In North Carolina, every driver is required to renew their driver’s license every few years to continue driving legally. However, the rules for renewal vary depending on your age.
If you’re a senior or approaching your 65th birthday, it’s important to know how your renewal process works and what you need to do to ensure you stay on the road legally.
Driver’s License Expiration and Renewal Schedule in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the expiration dates for driver’s licenses vary depending on the driver’s age. Here’s a quick breakdown:
16 years old or 65+: Your driver’s license is valid for 5 years.
17 years old: Your license is valid for 4 years.
18–65 years old: Your license is valid for 8 years.
You’ll receive a renewal notice two months before your license expires, as a courtesy reminder. Furthermore, you have up to 180 days before the expiration date to complete the renewal process.
How to Renew Your NC Driver’s License
There are three primary methods to renew your North Carolina driver’s license:
Renewal by Mail
Renewal Online
Renewal in Person
Online Renewal
Renewing your driver’s license online is a convenient option that allows you to complete the process from the comfort of your home. However, not everyone is eligible to renew online. To qualify for online renewal, you must:
Be a U.S. citizen.
Have no outstanding debts with the DMV or any suspended license.
Not have any restrictions on your driver’s license, other than “Corrective Lenses.”
Not be renewing a commercial driver’s license, limited provisional license, learner permit, or state ID.
If you meet these requirements, visit the North Carolina DMV website to complete the renewal process. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and your valid driver’s license on hand.
In-Person Renewal
If you’re required to renew in person, you will need to make an appointment with the North Carolina DMV. When you go, be prepared to bring the following documents:
Two documents proving your identification (your current driver’s license is acceptable).
Proof of Social Security number.
You will also need to take the following tests during your visit:
Vision Exam: You must pass the vision exam with at least 20/40 vision.
Knowledge Test: This test includes 25 questions on road signs and traffic laws. You need to correctly answer at least 20 questions (80% passing score).
Once the tests are complete, you will be asked to pay the renewal fee, which can be paid by check, cash, or money order.
Renewal by Mail
Renewal by mail is available for North Carolina residents who are temporarily out of state, including military personnel. To be eligible for mail-in renewal, you must meet the following conditions:
Be under the age of 72.
Not be renewing a commercial driver’s license.
Be away from North Carolina for 30 or more days.
Have a photo on file with the DMV that is no older than 5 years.
Have submitted an eye test.
Have a Social Security number on file with the DMV.
To renew by mail, contact the NC DMV to request a mail kit. You will need to provide your valid out-of-state address to receive the necessary documents.
NC Driver’s License Renewal Fees
The cost of renewing your driver’s license in North Carolina depends on how long your new license will be valid. The DMV charges $5 per year, which typically totals $40 for most drivers.
Renewing an Expired License
If your North Carolina driver’s license has expired, you have up to two years to renew it. It’s recommended to complete the renewal process online if possible, but you will need to visit the DMV in person if your license is more than two years expired.
REAL ID
North Carolina residents need to become REAL ID compliant if they wish to board commercial aircraft or enter certain federal buildings. All residents can easily upgrade their license to a REAL ID by visiting the DMV and providing the following documents:
Proof of legal name.
Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence.
Proof of North Carolina residency.
Proof of Social Security number.
There are no additional requirements or fees for upgrading to a REAL ID.
Military Drivers
For military personnel, the renewal process is slightly different. You have one year after the expiration date of your license to renew. If your license expires while you’re on active duty, it is automatically extended by the DMV.
To renew by mail as a military driver, you must:
Provide proof of a North Carolina address.
Have your Social Security number on file or proof of legal presence.
Be under the age of 70.
Have a valid photo with the DMV, no older than 8 years.
Have a license that expired less than two years ago.
Contact the NC DMV to request military renewal by mail, and provide a copy of your military ID and military orders.
Renewing your driver’s license in North Carolina is a straightforward process, but it’s important to understand the requirements and options available.
Whether you’re renewing online, in person, or by mail, knowing the guidelines for eligibility and the necessary documents will ensure the process goes smoothly. If you have any questions about the renewal process, don’t hesitate to contact the DMV or seek assistance from a professional.
