Every couple of years, drivers in the state of North Carolina are required to renew their driver’s license in order to continue driving legally throughout the state. The expiration date on your license will vary depending on your age when it was issued:
You will receive a renewal notice 2 months before your driver’s license expiration date as a courtesy reminder. Additionally, you’ll have 180 days before your license expires to complete your renewal.
Going through all the options for renewing your North Carolina driver’s license can be difficult, but there’s no need to worry. The state allows drivers to complete their renewal in one of the following three ways.
Renewing your driver’s license online is a convenient way to complete the process without spending too much time at your local DMV. You’ll be able to skip all the lines and complete the process directly from the comfort of your home.
To qualify for online renewal in North Carolina, you MUST a US citizen and cannot have any of the following:
If you are eligible to renew online based on the above guidelines, visit the NC DMV website and follow the required steps. Keep your valid driver’s license handy, as well as your Social Security number and email address – you’ll need it to complete the renewal.
To complete your driver’s license renewal in person, you’ll need to first set up an appointment with the North Carolina DMV. From there, you’ll need to gather the appropriate documents.
Zutobi provides an interactive platform for adults looking to pass their knowledge exam for their NC driver’s license renewal. We have an easy-to-understand driver’s handbook and online practice tests, allowing you to fully prepare before your DMV appointment. Furthermore, drivers are recommended to regularly refresh their knowledge of the rules of the road and driving safety practices to stay safe on the roads.
In North Carolina, driver’s license renewal by mail is only available for out of state and military residents who hold a permanent address in the state.
You will need to meet the following requirements in order to renew by mail:
You will need to first contact the NC DMV and request a mail kit. You can also give them a call at the number listed on their website. You’ll need to provide a valid out of state address in order to receive and complete the necessary documents.
The cost of renewing your driver’s license in North Carolina is dependent on how long your license will be active. The DMV charges $5 per year, equating to $40 for the majority of drivers.
You are able to renew your NC driver’s license for two years after it expires. It is recommended to complete this renewal online. Otherwise, you must renew in person at the DMV.
North Carolina residents will need to become REAL ID compliant by October 1st, 2021 in order to board commercial aircrafts and enter certain federal buildings. Luckily, all residents can upgrade to a REAL ID with ease.
To do so, you will need to visit the NC DMV and provide the following documents:
There are no additional requirements or fees for upgrading to a REAL ID.
If you are in the military, you have a few other options for renewing your license. Instead of the standard 180 days, you’ll have one year before the date your license expires to renew. If your license expires while on active duty, you’ll automatically be given an extension by the DMV.
You must meet the following requirements to renew your license as a military driver:
Contact the NC DMV requesting renewal by mail for military purposes. You will be asked to provide a copy of both sides of your military ID, as well as a copy of your military orders. The DMV also accepts phone calls.
That’s all there is to renewing your driver’s license in North Carolina. If you need help studying for your exams or staying on top of new traffic laws, we’ve got your back!
550+ exam-like questions
All you need to ace your test
Perfect for first-timers, renewals and senior citizens
