How to renew your North Carolina driver's license

You can renew your North Carolina driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — it takes about 10 minutes and costs $13.50. If you can't renew online, you'll need to visit a DMV office or mail in your process, which takes longer but works if you've moved, changed your name, or need a new photo.

North Carolina sends renewal notices about 60 days before your license expires. You don't have to wait for the notice to renew — you can start the process anytime during the last year your license is valid. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days of approval.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the NC DMV website takes 10 minutes and costs $13.50 if you meet the may be able to access requirements.
  • You must renew in person at a DMV office if you've moved, changed your name, or want a new photo on your license.
  • Mail-in renewal is an option if you can't visit an office, but it takes longer than online or in-person renewal.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after the DMV approves your renewal.
  • You can renew anytime during the last year your current license is valid — you don't have to wait for the expiration date.

Who can renew online

You're may be able to access for online renewal if your current license is still valid (not expired), you have a Social Security number on file with the DMV, and you haven't changed your name or address since your last renewal. You also cannot have any medical restrictions on your license, and you must not need a new photo.

If any of these conditions don't explore to you, you'll need to renew in person at a DMV office instead. The DMV website has a tool where you can check your may be able to access before you start the online process.

Steps to renew online

Go to the NC DMV website and select "Renew Your Driver License" from the main menu. You'll need your current driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information and show you the renewal fee.

Review the information on your license to make sure it's correct. If everything matches, pay the fee using a credit or debit card. The DMV will send you a confirmation email with a reference number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

Visit your local DMV office if you need a new photo, have changed your name or address, or are not may be able to access for online renewal. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

You can check wait times at your local DMV office on the NC DMV website before you go. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can save you time. The renewal fee is $13.50 for a standard license. You'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your new plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Mail-in renewal

You can renew by mail if you're not may be able to access for online renewal and cannot visit an office. read the process for Renewal of Driver License (Form DL-44) from the NC DMV website. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for $13.50 to the address listed on the form.

Mail-in renewal takes longer than other methods — typically 4 to 6 weeks from the time the DMV receives your process. You won't have a valid license during this time, so plan ahead if you need to drive. Keep a copy of your mailed process and the tracking number if you send it by certified mail so you can follow up if there's a problem.

What happens if your license expires

Driving with an expired license is illegal in North Carolina, even if you've submitted a renewal process. If you're pulled over, you can be cited. If your license expired more than 12 months ago, you cannot renew it — you'll have to explore for a new license instead, which requires taking the written and road tests again.

If your license expired within the last 12 months, you can still renew it using any of the three methods above. The DMV will treat it as a renewal rather than a new process, so you won't need to retake the tests. Renew as soon as possible to avoid driving illegally.

License validity and expiration dates

North Carolina driver's licenses are valid for eight years from the date of issue. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew anytime during the last year before expiration — you don't have to wait until the license expires.

If you're over 65 years old, your license is valid for five years instead of eight. The renewal process is the same, but you may need to renew more frequently. Check your license to see your expiration date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an expired license while my renewal is being processed?

No. Driving with an expired license is illegal in North Carolina. If you renewed online or by mail, you won't have a valid license until your new one arrives. If you renewed in person, you'll receive a temporary paper license that day, which is valid while you wait for your plastic license.

What if I lost my driver's license and need to renew it?

If your license is lost, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a replacement. Visit a DMV office with your proof of identity and Social Security number. The replacement fee is $13.50. You'll get a temporary license on the spot and your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

Not necessarily. If you renewed online or by mail, your old photo stays on your license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DMV office. You can also request a new photo at any time by visiting an office and paying a small fee.

How much does it cost to renew in North Carolina?

The renewal fee is $13.50 for a standard driver's license, whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. There are no additional fees unless you request a replacement card or add endorsements.

What if my address changed since my last license?

You must renew in person at a DMV office if your address has changed. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. You cannot renew online or by mail with an address change.