.

Can I renew my ID card before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your ID card up to one year before it expires. Bring the same documents you would bring for a new card, and the DMV will issue a replacement with a new expiration date eight years from the renewal date.