Critical Warning

North Carolina has no grace period for driving on an expired license. From the day after it expires, you can be ticketed. Don't risk it — take action now.

Emergency Renewal Action Plan

Follow these steps to renew your expired license as quickly as possible:

Step 1: Confirm In-Person Renewal Is Necessary

North Carolina allows some renewals to be done online or by mail, but only if:

Your license expired within the last 2 years
You don't need to update your photo
You're not upgrading to a REAL ID
Your information hasn't changed

If any of these don't apply — or if your license is already expired — you'll likely need an in-person visit.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents Immediately

What to Bring:

Your recently expired NC driver's license (must be within 2 years)
If upgrading to REAL ID: additional identity and residency documents
Payment for renewal fee (check, cash, or card)

Step 3: Secure the Earliest Available "License Renewal" Appointment

This is often the hardest part. NC DMV appointments can be booked out 60-90 days in busy areas. Your options:

Check the official NCDMV site for the next available slot
Try multiple locations — smaller offices often have earlier openings
Look for cancellations — people cancel appointments daily
Use our alert service — get notified instantly when renewal slots open

Step 4: Visit the DMV and Get Your Temporary ID

At your appointment, you'll complete the renewal process, take a new photo, and receive a temporary paper credential. Your permanent license will be mailed to your NC address within 2-3 weeks.

FAQs

How can I legally drive to the DMV with an expired license?

Technically, driving on an expired license is illegal in NC. If possible, have someone else drive you. Some people take the risk for a short trip to the DMV, but you could be ticketed if stopped.

Is there a grace period for expired licenses in NC?

No. North Carolina has no grace period. Your license becomes invalid the day after expiration.

What are the consequences of driving with an expired license?

Driving with an expired license in NC is a Class 3 misdemeanor. You could face fines and have points added to your driving record.

How much does it cost to renew?

NC driver's license renewal fees are based on the term length. A standard 8-year license costs approximately $5.50 per year ($44 total).

"I discovered my license was expired when I went to pick up my kids. I signed up for alerts that night, and the next morning I got a text about a same-day opening in Chapel Hill. Renewed that afternoon!"

— Chapel Hill resident

NCDMVAppointments.com is a private service not affiliated with the North Carolina DMV.

Renewing an Expired Driver's License in NC