Steps to Getting a N.C. Driver's LicenseGetting a N.C. drivers license involves many different things, so knowing ahead of time what to do, may save you time when it comes to getting yours. Below are the steps to getting a N.C. Driver’s License:

(1) Determine the Type of Driver License You Are Getting 

  • For 18 years and older, a standard driver’s license or learner’s permit would apply
  • For below 18 years old, a “limited” learner’s permit would apply for new drivers
  • For commercial drivers license, a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) would apply. This would pertain to the operation of high occupancy vehicles (bus) or heavy transport vehicles (mobile carriers)

(2) Be Aware of the Documents Required 

Before entering the NCDMV office, please make sure you have ALL of the required documents for the type of driving license you are obtaining. These offices stay extremely busy and if you aren’t prepared, it will just add to the congestion. The DMV office may make copies of the documents or keep the documents to verify validity.

For a N.C. Driver License or Learner Permit, you will need the following:

  • Proof of Residency- If you are a U.S. citizen, then you must present proof of your current address in North Carolina. If you are not a legal U.S. citizen, then you must present proof of “legal presence” in the U.S., which must be documented by the U.S. government.
  • Proof of Age and Identity- 2 documents are needed that show your full name and date of birth (examples include driver’s license or learner’s permit, W-2 Forms, birth certificate, passport, school/military identification).
  • Proof of Social Security- Examples would be your social security card or some other document showing your social security number (W-2 forms).
  • Proof of Liability Insurance– N.C. mandates liability insurance so providing proof of your insurance is required. This document must show name of insurance carrier, effective dates of insurance, complete name, and the date the policy was issued.

(3) Familiarize Yourself With Other Questions 

  • Voter registration- When you apply for your N.C. driver license, you can register to vote or change any information to your current voter registration card.
  • Organ donor– At the time of death, you need to consider whether you wish for your organs to be donated. Please discuss/consider your answer before arrival.
  • Selective Service Registration– Almost all male U.S. citizens’ ages 18-25 are required to register with Selective Service.

(4) Pay Specified Fees and Take Driver Test

For a learner permit, you will be required to take vision and traffic sign tests, and have the basic driving awareness.

For a driver license, you will need to pass the following:

  1. Written test- The knowledge test is about traffic laws and safe driving practices. Oral tests are available, upon request, for those who have difficulty reading.
  2. Vision Test- You will be required to have and pass a vision test regardless of what type of license you are applying for. If you wear corrective lenses, your license will state that and you must always adhere to wearing them while driving. During your vision test, please wear your corrective lenses.
  3. Sign Test- You should know and be able to identify the traffic signs by shape and color and know what each represents.
  4. Driving Test- You will be asked to get behind the wheel and put your knowledge to the test. You will be asked to perform different driving maneuvers to demonstrate skill and ability to drive safely amongst traffic.

If you have any questions regarding your N.C. driver’s license, please feel free to contact our office at 866-869-3335 or visit the following website for further details on N.C. licensing https://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/.

 

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